1 Timothy 6

The Apostle Paul references once again the devastating effects of false teaching upon the Ephesian church. These teachers have forsaken the "sound words of Jesus" and have created controversy by quarreling over what Jesus said.

As a result of the behavior, the people are full of envy, dissension, slander, evil suspicions, and constant friction amongst themselves, thinking that a form of godliness is now a means to material wealth.

It is the desire to be rich, not material things, that Paul cautions against. This desire for riches often leads to temptation and harmful desires that often lead to ruin and destruction, suffering and loss of faith.

Timothy, however, is to correct the Ephesian church by setting an example of pursuing righteousness, godliness, love, steadfastness, gentleness, in order to take hold of eternal life and to make a good confession in the presence of many witnesses. This is a vigorous pursuit of virtue and flight from sinful behavior.

Paul concludes his letter with an admonition to the rich believers that they are to put their faith, hope, and trust in God rather than upon their wealth. Those who are wealthy enough not to work should devote their time to good works (that build the kingdom of God) rather than pursuit of personal pleasures. Rather, they are to be generous and ready to share. This use of wealth is both an indication of whether one is a believer, but also carries with it the promise of reward in the coming kingdom.

Reflection

I have been part of churches who quarrel incessantly about doctrine. Paul is right. This type of environment only leads to factions and constant friction -- and it disables the church from completing its overall mission of glorifying Christ by making disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19-20). We are to love one another as Christ has loved us, thus proving that we are his disciples (John 13:34-35). An contentious church body turned on itself is not loving each other well -- and it is ineffective for Christ.

As individuals and as a church body, we must make careful use of our money. This does not mean that we hoard or spend it upon ourselves. We are to be thankful and generous -- the hallmarks of a believer. God wants his people to be generous, as He is generous to us. We are to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver (see 2 Corinthians 9:6-15). God is able to make all grace abound to his giving children so that hey will have sufficiency in all things at all things. That is why Paul writes that if we have food and clothing, we will be content, since we cannot take anything out of this world (1 Timothy 6:7-8).

This is a good reminder for me. Every time I take my eyes off the Lord (i.e., I quit pursuing righteousness), I misplace my faith, hope, and trust upon either my own efforts or upon material possessions. When will I learn? All these material things are temporary. God alone is enduring throughout the ages, and, God is the one who provides for his children out of the abundance of His heart.

Lord, thank you for sending Timothys into your churches who have wandered from the faith and have become embroiled in endless controversies and quarrels over words. Raise up your bride, the church, to be righteous, godly, full of faith and love, steadfast and gentle. May your bride fight the good fight of faith, making a good confession to the world, as it takes of eternal life to which you have called her to inherit. In Jesus' name, Amen.

- Pastor Jeff