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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>1 Timothy 3:2 An overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of but one wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach,</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/1_timothy/3-2.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/18/54_1Ti_03_02.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="1 Timothy 3:2 - Qualifications for Overseers" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="An overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of but one wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach," /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/1_timothy/3-2.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/1_timothy/3-2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/1_timothy/">1 Timothy</a> > <a href="/1_timothy/3.htm">Chapter 3</a> > Verse 2</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad2.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/1_timothy/3-1.htm" title="1 Timothy 3:1">◄</a> 1 Timothy 3:2 <a href="/1_timothy/3-3.htm" title="1 Timothy 3:3">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Greek </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv">Verse<a href="/bsb/1_timothy/3.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/1_timothy/3.htm">New International Version</a> Now the overseer is to be above reproach, faithful to his wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, <a href="/nlt/1_timothy/3.htm">New Living Translation</a> So a church leader must be a man whose life is above reproach. He must be faithful to his wife. 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. <a href="/esv/1_timothy/3.htm">English Standard Version</a> Therefore an overseer must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, <a href="/bsb/1_timothy/3.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> An overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of but one wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, <a href="/blb/1_timothy/3.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> Therefore it behooves the overseer to be above reproach, the husband of one wife, sober, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, <a href="/kjv/1_timothy/3.htm">King James Bible</a> A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach; <a href="/nkjv/1_timothy/3.htm">New King James Version</a> A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, temperate, sober-minded, of good behavior, hospitable, able to teach; <a href="/nasb_/1_timothy/3.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> An overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, skillful in teaching, <a href="/nasb/1_timothy/3.htm">NASB 1995</a> An overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, prudent, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, <a href="/nasb77/1_timothy/3.htm">NASB 1977 </a> An overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, prudent, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, <a href="/lsb/1_timothy/3.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> An overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, sensible, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, <a href="/amp/1_timothy/3.htm">Amplified Bible</a> Now an overseer must be blameless and beyond reproach, the husband of one wife, self-controlled, sensible, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, <a href="/csb/1_timothy/3.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> An overseer, therefore, must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, self-controlled, sensible, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, <a href="/hcsb/1_timothy/3.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> An overseer, therefore, must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, self-controlled, sensible, respectable, hospitable, an able teacher, <a href="/asv/1_timothy/3.htm">American Standard Version</a> The bishop therefore must be without reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, sober-minded, orderly, given to hospitality, apt to teach; <a href="/cev/1_timothy/3.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> That's why officials must have a good reputation and be faithful in marriage. They must be self-controlled, sensible, well-behaved, friendly to strangers, and able to teach. <a href="/erv/1_timothy/3.htm">English Revised Version</a> The bishop therefore must be without reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, soberminded, orderly, given to hospitality, apt to teach; <a href="/gwt/1_timothy/3.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> A bishop must have a good reputation. He must have only one wife, be sober, use good judgment, be respectable, be hospitable, and be able to teach. <a href="/gnt/1_timothy/3.htm">Good News Translation</a> A church leader must be without fault; he must have only one wife, be sober, self-controlled, and orderly; he must welcome strangers in his home; he must be able to teach; <a href="/isv/1_timothy/3.htm">International Standard Version</a> Therefore, an elder must be blameless, the husband of one wife, stable, sensible, respectable, hospitable to strangers, and teachable. <a href="/msb/1_timothy/3.