1 Timothy 3:1-7

New Century Version

Elders in the Church

3 What I say is true: Anyone wanting to become an overseer desires a good work. ² An overseer must not give people a reason to criticize him, and he must have only one wife. He must be self-controlled, wise, respected by others, ready to welcome guests, and able to teach. ³ He must not drink too much wine or like to fight, but rather be gentle and peaceable, not loving money. ⁴ He must be a good family leader, having children who cooperate with full respect. ⁵ (If someone does not know how to lead the family, how can that person take care of God’s church?) ⁶ But an elder must not be a new believer, or he might be too proud of himself and be judged guilty just as the devil was. ⁷ An elder must also have the respect of people who are not in the church so he will not be criticized by others and caught in the devil’s trap.