1 Timothy 3:10

First be proved (dokimazesqwsan prwton). Present passive imperative third plural of dokimazw, old and common verb, to test as metals, etc. ( 1 Thessalonians 2:4 , and often in Paul). How the proposed deacons are to be "first" tested before approved Paul does not say. See Philippians 1:10 for the two senses (test, approve) of the word. Let them serve as deacons (diakoneitwsan). Present active imperative of diakonew (same root as diakono), common verb, to minister, here "to serve as deacons." Cf. diakonein in Acts 6:2 . See also verse 1 Timothy 3:13 . If they be blameless (anegklhtoi onte). "Being blameless" (conditional participle, onte). See 1 Corinthians 1:8 ; Colossians 1:22 for anegklhto.