1 Timothy 5:21 I charge thee before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect angels, that thou observe these things without preferring one before another, doing nothing by partiality.
To understand partisan in context to these verse we must examine “these things”.
Reading chapter five of 1st Timothy I would hi-lite recognition of responsibility, civility, dedication and honor. It is spoken of as examples in relationships and submissions. Recognition of Godly efforts and good deeds should be honored. Those who struggle with sins that are known need to be helped in finding their way back to right standing within the body of Christ.
All outward appearances should be seen as people who look to help those in need and that a place can be made for new members to join.
Partisan behavior excludes everyone who is not in agreement with a set of ideals. If we live up to those ideals those observing our lives will want what we have. Mercy, grace and forgiveness will not be seen to be desirable if it doesn’t work within the body of Christ.
“Come join us!”
The invitation will be rejected if we show bickering, back biting, and disrespect among ourselves. We have come to this life to share the Good News so we must show it to be a good life.
Knowing the Word of God is irrelevant if it cannot be demonstrated in the life we live together.