⁸Deacons also must be worthy of respect. They must be honest and true. They must not drink too much wine. They must not try to get money by cheating people. ⁹They must hold on to the deep truths of the faith. Even their own minds tell them to do that. ¹⁰First they must be tested. Then let them serve as deacons if there is nothing against them.

¹¹In the same way, their wives must be worthy of respect. They must not say things that harm others. In anything they do, they must not go too far. They must be worthy of trust in everything.

¹²A deacon must be faithful to his wife. He must manage his children and family well. ¹³Those who have served well earn the full respect of others. They also become more sure of their faith in Christ Jesus.

¹⁴I hope I can come to you soon. But now I am writing these directions to you. ¹⁵Then if I have to put off my visit, you will know how you should act in God’s family. The family of God is the church of the living God. It is the pillar and foundation of the truth.

¹⁶There is no doubt that godliness is a great mystery.

Jesus appeared in a body.

The Holy Spirit proved that he was the Son of God.

He was seen by angels.

He was preached among the nations.

People in the world believed in him.

He was taken up to heaven in glory.

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1 Timothy 3:16: Great indeed, we confess, is the mystery of godliness: He was manifested in the flesh, vindicated by the Spirit, seen by angels, proclaimed among the nations, believed on in the world, taken up in glory.