1 Timothy 3:1-10 ▼

1 This saying is trustworthy: whoever aspires to the office of bishop desires a noble task.

2 Therefore, a bishop must be irreproachable, married only once, temperate, self-controlled, decent, hospitable, able to teach,

3 not a drunkard, not aggressive, but gentle, not contentious, not a lover of money.

4 He must manage his own household well, keeping his children under control with perfect dignity;

5 for if a man does not know how to manage his own household, how can he take care of the church of God?

6 He should not be a recent convert, so that he may not become conceited and thus incur the devil’s punishment.

7 He must also have a good reputation among outsiders, so that he may not fall into disgrace, the devil’s trap.

8 Similarly, deacons must be dignified, not deceitful, not addicted to drink, not greedy for sordid gain,

9 holding fast to the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience.

10 Moreover, they should be tested first; then, if there is nothing against them, let them serve as deacons.