Commentaries:
Barnes' Notes
Holding the mystery of the faith - On the word "mystery," see notes on I Corinthians 2:7. It means that which had been concealed, or hidden, but which was now revealed. The word "faith" here, is synonymous with "the gospel;" and the sense is, that he should hold firmly the great doctrines of the Christian religion which had been so long concealed from people, but which were now revealed. The reason is obvious. Though not a preacher, yet his influence and example would be great, and a man who held material error ought not to be in office.
In a pure conscience - A mere orthodox faith was not all that was necessary, for it was possible that a man might be professedly firm in the belief of the truths of revelation, and yet be corrupt at heart.
Other Barnes' Notes entries containing 1 Timothy 3:9:
Acts 6:3
Acts 20:28
1 Timothy 5:17
James 2:1
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