1 Timothy 3:7-15 But he must also have a good testimony from those outside, in order that he may not fall into disgrace and the trap of the devil.

LEB⁽ⁱ⁾ ⁷ But he must also have a good testimony from those outside, in order that he may not fall into disgrace and the trap of the devil. ⁸ Deacons likewise must be dignified, not insincere, not devoted to much wine, not fond of dishonest gain, ⁹ holding the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience, ¹⁰ and these also must be tested first; then let them serve if they* are above reproach. ¹¹ The wives* likewise must be dignified, not slanderous, temperate, faithful in all things. ¹² Deacons must be husbands of one wife, managing their children and their own households well. ¹³ For those who have served well acquire a good standing for themselves, and great boldness in the faith that is in Christ Jesus. ¹⁴ I am writing these things to you, hoping to come to you in a short time. ¹⁵ But if I am delayed, I am writing* in order that you may know how one must conduct oneself in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and mainstay* of the truth.