### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **neóphytos**, represented by `{{G3504}}`, translates to **novice**. Its literal meaning is "newly planted," which figuratively describes a young convert. This term appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**, highlighting a specific and important qualification within the scriptures.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G3504}}` is found in [[1 Timothy 3:6]], which outlines requirements for church leadership. The verse states, "Not a **novice**, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil." This context establishes a clear warning against appointing a recent convert to a position of authority. The concern is that spiritual immaturity could lead to pride, resulting in a fall and a judgment associated with the devil.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its only context in [[1 Timothy 3:6]] clarify the danger of appointing a novice:
* `{{G5187}}` **typhóō** (be lifted up with pride): This word means "to inflate with self-conceit." It is used to describe those who are "highminded" and opposed to God [[2 Timothy 3:4]].
* `{{G1706}}` **empíptō** (fall into): Meaning "to be entrapped by, or (figuratively) be overwhelmed with," this word is also used to describe how those desiring riches "fall into temptation and a snare" [[1 Timothy 6:9]].
* `{{G2917}}` **kríma** (condemnation): This term for "a decision" or "judgment" is used to describe the "eternal judgment" [[Hebrews 6:2]] and the greater "condemnation" that teachers will receive [[James 3:1]].
* `{{G1228}}` **diábolos** (devil): Defined as a "traducer" or "Satan," this entity is presented as an adversary who seeks to devour believers [[1 Peter 5:8]] and whose schemes must be stood against [[Ephesians 6:11]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3504}}` centers on the importance of spiritual maturity for leadership.
* **Vulnerability to Pride:** The primary danger for a "newly planted" believer is being "lifted up with pride" `{{G5187}}`. This self-conceit is a direct path to spiritual failure, as outlined in the warning [[1 Timothy 3:6]].
* **The Consequence of Falling:** The specified outcome for a proud novice is to "fall" `{{G1706}}`, not just into error, but into a specific "condemnation" `{{G2917}}`. This is elsewhere described as falling into the "snare of the devil" [[1 Timothy 3:7]].
* **The Devil's Judgment:** The warning explicitly connects the novice's potential fate to "the condemnation of the devil" [[1 Timothy 3:6]]. This suggests that pride is the same sin that led to the devil's own judgment, and a new believer in a leadership role is particularly susceptible to repeating this pattern.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3504}}` is a highly specific term whose single biblical usage provides a crucial principle for church governance. More than just meaning "new," **neóphytos** serves as a caution against the spiritual dangers of elevating someone without proven character and humility. It directly links immaturity and pride with the severe consequence of falling into the same condemnation as the devil, underscoring the need for seasoned and tested leadership.
TRV