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> An overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of but one wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, <a href="/net/1_timothy/3.htm">NET Bible</a> The overseer then must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, an able teacher, <a href="/nheb/1_timothy/3.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> The overseer, therefore, must be beyond criticism, the husband of one wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, good at teaching; <a href="/wbt/1_timothy/3.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behavior, given to hospitality, apt to teach; <a href="/wey/1_timothy/3.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> A minister then must be a man of irreproachable character, true to his one wife, temperate, sober-minded, well-behaved, hospitable to strangers, and with a gift for teaching; <a href="/web/1_timothy/3.htm">World English Bible</a> The overseer therefore must be without reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, sensible, modest, hospitable, good at teaching; <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/1_timothy/3.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> it is required, therefore, the overseer to be blameless, a husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, respectable, a friend of strangers, apt to teach, <a href="/blb/1_timothy/3.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> Therefore it behooves the overseer to be above reproach, the husband of one wife, sober, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, <a href="/ylt/1_timothy/3.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> it behoveth, therefore, the overseer to be blameless, of one wife a husband, vigilant, sober, decent, a friend of strangers, apt to teach, <a href="/slt/1_timothy/3.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> Therefore an overseer must be irreprehensible, husband of one wife, sober, of sound mind, well arranged, hospitable, giving instruction;<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/1_timothy/3.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> It behoveth therefore a bishop to be blameless, the husband of one wife, sober, prudent, of good behaviour, chaste, given to hospitality, a teacher, <a href="/cpdv/1_timothy/3.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> Therefore, it is necessary for a bishop to be beyond reproach, the husband of one wife, sober, prudent, gracious, chaste, hospitable, a teacher, <a href="/nabre/1_timothy/3.htm">New American Bible</a> Therefore, a bishop must be irreproachable, married only once, temperate, self-controlled, decent, hospitable, able to teach, <a href="/nrsvce/1_timothy/3.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> Now a bishop must be above reproach, married only once, temperate, sensible, respectable, hospitable, an apt teacher,<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/1_timothy/3.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> He who becomes an bishop must be blameless, the husband of one wife, have an alert mind, must be sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, and apt at teaching; <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/1_timothy/3.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> And an Elder ought to be one in whom no fault is found and is the husband of one woman, is of a vigilant mind, sober, orderly, loves strangers and is a teacher;<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/1_timothy/3.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> A bishop, then, must be blame less, the husband of one wife, watchful, soberminded, modest, hospitable, able to teach, <a href="/godbey/1_timothy/3.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> Therefore it behooves the bishop to be blameless, the husband of one wife, modest, prudent, orderly, hospitable, competent to teach, <a href="/haweis/1_timothy/3.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> A bishop then must be irreprehensible, the husband of one wife, temperate, sagacious, respectable, hospitable, well qualified for teaching; <a href="/mace/1_timothy/3.htm">Mace New Testament</a> a bishop therefore ought to be of an unspotted character, to have but one wife, to be sober, prudent, grave, hospitable, and qualified for teaching: <a href="/wey/1_timothy/3.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> A minister then must be a man of irreproachable character, true to his one wife, temperate, sober-minded, well-behaved, hospitable to strangers, and with a gift for teaching; <a href="/worrell/1_timothy/3.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> It is needful, therefore, that the bishop be irreproachable, a husband of one wife, temperate, sober-minded, orderly, hospitable, apt to teach, <a href="/worsley/1_timothy/3.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of but one wife, sober, prudent, grave, <a href="/parallel/1_timothy/3-2.