1 Timothy 3:12

12 ¹Deacons must be ²husbands of only one wife, and ³good managers of their children and their own households.

1 Timothy 3:12 Meaning and Commentary

1 Timothy 3:12

Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife,
&c.] (See Gill on 1 Timothy 3:2)

ruling their children and their own houses well.
These qualifications are the same with those of the bishop or elder; (See Gill on 1 Timothy 3:4).

1 Timothy 3:12 In-Context

10 These men must also first be tested; then let them serve as deacons if they are beyond reproach.

11 Women must likewise be dignified, not malicious gossips, but temperate, faithful in all things.

12 Deacons must be husbands of only one wife, and good managers of their children and their own households.

13 For those who have served well as deacons obtain for themselves a high standing and great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus.

14 I am writing these things to you, hoping to come to you before long;

Cross References

• 1. Philippians 1:1; 1 Timothy 3:8
• 2. 1 Timothy 3:2
• 3. 1 Timothy 3:4

Footnotes

• [a]. Lit "managing well"