John Calvin Commentary 1 Timothy 3:6

"not a novice, lest being puffed up he fall into the condemnation of the devil." — 1 Timothy 3:6 (ASV)

Not a novice: Since there were many men of distinguished ability and learning who at that time were brought to the faith, Paul forbids that such persons should be admitted to the office of a bishop as soon as they have professed Christianity. He shows how great the danger would be, for it is evident that they are commonly vain and full of ostentation; and because of this, haughtiness and ambition will drive them headlong. What Paul says, we experience: for “novices” not only have impetuous fervor and bold daring but are also puffed up with foolish confidence, as if they could fly beyond the clouds. Consequently, it is not without reason that they are excluded from the honor of a bishopric until, over time, their proud temper is subdued.

Lest he fall into the condemnation of the devil. The judgment or condemnation of the devil may be interpreted in three ways: some take Διαβόλου (of the devil) to mean Satan, and others to mean slanderers. I give preference to the former view because it rarely happens that “judgment” means slander. But again, “the judgment of Satan” may be taken either actively or passively. This latter sense is adopted by Chrysostom, with whom I willingly agree. There is an elegant contrast, which heightens the enormity of the case: “If he who is placed over the Church of God falls, by his pride, into the same condemnation with the devil.” Yet I do not reject the active meaning, namely, that he will give the devil occasion for accusing him. But the opinion of Chrysostom is more correct.