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.

1 TIMOTHY 3:13KJV
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1 Timothy 3:13 (KJV)

What does 1 Timothy 3:13 mean?

1 Timothy 3:13 says that those who serve well as deacons gain a respected standing and increased confidence in their faith in Christ Jesus. The verse highlights both the honor and the spiritual boldness that come from faithfully carrying out this role.

Paul is writing to Timothy, giving instructions about church leadership. Here, Paul encourages those serving as deacons by assuring them that their faithful service brings both recognition among others and a deeper, more courageous faith. This verse fits within a section where Paul outlines the qualities and rewards of church leaders, emphasizing the value of humble and effective service.

The Greek behind 1 Timothy 3:13

  • διάκονος (diakonos, "deacon"): This word refers to someone who serves, especially in a practical or ministerial role within the church. The focus is on serving others rather than holding authority.
  • καλῶς (kalōs, "well"): This word means doing something in a good, noble, or worthy way. It stresses that the quality of service matters, not just the act itself.
  • βαθμός (bathmos, "degree"): This word is often understood as a "step" or "standing." Here, it likely refers to a respected position or reputation gained through faithful service.
  • παρρησία (parrēsia, "boldness"): This word means confidence or freedom in speaking. In this context, it suggests that faithful deacons gain a greater sense of assurance and courage in their faith.

Why 1 Timothy 3:13 matters

  • This verse clarifies that being a deacon is not just a background job; it carries real spiritual and social rewards for those who serve faithfully.
  • Paul’s words encourage those in practical ministry roles, showing that their work is noticed and valued both by the church and by God.
  • The verse connects the idea of faithful service with growing confidence in faith, showing that practical acts of service can deepen one’s relationship with Christ.

Where else these words appear

“purchase” Greek G4046 · used in 2 verses

  • Acts 20:28 Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.

“boldness” Greek G3954 · used in 31 verses

  • Mark 8:32 And he spake that saying openly. And Peter took him, and began to rebuke him.
  • Acts 2:29 Men and brethren, let me freely speak unto you of the patriarch David, that he is both dead and buried, and his sepulchre is with us unto this day.
  • Colossians 2:15 And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it.

“deacon” Greek G1247 · used in 32 verses

  • Matthew 4:11 Then the devil leaveth him, and, behold, angels came and ministered unto him.
  • Luke 8:3 And Joanna the wife of Chuza Herod's steward, and Susanna, and many others, which ministered unto him of their substance.
  • Romans 15:25 But now I go unto Jerusalem to minister unto the saints.

“well” Greek G2573 · used in 36 verses

  • Matthew 5:44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
  • Luke 20:39 Then certain of the scribes answering said, Master, thou hast well said.
  • Galatians 4:17 They zealously affect you, but not well; yea, they would exclude you, that ye might affect them.