1 Timothy 3:2-7

Contemporary English Version

^2 (A) That's why officials must have a good reputation and be faithful in marriage.^[a] They must be self-controlled, sensible, well-behaved, friendly to strangers, and able to teach. ³ They must not be heavy drinkers or troublemakers. Instead, they must be kind and gentle and not love money.

⁴ Church officials must be in control of their own families, and they must see that their children are obedient and always respectful. ⁵ If they don't know how to control their own families, how can they look after God's people?

⁶ They must not be new followers of the Lord. If they are, they might become proud and be doomed along with the devil. ⁷ Finally, they must be well-respected by people who are not followers. Then they won't be trapped and disgraced by the devil.