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/EkcLX59OJyU?start=328" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/1_timothy/3.htm">Qualifications for Overseers</a> 1This is a trustworthy saying: If anyone aspires to be an overseer, he desires a noble task. 2<a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: ton (Art-AMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">An</a> <a href="/greek/1985.htm" title="1985: episkopon (N-AMS) -- From epi and skopos; a superintendent, i.e. Christian officer in genitive case charge of a church.">overseer,</a> <a href="/greek/3767.htm" title="3767: oun (Conj) -- Therefore, then. Apparently a primary word; certainly, or accordingly.">then,</a> <a href="/greek/1163.htm" title="1163: dei (V-PIA-3S) -- Third person singular active present of deo; also deon deh-on'; neuter active participle of the same; both used impersonally; it is Necessary.">must</a> <a href="/greek/1510.htm" title="1510: einai (V-PNA) -- I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist.">be</a> <a href="/greek/423.htm" title="423: anepilēmpton (Adj-AMS) -- Irreproachable, never caught doing wrong. Not arrested, i.e. inculpable.">above reproach,</a> <a href="/greek/435.htm" title="435: andra (N-AMS) -- A male human being; a man, husband. A primary word; a man.">the husband</a> <a href="/greek/1520.htm" title="1520: mias (Adj-GFS) -- One. (including the neuter Hen); a primary numeral; one.">of but one</a> <a href="/greek/1135.htm" title="1135: gynaikos (N-GFS) -- A woman, wife, my lady. Probably from the base of ginomai; a woman; specially, a wife.">wife,</a> <a href="/greek/3524.htm" title="3524: nēphalion (Adj-AMS) -- Sober, not intoxicated (with wine), temperate, vigilant. Or nephalios from nepho; sober, i.e. circumspect.">temperate,</a> <a href="/greek/4998.htm" title="4998: sōphrona (Adj-AMS) -- From the base of sozo and that of phren; safe in mind, i.e. Self-controlled.">self-controlled,</a> <a href="/greek/2887.htm" title="2887: kosmion (Adj-AMS) -- Orderly, virtuous, decent, modest, well-ordered. From kosmos; orderly, i.e. Decorous.">respectable,</a> <a href="/greek/5382.htm" title="5382: philoxenon (Adj-AMS) -- Hospitable, loving strangers. From philos and xenos; fond of guests, i.e. Hospitable.">hospitable,</a> <a href="/greek/1317.htm" title="1317: didaktikon (Adj-AMS) -- Able to teach, apt to teach. From didaktos; instructive.">able to teach,</a> 3not dependent on wine, not violent but gentle, peaceable, and free of the love of money.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/titus/1-6.htm">Titus 1:6-9</a> An elder must be blameless, the husband of but one wife, having children who are believers and who are not open to accusation of indiscretion or insubordination. / As God’s steward, an overseer must be above reproach—not self-willed, not quick-tempered, not given to drunkenness, not violent, not greedy for money. / Instead, he must be hospitable, a lover of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined. ... <a href="/1_peter/5-2.htm">1 Peter 5:2-3</a> Be shepherds of God’s flock that is among you, watching over them not out of compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not out of greed, but out of eagerness; / not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. <a href="/acts/6-3.htm">Acts 6:3</a> Therefore, brothers, select from among you seven men confirmed to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will assign this responsibility to them <a href="/1_timothy/5-17.htm">1 Timothy 5:17</a> Elders who lead effectively are worthy of double honor, especially those who work hard at preaching and teaching. <a href="/hebrews/13-7.htm">Hebrews 13:7</a> Remember your leaders who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith. <a href="/james/3-1.htm">James 3:1</a> Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly. <a href="/1_corinthians/4-1.htm">1 Corinthians 4:1-2</a> So then, men ought to regard us as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. / Now it is required of stewards that they be found faithful. <a href="/1_thessalonians/5-12.htm">1 Thessalonians 5:12-13</a> But we ask you, brothers, to acknowledge those who work diligently among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you. / In love, hold them in highest regard because of their work. Live in peace with one another. <a href="/2_timothy/2-24.htm">2 Timothy 2:24-25</a> And a servant of the Lord must not be quarrelsome, but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, and forbearing. / He must gently reprove those who oppose him, in the hope that God may grant them repentance leading to a knowledge of the truth. <a href="/ephesians/4-11.htm">Ephesians 4:11-12</a> And it was He who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, / to equip the saints for works of ministry and to build up the body of Christ, <a href="/philippians/2-15.htm">Philippians 2:15</a> so that you may be blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and perverse generation, in which you shine as lights in the world <a href="/colossians/1-22.htm">Colossians 1:22</a> But now He has reconciled you by Christ’s physical body through death to present you holy, unblemished, and blameless in His presence— <a href="/1_corinthians/9-27.htm">1 Corinthians 9:27</a> No, I discipline my body and make it my slave, so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified. <a href="/proverbs/31-10.htm">Proverbs 31:10-31</a> A wife of noble character, who can find? She is far more precious than rubies. / The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he lacks nothing of value. / She brings him good and not harm all the days of her life. ... <a href="/exodus/18-21.htm">Exodus 18:21</a> Furthermore, select capable men from among the people—God-fearing, trustworthy men who are averse to dishonest gain. Appoint them over the people as leaders of thousands, of hundreds, of fifties, and of tens.