² To Timothy^(A) my true son^(B) in the faith:

Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.^(C)

² To Timothy^(A) my true son^(B) in the faith:

Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.^(C)

¹² A deacon must be faithful to his wife^(A) and must manage his children and his household well.^{(B) 13} Those who have served well gain an excellent standing and great assurance in their faith in Christ Jesus.

Reasons for Paul’s Instructions

¹⁴ Although I hope to come to you soon, I am writing you these instructions so that, ¹⁵ if I am delayed, you will know how people ought to conduct themselves in God’s household, which is the church^(C) of the living God,^(D) the pillar and foundation of the truth.