Read the Bible

Church Officials

¹ It is true that^[a] anyone who desires to be a church official^[b] wants to be something worthwhile. ² That's why officials must have a good reputation and be faithful in marriage.^[c] 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.

Church Officers

⁸ Church officers^[d] should be serious. They must not be liars, heavy drinkers, or greedy for money. ⁹ And they must have a clear conscience and hold firmly to what God has shown us about our faith. ¹⁰ They must first prove themselves. Then if no one has anything against them, they can serve as officers.

¹¹ Women^[e] must also be serious. They must not gossip or be heavy drinkers, and they must be faithful in everything they do.

¹² Church officers must be faithful in marriage.^[f] They must be in full control of their children and everyone else in their home. ¹³ Those who serve well as officers will earn a good reputation and will be highly respected for their faith in Christ Jesus.

The Mystery of Our Religion

¹⁴ I hope to visit you soon. But I am writing these instructions, ¹⁵ so that if I am delayed, you will know how everyone who belongs to God's family ought to behave. After all, the church of the living God is the strong foundation of truth.

¹⁶ Here is the great mystery of our religion: