1 Timothy 3:8-13
What is written? (ESV)
Deacons likewise must be dignified, not double-tongued, not addicted to much wine, not greedy for dishonest gain. They must hold the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience. And let them also be tested first; then let them serve as deacons if they prove themselves blameless. Their wives likewise must be dignified, not slanderers, but sober-minded, faithful in all things. Let deacons each be the husband of one wife, managing their children and their own households well. For those who serve well as deacons gain a good standing for themselves and also great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus.
What does it say?
Likewise, a deacon must be serious-minded, not hypocritical, not addicted to much wine or profiting dishonestly. They must be faithful to the gospel with a clear conscience, being blameless before serving after having been tested. Their wives also must be dignified, not gossips but serious-minded and faithful in all things. They should be the husband of one wife, managing their children and households well. Finally, those who serve well as deacons gain good standing for themselves and great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus.
What is its immediate context?
Paul is writing to a young preacher, Timothy, giving qualifications for elders and deacons in order that “you may know how one ought to behave in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, a pillar and buttress of the truth.” (3:15)
How 1 Timothy 3:8-13 is applied across Bible answers
What is the organization of the church?
Paul shares specific qualifications for men serving as deacons.
Immediately following and comparing the qualifications given for elders, it's apparent that a deacon would be subordinate to and likely younger than an elder. For example, an elder's children are to be "believing" while a deacon's children are simply to be managed well.
