1 Timothy 3:13

Authorized King James Version

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.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
τῇ
G3588
which
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#2
γὰρ
G1063
For
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
#3
καλῶς
G2573
well
well (usually morally)
#4
διακονήσαντες
G1247
they that have used the office of a deacon
to be an attendant, i.e., wait upon (menially or as a host, friend, or (figuratively) teacher); technically, to act as a christian deacon
#5
βαθμὸν
G898
degree
a step, i.e., (figuratively) grade (of dignity)
#6
ἑαυτοῖς
G1438
to themselves
(him- her-, it-, them-, my-, thy-, our-, your-)self (selves), etc
#7
καλὸν
G2570
a good
properly, beautiful, but chiefly (figuratively) good (literally or morally), i.e., valuable or virtuous (for appearance or use, and thus distinguished
#8
περιποιοῦνται
G4046
purchase
to make around oneself, i.e., acquire (buy)
#9
καὶ
G2532
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#10
πολλὴν
G4183
great
(singular) much (in any respect) or (plural) many; neuter (singular) as adverbial, largely; neuter (plural) as adverb or noun often, mostly, largely
#11
παῤῥησίαν
G3954
boldness
all out-spokenness, i.e., frankness, bluntness, publicity; by implication, assurance
#12
ἐν
G1722
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#13
πίστει
G4102
the faith
persuasion, i.e., credence; moral conviction (of religious truth, or the truthfulness of god or a religious teacher), especially reliance upon christ
#14
τῇ
G3588
which
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#15
ἐν
G1722
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#16
Χριστῷ
G5547
Christ
anointed, i.e., the messiah, an epithet of jesus
#17
Ἰησοῦ
G2424
Jesus
jesus (i.e., jehoshua), the name of our lord and two (three) other israelites

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 1 Timothy. The concept of faith reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes pistis in Greek, encompassing both belief and faithfulness, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection