[1] This is a trustworthy saying: "If someone aspires to be a church leader, he desires an honorable position." [2] So a church leader must be a man whose life is above reproach. He must be faithful to his wife. He must exercise self-control, live wisely, and have a good reputation. He must enjoy having guests in his home, and he must be able to teach. [3] He must not be a heavy drinker or be violent. He must be gentle, not quarrelsome, and not love money. [4] He must manage his own family well, having children who respect and obey him. [5] For if a man cannot manage his own household, how can he take care of God's church? [6] A church leader must not be a new believer, because he might become proud, and the devil would cause him to fall. [7] Also, people outside the church must speak well of him so that he will not be disgraced and fall into the devil's trap. [8] In the same way, deacons must be well respected and have integrity. They must not be heavy drinkers or dishonest with money. [9] They must be committed to the mystery of the faith now revealed and must live with a clear conscience. [10] Before they are appointed as deacons, let them be closely examined. If they pass the test, then let them serve as deacons. [11] In the same way, their wives must be respected and must not slander others. They must exercise self-control and be faithful in everything they do. [12] A deacon must be faithful to his wife, and he must manage his children and household well. [13] Those who do well as deacons will be rewarded with respect from others and will have increased confidence in their faith in Christ Jesus. [14] I am writing these things to you now, even though I hope to be with you soon, [15] so that if I am delayed, you will know how people must conduct themselves in the household of God. This is the church of the living God, which is the pillar and foundation of the truth. [16] Without question, this is the great mystery of our faith: Christ was revealed in a human body and vindicated by the Spirit. He was seen by angels and announced to the nations. He was believed in throughout the world and taken to heaven in glory.
