1Ti 3:4-5 | JFB | e4.org | 4. ruleth — Greek, "presiding over." his own house —children and servants, as contrasted with "the church" (house) of God ( ) which he may be called on to preside over. having his children —rather as Greek, "having children (who are) in subjection" ( ). gravity —propriety: reverent modesty on the part of the children [ALFORD ]. The fact that he has children who are in subjection to him in all gravity, is the recommendation in his favor as one likely to rule well the Church.

‏ 1 Timothy 3:4-5

4. ruleth—Greek, "presiding over."

his own house—children and servants, as contrasted with "the church" (house) of God (1Ti 3:5, 15) which he may be called on to preside over.

having his children—rather as Greek, "having children (who are) in subjection" (Tit 1:6).

gravity—propriety: reverent modesty on the part of the children [ALFORD]. The fact that he has children who are in subjection to him in all gravity, is the recommendation in his favor as one likely to rule well the Church.

5. For—Greek, "But."

the church—rather, "a church" or congregation. How shall he who cannot perform the lesser function, perform the greater and more difficult?