from διάκονος; to be an attendant, i.e. wait upon (menially or as a host, friend, or (figuratively) teacher); technically, to act as a Christian deacon:--(ad-)minister (unto), serve, use the office of a deacon.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **diakonéō**, represented by `{{G1247}}`, defines the act of service as an attendant who waits upon others. It appears 38 times across 32 unique verses. The term encompasses a wide range of actions, from practical waiting at a table to friendship, teaching, or technically, to act as a Christian deacon.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the New Testament, `{{G1247}}` establishes the pattern of Christian living through the example of Jesus Christ. He declared that the Son of man came "not to be ministered unto, but to minister" ([[Matthew 20:28]], [[Mark 10:45]]). This principle is extended to his followers, who are called to **serve** one another, an action described as a "labour of love" [[Hebrews 6:10]]. The act of ministering can be practical, such as providing for needs out of one's own substance [[Luke 8:3]] or serving tables [[Acts 6:2]]. It also applies to a formal church role, where individuals must be proven before they "use the office of a deacon" [[1 Timothy 3:10]]. Even supernatural beings are shown to **minister** to Christ [[Matthew 4:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the scope and nature of this service:
* `{{G1248}}` **diakonía** (attendance... ministry... service): This is the noun form, representing the "work of the ministry" which serves the purpose of perfecting the saints and edifying the body of Christ [[Ephesians 4:12]].
* `{{G1249}}` **diákonos** (an attendant... deacon... servant): This refers to the person performing the service. Jesus states that anyone who would serve Him must follow Him, and where He is, there His **servant** will be also [[John 12:26]].
* `{{G1401}}` **doûlos** (a slave... servant): This term for a servant, often meaning a bond-servant, is distinct from **diákonos**. Jesus took on the form of a **servant** [[Philippians 2:7]], yet He elevates his followers beyond this status, stating he no longer calls them servants because a servant doesn't know his master's business [[John 15:15]].
* `{{G2041}}` **érgon** (toil... an act... work): The act of ministering is considered a **work** of faith. God is not unrighteous to forget the **work** and labor of love shown in ministering to the saints [[Hebrews 6:10]].
* `{{G2479}}` **ischýs** (ability... might... power... strength): Service is not performed in one's own power, but through the **ability** that God provides [[1 Peter 4:11]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1247}}` is central to Christian ethics and identity.
* **The Model of Christ:** The concept redefines greatness, turning worldly power structures upside down. Christ, who is Lord, takes the position of one who serves [[Luke 22:27]]. To follow him is to adopt this same posture.
* **A Tangible Expression of Faith:** Service is the active proof of one's faith and love. It is seen in ministering to fellow believers [[Romans 15:25]] and is considered a work directed toward God's name [[Hebrews 6:10]].
* **A Conduit for God's Grace:** Believers are to **minister** to one another as "good stewards of the manifold grace of God" [[1 Peter 4:10]]. The service is empowered by God so that He is glorified through the results [[1 Peter 4:11]].
* **A Formal Church Function:** Beyond a general calling for all believers, the term is used technically to describe the official "office of a deacon" [[1 Timothy 3:13]]. Those who perform this role well gain a good standing and great boldness in their faith.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1247}}` is far more than a word for simple help. It is a cornerstone of Christian conduct, modeled perfectly by Christ and commanded to His followers. It encompasses everything from the practical care for physical needs to the official administration within the church. Ultimately, to **minister** is to act as a steward of God's grace, using His given strength for His glory.
TRV