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behavior, given to hospitality, apt to teach;bishop.<a href="/titus/1-6.htm">Titus 1:6-9</a> If any be blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children not accused of riot or unruly… blameless.<a href="/1_timothy/3-10.htm">1 Timothy 3:10</a> And let these also first be proved; then let them use the office of a deacon, being found blameless.<a href="/luke/1-6.htm">Luke 1:6</a> And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless.<a href="/philippians/2-15.htm">Philippians 2:15</a> That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world;the husband.<a href="/1_timothy/4-3.htm">1 Timothy 4:3</a> Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know the truth.<a href="/1_timothy/5-9.htm">1 Timothy 5:9</a> Let not a widow be taken into the number under threescore years old, having been the wife of one man,<a href="/hebrews/3-14.htm">Hebrews 3:14</a> For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence stedfast unto the end;vigilant.<a href="/isaiah/56-10.htm">Isaiah 56:10</a> His watchmen are blind: they are all ignorant, they are all dumb dogs, they cannot bark; sleeping, lying down, loving to slumber.<a href="/1_peter/4-7.htm">1 Peter 4:7</a> But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer.<a href="/1_peter/5-8.htm">1 Peter 5:8</a> Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:of good behaviour.<a href="/romans/12-13.htm">Romans 12:13</a> Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality.<a href="/titus/1-8.htm">Titus 1:8</a> But a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, temperate;<a href="/hebrews/13-2.htm">Hebrews 13:2</a> Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.apt.<a href="/2_timothy/2-24.htm">2 Timothy 2:24</a> And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient,<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/proverbs/15-23.htm">Apt</a> <a href="/ezekiel/16-27.htm">Behavior</a> <a href="/1_timothy/2-2.htm">Behaviour</a> <a href="/1_timothy/3-1.htm">Bishop</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/5-23.htm">Blameless</a> <a href="/2_thessalonians/2-6.htm">Character</a> <a href="/titus/2-7.htm">Dignified</a> <a href="/proverbs/26-16.htm">Discreet</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/5-7.htm">Freely</a> <a href="/1_timothy/3-1.htm">Good</a> <a href="/1_peter/4-9.htm">Hospitable</a> <a href="/romans/16-23.htm">Hospitality</a> <a href="/colossians/4-15.htm">House</a> <a href="/1_timothy/2-15.htm">Husband</a> <a href="/colossians/1-22.htm">Irreproachable</a> <a href="/1_timothy/1-4.htm">Minister</a> <a href="/1_timothy/2-9.htm">Modest</a> <a href="/ephesians/6-19.htm">Opening</a> <a href="/1_timothy/2-2.htm">Order</a> <a href="/1_timothy/3-1.htm">Overseer</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/4-10.htm">Prudent</a> <a href="/philippians/2-15.htm">Reproach</a> <a href="/1_timothy/1-9.htm">Respect</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/5-8.htm">Self-Controlled</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/10-15.htm">Sensible</a> <a href="/acts/10-2.htm">Serious-Minded</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/5-8.htm">Sober</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/15-34.htm">Sober-Minded</a> <a href="/ephesians/2-19.htm">Strangers</a> <a href="/1_timothy/2-12.htm">Teach</a> <a href="/1_timothy/2-12.htm">Teacher</a> <a href="/1_timothy/1-3.htm">Teaching</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/9-25.htm">Temperate</a> <a href="/1_timothy/3-1.htm">True.</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/16-13.htm">Vigilant</a> <a href="/1_timothy/2-14.htm">Wife</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/2_timothy/2-24.htm">Apt</a> <a href="/titus/1-6.htm">Behavior</a> <a href="/1_timothy/3-4.htm">Behaviour</a> <a href="/titus/1-7.htm">Bishop</a> <a href="/1_timothy/3-10.htm">Blameless</a> <a href="/1_timothy/3-7.htm">Character</a> <a href="/1_timothy/3-11.htm">Dignified</a> <a href="/titus/1-8.htm">Discreet</a> <a href="/1_timothy/4-5.htm">Freely</a> <a href="/1_timothy/3-7.htm">Good</a> <a href="/1_timothy/5-10.htm">Hospitable</a> <a href="/1_timothy/5-10.htm">Hospitality</a> <a href="/1_timothy/3-4.htm">House</a> <a href="/1_timothy/3-12.htm">Husband</a> <a href="/1_timothy/5-7.htm">Irreproachable</a> <a href="/1_timothy/3-10.htm">Minister</a> <a href="/1_timothy/2-9.htm">Modest</a> <a href="/titus/1-8.htm">Opening</a> <a href="/titus/1-3.htm">Order</a> <a href="/titus/1-7.htm">Overseer</a> <a href="/1_samuel/16-18.htm">Prudent</a> <a href="/1_timothy/3-7.htm">Reproach</a> <a href="/1_timothy/3-4.htm">Respect</a> <a href="/2_timothy/4-5.htm">Self-Controlled</a> <a href="/titus/1-8.htm">Sensible</a> <a href="/titus/2-6.htm">Serious-Minded</a> <a href="/1_timothy/3-11.htm">Sober</a> <a href="/1_timothy/3-11.htm">Sober-Minded</a> <a href="/1_timothy/5-10.htm">Strangers</a> <a href="/1_timothy/4-2.htm">Teach</a> <a href="/1_timothy/6-3.htm">Teacher</a> <a href="/1_timothy/4-11.htm">Teaching</a> <a href="/1_timothy/3-11.htm">Temperate</a> <a href="/1_timothy/3-4.htm">True.