1 Timothy 3:1-9

New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition

Qualifications of Bishops

3 The saying is sure:^[a] whoever aspires to the office of bishop^[b] desires a noble task.^{(A) 2} Now a bishop^[c] must be above reproach, married only once,^[d] temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, an apt teacher,^{(B) 3} not a drunkard, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, and not a lover of money.^{(C) 4} He must manage his own household well, keeping his children submissive and respectful in every way, ⁵ for if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how can he take care of God’s church? ⁶ He must not be a recent convert,^[e] or he may be puffed up with conceit and fall into the condemnation of the devil. ⁷ Moreover, he must be well thought of by outsiders, so that he may not fall into disgrace and the snare of the devil.^(D)

Qualifications of Deacons

⁸ Deacons likewise must be serious, not double-tongued, not indulging in much wine, not greedy for money;^{(E) 9} they must hold fast to the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience.