*1 Timothy 6:3-21
Paul warns against the love of money, instructs the wealthy to use their riches for good, and encourages contentment with godliness.
- Warning Against False Teachers:
- Paul cautions Timothy about those who teach false doctrines and do not agree with the sound words of our Lord Jesus Christ and the teachings that accord with godliness.
- He highlights the dangers of such individuals being conceited, having an unhealthy interest in controversies and quarrels about words, which only lead to envy, strife, malicious talk, and evil suspicions.
- Contentment and Godliness:
- Paul emphasizes the importance of godliness with contentment, noting that true wealth is found in being satisfied with what one has.
- He warns against the love of money, which leads to all kinds of evil, causing some to wander from the faith and pierce themselves with many griefs.
- Charge to Timothy:
- Timothy is urged to pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, and gentleness.
- He is reminded of his calling and the confession he made before many witnesses, and encouraged to keep this commandment unstained and free from reproach until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ.
- Final Instructions:
- Paul instructs Timothy to charge the rich in the present age not to be haughty or to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides everything for their enjoyment.
- They are to be rich in good deeds, generous, and willing to share, thus storing up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.
- Guard the Deposit Entrusted:
- Paul charges Timothy to guard the deposit entrusted to him, avoiding irreverent babble and contradictions of what is falsely called knowledge.
- He warns against those who have swerved from the faith, professing vain and empty doctrines.