1 Timothy 3:8-10 8Deacons likewise ought to be worthy of respect, not double talkers, not addicted to much wine, not greedy for money,
Paul’s directions to Timothy now shift focus to deacons. The Greek word deacon (diakonos) means someone who serves, helps, or ministers. The word is used in many contexts in the New Testament to describe the ministry or assistance people gave to others. In the early church, a group of leaders were set aside for special service within the church (Philippians 1:1). The role developed over time as the needs of the church evolved. Paul uses the word in the context of the leadership needs in the Ephesian church to help Timothy organize leaders with high qualifications who could help the church remain orthodox and meet the needs of its members.
First, deacons should be worthy of respect, and this will be shown by having the rest of the qualifications in the list. They could earn the respect of people by being above the rough world around them as shining examples of dignity and honor. They should stand out from the crowd, with the implied role model as Jesus.
Second, they should not be literally double talkers (dilogous), which basically means saying one thing but meaning another. Modern day politicians have become experts at this. Jesus taught his disciples to let their “yes” be “yes” and their “no” be “no” (Matthew 5:37), meaning that they should state their ideas clearly and stick with them and not change the meaning or intent.
Third, they needed to avoid the cultural problem of being addicted to much wine. Drinking wine was a common practice and even held some healthy benefits in that time because of the poor water quality and prevalence of food born parasites. Paul even directs Timothy to drink some to help his stomach (5:23). Too much, however, could create many problems. Today, there are many addicting substances that have the danger of taking away one’s awareness and self-control and leading to bad decisions.
Fourth, they should not be greedy for money (aischrokerdeis). The word behind this translation has a negative sense of getting money through dishonest means. It is a compound word that includes “shame” (aischro). Money in itself is not a problem but can create problems from people who get it in shades, dishonest, and greedy ways. Paul warns Timothy later about money and how it can lead to evil (6:10). Those who lead the church, even in the role of service and ministry, but not be cheaters, embezzlers, or abusive in how they earn money. They must work hard and earn their money in honest ways so that it bring honor to the gospel through their witness.
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