</a> <a href="/1_timothy/3-11.htm">Vigilant</a> <a href="/1_timothy/3-12.htm">Wife</a><div class="vheading2">1 Timothy 3</div>1. <a href="/1_timothy/3-1.htm">How bishops, deacons, and their wives should be qualified;</a> 14. <a href="/1_timothy/3-14.htm">and to what end Paul wrote to Timothy of these things.</a> 15. <a href="/1_timothy/3-15.htm">Of the church, and the blessed truth therein taught and professed.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; 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Being "above reproach" implies a life of integrity and moral excellence, free from any legitimate accusation. This standard reflects the high ethical expectations for church leaders, emphasizing the importance of a blameless reputation both within the church and in the broader community. This aligns with the qualifications for elders in <a href="/titus/1-6.htm">Titus 1:6-7</a>, where similar language is used to describe the character required for leadership.the husband of but one wife This phrase addresses the marital fidelity expected of church leaders. It suggests monogamy and faithfulness, countering the polygamous practices common in some cultures of the time. This requirement underscores the importance of a stable family life as a reflection of one's ability to lead the church. It also aligns with the broader biblical teaching on marriage, as seen in <a href="/genesis/2-24.htm">Genesis 2:24</a> and <a href="/ephesians/5-31.htm">Ephesians 5:31</a>, which emphasize the union of one man and one woman.temperate Being temperate involves moderation and self-restraint, particularly in relation to alcohol and other indulgences. This quality is crucial for leaders who must exercise sound judgment and maintain a clear mind. <a href="/proverbs/23-20.htm">Proverbs 23:20-21</a> warns against the dangers of excessive drinking and gluttony, highlighting the need for temperance as a virtue.self-controlled Self-control is a fruit of the Spirit (<a href="/galatians/5-22.htm">Galatians 5:22-23</a>) and is essential for leaders who must manage their own desires and impulses. This trait is vital for maintaining personal holiness and setting an example for others. It reflects the ability to govern one's actions and emotions, ensuring that decisions are made with wisdom and discernment.respectable Respectability involves living in a manner that earns the admiration and respect of others. It encompasses dignity, orderliness, and a well-regarded character. This quality is important for leaders who represent the church to the outside world, as seen in <a href="/1_peter/2-12.htm">1 Peter 2:12</a>, which encourages believers to live honorably among non-believers.hospitable Hospitality was a significant cultural value in the ancient Near East, where travelers often relied on the kindness of strangers. For church leaders, being hospitable means opening one's home and life to others, reflecting the love and generosity of Christ. <a href="/hebrews/13-2.htm">Hebrews 13:2</a> reminds believers of the importance of hospitality, noting that some have entertained angels without knowing it.able to teach The ability to teach is a critical skill for church leaders, as they are responsible for instructing others in sound doctrine and guiding spiritual growth. This requirement emphasizes the importance of understanding and effectively communicating biblical truths. In <a href="/2_timothy/2-24.htm">2 Timothy 2:24</a>, Paul highlights the need for the Lord's servant to be able to teach, patient, and gentle, reinforcing the teaching role of church leaders.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/p/paul.htm">Paul</a> The apostle who authored the letter to Timothy, providing guidance on church leadership and conduct. 2. <a href="/topical/t/timothy.htm">Timothy</a> A young pastor and protégé of Paul, entrusted with the leadership of the church in Ephesus. 3. <a href="/topical/e/ephesus.htm">Ephesus</a> The city where Timothy was stationed, known for its diverse culture and challenges to early Christian teachings. 4. <a href="/topical/o/overseer.htm">Overseer (Episkopos)</a> A church leader or bishop responsible for the spiritual oversight and governance of the congregation. 5. <a href="/topical/e/early_church.htm">Early Church</a> The community of believers in the first century, navigating the establishment of church order and doctrine.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/a/above_reproach.htm">Above Reproach</a> Leaders must live lives that are blameless and free from scandal, reflecting Christ's character. <a href="/topical/m/marital_faithfulness.htm">Marital Faithfulness</a> The phrase "husband of but one wife" underscores the importance of fidelity and commitment in marriage, serving as a model for the congregation. <a href="/topical/t/temperance_and_self-control.htm">Temperance and Self-Control</a> These qualities are essential for leaders to make wise decisions and maintain integrity in all aspects of life. <a href="/topical/r/respectability_and_hospitality.htm">Respectability and Hospitality</a> Leaders should be approachable and generous, creating a welcoming environment for both believers and seekers. <a href="/topical/t/teaching_ability.htm">Teaching Ability</a> An overseer must be skilled in communicating and defending the faith, ensuring sound doctrine is upheld.