These men must also first be tested; then have them serve as deacons if they are beyond reproach.

For those who have served well as deacons obtain for themselves a high standing and great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus.

but in case I am delayed, I write so that you will know how one should act in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and support of the truth.

Beyond question, great is the mystery of godliness: He who was revealed in the flesh, Was vindicated in the Spirit, Seen by angels, Proclaimed among the nations, Believed on in the world, Taken up in glory.

Abandonment of Faith

But the Spirit explicitly says that in later times some will fall away from the faith, paying attention to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons,

by means of the hypocrisy of liars seared in their own conscience as with a branding iron,

who forbid marriage and advocate abstaining from foods which God has created to be gratefully shared in by those who believe and know the truth.

for it is sanctified by means of the word of God and prayer.

A Good Minister’s Discipline

In pointing out these things to the brothers and sisters, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, constantly nourished on the words of the faith and of the good doctrine which you have been following.

But stay away from worthless stories that are typical of old women. Rather, discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness;

for bodily training is just slightly beneficial, but godliness is beneficial for all things, since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.

It is a trustworthy statement deserving full acceptance.

For it is for this we labor and strive, because we have set our hope on the living God, who is the Savior of all mankind, especially of believers.

Let no one look down on your youthfulness, but rather in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity, show yourself an example of those who believe.

Do not neglect the spiritual gift within you, which was granted to you through words of prophecy with the laying on of hands by the council of elders.

Take pains with these things; be absorbed in them, so that your progress will be evident to all.

Pay close attention to yourself and to the teaching; persevere in these things, for as you do this you will save both yourself and those who hear you.

Honor Widows

Do not sharply rebuke an older man, but rather appeal to him as a father, and to the younger men as brothers,

to the older women as mothers, and to the younger women as sisters, in all purity.

but if any widow has children or grandchildren, they must first learn to show proper respect for their own family and to give back compensation to their parents; for this is acceptable in the sight of God.

Now she who is actually a widow and has been left alone has set her hope on God, and she continues in requests and prayers night and day.

But she who indulges herself in luxury is dead, even while she lives.

Give these instructions as well, so that they may be above reproach.

A widow is to be put on the list only if she is not less than sixty years old, having been the wife of one man,

having a reputation for good works; and if she has brought up children, if she has shown hospitality to strangers, if she has washed the saints’ feet, if she has assisted those in distress, and if she has devoted herself to every good work.