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He should not be a recent convert so that he will not become conceited and incur the same condemnation as the devil. He must also enjoy a good reputation among outsiders so that he may not fall into disgrace and into the devil’s snare.

Qualifications of Deacons. Similarly, deacons must exhibit a sense of dignity, not indulging in double-talk or excessive consumption of wine, and not being greedy.

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He must not be a recent convert, or he may become conceited(A) and fall under the same judgment(B) as the devil. He must also have a good reputation with outsiders,(C) so that he will not fall into disgrace and into the devil’s trap.(D)

In the same way, deacons[a](E) are to be worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine,(F) and not pursuing dishonest gain.

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Footnotes

  1. 1 Timothy 3:8 The word deacons refers here to Christians designated to serve with the overseers/elders of the church in a variety of ways; similarly in verse 12; and in Romans 16:1 and Phil. 1:1.