^2 (A)shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight,^{[a] (B)}not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you;^{[b] (C)}not for shameful gain, but eagerly; ³ not ^(D)domineering over those in your charge, but ^(E)being examples to the flock.

² Therefore ^(A)an overseer^[a] must be above reproach, ^(B)the husband of one wife,^{[b] (C)}sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, ^(D)hospitable, ^(E)able to teach, ³ not a drunkard, not violent but ^(F)gentle, not quarrelsome, ^(G)not a lover of money.

⁷ For an overseer,^{[a] (A)}as God's steward, must be above reproach. He must not ^(B)be arrogant or quick-tempered or a drunkard or violent ^(C)or greedy for gain, ⁸ but hospitable, a lover of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, ^(D)and disciplined. ⁹ He must ^(E)hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in ^(F)sound^[b] doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it.

⁸ Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. ⁹ What you have learned^[a] and ^(A)received and heard and seen ^(B)in me—practice these things, and ^(C)the God of peace will be with you.

^12 (A)Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers ^(B)an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.

⁷ Remember ^(A)your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and ^(B)imitate their faith.