not a new convert, lest being puffed up he fall into the same condemnation as the devil.
lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil: Wuest says "being lifted up with pride" means to raise a smoke, to emit smoke, smoulder: hence to blind with pride or conceit" (58). Thus, many young converts, if given an elevated position, might very well walk around with their heads in a cloud of arrogance and pride, with a confused mind. A brother who desires to become a church leader must have plenty of time and opportunity to test his own faith and to give others time to see evidence of his spiritual growth and maturity.