And let these also first be proved; then let them use the office of a deacon, being found blameless.
Parallel translations
- WEB Let them also first be tested; then let them serve if they are blameless.
- BSB Additionally, they must first be tested. Then, if they are above reproach, let them serve as deacons.
- NKJV But let these also first be tested; then let them serve as deacons, being found blameless.
- NASB These men must also first be tested; then have them serve as deacons if they are beyond reproach.
- NLT Before they are appointed as deacons, let them be closely examined. If they pass the test, then let them serve as deacons.
Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Scripture quotations taken from the (NASB®) New American Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1960, 1971, 1977, 1995, 2020 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. All rights reserved. lockman.org
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Quick answer
Deacons should first be tested, then serve if found blameless. It calls for proven character before official service.
Overview
Paul directs that deacon candidates be examined before appointment. Only those shown to be 'blameless' should serve. The principle protects the church by ensuring leaders are tested, not hastily installed.
Cross-references & the web
Cross-references · 9
- 1 Tim 5:22Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other men’s sins: keep thyself pure.
- 1 Tim 3:13For they that have used the office of a deacon well purchase to themselves a good degree, and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus.
- Titus 1:6–7If any be blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children not accused of riot or unruly.
- 1 Cor 1:8Who shall also confirm you unto the end, that ye may be blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ.
- 1 Tim 3:6Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil.
- Acts 6:1–2And in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied, there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration.
- 1 Tim 3:2A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach;
- Col 1:22In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight:
- 1 Jn 4:1Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.
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Original language
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