1 Timothy 3:2

An elder must be above reproach, married to one wife, self-controlled, well-balanced, sensible, hospitable, and able to teach.

Free Bible Version

In The King James Version

A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach;

In Context

1This is a trustworthy statement: “If someone aspires to be an elder, this is a good work to want to do.”

3He should be someone who doesn't get drunk or become violent, but is gentle, and is not argumentative or greedy for money.

Read all of 1 Timothy 3

Cross References

Isaiah 56:10For all the watchmen are blind. None of them know what's going on. They're all silent—they can't bark. They spend their time lying down, dreaming, loving to sleep.

Romans 12:13Share in providing for the needs of God's people, and welcome strangers with hospitality.

1 Timothy 3:10They should be tried out first, and if they can't be faulted then let them serve as deacons.

1 Timothy 5:9Only widows over sixty who have been faithful to their husbands should be put on the list.

Titus 1:6An elder must have a good reputation, the husband of one wife, and have children who believe and who are not accused of being wild or disobedient.

Hebrews 3:14For we are partners with Christ as long as we hold on to our confidence in God from beginning to end.

Matthew Henry on 1 Timothy 3:2-8

Duties of Bishops and Deacons. ( a. d. 64.) 1 This is a true saying, If a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work. 2 A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach; 3 Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous; 4 One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity; 5 (For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how… Read the whole commentary →

This Verse In Other Editions

Study 1 Timothy 3:2