Reference: Novice

Or neophite, one recently converted and received to the Christian church, 1Ti 3:6.

In 1Ti 3:5 it is enjoined that the bishop must not be a novice. The Gr. word (neophytos, lit. 'newly planted') was afterwards used in the technical sense of one who has not yet taken religious vows. Here it is general

The word ???????? is literally 'newly planted,' and is applied to those who had been but recently converted. They were not to be appointed as bishops or overseers, lest, being lifted up with pride, they should fall into the condemnation of the devil. 1Ti 3:6.