Qualifications for Deacons

(A)Deacons likewise must be dignified, not double-tongued,[a] (B)not addicted to much wine, (C)not greedy for dishonest gain. They must (D)hold the mystery of the faith with (E)a clear conscience. 10 And (F)let them also be tested first; then let them serve as deacons if they prove themselves blameless. 11 (G)Their wives likewise[b] must be dignified, not slanderers, but sober-minded, (H)faithful in all things. 12 Let deacons each be (I)the husband of one wife, (J)managing their children and their own households well.

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Footnotes

  1. 1 Timothy 3:8 Or devious in speech
  2. 1 Timothy 3:11 Or Wives likewise, or Women likewise

In the same way, deacons[a](A) are to be worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine,(B) and not pursuing dishonest gain. They must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience.(C) 10 They must first be tested;(D) and then if there is nothing against them, let them serve as deacons.

11 In the same way, the women[b] are to be worthy of respect, not malicious talkers(E) but temperate(F) and trustworthy in everything.

12 A deacon must be faithful to his wife(G) and must manage his children and his household well.(H)

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Footnotes

  1. 1 Timothy 3:8 The word deacons refers here to Christians designated to serve with the overseers/elders of the church in a variety of ways; similarly in verse 12; and in Romans 16:1 and Phil. 1:1.
  2. 1 Timothy 3:11 Possibly deacons’ wives or women who are deacons