Albert Barnes Commentary 1 Timothy 5:24

"Some men`s sins are evident, going before unto judgment; and some men also they follow after." — 1 Timothy 5:24 (ASV)

Some men's sins are open beforehand. This declaration, though it assumes a general form, is evidently to be understood in connection with the general subject of introducing men to the ministry (1 Timothy 5:22). 1 Timothy 5:23 is to be regarded as a parenthesis.

The apostle had given Timothy a charge (1 Timothy 5:22) concerning the character of those whom he should ordain. He says here, in reference to that, that the character of some men was manifest. There was no disguise. It was evident to all what it was, and there could be no danger of mistake about it. Their conduct was apparent to all. About such men, Timothy should not hesitate for a moment; and, regardless of their talents, learning, or rank in the community, he should have no part in introducing them to the ministry.

Going before to judgment. Their character is well understood. There is no need to wait for the Day of Judgment to know what they are. Their deeds so precede their own appearance at the judgment-bar that the record and the verdict can be made up before they arrive there, and there will hardly be any need even for the formality of a trial. The meaning here is that there could be no doubt about the character of such men, and Timothy should not be an accessory to introducing them into the office of the ministry.

And some men they follow after. That is, their character is not fully understood here. They conceal their plans. They practice deception. They appear different from what they really are. But the character of such men will be developed, and they will be judged according to their works. They cannot hope to escape with impunity. Though they have endeavored to hide their evil deeds, these deeds will nonetheless follow them to the judgment-bar and meet them there.

The meaning in this connection seems to be that circumspection is needed when judging the qualifications of men for the office of the ministry. It should not be inferred from favorable appearances immediately, or from a brief acquaintance, that they are qualified for the office. This is because they may be among those whose characters, now concealed or misunderstood, will only be fully revealed at the final trial.