1 Timothy 3:10 Commentary and Bible Study

It is so important for people to be tested. How have they managed with certain tasks they have been given, with certain responsibilities or departments of the work? Timothy was appointed by Paul, to join him on his missionary journey, but not before he had been proved and had received a good testimony from those who knew him well and observed him at close quarters (Acts 16:2). Obviously, an unsuitable man, once appointed, can do much harm in the church because of the authority which comes with his office. It is harder to deal with an elder who misbehaves than with an ordinary church member, because of the extra level of credibility that is to be given to him (1 Timothy 5:19), and the same is true to a lesser extent to the deacon.