1 Timothy 6:17-19
Read 1 Timothy 6:17-19
Helpful Background Information:
The aging apostle Paul wrote 1 Timothy, along with two other pastoral letters, for those who would continue his work. Timothy, in particular, was like a spiritual son to Paul (1:2). The young but gifted Timothy had been assigned to serve the church at Ephesus, where “strange teaching” (1:3) needed to be corrected. Paul cared deeply about faithful teaching in communities like that of Ephesus, because he knew that what they believed would directly shape how they lived and behaved.
To end this first letter, Paul closes by calling Timothy to address “the rich in this present age” (v.17a). He charges Timothy to warn them of the arrogance that all too often accompanies monetary wealth. According to Paul, riches in this age are uncertain, and they were never meant to hold the weight of a person’s hope. Instead, Timothy is to encourage followers of Jesus to set their hope on God for the provision they need (v.17b). Assurance for the church was to be found in the God who had richly provided time and time again. It is the experience of God’s generosity that makes His people joyful, eager to do good, rich in good works, and ready to share (v.18). When believers live generously, they are freed to enjoy the fullness of life as God always intended it.
1 Timothy is an extremely important letter, as it gives us a more holistic vision of the nature and mission of the Church. Christians, of all people, should be known for their financial integrity—for being people who share what they have generously and joyfully (v.18). Generous living is essential to the health of churches, and it provides representation of our generous God on earth.
Reflection Questions:
Paul says that riches are “uncertain” in verse 17. In what sense are “riches in this world” uncertain? Describe how so.
In the passage, people who have accumulated wealth are specifically warned against arrogance (v.17). Why might rich folks be especially susceptible to this specific sin? In other words, why does arrogance often come with riches?
To Paul, what ultimately matters most is where a person’s hope is placed—either on the uncertainty of riches or on the God who richly provides. Where does your hope rest? What kinds of things are you most willing to wait and work for? Once you’ve answered these questions, close in prayer—asking God to shape the deep hopes and desires of your heart.