In the same way, deacons[a](A) are to be worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine,(B) and not pursuing dishonest gain. They must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience.(C) 10 They must first be tested;(D) and then if there is nothing against them, let them serve as deacons.

11 In the same way, the women[b] are to be worthy of respect, not malicious talkers(E) but temperate(F) and trustworthy in everything.

12 A deacon must be faithful to his wife(G) and must manage his children and his household well.(H) 13 Those who have served well gain an excellent standing and great assurance in their faith in Christ Jesus.

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Footnotes

  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.
  2. 1 Timothy 3:11 Possibly deacons’ wives or women who are deacons

Qualifications of Deacons

Deacons likewise must be serious, not double-tongued, not indulging in much wine, not greedy for money;(A) they must hold fast to the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience. 10 And let them first be tested; then, if they prove themselves blameless, let them serve as deacons. 11 Women[a] likewise must be serious, not slanderers, but temperate, faithful in all things. 12 Let deacons be married only once,[b] 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 great boldness in the faith that is in Christ Jesus.

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Footnotes

  1. 3.11 Or Women deacons or Wives
  2. 3.12 Gk be husbands of one wife