1 TimothyChapter 3

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¹This saying is true: If anyone wants to be an overseer, he wants a good and noble job.a ²So an overseer must have a good name that no one can attack. He must be the husband of only one wife. He must think clearly and have self-control. He must be respected and welcome guests into his home. And he must be able to teach. ³He must not be a heavy drinker. He must not be violent, but gentle. He must not love to fight. And he must not love money. ⁴An overseer must lead his own family well. His children must obey him with all respect. ⁵If a man doesn't know how to lead his own family, how can he take care of God's church? ⁶He must not be a new believer. If he is, he may become proud. Then he would fall under the same judgment as the devil. ⁷Also, people outside the church must think well of him. Then he will not fall into shame and into the devil's trap. ⁸In the same way, deacons must be worthy of respect. They must not say one thing and mean another. They must not drink too much wine or be greedy for money. ⁹They must hold on to the deep truth of the faith with a clean conscience. ¹⁰Also, they must be tested first. Then, if no one can find fault with them, let them serve as deacons. ¹¹In the same way, the women must be worthy of respect. They must not tell lies about others. They must think clearly and be faithful in everything.b ¹²A deacon must be the husband of only one wife. He must lead his children and his own family well. ¹³Those who serve well as deacons earn a good name for themselves. They also gain great boldness in their faith in Christ Jesus. ¹⁴I hope to come to you soon. But I am writing these things to you ¹⁵in case I am slow in coming. Then you will know how people should act in God's family. That family is the church of the living God. The church is the pillar and the base that holds up the truth. ¹⁶We all agree that the mystery of godliness is great:
He appeared in a human body.
He was shown to be right by the Spirit.
He was seen by angels.
He was preached among the nations.
He was believed in all over the world.
He was taken up in glory.