(A)Deacons likewise must be men of dignity, not [a]insincere, (B)not prone to drink much wine, (C)not greedy for money, (D)but holding to the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience. 10 (E)These men must also first be tested; then have them serve as deacons if they are beyond reproach. 11 [b]Women must likewise be dignified, (F)not malicious gossips, but [c](G)temperate, faithful in all things. 12 (H)Deacons must be (I)husbands of one wife, and [d](J)good managers of their children and their own households. 13 For those who have served well as deacons (K)obtain for themselves a [e]high standing and great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus.

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Footnotes

  1. 1 Timothy 3:8 Or given to double-talk
  2. 1 Timothy 3:11 I.e., either deacons’ wives or deaconesses
  3. 1 Timothy 3:11 Or level-headed
  4. 1 Timothy 3:12 Lit managing well
  5. 1 Timothy 3:13 Lit good

Qualifications of Deacons

Deacons likewise must be serious, not double-tongued, not addicted to much wine, not greedy for gain; they must hold the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience. 10 And let them also be tested first; then if they prove themselves blameless let them serve as deacons. 11 The women likewise must be serious, no slanderers, but temperate, faithful in all things. 12 Let deacons be the husband of one wife, and let them manage their children and their households well; 13 for those who serve well as deacons gain a good standing for themselves and also great confidence in the faith which is in Christ Jesus.

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