1 Timothy 3:4

Ruleth. Gr. preistemi “to superintend,” “to preside over.” If a man fails in a smaller task, he is incapable of succeeding in the larger task of superintending the many families that compose a congregation or group of churches (see v. 5).

House. Gr. oikos, “house,” and by extension, “family,” “household.”

Children in subjection. The minister’s children must show by their obedient behavior and serious attitude that they respect their father. The sons of Eli, the high priest, present a tragic example of a father’s misguided love and his failure to control his family (see on 1 Sam. 2:12, 27).

Gravity. Gr. semnotes (see on ch. 2:2).

Novice. Literally, “newly planted.” The Scriptures say nothing regarding a specific minimum age for ministerial candidates, but require only that they be spiritually mature.

Being lifted up. Or, “being puffed up,” “being conceited.” Conceit blurs the judgment.

Condemnation of the devil. This phrase may be understood to mean (1) that the “novice” will receive the same condemnation, or judgment, accorded the devil when pride precipitated his rebellion in heaven (see on Eze. 28:12-17); or (2) the condemnation that the devil himself, as “the accuser of our brethren” (see Rev. 12:10; Job 1:6; 2:4, 5), will bring against the “novice” who becomes wrapped in conceit. Against this latter view it is urged that nowhere is judgment a function of the devil. Judgment is God’s task, and the judgment accorded the devil in heaven (Rev. 12:7—9) will also be awarded those who allow pride to control their thinking.