Acts 6:3

So then, brothers, choose. Note the apostles did not do the choosing! Seven men. This many could handle the assistance to the Greek-speaking widows. Who are known to be. Men whom the congregation could respect, and who could be trusted. And we will put them In charge. Compare Titus 1:5. Both church leaders [elders] and church helpers [deacons] are horizontal extensions of the group [local church], appointed to do a job. [Clerks watching the store, while the Boss is away.]