1 Timothy 3:1–15

Qualifications of Church Leaders

3 This saying is trustworthy: a b “If anyone aspires to be an * overseer, c he desires a noble work.” 2 An overseer, d therefore, must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, self-controlled, sensible, e respectable, hospitable, f an able teacher, g 3 not addicted to wine, not a bully but gentle, not quarrelsome, not greedy h— 4 one who manages his own household competently, having his children under control with all dignity. 5 (If anyone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he take care of God’s church?) 6 He must not be a new convert, or he might become conceited and fall into the condemnation of the Devil. i 7 Furthermore, he must have a good reputation among outsiders, so that he does not fall into disgrace and the Devil’s j trap.

8 Deacons, k likewise, should be worthy of respect, not hypocritical, not drinking a lot of wine, not greedy for money, 9 holding the * mystery of the faith l with a clear conscience. m 10 And they must also be tested first; if they prove blameless, then they can serve as deacons. 11 Wives, n too, must be worthy of respect, not slanderers, self-controlled, o faithful in everything. 12 Deacons must be husbands of one wife, managing their children and their own households competently. 13 For those who have served well as deacons acquire a good standing for themselves, and great boldness in the faith that is in Christ Jesus.

The Mystery of Godliness

14 I write these things to you, hoping to come p to you soon. 15 But if I should be delayed, ⌊I have written⌋ so that you will know how people ought to act in God’s household, q which is the church of the living God, r the pillar and foundation of the truth. s