Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil.

Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.

Likewise must the deacons be grave, not doubletongued, not given to much wine, not greedy of filthy lucre;

Holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience.

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He must not be a recent convert, or he may become conceited(A) and fall under the same judgment(B) as the devil. He must also have a good reputation with outsiders,(C) so that he will not fall into disgrace and into the devil’s trap.(D)

In the same way, deacons[a](E) are to be worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine,(F) and not pursuing dishonest gain. They must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience.(G)

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Notas al pie

  1. 1 Timothy 3:8 The word deacons refers here to Christians designated to serve with the overseers/elders of the church in a variety of ways; similarly in verse 12; and in Romans 16:1 and Phil. 1:1.