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Verse 7

7. a good reportGreek, "testimony." So Paul was influenced by the good report given of Timothy to choose him as his companion ( :-).

of them which are without—from the as yet unconverted Gentiles around (1 Corinthians 5:12; Colossians 4:5; 1 Thessalonians 4:12), that they may be the more readily won to the Gospel (1 Thessalonians 4:12- :), and that the name of Christ may be glorified. Not even the former life of a bishop should be open to reproach [BENGEL].

reproach and the snare of the devilreproach of men (1 Thessalonians 4:12- :) proving the occasion of his falling into the snare of the devil (1 Timothy 6:9; Matthew 22:15; 2 Timothy 2:26). The reproach continually surrounding him for former sins might lead him into the snare of becoming as bad as his reputation. Despair of recovering reputation might, in a weak moment, lead some into recklessness of living (2 Timothy 2:26- :). The reason why only moral qualities of a general kind are specified is, he presupposes in candidates for a bishopric the special gifts of the Spirit (2 Timothy 2:26- :) and true faith, which he desires to be evidenced outwardly; also he requires qualifications in a bishop not so indispensable in others.

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