1 Timothy 3

1 Timothy 3 provides instructions on how church leaders should conduct themselves. The chapter highlights the qualifications for bishops and deacons, stating that they should be above reproach, faithful to their spouse, sober-minded, courteous and not given to much wine. Also they should manage their own household well and not be a recent convert. The chapter also emphasizes that their wives should be dignified, faithful and self-controlled. The chapter then goes on to outline general guidelines for church conduct, including that the leaders must be respected by all, and that nobody should be appointed hastily. It also mentions that deacons and elders should be tested in their personal lives and that they must have the ability to hold onto the gracious wisdom of God.