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_1_timothy_3.htm">Top 10 Lessons from 1 Timothy 3</a> <a href="/q/how_does_1_tim_3_2_apply_to_single_leaders.htm">How does 1 Timothy 3:2’s requirement of being “the husband of one wife” align with modern church leaders who are single, widowed, or divorced? </a> <a href="/q/what_do_episcopalians_believe.htm">What do Episcopalians believe?</a> <a href="/q/what_does_'husband_of_one_wife'_mean.htm">What does "husband of one wife" mean?</a> <a href="/q/what_is_the_flds_church.htm">What is the FLDS Church?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/1_timothy/3.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(2) A bishop then must be blameless.--Now follow the various social and moral characteristics of the appointed and recognised officers of the Christian Church--the presbyters or bishops, and the junior ministers, the deacons. The second chapter had treated of the duties of congregations collectively in the matter of public prayer; the third chapter speaks of the special character and qualities necessary for the rulers of these congregations. These "elders" must, in the first place, be men whose character is unimpeachable--men who stand high in public estimation, known for their pure life and spotless integrity. Not only must believers reverence the character of the superintending and ruling elders of their community, but even those outside the brotherhood of Christ must respect the life and conversation of these prominent and conspicuous members of a society which, from the nature of things, would be sure to provoke distrust and jealousy.The husband of one wife.--The general opinion of the most ancient writers--the decisions of Church councils when the question seems to have been placed before them--the custom of the great Greek Church, which, while permitting a single nuptial, still regarded the repetition of the marriage relation as a disqualification for the higher grade of the episcopate--tell us in general terms that the opinion of the Church from the earliest times interprets this saying of St. Paul as a declaration against second marriages in the case of those seeking the office of presbyter or deacon. The Greek Church evidently accepts this interpretation, though it relaxes the rule in the case of the inferior orders.There seems, however, good reason for doubting the accuracy of this popular interpretation, which appears, by thus casting a reproach upon second marriages, to urge a spirit of asceticism on all Christian society, very foreign to St. Paul's usual teaching, which was content with gently inculcating a higher and a purer life as alone in accordance with the mind of his pitiful and loving Master. It was only by slow degrees that he hoped to raise the tone of society and public opinion in this world.Inspired Christian teaching was careful not to distract the everyday life of men and women by insisting on sudden and violent changes. The behaviour of the great Christian teachers in the matter of that terrible and universal practice of slavery should be especially noted.When we ask, What then did St. Paul mean by these words? we must picture to ourselves the state of society in the empire at the time when the Apostle wrote to Timothy. An inundation of Eastern luxury and Eastern morals had submerged all the old Roman habits of austere simplicity. The long civil war and the subsequent license of the empire had degraded the character of the people. The period when St. Paul wrote was especially marked by an extreme depravity. A great and general indisposition towards marriage at all, and the orderly restraints of home and family life, had become so marked a feature in Roman society, that we find Augustus positively enacting laws against celibacy. Another cause which helped to undermine the stability of home life and those family ties which ought to be deemed so sacred, was the ease and frequency of divorce, which Seneca, who may be considered almost as the contemporary of St. Paul, alludes to as incidents no longer looked upon as shameful in Rome. He even, in his indignation at the laxity of the morals of his day, cites cases of women who reckoned their years rather by their husbands than by the consuls. Martial writes of a woman who had arrived at her tenth husband. Juvenal speaks of one who, in five years, had had eight husbands. Among the Jews we know polygamy was then prevalent. St. Paul, fully conscious of this low and debased moral tone which then pervaded all society in the empire, in these few words condemned all illicit relations between the sexes, and directed that in choosing persons to fill holy offices in the congregations of Christians, those should be selected who had married and remained faithful to the wife of their choice, whose life and practice would thus serve as an example to the flock, and to whose homes men might point as the pattern which Jesus loved, while the heathen world around them would see that the hated and despised Christians not only loved and honoured, but lived that pure home life their own great moralists pressed so earnestly upon them, but in vain. This direction, which requires that those to be selected to fill holy offices should be known for their purity in their family relations, of course does not exclude--should any such offer themselves--those men who, while contracting no marriage ties, still were known to lead upright, moral lives.Vigilant.