1 Timothy 3:13
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
1 Timothy 3:13
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.
Chapter Context
1 Timothy 3 is a pastoral epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of holiness, wisdom, judgment. Written during after Paul's first Roman imprisonment (c. 62-64 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: False teaching in Ephesus required organizational and doctrinal clarification.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-16: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within 1 Timothy and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
1 Timothy 3:13
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.
Analysis
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:
- good standing/reputation in the church,
- increased spiritual confidence in their faith.
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.
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.
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?
Word Studies
- Faith: πίστις (Pistis) G4102 - Faith, belief, trust
Cross-References
- Faith: Matthew 25:21
- Parallel theme: Hebrews 6:10