Leaders in the Church

This is a trustworthy saying: “If someone aspires to be an elder, he desires an honorable position.” 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. He must not be a heavy drinker or be
violent. He must be gentle, not quarrelsome, and not love money. He must manage his own family well, having children who
respect and obey him. For if a man cannot manage his own household, how can he take care of God’s church?

An elder must not be a new believer, because he might become proud, and the devil would cause him to fall. Also, people
outside the church must speak well of him so that he will not be disgraced and fall into the devil’s trap.

In the same way, deacons must be well respected and have integrity. They must not be heavy drinkers or dishonest with money.
They must be committed to the mystery of the faith now revealed and must live with a clear conscience. Before they are
appointed as deacons, let them be closely examined. If they pass the test, then let them serve as deacons.

In the same way, their wives must be respected and must not slander others. They must exercise self control and be faithful
in everything they do.

A deacon must be faithful to his wife, and he must manage his children and household well. Those who do well as deacons will
be rewarded with respect from others and will have increased confidence in their faith in Christ Jesus.