1 Timothy 3:13

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

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}.

Complete Jewish Bible

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

Berean Standard Bible

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.

American Standard Version

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

### SUMMARY
1 Timothy 3:13 serves as a powerful concluding encouragement to deacons, asserting that those who faithfully and excellently fulfill their ministry responsibilities acquire a commendable spiritual standing and profound confidence in their faith in Christ Jesus. This verse underscores the divine recognition and spiritual enrichment that accompany dedicated service within the church, highlighting both the internal growth and external respect gained through a life of humble and effective ministry.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse acts as the capstone to Paul's detailed instructions regarding church leadership qualifications in [1 Timothy 3](/1_timothy/3 "1 Timothy 3 - Qualifications for Church Leaders"). Immediately preceding it, Paul meticulously outlines the character requirements for deacons in [1 Timothy 3:8-12](/1_timothy/3-8-12 "1 Timothy 3:8-12 - Qualifications for Deacons"), specifying virtues such as sincerity, temperance, integrity, and sound family management. This follows his earlier exposition on the qualifications for overseers (elders) in [1 Timothy 3:1-7](/1_timothy/3-1-7 "1 Timothy 3:1-7 - Qualifications for Overseers"). Thus, [1 Timothy 3:13](/1_timothy/3-13 "1 Timothy 3:13 - Rewards of Faithful Deacon Service") functions as a motivational summary, promising tangible spiritual benefits to those who meet these high standards and serve diligently. The entire chapter emphasizes the critical importance of exemplary character for all who hold positions of spiritual authority and service within God's household, which Paul calls "the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth" in [1 Timothy 3:15](/1_timothy/3-15 "1 Timothy 3:15 - The Church as God's Household").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul wrote this letter to Timothy, his protégé, who was leading the church in Ephesus, a prominent city in Asia Minor. The early church was rapidly expanding, necessitating structured leadership to maintain order, doctrine, and effective ministry. The roles of overseer (elder/bishop) and deacon (servant/minister) were emerging as distinct, yet complementary, offices. Deacons, derived from the Greek *diakonos* meaning "servant," were primarily responsible for practical service, such as distributing aid to the needy, caring for widows, and assisting in various logistical and administrative tasks, thereby freeing the elders to focus on teaching and prayer, as seen in [Acts 6:1-6](/acts/6-1-6 "Acts 6:1-6 - Appointment of the First Deacons"). In a society where social standing and reputation were highly valued, Paul's promise of a "good degree" and "great boldness" would have resonated deeply, offering spiritual honor that transcended worldly status, particularly for those who might have come from lower social strata but demonstrated exceptional character and service within the Christian community.
* **Key Themes:** [1 Timothy 3:13](/1_timothy/3-13 "1 Timothy 3:13 - Rewards of Faithful Service") contributes significantly to several overarching themes within 1 Timothy and the broader Pauline corpus. Firstly, it reinforces the theme of **Faithful Service and Its Reward**, illustrating that diligence in ministry is not merely a duty but a pathway to spiritual advancement and divine commendation. Secondly, it highlights the importance of **Character and Conduct in Leadership**, emphasizing that internal spiritual health and external behavior are inextricably linked to one's effectiveness and standing in ministry. The "good degree" is a testament to proven character. Thirdly, the verse speaks to **Spiritual Boldness and Confidence**, a theme crucial for evangelism and living out the Christian faith in a hostile world. This boldness, rooted "in Christ Jesus," is a direct outcome of a clear conscience and a life lived in faithful obedience, empowering believers to proclaim the gospel without fear, as Paul himself often prayed for in passages like [Ephesians 6:19-20](/ephesians/6-19-20 "Ephesians 6:19-20 - Prayer for Boldness").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **used the office of a deacon (Greek, _diakonéō'_):** From G1247, meaning "to be an attendant, i.e. wait upon (menially or as a host, friend, or (figuratively) teacher); technically, to act as a Christian deacon." This word emphasizes the practical, hands-on nature of the deacon's role. It is not merely a title but an active, serving function. The phrase "used... well" (kalōs, G2573) further qualifies this service, indicating that it must be performed with excellence, integrity, and faithfulness, not just perfunctorily.
* **purchase (Greek, _peripoiéomai'_):** From G4046, meaning "to make around oneself, i.e. acquire (buy)." This term suggests an active acquisition or gaining. It implies that the "good degree" and "boldness" are not passively received but are earned or secured through diligent effort and faithful stewardship of the deacon's responsibilities. It's a spiritual investment with a guaranteed return.
* **degree (Greek, _bathmós'_):** From G898, meaning "a step, i.e. (figuratively) grade (of dignity)." This word denotes a recognized standing, an advancement, or an honorable position. It signifies an increase in spiritual maturity, respect, and influence within the Christian community, not necessarily a hierarchical promotion in the modern sense, but a deepening of one's spiritual foundation and a more established reputation.
* **boldness (Greek, _parrēsía'_):** From G3954, meaning "all out-spokenness, i.e. frankness, bluntness, publicity; by implication, assurance." This refers to a profound confidence, an unreserved courage, and freedom of speech, particularly in the context of one's faith. It is the ability to speak and act without fear or hesitation, stemming from a clear conscience and a deep conviction in the truth of the gospel.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For they that have used the office of a deacon well":** This opening clause establishes the condition for the subsequent blessings. The Greek particle "For" (gár, G1063) indicates a reason or explanation for the preceding discussion on deacon qualifications. It highlights that the benefits are not automatic but are contingent upon the faithful and excellent execution of the deacon's duties. "Used... well" implies a consistent, diligent, and morally upright performance of their service, reflecting the high standards previously outlined by Paul.
* **"purchase to themselves a good degree":** This phrase describes the first outcome of faithful service. The word "purchase" (peripoiéomai) suggests that this "good degree" (bathmós) is something actively acquired or gained through their dedicated work. It refers to a commendable standing, an honorable reputation, or a spiritual advancement within the community. This is not a worldly promotion but a recognition of spiritual maturity, integrity, and proven character that earns respect and trust among believers.
* **"and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus.":** This second outcome is linked by "and" (kaí, G2532), indicating an additional, equally significant benefit. "Great boldness" (polýs parrēsía) signifies a profound and unreserved confidence. This boldness is not arrogance but a spiritual courage to live out and proclaim the gospel without fear, stemming from a clear conscience and a deep conviction. The crucial qualifier "in the faith which is in Christ Jesus" specifies the source and object of this confidence: it is a boldness rooted in their personal trust in Christ, their understanding of Christian truth, and their experience of His faithfulness through their service.

