Verse 1
1. Translate as Greek, "Faithful is the saying." A needful preface to what follows: for the office of a bishop or overseer in Paul's day, attended as it was with hardship and often persecution, would not seem to the world generally a desirable and "good work."
desire—literally, "stretch one's self forward to grasp"; "aim at": a distinct Greek verb from that for "desireth." What one does voluntarily is more esteemed than what he does when asked (1 Corinthians 16:15). This is utterly distinct from ambitious desires after office in the Church. (1 Corinthians 16:15- :).
bishop—overseer: as yet identical with "presbyter" (Acts 20:17; Acts 20:28; Titus 1:5-7).
good work—literally, "honorable work." Not the honor associated with it, but the work, is the prominent thought (Acts 15:38; Philippians 2:30; compare Philippians 2:30- :). He who aims at the office must remember the high qualifications needed for the due discharge of its functions.
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