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1It is a true saying that anyone who desires the solemn task of watching over the sacred family desires a good thing.
2Elders like this must be free from accusation, faithful in marriage, clear-minded, self-controlled, honorable, welcoming to strangers, and able to teach others.[#3:2 Lit. the husband of one wife]
3They must not be heavy drinkers, nor given to violence, but gentle peacemakers who are free from the love of possessions.
4These elders must guide their own families in a good way, having children who are respectful and well-behaved.
5For if they cannot guide their own families, how will they take care of Creator’s sacred family?
6They also should not be new followers of Creator Sets Free (Jesus) , or they might get a big head and give the evil trickster the right to accuse them.
7And last of all , they must have a good reputation with those who are outside the sacred family, so they will not be shamed and fall into the trap set by the evil trickster.
8In the same way, those who have the sacred task of helping others must walk in an honorable way, not be double-tongued, nor heavy drinkers, and not greedy for possessions.
9From deep within they must hold firm to the mystery of our spiritual ways.[#3:9 Lit. mystery of the faith]
10They must first prove themselves. Then if they are found to be free from blame, let them walk true to the sacred task of serving others.
11Their wives must walk with dignity, never speak evil of others, and be clear-minded and faithful in every way.[#3:11 Or the women helpers]
12These sacred servants must also be faithful in marriage and guide their own families in a good way.[#3:12 Lit. husbands of one wife]
13The ones who have served well as helpers gain the respect of others, and their trust in Creator Sets Free (Jesus) the Chosen One will grow strong.
14I hope to come to you soon. But I am writing this letter to you
15so that, if I am held back, you will know how to live together in Creator’s household. This household is the sacred family of the Living Great Spirit, the family that holds high the truth.
16The mystery of this great and sacred truth has now been made known. He who appeared as a human being was shown to be in the right by the Spirit. He was seen by spirit-messengers, made known among the nations, trusted in by people in the world, and taken up to be honored in the spirit-world above .