1. This is a trustworthy saying: “If someone aspires to be an elder, he desires an honorable position.”
2. So an elder 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. An elder 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.