⁸ 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. ⁹ 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) 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^(I) of the living God,^(J) the pillar and foundation of the truth. ¹⁶ Beyond all question, the mystery^(K) from which true godliness^(L) springs is great:

4 The Spirit^(P) clearly says that in later times^(Q) some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits^(R) and things taught by demons. ² Such teachings come through hypocritical liars, whose consciences have been seared as with a hot iron.^{(S) 3} They forbid people to marry^(T) and order them to abstain from certain foods,^(U) which God created^(V) to be received with thanksgiving^(W) by those who believe and who know the truth. ⁴ For everything God created is good,^(X) and nothing is to be rejected^(Y) if it is received with thanksgiving, ⁵ because it is consecrated by the word of God^(Z) and prayer.

⁶ If you point these things out to the brothers and sisters,^[d] you will be a good minister of Christ Jesus, nourished on the truths of the faith^(AA) and of the good teaching that you have followed.^{(AB) 7} Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives’ tales;^(AC) rather, train yourself to be godly.^{(AD) 8} For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things,^(AE) holding promise for both the present life^(AF) and the life to come.^{(AG) 9} This is a trustworthy saying^(AH) that deserves full acceptance. ¹⁰ That is why we labor and strive, because we have put our hope in the living God,^(AI) who is the Savior of all people,^(AJ) and especially of those who believe.

¹¹ Command and teach these things.^{(AK) 12} Don’t let anyone look down on you^(AL) because you are young, but set an example^(AM) for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith^(AN) and in purity. ¹³ Until I come,^(AO) devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture,^(AP) to preaching and to teaching. ¹⁴ Do not neglect your gift, which was given you through prophecy^(AQ) when the body of elders^(AR) laid their hands on you.^(AS)

¹⁵ Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress. ¹⁶ Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save^(AT) both yourself and your hearers.