1 Timothy 3:1-13
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. 10 And let them first be tested; then, if they prove themselves blameless, let them serve as deacons. 11 Women[f] likewise must be serious, not slanderers, but temperate, faithful in all things. 12 Let deacons be married only once,[g] 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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