By Jay T. Robertson, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Christian Studies, University of Mobile
LASTING INVESTMENTS
1 Timothy 6:6–19
First Timothy began by focusing on Jesus, who Jesus is and what He did. Jesus is the God-man who died for our sins and was raised from the dead. From there Paul transitioned to the pastors and deacons. Then he addressed the church, writing about practical issues and how the members should treat one another. In our lesson this week we learn the value of good works and the importance of living a godly life with contentment rather than pursuing material gain.
True Contentment (6–10)
False teachers in Ephesus considered godliness a means to acquiring financial gain. Paul, however, wrote “godliness with contentment is great gain.” He was referring to spiritual, not financial gain. The truly godly person is not deceived by the American Dream realized in the acquisition of material wealth and living a self-centered life of ease. The truly godly person possesses inner resources which furnish riches far beyond that which earth can offer.
Contentment is not self-sufficiency as the Greeks understood it, but rather Christ-sufficiency. The godly person has peace with God, spiritual joy, assurance of salvation, the conviction that “all things work together for the good of those who love God, who are called according to His purpose” (Rom. 8:28). He, therefore, has no need find ultimate satisfaction in an abundance of earthly things.
Have you ever seen a trailer hitched to a hearse in a funeral procession? No. Verse 7 explains why. We did not bring anything into the world with us and we will not take anything out of the world when we die. Someone asked John D. Rockefeller’s aide how much he left behind. His aide replied: “He left it all behind.”
Paul condemned the desire to be rich. It’s OK to have things, but it’s not OK for the things to have you. Greed is a trap. “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, and by craving it, some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.”
Godliness is gain. Greed is loss. Having a God-centered life is gain. It’s what you were created to experience.
True Riches (11–16)
True riches are found in living a life that reflects Christ’s character. The Christian life is to be lived in light of God’s promise of eternal life to those who have been saved by His grace. The man of God is to flee from sin. Men of God are life-long fugitives from sin. Flee from the love of money. Be content with Jesus. Be generous.
The man of God is to follow after God. Pursue God. Don’t just say “no” to sin; say “yes” to God. Follow after righteousness, righteous thinking and living in harmony with God’s law. Follow after godliness, godly belief and behavior. Pursue a deeper trust in God that produces faithfulness. Seek a greater affection for God and people. Endure. Never give up. Pray for a sanctified stubbornness. Be tender and patient with people.
The man of God is to fight the good fight. Experience the life you have been given in Christ. Live in light of God’s presence and in view of Jesus’ faithfulness. Live in awe of God’s greatness. His rule is universal. His reign is invincible. He is immortal. He is holy. He is inconceivable. He possesses all power. He deserves all praise.
Stewards of Good Works (17–19)
Those whom God has blessed with material wealth in the present age must not be arrogant or set their hope on the uncertainty of those riches. Instead, they are to be rich in good works. The wealthy should receive from God gratefully, live simply, and give extravagantly to help people in need and advance the gospel.
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