1 Timothy 3:7 states that in order to be qualified to serve as an elder, a man “must have a good testimony among those who are outside.” Unlike some of the other qualifications, there is a reason stated for this qualification, “lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.”
This qualification is straightforward. “Must” is an imperative. It is absolutely necessary because of the importance and nature of the position of elder. “Good” means pleasing, commendable. “Report” in the context of this verse is described by Thayer, “In an ethical sense, of testimony concerning one’s character.” “Are without” has reference to “those who do not belong to the Christian church” (Thayer).
This does not mean that false accusations will not be made by those antagonistic to the church (even Jesus suffered the same). It does mean that any true accusations that would sully a man’s reputation in the world would disqualify a man, lest he bring reproach to the people of God. He must not be worthy of blame! “Beloved, I beg you as sojourners and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul, having your conduct honorable among the Gentiles, that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may, by your good works which they observe, glorify God in the day of visitation” (1 Peter 2:11-12).
If he lacks character, Satan will snare an elder. He will use the man for his own purposes, and hinder truth.
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