Acts 6:3

Therefore, brethren, seek out from among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business;

1. How many deacons does a church need? As many as it takes to take care of the "business" of the church. Churches have great variety in the number and size of the programs of work. We need deacons to appoint "over this business."

2. Are these men deacons? I have no doubt.

1. They were men already proven and capable.

2. They were appointed for a specific work.

3. NOTE: Many deacons today are just appointed, then we try to find them a work. In the New Testament, they were appointed to a specific work in an area where they had proven themselves.

3. Seven are to be chosen. Some speculate about the number seven. It would seem to be that seven were deemed enough to handle the problem.

4. Three qualifications were given here.

1. Of good reputation - He should already be known. He should be thought of with respect and honor. His life should lead others to think well of him.

2. Full of the Holy Spirit - He should be one who's life is guided by the Spirit of God.

3. Wisdom - He must be able to use common sense, wisdom, to solve problems and find acceptable and workable solutions.

5. There are many tasks, important area of work, which need to be managed, overseen, and guided by men of wisdom. The church needs deacons to guide it.