1 Timothy 3:8
Likewise must the deacons be grave, not doubletongued, not given to much wine, not greedy of filthy lucre;
Original Language Analysis
Διακόνους
must the deacons
G1249
Διακόνους
must the deacons
Strong's:
G1249
Word #:
1 of 11
an attendant, i.e., (genitive case) a waiter (at table or in other menial duties); specially, a christian teacher and pastor (technically, a deacon)
μὴ
not
G3361
μὴ
not
Strong's:
G3361
Word #:
4 of 11
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
μὴ
not
G3361
μὴ
not
Strong's:
G3361
Word #:
6 of 11
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
πολλῷ
to much
G4183
πολλῷ
to much
Strong's:
G4183
Word #:
8 of 11
(singular) much (in any respect) or (plural) many; neuter (singular) as adverbial, largely; neuter (plural) as adverb or noun often, mostly, largely
προσέχοντας
given
G4337
προσέχοντας
given
Strong's:
G4337
Word #:
9 of 11
(figuratively) to hold the mind (3563 implied) towards, i.e., pay attention to, be cautious about, apply oneself to, adhere to
Cross References
Philippians 1:1Paul and Timotheus, the servants of Jesus Christ, to all the saints in Christ Jesus which are at Philippi, with the bishops and deacons:1 Timothy 3:3Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous;Titus 2:3The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things;1 Timothy 5:23Drink no longer water, but use a little wine for thy stomach's sake and thine often infirmities.Leviticus 10:9Do not drink wine nor strong drink, thou, nor thy sons with thee, when ye go into the tabernacle of the congregation, lest ye die: it shall be a statute for ever throughout your generations:Psalms 52:2Thy tongue deviseth mischiefs; like a sharp razor, working deceitfully.Psalms 5:9For there is no faithfulness in their mouth; their inward part is very wickedness; their throat is an open sepulchre; they flatter with their tongue.Psalms 12:2They speak vanity every one with his neighbour: with flattering lips and with a double heart do they speak.1 Timothy 3:12Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well.James 3:10Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be.
Historical Context
The diaconate emerged in Acts 6 when Hellenistic widows were neglected in daily food distribution. Seven men 'of good reputation, full of the Spirit and wisdom' were appointed to serve tables, freeing apostles for prayer and teaching. By Paul's time, deacons were established church officers. In Ephesus, they likely managed relief funds, hospitality, and practical care—roles requiring impeccable honesty.
Questions for Reflection
- How does 'double-tongued' (saying different things to different people) undermine church unity?
- Why do practical service roles require the same character qualifications as teaching roles?
- In what ways might deacons be tempted toward financial impropriety in handling church resources?
Analysis & Commentary
Likewise must the deacons be grave (Διακόνους ὡσαύτως σεμνούς, Diakonous hōsautōs semnous)—deacons likewise must be 'dignified, serious, worthy of respect.' Diakonos means servant/minister; these are church officers who serve alongside elders, handling practical ministry (Acts 6:1-6).
Not doubletongued (μὴ διλόγους, mē dilogous)—literally 'not two-worded,' not saying one thing to some people and another to others. Deacons must be trustworthy and consistent in speech. Not given to much wine (mē oinō pollō prosechontas)—not devoted to excessive drinking. Not greedy of filthy lucre (mē aischrokerdeis)—not pursuing dishonest gain.
Since deacons often handled church finances (distributing to widows, managing benevolence), financial integrity and truthfulness were essential. The qualities parallel elder requirements but emphasize practical trustworthiness over teaching ability.