1 Timothy 3:7

Authorized King James Version

Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
δεῖ
G1163
must
also deon deh-on'; neuter active participle of the same; both used impersonally; it is (was, etc.) necessary (as binding)
#2
δὲ
G1161
Moreover
but, and, etc
#3
αὐτὸν
G846
he
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
#4
καὶ
G2532
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#5
μαρτυρίαν
G3141
report
evidence given (judicially or genitive case)
#6
καλὴν
G2570
a good
properly, beautiful, but chiefly (figuratively) good (literally or morally), i.e., valuable or virtuous (for appearance or use, and thus distinguished
#7
ἔχειν
G2192
have
to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio
#8
ἀπὸ
G575
of
"off," i.e., away (from something near), in various senses (of place, time, or relation; literal or figurative)
#9
τῶν
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#10
ἔξωθεν
G1855
them which are without
external(-ly)
#11
ἵνα
G2443
in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)
#12
μὴ
G3361
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
#13
εἰς
G1519
into
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
#14
ὀνειδισμὸν
G3680
reproach
contumely
#15
ἐμπέσῃ
G1706
he fall
to fall on, i.e., (literally) to be entrapped by, or (figuratively) be overwhelmed with
#16
καὶ
G2532
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#17
παγίδα
G3803
the snare
a trap (as fastened by a noose or notch); figuratively, a trick or statagem (temptation)
#18
τοῦ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#19
διαβόλου
G1228
of the devil
a traducer; specially, satan (compare h7854)

Analysis

Within the broader context of 1 Timothy, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of 1 Timothy.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection