1 Timóteo 3

Leaders in the Church

1 This is a trustworthy saying: "If someone aspires to be a church leader,*3:1 Or an overseer, or a bishop; also in 3:2, 6. he desires an honorable position." 2 So a church leader must be a man whose life is above reproach. He must be faithful to his wife.*3:2 Or must have only one wife, or must be married only once; Greek reads must be the husband of one wife; also in 3:12. He must exercise self-control, live wisely, and have a good reputation. He must enjoy having guests in his home, and he must be able to teach. 3 He must not be a heavy drinker*3:3 Greek must not drink too much wine; similarly in 3:8. or be violent. He must be gentle, not quarrelsome, and not love money. 4 He must manage his own family well, having children who respect and obey him. 5 For if a man cannot manage his own household, how can he take care of God’s church?

6 A church leader must not be a new believer, because he might become proud, and the devil would cause him to fall.*3:6 Or he might fall into the same judgment as the devil.7 Also, people outside the church must speak well of him so that he will not be disgraced and fall into the devil’s trap.