Qualifications for Overseers and Deacons

3:1 This saying1 is trustworthy: “If someone aspires to the office of overseer,2 he desires a good work.” 3:2 The overseer3 then must be above reproach, the husband of one wife,4 temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, an able teacher, 3:3 not a drunkard, not violent, but gentle, not contentious, free from the love of money. 3:4 He must manage his own household well and keep his children in control without losing his dignity.5 3:5 But if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for the church of God? 3:6 He must not be a recent convert or he may become arrogant6 and fall into the punishment that the devil will exact.7 3:7 And he must be well thought of by8 those outside the faith,9 so that he may not fall into disgrace and be caught by the devil’s trap.10

3:8 Deacons likewise must be dignified,11 not two-faced,12 not given to excessive drinking,13 not greedy for gain, 3:9 holding to the mystery of the faith14 with a clear conscience. 3:10 And these also must be tested first and then let them serve as deacons if they are found blameless. 3:11 Likewise also their wives15 must be dignified, not slanderous, temperate, faithful in every respect. 3:12 Deacons must be husbands of one wife16 and good managers of their children and their own households. 3:13 For those who have served well as deacons gain a good standing for themselves17 and great boldness in the faith that is in Christ Jesus.18