1 Timothy 3 8

1 Timothy 3:8 kjv

Likewise must the deacons be grave, not doubletongued, not given to much wine, not greedy of filthy lucre;

1 Timothy 3:8 nkjv

Likewise deacons must be reverent, not double-tongued, not given to much wine, not greedy for money,

1 Timothy 3:8 niv

In the same way, deacons are to be worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain.

1 Timothy 3:8 esv

Deacons likewise must be dignified, not double-tongued, not addicted to much wine, not greedy for dishonest gain.

1 Timothy 3:8 nlt

In the same way, deacons must be well respected and have integrity. They must not be heavy drinkers or dishonest with money.

1 Timothy 3 verses

1 Timothy 3 8 Meaning

The verse discusses the character qualifications for deacons in the early church, emphasizing that they must be dignified, not double-tongued, not given to much wine, and not greedy for dishonest gain. This passage sets a high standard for those who would serve in leadership roles, ensuring that their conduct and motivations are honorable.

1 Timothy 3 8 Context

1 Timothy 3 is a crucial chapter detailing the qualifications and responsibilities for church leadership, specifically overseers (bishops) and deacons. Chapter 3 follows Paul's instruction to Timothy on how to conduct himself in God's house and addresses the necessity of orderly church government and reputable leaders. This chapter is foundational for understanding church structure and leadership, distinguishing between the roles of overseers and deacons. It aims to provide clear standards for selecting men who will uphold sound doctrine and manage the affairs of the church with integrity, safeguarding it from false teaching and internal disorder.

1 Timothy 3 8 Word analysis

• Deacons (διάκονοι - diakonoi): This is the plural of diakonos, meaning "servant," "minister," or "deacon." It originates from dia ("through") and kneomai ("to sink down" or "to stoop"). This term emphasizes the servant-heart nature of the office, serving both God and the congregation. It is the same word used for Christ's ministry (Rom 15:8) and general service to others.

• Respectable (σεμνούς - semnous): From semnos, meaning "venerable," "grave," "serious," "honorable." It implies dignity, gravity, and a high degree of moral character that commands respect. Leaders should exhibit a seriousness and moral uprightness that draws respect from the community.

• Not double-tongued (μὴ διλόγους - mē dilogous): This comes from dilogos, meaning "speaking two ways," "deceitful," or "slanderer." It refers to someone who is not straightforward, speaks out of both sides of their mouth, or is inconsistent in their speech, potentially causing division or confusion. It implies insincerity and untrustworthiness in communication.

• Not fond of wine (μὴ οἰνοφλυγοῦντας - mē oinophlērountas): From oinophleō, meaning "to be heated by wine," "to drink too much wine," or "to be drunken." It denotes a lack of self-control in the consumption of wine, going beyond moderation to excessive or habitual drunkenness. This points to the need for clear-headedness and sober judgment.

• Not greedy for dishonest gain (μὴ αἰσχροκερδεῖς - mē aischrokerdeis): From aischkros ("shameful," "ugly") and kerdos ("gain"). It signifies a craving for dirty, shameful, or dishonest profit; one who is driven by avarice and seeks ill-gotten gains. This highlights the importance of integrity and aversion to unethical financial practices.

• Deacons must be: The term "deacons" itself points to a role of service, not a position of superiority.

• Dignified, not double-tongued, not fond of wine, not greedy for dishonest gain: These are a set of virtues and vices that deacons must either possess or avoid. Dignity is a positive characteristic; double-tonguedness, fondness for wine, and dishonest gain are negative traits that disqualify.

• The triad of relational character flaws: "double-tongued," "fond of wine," and "greedy for dishonest gain" represent distinct but related dangers for those in public service: betrayal of trust in speech, impairment of judgment through intoxication, and corruption through avarice.

1 Timothy 3 8 Bonus Section

The qualifications listed for deacons here bear significant resemblance to those for overseers (verses 2-7), suggesting that character and integrity are paramount for all leadership roles within the church. While overseers have additional responsibilities relating to teaching and shepherding, the foundational elements of a respectable life, trustworthiness, and sobriety are common ground. The context of 1 Timothy suggests that the church was facing challenges from false teachers and potential internal disorder, making the selection of men with unblemished character essential for stability and healthy growth. The NT emphasizes that service is a sacred trust, reflecting God's character.

1 Timothy 3 8 Commentary

The qualifications for deacons in 1 Timothy 3:8 are critical for the effective and honorable functioning of the church. The emphasis on being "dignified" underscores the seriousness and gravity expected in those who serve. "Not double-tongued" points to a need for honesty, sincerity, and consistency in communication, preventing the sowing of discord. The prohibition against being "fond of wine" highlights the necessity of self-control and sound judgment, vital for leaders who are entrusted with spiritual oversight and resource management. Lastly, "not greedy for dishonest gain" asserts the imperative of integrity and incorruptibility in financial matters, safeguarding against any taint of corruption or exploitation. These attributes collectively ensure that deacons can faithfully serve, inspire trust, and minister with clear minds and pure motives, reflecting the character of Christ in their service.