1 Let as many servants as are under the yoke count their own masters worthy of all honour, that the name of God and [his] doctrine be not blasphemed.
2 And they that have believing masters, let them not despise [them], because they are brethren; but rather do [them] service, because they are faithful and beloved, partakers of the benefit. These things teach and exhort.
3 If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, [even] the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness;
4 He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings,
5 Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself.
6 But godliness with contentment is great gain.
7 For we brought nothing into [this] world, [and it is] certain we can carry nothing out.
8 And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.
9 But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and [into] many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition.
10 For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
11 But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness.
12 Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.
13 I give thee charge in the sight of God, who quickeneth all things, and [before] Christ Jesus, who before Pontius Pilate witnessed a good confession;
14 That thou keep [this] commandment without spot, unrebukeable, until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ:
15 Which in his times he shall shew, [who is] the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords;
16 Who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to whom [be] honour and power everlasting. Amen.
17 Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy;
18 That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate;
19 Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.
20 O Timothy, keep that which is committed to thy trust, avoiding profane [and] vain babblings, and oppositions of science falsely so called:
21 Which some professing have erred concerning the faith. Grace [be] with thee. Amen.
Overview of 1 Timothy Chapter 6
1 Timothy Chapter 6 serves as a conclusion to the letter, addressing various themes such as the proper conduct of believers, the dangers of false teaching, the importance of contentment, and the exhortation to pursue righteousness. This chapter emphasizes the responsibilities of Christian leaders and the moral imperatives for all believers.
Key Themes
- Respect for Authority: The chapter begins with instructions on how slaves should honor their masters, emphasizing the importance of respect and integrity in all relationships.
- Condemnation of False Teaching: Paul warns against those who teach contrary doctrines, stressing the need for sound teaching that aligns with godliness.
- Contentment: The text highlights the virtue of contentment with what one has, contrasting it with the dangers of the love of money.
- Exhortation to Righteousness: Believers are encouraged to pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, and gentleness.
- Warnings Against Wealth: The chapter contains a strong warning about the pitfalls of wealth and the love of money, which can lead to spiritual ruin.
Detailed Analysis
1. Respect for Authority (Verses 1-2)
Paul instructs slaves to regard their masters with honor, particularly those who are believers. This reflects the broader Christian principle of respecting authority and serving others with sincerity. The implications of this teaching extend to all relationships, encouraging mutual respect and integrity.
2. Condemnation of False Teaching (Verses 3-5)
In these verses, Paul identifies false teachers who deviate from the core tenets of the faith. He describes their characteristics, including arrogance, ignorance, and a penchant for controversy. The chapter warns that such teachings lead to strife and division, urging believers to adhere to sound doctrine.
3. The Importance of Contentment (Verses 6-10)
Paul emphasizes that godliness combined with contentment is great gain. He warns that the desire for wealth can lead to temptation and destruction. The famous verse, “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil,” encapsulates the dangers associated with materialism.
4. Exhortation to Righteousness (Verses 11-16)
Paul encourages Timothy to flee from the temptations of wealth and instead pursue virtues such as righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, and gentleness. This call to action is framed within the context of the believer’s ultimate hope in Christ, who will return and establish His kingdom.
5. Warnings Against Wealth (Verses 17-19)
In addressing the rich, Paul instructs them to be generous and to place their hope not in uncertain riches but in God. He highlights the importance of good deeds and the eternal value of investing in the lives of others. This section reinforces the idea that wealth should be used as a tool for good rather than an end in itself.
6. Final Exhortations and Warnings (Verses 20-21)
The chapter concludes with a solemn charge to Timothy to guard the truth of the faith and to avoid the distractions of false knowledge. Paul emphasizes the importance of remaining steadfast in sound doctrine and encourages Timothy to remain faithful in his ministry.
Conclusion
1 Timothy Chapter 6 encapsulates essential teachings for Christian living, emphasizing respect for authority, the dangers of false teaching, the value of contentment, and the pursuit of righteousness. It serves as a reminder of the responsibilities of believers, particularly in the context of wealth and influence, urging them to focus on eternal values rather than temporal gains.