#### Literary Devices
The verse primarily employs **Cause and Effect** reasoning, introduced by the conjunction "For," which establishes a direct link between faithful service and its spiritual rewards. The diligent and excellent performance of a deacon's duties is presented as the cause, leading to the effects of acquiring a "good degree" and "great boldness." There is also a subtle use of **Metaphor** or **Figurative Language** in the phrase "purchase to themselves a good degree." While "purchase" literally means to buy, here it is used metaphorically to denote earning or acquiring something valuable through effort and dedication, rather than a literal financial transaction. This highlights the spiritual investment made by the deacons. Furthermore, the verse exhibits **Parallelism** by presenting two distinct but complementary outcomes ("a good degree" and "great boldness"), both flowing from the same source of faithful service. This structure emphasizes the dual nature of the reward: both an external recognition of character and an internal empowerment of spirit.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Timothy 3:13 encapsulates a profound theological principle: God honors faithful service, and such service cultivates spiritual maturity and confidence. The "good degree" speaks to the divine recognition and increased spiritual capacity that comes from proven character and steadfast obedience. This is not a humanly conferred status but a deepening of one's spiritual foundation and a greater measure of grace for ministry. The "great boldness in the faith" is a direct fruit of a clear conscience and a life lived in alignment with God's will; it empowers believers to speak and act with conviction, unhindered by fear or doubt. This boldness is essential for Christian witness and for navigating the challenges of living a godly life in a fallen world. The verse thus teaches that true spiritual advancement is earned through humble, consistent, and excellent service to the Lord and His people, fostering both internal assurance and external credibility.

