1 Timothy 3:8-10 ▼

8 Deacons likewise must be men worthy of respect [honorable, financially ethical, of good character], not double-tongued [speakers of half-truths], not addicted to wine, not greedy for dishonest gain,

9 but upholding and fully understanding the mystery [that is, the true doctrine] of the [Christian] faith with a clear conscience [resulting from behavior consistent with spiritual maturity].

10 These men must first be tested; then if they are found to be blameless and beyond reproach [in their Christian lives], let them serve as deacons.