My goal is that they will all be encouraged in their hearts and joined together in love. Then their understanding will be rich and complete, and they will know the mystery of God, which is Christ.
Without question, true godliness comes from this great mystery: Jesus came as a human being, and he was declared right with God by the Holy Spirit. He was seen by angels, preached among the nations, believed on in the world, and taken up in glory.
The bride belongs to the groom. The friend who helps the groom waits and listens for him, and he’s filled with joy when he hears the groom’s voice. That joy is mine, and now it is complete.
In the same way, deacons must be worthy of respect. They must be honest. they must not drink too much wine, and they must not try to get money by cheating other people.