Matthew Poole and continuators on 1 Timothy 3:7

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

The Apostle wo[illegible: 2 letters]d have Ministers men of good reputation, amongst such as were without the pale of the Church (for that is the meaning of that terme, which are without, vide 1 Cor. 5.12. 1 Thess. 4.12.) others might be admitted as Members of the Church, but not as rulers in it, because the glory of God was much concerned in the reputation of such persons, they were as lights set upon an hill.

Lest men reproach such persons for their former infamous life, and so prejudice others against the Doctrine they bring.

And the snare, either of some accuser, or of the Devil, who hath this name from his accusing of the brethren, or lest he fall into some temptation, to revenge, hatred, undue anger, or to be cowardly in the discharge of his duty, lest he should by faithfulness provoke others to reproach him for his former course of life.