βαθμός (bathmos)
bathmos
standing
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun bathmos literally denotes a physical step or threshold, derived from the root meaning "to step." In the New Testament, it appears only once, in 1 Timothy 3:13, where Paul discusses the qualifications for church overseers and deacons. Here, the word carries a metaphorical weight, referring to a position of dignity, rank, or standing within the community.
While its primary sense is architectural—marking a stage in a ascent or a specific level of access—the context in Timothy shifts the focus from physical height to social and spiritual status. The sources indicate that this "standing" implies a wholesome influence and respectability among outsiders, suggesting that one’s role in the church is measured by the integrity and reputation it commands.
Translators typically render this term as "good standing" or "high degree," capturing the idea that serving in these roles elevates a believer’s honor. The word underscores that leadership in the early church was not merely about function but about the visible, respected position one held through faithful conduct.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word bathmos points to a place of standing or rank within a community. In the New Testament, it appears only once, in 1 Timothy 3:13, where Paul links faithful service with gaining a good standing. This suggests that leadership is not about power but about integrity and respectability before others.
Your daily faithfulness matters. When you serve quietly and honestly, you build a reputation that honors Christ. This standing is not earned by status but by the character you show in small, consistent acts of love. It is a quiet dignity that grows over time.
May your service be marked by humility and truth. As you walk in faith, let your life reflect the respectability that comes from following Jesus closely. This standing is a gift given to those who serve well, rooted in the grace of Christ.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- a standing1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- βαθμὸν1×
Key Verses
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I Timothy 3:13
For those who have served well gain for themselves a good standing and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus.
This verse uniquely uses the word to show that faithful service leads to a respected position and boldness in faith.