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.

1 Paul and Timothy,^(A) servants of Christ Jesus,

To all God’s holy people^(B) in Christ Jesus at Philippi,^(C) together with the overseers^(D) and deacons^[a]:^(E)

³ Brothers and sisters,^(A) choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit^(B) and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them^{(C) 4} and will give our attention to prayer^(D) and the ministry of the word.”

⁵ This proposal pleased the whole group. They chose Stephen,^(E) a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit;^(F) also Philip,^(G) Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas from Antioch, a convert to Judaism. ⁶ They presented these men to the apostles, who prayed^(H) and laid their hands on them.^(I)

³ Likewise, teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live, not to be slanderers^(A) or addicted to much wine,^(B) but to teach what is good.

²³ Stop drinking only water, and use a little wine^(A) because of your stomach and your frequent illnesses.