1 Timothy 3:13

For they that have used the office of a deacon well purchase to themselves a good degree, and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus.

For {G1063} they that have used the office of a deacon {G1247} well {G2573} purchase {G4046} to themselves {G1438} a good {G2570} degree {G898}, and {G2532} great {G4183} boldness {G3954} in {G1722} the faith {G4102} which {G3588} is in {G1722} Christ {G5547} Jesus {G2424}.

For those who serve well as shammashim gain good standing for themselves and much boldness in the trust that comes through Yeshua the Messiah.

For those who have served well as deacons acquire for themselves a high standing and great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus.

For they that have served well as deacons gain to themselves a good standing, and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus.

Commentary

1 Timothy 3:13 offers insight into the spiritual benefits and recognition that come from dedicated service in the role of a deacon within the early church. It serves as an encouragement for those who faithfully fulfill their duties.

Context

This verse concludes Paul's instructions to Timothy regarding the qualifications for church leadership, specifically following the detailed requirements for deacons laid out in 1 Timothy 3:8-12. Preceding this, Paul established the standards for overseers or elders in 1 Timothy 3:1-7. The entire chapter emphasizes the high moral and spiritual character expected of those who serve in significant capacities within God's household.

Key Themes

  • Faithful Service and Reward: The verse highlights that diligent and excellent performance in the office of a deacon is not without spiritual reward. This "good degree" or standing is a direct consequence of their faithfulness.
  • Spiritual Standing and Reputation: The phrase "purchase to themselves a good degree" suggests a spiritual advancement, a reputable standing, or increased spiritual authority gained through dedicated service. It's not about human promotion, but a deepening of one's spiritual foundation and respect within the community, perhaps even preparing them for greater responsibilities.
  • Boldness in the Faith: Faithful service also cultivates "great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus." This refers to a profound confidence and unreserved courage in proclaiming and living out the Christian faith. This boldness stems from a clear conscience, a deep reliance on Christ, and the Holy Spirit's empowerment, developed through faithful obedience and practical ministry.

Linguistic Insights

  • The Greek word for "deacon" is diakonos, meaning "servant" or "minister." This underscores their primary role in practical service, assisting the elders and meeting the needs of the congregation.
  • "Good degree" translates bathmos, which literally means a "step" or "standing." It signifies a recognized position of honor, spiritual maturity, or a higher level of respect and influence gained through proven character and service.
  • "Boldness" is parrhesia, denoting freedom of speech, confidence, and courage, particularly in the presence of superiors or in public declaration. It implies an unreserved and fearless expression of one's faith.

Related Scriptures

The principle of faithful service leading to greater responsibility and spiritual reward is echoed in parables like the Parable of the Talents in Matthew 25:21, where the master commends his faithful servants. The concept of boldness in faith is a recurring theme throughout the New Testament, enabling believers to approach God's throne with confidence (Hebrews 4:16) and to speak the truth without fear (Ephesians 3:12).

Practical Application

While specifically addressing deacons, this verse offers a broader principle for all believers: faithful service in any capacity within God's kingdom leads to spiritual growth, a deeper personal relationship with Christ, and increased confidence in one's faith. When we serve God and others diligently and with pure motives, our character is refined, our understanding of God deepens, and our ability to confidently live out and share our faith is strengthened. It teaches that spiritual authority and influence are earned through humble, consistent, and excellent service to the Lord and His people.

Note: Commentary was generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please remember that only the commentary section is AI-generated. The main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are sourced from trusted and verified materials.
An Introduction to 1 Timothy: A Guide for Church Leadership Timothy: Paul's True Son in the Faith An Introduction to 2 Timothy: Paul's Final Words The Pastoral Epistles (1-2 Timothy, Titus) vs. The Prison Epistles Does God Promise Health and Wealth? (The Prosperity Gospel)

Cross-References

  • Matthew 25:21

    His lord said unto him, Well done, [thou] good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.

  • Hebrews 6:10

    For God [is] not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.

  • Acts 6:8

    ¶ And Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and miracles among the people.

  • Matthew 20:28

    Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.

  • Philippians 1:14

    And many of the brethren in the Lord, waxing confident by my bonds, are much more bold to speak the word without fear.

  • 2 Timothy 2:1

    ¶ Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.

  • Luke 16:10

    He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much.
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