* [Matthew 25:21](/matthew/25-21 "Matthew 25:21 - Parable of the Talents: Well Done, Good and Faithful Servant")
* [Hebrews 4:16](/hebrews/4-16 "Hebrews 4:16 - Approach the Throne of Grace with Boldness")
* [Ephesians 3:12](/ephesians/3-12 "Ephesians 3:12 - Confidence and Access Through Faith in Christ")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
1 Timothy 3:13 offers a timeless principle that extends beyond the specific office of a deacon, speaking to every believer's call to service. It reminds us that our diligent and faithful efforts in any capacity within God's kingdom are seen and valued by Him. When we serve with integrity, humility, and excellence—whether in formal church roles, in our families, workplaces, or communities—we are not merely completing tasks but are actively investing in our spiritual growth and standing before God. This faithful service refines our character, deepens our understanding of God's ways, and strengthens our reliance on Christ. The resulting "good degree" is a spiritual maturity and a reputable character that earns trust, while the "great boldness" empowers us to live out and articulate our faith with conviction and courage, knowing that our foundation is solid and our conscience clear. It encourages us to view every act of service as an opportunity for spiritual formation and a pathway to greater confidence in our walk with Christ.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life are you currently serving, and how might you apply the principle of "serving well" to those areas?**
* **How do you understand the "good degree" mentioned in this verse? Is it primarily about reputation, spiritual maturity, or something else?**
* **What does "great boldness in the faith" look like in your daily life, and how can faithful service cultivate this boldness?**
* **How does the promise of spiritual reward motivate your service, and how can you ensure your motives remain pure?**

### FAQ

**Does "good degree" imply a promotion or a higher rank in the church?**

Answer: While the term "degree" (Greek, *bathmós*) can literally mean "step" or "grade," in this context, it is generally understood not as a hierarchical promotion to a higher office, but rather as an increase in spiritual maturity, a more established reputation, and a greater measure of respect and influence within the Christian community. It signifies a proven character and a deeper spiritual foundation earned through faithful service. It is a recognition of one's spiritual standing and trustworthiness, which might indeed lead to greater opportunities for service or leadership, but it is not a guaranteed or automatic "promotion" in a formal sense. The emphasis is on the spiritual and moral advancement of the individual.

**What is the connection between faithful service and "great boldness in the faith"?**

Answer: The connection is profound and experiential. When individuals faithfully and excellently serve the Lord, especially in practical ministry, they often witness God's power at work, experience His faithfulness firsthand, and develop a clear conscience. This practical obedience and reliance on God builds confidence. A person who has consistently served "well" has a deeper understanding of the gospel's power and a stronger personal conviction, which translates into "great boldness" (Greek, *parrēsía*). This boldness allows them to speak and act for Christ without fear, to stand firm in their convictions, and to approach God with confidence, knowing they have been faithful stewards of His grace. It's a boldness born of spiritual integrity and divine empowerment, as seen in the early apostles in [Acts 4:13](/acts/4-13 "Acts 4:13 - Boldness of Peter and John").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
1 Timothy 3:13 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ, who is the quintessential "Deacon" or Servant. Though divine, He "made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant," as described in [Philippians 2:7](/philippians/2-7 "Philippians 2:7 - Christ's Humility and Service"). Jesus perfectly "used the office of a deacon well" by faithfully fulfilling His Father's will, even to the point of death on the cross ([Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Christ's Obedience Unto Death")). His entire life was a testament to humble, selfless service, culminating in His atoning sacrifice. Because of His perfect service, God highly exalted Him, giving Him "a good degree" beyond measure, a name above every name, so that "at the name of Jesus every knee should bow" ([Philippians 2:9-10](/philippians/2-9-10 "Philippians 2:9-10 - Christ's Exaltation")). Furthermore, Jesus demonstrated unparalleled "great boldness in the faith," speaking truth to power, confronting sin, and proclaiming the Kingdom of God without fear or hesitation, even in the face of immense opposition, as highlighted in His interactions with the religious leaders in [Matthew 23](/matthew/23 "Matthew 23 - Jesus Denounces the Scribes and Pharisees"). Our own "boldness in the faith" is not self-generated but is derived from our union with Him; it is "in Christ Jesus" that we find the courage to live and speak for God, empowered by His Spirit and assured by His finished work ([Ephesians 3:12](/ephesians/3-12 "Ephesians 3:12 - Confidence and Access Through Faith in Christ")). Thus, Christ is both the perfect example of the faithful servant and the source of the spiritual rewards promised to those who follow in His footsteps.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

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.