[1] It is a trustworthy statement: if any man aspires to the office of overseer, it is a fine work he desires to do. [2] An overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, skillful in teaching, [3] not overindulging in wine, not a bully, but gentle, not contentious, free from the love of money. [4] He must be one who manages his own household well, keeping his children under control with all dignity [5] (but if a man does not know how to manage his own household, how will he take care of the church of God?), [6] and not a new convert, so that he will not become conceited and fall into condemnation incurred by the devil. [7] And he must have a good reputation with those outside the church, so that he will not fall into disgrace and the snare of the devil. [8] Deacons likewise must be men of dignity, not insincere, not prone to drink much wine, not greedy for money, [9] but holding to the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience. [10] These men must also first be tested; then have them serve as deacons if they are beyond reproach. [11] Women must likewise be dignified, not malicious gossips, but temperate, faithful in all things. [12] Deacons must be husbands of one wife, and good managers of their children and their own households. [13] 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. [14] I am writing these things to you, hoping to come to you before long; [15] 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. [16] 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.
