Note 10 at 1 Tim. 3:11: Like the deacons, their wives must be "grave" that is, a person of honorable character and good deeds. This implies that the man is not called to the office alone, but his wife shares the call. The mate may not be involved in carrying out the duties of the office, but is deeply involved in the life of the deacon; therefore is a vital part of the office. She must have a good character too.

Note 11 at 1 Tim. 3:11: A deacon's wife must not be involved in speaking false or malicious talk that damages the reputation and well-being of others. The Greek word for "slanderers" is DIABOLOS. It is also a word used for the devil 35 times in the New Testament (Mt. 4:1,5,8,11; 25:41; Lk. 4:2,3,5,6,13; 8:12; Jn. 6:70; 8:44; 13:2; Acts 10:38; 13:10; Eph. 4:27; 6:11; 1 Tim. 3:6,7; 2 Tim. 2:26; Heb. 2:14; Jas. 4:7; 1 Pet. 5:8; 1 Jn. 3:8,10; Jude 1:9; Rev. 2:10; 12:9,12; 20:2,10). This is because slander is one of the dominate characteristics of the devil. In the garden at the temptation of Adam and Eve, the devil slandered God. The next time you think about putting down others with your words, realize that you are acting like the devil.

Note 12 at 1 Tim. 3:11: A deacon's wife is also to "be faithful in all things." She is to be loyal, truthful, and trustworthy in the work and tasks assigned to her.