Deacons likewise must be dignified, not two-faced, not given to excessive drinking, not greedy for gain,

Do not neglect the spiritual gift you have, given to you and confirmed by prophetic words when the elders laid hands on you.

not a drunkard, not violent, but gentle, not contentious, free from the love of money.

who gave himself as a ransom for all, revealing God’s purpose at his appointed time.

I am grateful to the one who has strengthened me, Christ Jesus our Lord, because he considered me faithful in putting me into ministry,

And we all agree, our religion contains amazing revelation: He was revealed in the flesh, vindicated by the Spirit, seen by angels, proclaimed among Gentiles, believed on in the world, taken up in glory.

This accords with the glorious gospel of the blessed God that was entrusted to me.

Among these are Hymenaeus and Alexander, whom I handed over to Satan to be taught not to blaspheme.

And these also must be tested first and then let them serve as deacons if they are found blameless.

Tell them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, to be generous givers, sharing with others.

even though I was formerly a blasphemer and a persecutor, and an arrogant man. But I was treated with mercy because I acted ignorantly in unbelief,

The overseer then must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, an able teacher,

Compete well for the faith and lay hold of that eternal life you were called for and made your good confession for in the presence of many witnesses.

O Timothy, protect what has been entrusted to you. Avoid the profane chatter and absurdities of so-called “knowledge.”

But here is why I was treated with mercy: so that in me as the worst, Christ Jesus could demonstrate his utmost patience, as an example for those who are going to believe in him for eternal life.

and has a reputation for good works: as one who has raised children, practiced hospitality, washed the feet of the saints, helped those in distress – as one who has exhibited all kinds of good works.