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Servants,[a] in the same way, must be reverent, not double-tongued, not addicted to much wine, not greedy for money, holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience. 10 Let them also first be tested; then let them serve[b] if they are blameless. 11 Their wives in the same way must be reverent, not slanderers, temperate, and faithful in all things. 12 Let servants[c] be husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well. 13 For those who have served well[d] gain for themselves a good standing, and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus.

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Footnotes

  1. 3:8 or, Deacons.
  2. 3:10 or, serve as deacons
  3. 3:12 or, deacons
  4. 3:13 or, served well as deacons

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