1 Timothy 3
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This is a trustworthy saying: If anyone aspires to be an overseer, he desires a noble task. Begin Abide·
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An overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of but one wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, Begin Abide·
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not dependent on wine, not violent but gentle, peaceable, and free of the love of money. Begin Abide·
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An overseer must manage his own household well and keep his children under control, with complete dignity. Begin Abide·
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For if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how can he care for the church of God? Begin Abide·
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He must not be a recent convert, or he may become conceited and fall under the same condemnation as the devil. Begin Abide·
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Furthermore, he must have a good reputation with outsiders, so that he will not fall into disgrace and into the snare of the devil. Begin Abide·
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Deacons likewise must be dignified, not double-tongued or given to much wine or greedy for money. Begin Abide·
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They must hold to the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience. Begin Abide·
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Additionally, they must first be tested. Then, if they are above reproach, let them serve as deacons. Begin Abide·
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In the same way, the women must be dignified, not slanderers, but temperate and faithful in all things. Begin Abide·
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A deacon must be the husband of but one wife, a good manager of his children and of his own household. Begin Abide·
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For those who have served well as deacons acquire for themselves a high standing and great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus. Begin Abide·
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Although I hope to come to you soon, I am writing you these things Begin Abide·
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in case I am delayed, so that you will know how each one must conduct himself in God’s household, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth. Begin Abide·
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By common confession, the mystery of godliness is great: He appeared in the flesh, was vindicated by the Spirit, was seen by angels, was proclaimed among the nations, was believed in throughout the world, was taken up in glory. Begin Abide·