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.
Ver. 13. A good degree] Or a fair step to a higher order, i.e. to a bishopric or presbytership.
And great boldness in the faith] The peace of a good conscience and the plerophory of faith. This those that are faithful in the ministry shall be sure of; the former preferment they may possibly fail in. In a similar manner, when the twins strove in Rebecca's womb, the worst came forth first, and had the best place, Genesis 25:25; so the unworthiest are often exalted, Psalms 12:8, but the best have that which is better.