1 Timothy 3:6

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.