What does 1 Timothy 3:13 mean?

This verse partly explains why the qualifications for deacons are so high. There are spiritual rewards in heaven for those who serve faithfully in this role. Faithful deacons are to be respected for their service and recognized for their work. A deacon's role is not primarily administrative, but spiritual. Serving well leads to great spiritual reward. This is true both for the individual and the church as well. When a congregation has faithful deacons, and elders, the church thrives.

Further, serving well also gives added confidence in the faith. This closely resembles Hebrews 10:35, which teaches, "Therefore do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward." Confidence is considered a reward for those who serve Christ well. The more confident in faith one becomes, the more effectively and powerfully they can spread the gospel message. Faith," serving as the basis for much of the Christian life, is mentioned 19 times in 1 Timothy.