Pastoral Epistles: 1 Timothy 3:6-7 - The Importance of Humility

The godly character of an elder must not be manifested only in his personal life, the church, and his home. He must also have a good reputation with those outside the church. The Greek word translated “reputation” is the word from which we get our word martyr. It is a reference to testimony of validation. A martyr validates that his commitment is absolute. The word speaks of a certifying testimony. An elder’s character is to be certified by the testimony of those outside the church. A man chosen to lead the church must maintain a reputation in the community for righteousness, moral character, love, kindness, generosity, and goodness. All will certainly not agree with his theology, and he will no doubt face antagonism when he takes a stand for God’s truth. Nevertheless, those outside the church must recognize him as a man of impeccable reputation. How can a man have a spiritual impact on his community if that community does not respect him?