The New Testament also records that deacons or servants worked alongside overseers who shepherded the local congregation as elders (Philippians 1:1). The Bible records how the apostles who served as the leaders of the Jerusalem church delegated the responsibilities of “serving tables”, i.e., being in charge of serving the church in areas other than shepherding and teaching, to other Christian men who met certain qualifications. Deacons assist the leadership of the local congregation by serving the church in various needs such as benevolence, education, etc.