The word translated “servant” (diakonos) is particularly intriguing because of the fluidity of its application. While it is often used for household servants (for example, John 2:5, 9), as well as the office of deacon (1 Tim. 3:8, 12), it is also often translated “minister” (for example, 1 Cor. 3:5; Eph. 3:7; 6:21; Col. 1:7), including Paul’s description of his own labors (2 Cor. 3:6; Eph. 3:7; Col. 1:23). The nature of this word suggests that a Christian minister should be characterized by a posture of servanthood. This connection is missed by most modern churches that expect servant-like
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