Often, when a man has had a poor reputation, he may be inclined to despair and conclude he cannot improve his lot. He may persuade himself that it will avail nothing if he does live right, since his past will always be held against him. In such a state of despondency, he may be ensnared by Satan, who would like to convince men that there is no use to live righteously and godly. To place such a man in a prominent position in the congregation will only serve to increase the shafts of accusation hurled against him. If allowed to remain quietly in the background, he may live down his past, and the world may cease to blame him for that of which he repented.
Some men are wholly unfitted for elders because they have an exalted view of their own opinions.
They must have their way in arrogant disregard for the rights of others. They refuse to listen to pleas and reason. When they speak, others must jump. Such highhanded display of power will drive men from the faith, and some communities exhibit a trail of factions and splinter parties which eloquently testify to the rule or ruin spirit. Stubborn insistence on having one's own way, regardless of consequences, is not a commendable attribute for any, and certainly is a poor recommendation for an elder.