This is a faithful saying, If a man desireth the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work.

The mystery of godliness is the pillar and ground of the truth, and without controversy a great thing: God was manifested in the flesh, was justified by the spirit, seen by angels, preached among the Gentiles, believed on in the world, taken up into glory.

But if I tarry, that thou mayst know how to behave in the house of God, which is the church of the living God.

For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?

A bishop therefore must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, prudent, of good behaviour, hospitable, apt to teach;

Not a new convert, left being puffed up, he fall into the condemnation of the devil.

Likewise the deacons must be serious, not double tongued, not given to much wine, not desirous of filthy gain: Holding fast the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience.

He ought also to have a good report from them that are without, lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.

In like manner their wives must be serious, not slanderers, vigilant, faithful in all things.

And let these be proved first,

then let them minister, being found blameless.

Let the deacons be husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well.

These things I write to thee, hoping to come to thee shortly:

For they that have used the office of a deacon well, purchase to themselves a good degree and much boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus.

Not given to wine, no striker, not desirous of filthy gain, but gentle, patient, not loving money;

Ruling his own house well, having his children in subjection with all seriousness.