--The Greek word here is more accurately rendered sober. The presbyter or elder should be soberminded, self-restrained, temperate (not merely in wine, but in all things).Sober.--Better rendered, discreet.Of good behaviour.--Rather, orderly. This word refers to outward conduct, to behaviour in public.The Christian office-bearer must not only be wise and self-restrained in himself, but his outward bearing must in all respects correspond to his inner life.Given to hospitality.--In the early days of Christianity, when Christians travelling from one place to another, were in the habit, when it was possible, of resorting to the houses of their brethren in the faith, to avoid consorting with idolaters in the public inns. It was of no slight importance that the presiding elders in a congregation should be men who loved to entertain strangers and others, from whom nothing could be expected in return.Apt to teach.--The elder should possess something more than a willingness, or glad readiness, to teach the less instructed the mysteries of the faith. He ought also to have the far rarer qualification of a power to impart knowledge to others. Zeal is not by any means the only, or even the principal, qualification to be sought for in a minister of the Word.<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/1_timothy/3.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 2. - The for a, A.V.; therefore for then, A.V.; without reproach for blameless, A.V.; temperate for vigilant, A.V.; sober-minded for sober, A.V.; orderly for of good behavior, A.V. The bishop (see note on ver. 1); "a bishop" is better English. Without reproach (ἀνεπίληπτος); only here and <a href="/1_timothy/5-7.htm">1 Timothy 5:7</a> and 1 Tim 6:14 in the New Testament; not found anywhere in the LXX, but used by Thucydides, Euripides, and others, in the sense of "not open to attack," "blameless." The metaphor is said (though denied by others)to be from wrestling or boxing, when a man leaves no part of his body exposed to the attack of his adversary. The husband of one wife (comp. <a href="/titus/1-6.htm">Titus 1:6</a>). Three senses are possible. The passage may be understood (1) as requiring a bishop, (or presbyter) to have a wife, and so some took it even in Chrysostom's time (though he does not so understand it), and so the Russian Church understands it; (2) as prohibiting his having more than one with at a time; (3) as prohibiting second marriages for priests and bishops. Bishop Wordsworth, Bishop Ellicott, and Dean Alford, among English commentators, all agree in thinking that (3) is the apostle's meaning. In spite of such consensus, it appears in the highest degree improbable that St. Paul should have laid down such a condition for the priesthood. There is nothing in his writings when treating expressly of second marriages (<a href="/romans/7-2.htm">Romans 7:2, 3</a>; <a href="/1_corinthians/7-8.htm">1 Corinthians 7:8, 39</a>) to suggest the notion of there being anything disreputable in a second marriage, and it would obviously cast a great slur upon second marriages if it were laid down as a principle that no one who had married twice was fit to be an ἐπίσκοπος. But if we consider the general laxity in regard to marriage, and the facility of divorce, which prevailed among Jews and Romans at this time, it must have been a common thing for a man to have more than one woman living who had been his wife. And this, as a distinct breach of the primeval law (<a href="/genesis/2-24.htm">Genesis 2:24</a>), would properly be a bar to any one being called to the "office of a bishop." The same case is supposed in <a href="/1_corinthians/7-10.htm">1 Corinthians 7:10-13</a>. But it is utterly unsupported by any single passage in Scripture that a second marriage should disqualify a man for the sacred ministry. As regards the opinion of the early Church, it was not at all uniform, and amongst those who held that this passage absolutely prohibits second marriages in the case of an episcopus, it was merely a part of the asceticism of the day. As a matter of course, such writers as Origen and Tertullian held it. The very early opinion that Joseph, the husband of Mary, had children by a former wife, which finds place in the Protevangelium of James (9.), is hardly consistent with the theory of the disreputableness of second marriages. In like manner, the phrase in <a href="/1_timothy/5-9.htm">1 Timothy 5:9</a>, ἐνὸς ἀνδρὸς γυνή, is best explained in accordance with the apostle's doctrine about the lawfulness of a woman's second marriage, as meaning that she was the husband of one man only, as long as her husband lived. (For the chief patristic opinions on the subject, see Bishop Wordsworth's note, and Bingham's 'Christian Antiquities,' bk. 4. <a href="/1_timothy/5.htm">1 Timothy 5</a>.) Temperate (νηφάλιον); peculiar to the pastoral Epistles (see ver. 11 and <a href="/titus/2-2.htm">Titus 2:2</a>), but found in classical Greek. The verb νήφειν means "to be sober" (<a href="/1_thessalonians/5-6.htm">1 Thessalonians 5:6</a>; <a href="/2_timothy/4-5.htm">2 Timothy 4:5</a>; <a href="/1_peter/1-13.htm">1 Peter 1:13</a>; <a href="/1_peter/4-7.htm">1 Peter 4:7</a>; <a href="/1_peter/5-8.htm">1 Peter 5:8</a>). It denotes that temperate use of meat and drink which keeps the mind watchful and on the alert, and then the state of mind itself so