1 Timothy 3:12-13

Let the deacons As well as the bishops; be husbands of one wife That is, such as have shown their temperance by avoiding polygamy and causeless divorce; (see on 1 Timothy 3:2;) ruling their children, &c. This qualification, which was required in bishops likewise, shows how anxious the apostle was that all who bore sacred offices should be unblameable in every respect; knowing that the disorderly behaviour of the members of their family might give occasion to suspect that they had been careless of their morals. For they that have used Have discharged; the office of a deacon well, (see Romans 12:7,) purchase to themselves a good de gree Greek, βαθμον, step, namely, toward some higher office; and great boldness From the testimony of a good conscience; in the faith which is in Christ Jesus Namely, in professing and teaching it, for even the wicked must respect persons who show so much benevolence and activity in relieving the poor, the afflicted, and the persecuted.