"It is a true saying that if someone wants
to be an elder, he desires an honorable responsibility.
For an elder must be a man whose life cannot be spoken
against. He must be faithful to his wife. He must
exhibit self-control, live wisely, and have a good
reputation. He must enjoy having guests in his home
and must be able to teach. He must not be a heavy
drinker or be violent. He must be gentle, peace loving,
and not one who loves money. He must manage his own
family well, with children who respect and obey him.
For if a man cannot manage his own household, how
can he take care of God's church?
An elder must not be a new Christian, because
he might be proud of being chosen so soon, and the
devil will use that pride to make him fall. Also,
people outside the church must speak well of him so
that he will not fall into the devil's trap and be
disgraced."
