1 Timothy 5:22 - Exposition

Hastily for suddenly , A.V. Lay hands , etc. Surely if we are guided by St. Paul's own use of the phrase, ἐπίθεσις χειρῶν , in the only two places in his writings where it occurs ( 1 Timothy 4:14 and 2 Timothy 1:6 ), we must abide by the ancient interpretation of these words, that they mean the laying on of hands in ordination. So also in Acts 6:6 and Acts 13:3 , ἐπιτίθεναι χεῖρας is "to ordain." And the context here requires the same sense. The solemn injunction in the preceding verse, to deal impartially in judging even the most influential eider, naturally suggests the caution not to be hasty in ordaining any one to be an elder. Great care and previous inquiry were necessary before admitting any man, whatever might be his pretensions or position, to a holy office. A bishop who, on the spur of the moment, with improper haste, should ordain cue who afterwards required reproof as ἁμαρτάνων , sinning ( Acts 13:20 ), would have a partnership in the man's sin, and in the evil consequences that flowed from it. And then it follows, Keep thyself pure ; i.e. clear and guiltless ( 2 Corinthians 7:11 ), which he would not be if he was involved in the sin of the guilty elder. Observe that the stress is upon "thyself."