Multiple commentators emphasize that an elder's home life is a direct reflection of his fitness to lead the church. His ability to manage his own family, with well-behaved children and a stable marriage, demonstrates the prudence and gravity needed to govern the household of God. As Charles Ellicott notes, the elder's home should be a 'fair pattern' for other Christian homes, proving his leadership capabilities on a smaller scale before being entrusted with the larger church body.