1st Timothy 3:5 (For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?) 7 Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.
[Patriarchs & Prophets pp 579>580] Eli and his sons had been tested, and the Lord had found them wholly unworthy of the exalted position of priests in His service. And God declared, “Be it far from Me.” He could not accomplish the good that He had meant to do them, because they failed to do their part. The example of those who minister in holy things should be such as to impress the people with reverence for God and with fear to offend Him.
When men, standing “in Christ's stead” (2 Corinthians 5:20) to speak to the people God's message of mercy and reconciliation, use their sacred calling as a cloak for selfish or sensual gratification, they make themselves the most effective agents of Satan. Like Hophni and Phinehas, they cause men to “abhor the offering of the Lord.” They may pursue their evil course in secret for a time.
But when at last their true character is exposed, the faith of the people receives a shock that often results in destroying their confidence in religion. There is left upon the mind a distrust of all who profess to teach the word of God. The message of the true servant of Christ is doubtfully received. The question constantly arises, “Will not this man prove to be like the one we thought so holy, and found so corrupt?” Thus the word of God loses its power upon the souls of men.
1st Timothy 3:8 Likewise must the deacons be grave, not double-tongued, not given to much wine, not greedy of filthy lucre; 9 Holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience. 10 And let these also first be proved; then let them use the office of a deacon, being found blameless.
May The Lord add His blessing to the study of His word. God bless!