Deacons

1Timothy 3:8-10 Likewise must the deacons be grave, not doubletongued, not given to much wine, not greedy of filthy lucre; Holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience. And let these also first be proved; then let them use the office of a deacon, being found blameless. 

‘Must the deacons be grave, not doubletongued, not given to much wine, not greedy of filthy lucre.’ Ten qualifications are noted here for deacons: Grave [Greek: semnos] Translated as “grave” (3:4; Tit. 2:2) and “honest” (Php. 4:8). Not double-tongued [Greek: dilogos] liars; saying different things to different persons on the same subject. Not give to much wine even unfermented (in the cluster; Isa. 65:8). Some use this verse to justify drinking in moderation. To be sober at all times is a command to anyone who claims to follow Christ (1Thess. 5:6; 8; Tit. 2:2,4,6; 1Pet. 1:13; 5:8), thus no drinking of alcohol! Even children know it is wrong, funny how distorted grownups become in what is right and what is wrong. Not greedy of filthy lucre. Holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience (3:9). They must maintain a good conscience and be able to demonstrate the mysterious power of faith (Mark 9:23; 11:22-24; 16:17-18). Let them be proved (3:10). The same as not a new convert, in 1Timothy 3:6. Let them be tested and proved worthy of the office, and able to keep themselves from being lifted up in pride and falling in the same manner satan did. Blameless [Greek: anengkletos] (3:10). Translated as “blameless” (3:10; 1Cor. 1:18; Tit. 1:6-7) and “unreprovable” (Col. 1:22). They must be free from evil and reproach. The wives must meet certain qualifications (3:11). Each, must be the husband of one wife (3:12). No polygamist. Each, must be the ruler of his own house (3:12), as required of bishops (3:4-5).

‘Deacons’ – deacons of congregations or business elders and distinct from bishops or teaching elders (3:10-13; Php. 1:1; Acts 6:1-7).