"Do not lay hands on anyone hastily.” 1 Tim. 5:21b… “Not a novice, lest being puffed up with pride he fall into the same condemnation as the devil." 1 Tim. 3:6 NKJ

Paul warns his son in the faith, Timothy, not to quickly move a new convert into a place of leadership in the local church. Spiritual maturity is essential in the role of an Elder. To move prematurely in "laying hands" on a new Christian for the office of an Elder places him in danger of thinking of himself more highly than he ought to. Because of a shortage of men willing to serve, young believers who have not been sufficiently tested in their commitment to the Lord are often asked to serve in a church role for which they may not be Biblically qualified. Pride became the down-fall of Lucifer (Satan) when he was an angel and is a serious problem for all of us. Take note lest pride cause you to fall.