They must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience.
Summary: Paul’s reference to the “deep truths of the faith” and a “clear conscience” point to things that only the eyes of faith can see.
When we read Paul’s words, we are always looking through the lens of the translators who make it possible for us to read the Bible in English. Translating from Greek is not an easy task, and translators sometimes have to make hard choices when selecting their words.
In this case, the NIV translates “mystērion”* as “deep truths.” Most translations, about three-quarters of them, use the word “mystery” instead.
Why?
What is the difference between a “deep truth” and a “mystery”?
The problem with the word “mystery” is that it carries the connotation of something secret. Secrets are often associated with the dark arts or with heresies. The Christian faith has no “secrets” in the sense of hiding anything.
The problem is that some people are blind to the truth of Jesus Christ. When that happens, it feels like the Gospel Christians talk about is a “mystery.” The Bible describes this effect as the “stumbling stone” (Romans 9:33).
The Bible divides humanity into those who recognize the “rock” and those who don’t. Those who recognize the rock build on it (Matthew 7:24-25). Those who don’t acknowledge the rock stumble and are judged by it (Matthew 21:44).
To the world, this looks like a “mystery.” Through the eyes of faith, the truth seems plain as day. Two different points of view — two completely different results.
Why does Paul add the part about the “clear conscience”?
The “mystery” of faith is that while we live in the world, our hearts belong to God. The “deep truth” Paul refers to is that God appeared in the flesh, is preached among the nations, is believed on, and was taken up in glory (1 Timothy 3:16).
The temptation we face is the desire to keep one foot in the world while we keep the other foot in heaven. Ananias and Sapphira tried this, and it didn’t go well with them (Acts 5:1-11). Temptation is real. Paul knows this and wants deacons to be aware of the responsibility they carry.
Application: Keep both feet firmly planted in faith.
Food for Thought: How hard is it to keep hold of the deep truths of the faith?
*”G3466 – mystērion – Strong’s Greek Lexicon (NIV).” Blue Letter Bible. Web. 21 Apr, 2026. <https://www.blueletterbible.org/lexicon/g3466/niv/mgnt/0-1/>.
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