Especially – Malista
The Greek Word “Malista” translated into English as “Especially” or “Specially” occurs in each of the verse below in the same literary style by the ‘same’ inspired author, apostle Paul.
What does it mean?
(i) ALL elders or SOME elders ONLY?
Does it refers to elders who are ‘teaching the word & doctrine ONLY’ or to ‘ALL elders who rule well but the teachers of the Word & Doctrine are highlighted to be more special’?
“Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, ESPECIALLY they who labour in the Word and Doctrine.” (1 Timothy 5:17, KJV)
(ii) MANY deceivers or JEWISH deceivers ONLY?
“For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, SPECIALLY they of the circumcision:” (Titus 1:10, KJV)
(iii) ALL men or believers ONLY?
“For therefore we both labour and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, Who is the Saviour of all men, SPECIALLY of those that believe.” (1 Timothy 4:10, KJV)
Conclusion
In Principle,
“And He (Lord Jesus) said to him, “What is written in the Law? How does it read to you?” (Luke 10:26, NASB)
“And why do you not even on your own initiative judge what is right?” – Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:57, NASB)
The ‘right’ attitude’ is to ‘check’ against Holy Scripture ONLY whether these things are ‘written’ so as the ‘Noble-minded’ Bereans also did & were commended for it:
“Now these (Bereas) were more noble-minded than those in Thessalonica, for they received the Word with great eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see whether these things were so.” (Acts 17:11, NASB)
