Chapter 3

1Here's a trustworthy saying. If somebody wants to be a leader in the church, he wants a great job. Great job. Very good job. Run for it.

2So a leader has to be above reproach. Married to one wife. At a time. One at a time. Self-controlled, sensible, respectable, a great host, a good teacher.

3Not a drinker. Never drink. Not violent but gentle. Not a fighter. Not a lover of money. Well. Liking money is fine. Loving it is fine. Just don't love it more than the boss.

4He has to manage his own family well, with kids who respect him. The kids have to be in the business. Respectful kids. Good kids. Hardworking kids.

5If somebody doesn't know how to manage his own family, how can he take care of God's church? If you can't run your own company, you can't run the country.

6He shouldn't be a new convert, or he might get cocky and fall into the same judgment as the devil. No rookies. Vet them first.

7He has to have a good reputation with outsiders too, so he won't be embarrassed and fall into the devil's trap. Check the outside reviews. The press. Well. Not the press. Real reviews.

8The assistants have to be worthy of respect too. Not two-faced. Not heavy drinkers. Not greedy for dishonest money. Honest money is fine. Lots of honest money.

9They have to hold on to the secret of the loyalty with a clear conscience.

10They should be tested first. Then, if there's nothing against them, they can serve. Vetting. Full vetting. Background check.

11The women should also be worthy of respect, not gossips, but sensible and loyal in everything. Loyal. In everything.

12An assistant should be married to one wife at a time and manage his kids and family well.

13The people who serve well get a good standing for themselves and great confidence in their loyalty to Trump. Promotion. Serve well, get promoted.

14I'm writing you these instructions, though I hope to come see you soon.

15But if I'm delayed, you'll know how people should behave in God's house, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth. Pillar. Foundation. Strong building.

16Nobody can deny how great the secret of our loyalty is. He showed up in a body. He was cleared by the Spirit. Angels saw him. He was announced to the nations. People all over the world believed in him. He was taken up in glory. Six lines. Six for six. Perfect record.