King James Version
What Does 1 Timothy 3:10 Mean?
“And let these also first be proved; then let them use the office of a deacon, being found blameless.”
Context
8
Likewise must the deacons be grave, not doubletongued, not given to much wine, not greedy of filthy lucre;
9
Holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience.
10
And let these also first be proved; then let them use the office of a deacon, being found blameless.
11
Even so must their wives be grave, not slanderers, sober, faithful in all things.
12
Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(10) **And let these also first be proved.**—No formal investigation, either in public before the congregation, or in private before Timothy and his fellow presbyters, is here referred to. What is most probably the meaning of the word is—the deacon should for a time perform many of the various duties on probation, to test his fitness before he was formally set apart for the holy office. So much of the work belonging to these officials of the early Church necessarily partook of a partially secular character, that such a trial of their fitness could well be made.
**Then let them use the office of a deacon.**—Better rendered, *let them serve as deacons, *if, after the trial, inquiry, and period of probation, they be found blameless.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of 1 Timothy. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
1 Timothy 3:10 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to 1 Timothy 3:10
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge