The overseer therefore must be without reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, sensible, modest, hospitable, good at teaching;
De Welt declared this means "one wife at a time";[13] Alford, Wordsworth and Ellicott concur in thinking that what is forbidden is "second marriages for church officers."[14] However, the Greek simply has this, "a man of one woman."[15] As Ward noted, "Above reproach dominates the whole list."[16] Thus, ANYTHING reprehensible in the marital relations of a prospective elder would certainly disqualify him.  In this first great requirement is seen the absolute sanctity of the home and that sacred respect and honor of it which dominate the whole Christian doctrine.  Significantly, "All of the qualifications listed except aptness to teach and that pertaining to a novice are requirements that apply to all Christians."[17] There are not two standards for so-called clergy and laity, but one standard for all.