1 Timothy 3:6-8
New American Bible (Revised Edition)
6 He should not be a recent convert, so that he may not become conceited and thus incur the devil’s punishment.[a] 7 He must also have a good reputation among outsiders, so that he may not fall into disgrace, the devil’s trap.(A)
8 [b]Similarly, deacons must be dignified, not deceitful, not addicted to drink, not greedy for sordid gain,
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- 3:6 The devil’s punishment: this phrase could mean the punishment once incurred by the devil (objective genitive) or a punishment brought about by the devil (subjective genitive).
- 3:8–13 Deacons, besides possessing the virtue of moderation (1 Tm 3:8), are to be outstanding for their faith (1 Tm 3:9) and well respected within the community (1 Tm 3:10). Women in the same role, although some interpreters take them to mean wives of deacons, must be dignified, temperate, dedicated, and not given to malicious talebearing (1 Tm 3:11). Deacons must have shown stability in marriage and have a good record with their families (1 Tm 3:12), for such experience prepares them well for the exercise of their ministry on behalf of the community (1 Tm 3:13). See further the note on Phil 1:1.
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