(1) Structure
It seems like that this passage started with the qualification of the deacons and then changed to the female deacons (in Chinese Bible). In the original text, the word, "woman," can also be understood as "wife." NET bible chose the option of translating to "wife" and makes the whole passage with a single theme: qualification of deacons.
(2) Similarity of deacons and overseers
Repeated ideas and words: (a) dignified v.8, 11 for deacons, respectable v.2 for overseers (b) blameless v.10 for deacons, above reproach v.2 for overseers (c) good managers of their own home v.12, 4-5, (d) both of them should not be a drunkard and not greedy.
(3) Differences
(a) Overseers are able teachers. Deacons:
3:9 holding to the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience.
(NAC) Christian leaders are to exhibit a proper doctrinal and moral response to Christ’s message. Paul’s demands here turned positive. The “deep truths” of the faith are teachings once hidden but now revealed (cf. “the open secret of faith,” Williams). The “faith” is the content of the Christian religion. ...
“Conscience” ... describe that inner guide to life which demonstrates obedience to God. To have a “clear conscience,” a Christian leader must give continual obedience to God’s truth as revealed in Scripture...
“Conscience” ... describe that inner guide to life which demonstrates obedience to God. To have a “clear conscience,” a Christian leader must give continual obedience to God’s truth as revealed in Scripture...
3:8a Deacons likewise must be (BDB-one who gets someth. done, at the behest of a superior, assistant to someone)
3:13 For those who have served well as deacons (BDB-to carry out official duties, minister)
Summary: Both deacons and overseers are serving in the church and therefore the requirements of their characters are high. The differences are only in their job. The overseers are teachers while the deacons obeyed to the truth.They served or get things done.
(b) Deacon is required to be noot two-faced (NET “insincere,” “deceitful”; Grk “speaking double.”), and likewise, his wife is required not to be slanderous. Why are these not found in the requirement for the overseers? I think when you are the one who gets things done you have lots of personal interactions. These are times our languages need to be very careful.
Reflection: Is our interaction with other people truthful? Do we speak behind other people?
Audrey
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