1 Timothy 3:1-7 - Qualifications For Overseers

1 This is a trustworthy saying: If any man eagerly desires to be an overseer [i.e., an elder], he desires a noble task. 2 Now the overseer must be above reproach, the husband of [only] one wife, sober-minded [Note: When this word, used here figuratively, is used in its literal sense, it means to abstain from intoxicating drinks], sensible, respectable, hospitable, capable of teaching. 3 [He must] not be a drunkard or a fighter, but gentle, not quarrelsome, not wanting to get money by questionable [or, dishonest] means. 4 [He must] manage his own family well and, with dignity, keep his children in subjection [or, "respectful"]. 5 For if a man does not know how to manage his own family, how will he be able to take care of the church of God? 6 [He must] not be a new convert or else he could become conceited [i.e., over being in a leadership position] and fall into the [same] condemnation incurred by the devil. 7 He must also have a good reputation among outsiders [i.e., non-Christians], or else he could fall into reproach [i.e., from worldly people] and [therefore] into the devil's trap.