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In this episode of The Reformed Deacon, Rev. Chris Cashen discusses with Rev. Peter VanDoodewaard (Covenant OPC, Taylors, South Carolina) about where a deacon’s confidence should come from as he seeks to show the compassion of Christ in mercy ministry. Using John 6 and the feeding of the 5,000, they explore how Jesus intentionally tested His disciples—not because He lacked a plan, but because He wanted them to learn to trust His power and provision. The lesson is not self-confidence, but deep confidence in Christ, who sees the needs of His people, has already purposed to meet them, and graciously invites His servants to participate in distributing what He supplies.

The conversation emphasizes that fear, feelings of inadequacy, and even unbelief in Christ's ability are common temptations in mercy ministry. Deacons are reminded that they are not the source of provision—they are the “basket carriers.” As they serve, they not only meet physical needs but also have opportunity to point people to Christ.

Referenced in this episode:

OPC National Diaconal Summit 2026—June 25-27, 2026

Primary passage:

John 6:1–14 — The feeding of the 5,000 (central text)

Key biblical references mentioned or clearly alluded to

1 Timothy 3:13 — Deacons gaining “great boldness in the faith”
John 2:1–11 — Water into wine; seeing Christ’s glory in His signs
John 1:1–14 — The Word made flesh; glory of the only begotten
John 6 (later section) — “I am the Bread of Life”
Colossians 1:29 — “Christ labors with all His energy”
Acts 4 — Boldness of Peter and John
Exodus 14 — Moses at the Red Sea: “Stand still and see the salvation of the Lord”

Confessional / church order reference

OPC Book of Church Order — Description of the deacon’s role: “to show forth the compassion of Christ…”

Practical OPC reference

OPCCDM.org
OPC Presbytery Diaconal Committees
David Nakhla, Administrator, OPC Committee on Diaconal Ministries

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Mercy Ministry with Confidence in Jesus