1 Timothy 3:10 - Printer Friendly

ESV: And let them also be tested first; then let them serve as deacons if they prove themselves blameless.

NIV: They must first be tested; and then if there is nothing against them, let them serve as deacons.

NASB: These men must also first be tested; then have them serve as deacons if they are beyond reproach.

CSB: They must also be tested first; if they prove blameless, then they can serve as deacons.

NLT: Before they are appointed as deacons, let them be closely examined. If they pass the test, then let them serve as deacons.

KJV: And let these also first be proved; then let them use the office of a deacon, being found blameless.

NKJV: But let these also first be tested; then let them serve as deacons, being found blameless.

Unique to deacons, Paul wrote, "And let them also be tested first." Interestingly, Paul's description of qualifications for elders did not mention a test. Yet, his qualifications for deacons require it. Quite likely, those considered for the position of "elder" were already serving as something like a "deacon." Beyond this, the most likely reason for this difference is simply that of reputation. Those being considered for the position(s) of elder are almost assuredly very familiar to the church. They have already experienced some form of "testing," in other words. Deacons, however, might not be as visible or well-known as those being considered for the highest positions of church leadership.

This "testing" likely refers to a temporary time period during which potential deacons were given some leadership before being officially selected. This is affirmed by the second part of the verse, tying service to proof based on this testing. In modern terms, deacons are meant to be subject to "tryouts." Those who served well during the testing period can be formally approved as a deacon.

The idea of proving oneself as "blameless" is rich with history. Noah was blameless (Genesis 6:9), as was Abraham (Genesis 17:1). The Israelites were to be blameless (Deuteronomy 18:13), David was called blameless (1 Samuel 29:9), as was Job (Job 1:1). Paul mentions the general concept of being blameless several other times in his letters.

First Timothy 3:8–13 gives qualifications for those who wish to serve as ''deacons,'' or ''servants,'' within the church. Many of these are duplicates of the requirements given for elders, including a good reputation and a respectable control over their own homes. Deacons are also prohibited from being those with a reputation for being two-faced, greedy, or prone to addiction. Unlike elders, who have probably already been ''tested,'' Paul says deacons should submit to a time of testing and be installed when they prove themselves ''blameless.''

First Timothy chapter 3 expresses requirements for two different levels of church leadership. The first are ''elders'' or ''overseers.'' These men are to be experienced Christians, respectable, capable teachers, with a good reputation and a well-ordered family life. The second group are ''servants,'' or ''deacons,'' who share many of the same expectations. Unlike elders, however, deacons are not necessarily called on to teach. And, they are expected to be ''tested'' prior to taking on their role.

Chapter 3 concludes Paul's general statements about church structure and behavior. In chapters 1, 2, and 3, he has laid out some broad concepts which Timothy needs to enforce in his congregation. This chapter specifically deals with the qualifications for leaders, including both elders and deacons. The next chapters will transition to Paul's warnings about certain dangers lurking around the Christian church.

First Timothy is one of Paul's three ''Pastoral Epistles.'' Paul's other letters, such as Romans, Ephesians, and Colossians, are meant for a broader audience. First Timothy, 2 Timothy, and Titus are written to specific people whom Paul is advising on how to best lead their local churches. These three letters present a close look at the form and function of church leadership. First Timothy, like 2 Timothy and Titus, is less formal and systematic, and more personal. This gives great insight into the way pastors, deacons, and elders ought to prioritize their time and energy.