produced. The opposite state of mind is described in <a href="/luke/21-34.htm">Luke 21:34</a>. Sober-minded (σώφρονα); in the New Testament only here and in <a href="/titus/1-8.htm">Titus 1:8</a>; <a href="/titus/2-2.htm">Titus 2:2, 5</a>. But σωφρονέω is found in the Gospels and Epistles; σωφρονίζω σωφρονισμός σωφρόνως, in the pastoral Epistles; and σωφροσύνη in <a href="/1_timothy/2-15.htm">1 Timothy 2:15</a> (where see note). Orderly (κόσμιον; see <a href="/1_timothy/2-9.htm">1 Timothy 2:9</a>, note). Given to hospitality (φιλόξενον; as <a href="/titus/1-8.htm">Titus 1:8</a> and <a href="/1_peter/4-9.htm">1 Peter 4:9</a>). The substantive φιλοξενία is found in <a href="/romans/12-13.htm">Romans 12:13</a>; <a href="/hebrews/13-2.htm">Hebrews 13:2</a>. Apt to teach (διδακτικόν); only here and <a href="/2_timothy/2-24.htm">2 Timothy 2:24</a>, and Philo, 'De Proem. et Virt.,' 4 (Huther). The classical word is διδασκαλικός, though chiefly applied to things. In the above-quoted passage in <a href="/1_peter/4.htm">1 Peter 4</a>. the gifts of speaking and ministering are, as here, placed alongside that of hospitality. <a href="/commentaries/1_timothy/3-2.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>An τὸν (ton) Article - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. overseer, ἐπίσκοπον (episkopon) Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1985.htm">Strong's 1985: </a> From epi and skopos; a superintendent, i.e. Christian officer in genitive case charge of a church. then, οὖν (oun) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_3767.htm">Strong's 3767: </a> Therefore, then. Apparently a primary word; certainly, or accordingly. must δεῖ (dei) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1163.htm">Strong's 1163: </a> Third person singular active present of deo; also deon deh-on'; neuter active participle of the same; both used impersonally; it is Necessary. be εἶναι (einai) Verb - Present Infinitive Active <a href="/greek/strongs_1510.htm">Strong's 1510: </a> I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist. above reproach, ἀνεπίλημπτον (anepilēmpton) Adjective - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_423.htm">Strong's 423: </a> Irreproachable, never caught doing wrong. Not arrested, i.e. inculpable. [the] husband ἄνδρα (andra) Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_435.htm">Strong's 435: </a> A male human being; a man, husband. A primary word; a man. of but one μιᾶς (mias) Adjective - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1520.htm">Strong's 1520: </a> One. (including the neuter Hen); a primary numeral; one. wife, γυναικὸς (gynaikos) Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1135.htm">Strong's 1135: </a> A woman, wife, my lady. Probably from the base of ginomai; a woman; specially, a wife. temperate, νηφάλιον (nēphalion) Adjective - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3524.htm">Strong's 3524: </a> Sober, not intoxicated (with wine), temperate, vigilant. Or nephalios from nepho; sober, i.e. circumspect. self-controlled, σώφρονα (sōphrona) Adjective - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4998.htm">Strong's 4998: </a> From the base of sozo and that of phren; safe in mind, i.e. Self-controlled. respectable, κόσμιον (kosmion) Adjective - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2887.htm">Strong's 2887: </a> Orderly, virtuous, decent, modest, well-ordered. From kosmos; orderly, i.e. Decorous. hospitable, φιλόξενον (philoxenon) Adjective - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5382.htm">Strong's 5382: </a> Hospitable, loving strangers. From philos and xenos; fond of guests, i.e. Hospitable. able to teach, διδακτικόν (didaktikon) Adjective - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1317.htm">Strong's 1317: </a> Able to teach, apt to teach. From didaktos; instructive. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/1_timothy/3-2.htm">1 Timothy 3:2 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/1_timothy/3-2.htm">1 Timothy 3:2 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/1_timothy/3-2.htm">1 Timothy 3:2 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/1_timothy/3-2.htm">1 Timothy 3:2 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/1_timothy/3-2.htm">1 Timothy 3:2 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/1_timothy/3-2.htm">1 Timothy 3:2 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/1_timothy/3-2.htm">1 Timothy 3:2 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/1_timothy/3-2.htm">1 Timothy 3:2 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/1_timothy/3-2.htm">1 Timothy 3:2 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/1_timothy/3-2.htm">1 Timothy 3:2 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/1_timothy/3-2.htm">NT Letters: 1 Timothy 3:2 The overseer therefore must be without reproach (1 Tim. 1Ti iTi 1tim i Tm) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/1_timothy/3-1.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="1 Timothy 3:1"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="1 Timothy 3:1" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/1_timothy/3-3.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="1 Timothy 3:3"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="1 Timothy 3:3" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>