1 Timothy 3:12
Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well.
Original Language Analysis
διάκονοι
the deacons
G1249
διάκονοι
the deacons
Strong's:
G1249
Word #:
1 of 12
an attendant, i.e., (genitive case) a waiter (at table or in other menial duties); specially, a christian teacher and pastor (technically, a deacon)
ἔστωσαν
Let
G2077
ἔστωσαν
Let
Strong's:
G2077
Word #:
2 of 12
be thou; also ??????? <pronunciation strongs="es'-to-san"/>, third person of the same; let them be
προϊστάμενοι
ruling
G4291
προϊστάμενοι
ruling
Strong's:
G4291
Word #:
8 of 12
to stand before, i.e., (in rank) to preside, or (by implication) to practise
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
9 of 12
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
τῶν
G3588
τῶν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
10 of 12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
Historical Context
Deacons in the early church often visited homes for benevolence distribution, cared for widows and orphans, and managed hospitality for traveling teachers. Their access to vulnerable people and church resources required proven family integrity. A deacon with an ill-managed home would undermine confidence and effectiveness in public ministry.
Questions for Reflection
- Why do even non-teaching ministry roles require strong family leadership?
- How does faithful household management prepare someone for serving the church?
- What does it reveal about biblical ministry that character always precedes competence?
Analysis & Commentary
Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife (διάκονοι ἔστωσαν μιᾶς γυναικὸς ἄνδρες, diakonoi estōsan mias gynaikos andres)—literally 'one-woman men,' the same requirement as elders (3:2). Marital fidelity demonstrates broader character integrity.
Ruling their children and their own houses well (τέκνων καλῶς προϊστάμενοι καὶ τῶν ἰδίων οἴκων, teknōn kalōs proistamenoi kai tōn idiōn oikōn)—managing children and households well. Again paralleling elder qualifications, the deacon's home life must demonstrate gospel transformation.
Though deacons don't require teaching ability, they need the same domestic integrity as elders. Why? Because practical service and family management are both forms of diakonia—ministry. A man who cannot lovingly lead his own household cannot be trusted to serve God's household. Ministry at home qualifies for ministry in the church.