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.
Original Language Analysis
τῇ
which
G3588
τῇ
which
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
1 of 17
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
γὰρ
For
G1063
γὰρ
For
Strong's:
G1063
Word #:
2 of 17
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
διακονήσαντες
they that have used the office of a deacon
G1247
διακονήσαντες
they that have used the office of a deacon
Strong's:
G1247
Word #:
4 of 17
to be an attendant, i.e., wait upon (menially or as a host, friend, or (figuratively) teacher); technically, to act as a christian deacon
ἑαυτοῖς
to themselves
G1438
ἑαυτοῖς
to themselves
Strong's:
G1438
Word #:
6 of 17
(him- her-, it-, them-, my-, thy-, our-, your-)self (selves), etc
καλὸν
a good
G2570
καλὸν
a good
Strong's:
G2570
Word #:
7 of 17
properly, beautiful, but chiefly (figuratively) good (literally or morally), i.e., valuable or virtuous (for appearance or use, and thus distinguished
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
9 of 17
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
πολλὴν
great
G4183
πολλὴν
great
Strong's:
G4183
Word #:
10 of 17
(singular) much (in any respect) or (plural) many; neuter (singular) as adverbial, largely; neuter (plural) as adverb or noun often, mostly, largely
παῤῥησίαν
boldness
G3954
παῤῥησίαν
boldness
Strong's:
G3954
Word #:
11 of 17
all out-spokenness, i.e., frankness, bluntness, publicity; by implication, assurance
πίστει
the faith
G4102
πίστει
the faith
Strong's:
G4102
Word #:
13 of 17
persuasion, i.e., credence; moral conviction (of religious truth, or the truthfulness of god or a religious teacher), especially reliance upon christ
τῇ
which
G3588
τῇ
which
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
14 of 17
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
Matthew 25:21His 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 6:10For 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.
Historical Context
In the Greco-Roman world, advancement came through wealth, patronage, or political maneuvering. The church operates differently—advancement comes through faithful service. The deacon who serves humbly gains something better than worldly status: spiritual confidence and church-wide respect. This encourages faithful servants—your labor isn't in vain but produces genuine spiritual rewards.
Questions for Reflection
- What 'good standing' do faithful deacons gain—how is this different from worldly status?
- How does faithful service produce 'boldness in the faith'—what's the connection?
- What encouragement does this verse offer to those serving in practical, unglamorous roles?
Analysis & Commentary
For they that have used the office of a deacon well purchase to themselves a good degree (οἱ γὰρ καλῶς διακονήσαντες βαθμὸν ἑαυτοῖς καλὸν περιποιοῦνται, hoi gar kalōs diakonēsantes bathmon heautois kalon peripoiountai)—'those who serve well as deacons gain a good standing.' Diakoneō means to serve, minister. Bathmos means step, standing, rank—good reputation or position. Peripoieō means to gain, acquire, obtain for oneself.
And great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus (καὶ πολλὴν παρρησίαν ἐν πίστει τῇ ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ, kai pollēn parrēsian en pistei tē en Christō Iēsou)—'and great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus.' Parrēsia means boldness, confidence, freedom of speech—especially before God and others. Faithful service produces spiritual confidence.
Those who serve faithfully as deacons gain two rewards:
Humble, faithful service over time builds both credibility with people and boldness with God. This isn't worldly ambition but spiritual maturity—proven character produces assured faith.