LifeWay Explore the Bible Series for April 4: Money matters, but keep it in perspective_32204

Posted: 3/19/04

LifeWay Explore the Bible Series for April 4

Money matters, but keep it in perspective

1 Timothy 6:3-21

By David Morgan

Trinity Baptist Church, Harker Heights

Know good teaching (6:3-5)

Money matters. Our attitude toward material possessions reveals much about us and our level of Christian maturity. The Apostle Paul taught we should use our possessions to serve God.

A wrong attitude toward wealth was one of many problems with false teachers. Paul had already addressed the danger of false teachers (1 Timothy 1:3:11). Here he focuses more on their actions than their teachings. In addition to their desire for material things, he pointed out pride, conceit and their bent toward pointless controversies leading to dissension. Paul's words can help us to identify and reject false teachings when they appear.

These teachers were guiding people to live in ways contrary to what others were teaching about Jesus. “Agree” suggests they were attaching themselves to false doctrine instead of Jesus. The “instruction of our Lord Jesus Christ” likely refers to teachings about Jesus, although it could refer to those things Jesus taught.

The church needs to keep the teachings of Jesus foremost in its life and in the mind of its people. Sound instruction draws people together, whereas false teaching creates controversy.

Pride blinded the false teachers. They could neither see what God was doing, nor could they see themselves as they really were. “Conceited” means “wrapped up in smoke.” Their own sense of self-importance was like a fog that prevented an honest self-evaluation.

Paul considered an interest in false teaching as unwholesome. “Arguments” means “word-battles.” Out of arguments and controversies springs envy, which feeds quarreling and friction among Christians. Without adequate spiritual knowledge, hard feelings and animosity increase in the church.

The false teachers were so corrupt they could not distinguish between true and false, right and wrong. They even believed godliness would generate material gain. We can understand the words “who think that godliness is a means to financial gain” in two ways: (1) False teachers took advantage of the godliness and trust of those for whom the teachers were responsible; (2) religious leaders acted as committed Christians to increase their wealth.

Recognize the place of wealth (6:6-10)

Godliness will enhance the believer's life if accompanied by contentment. “Contentment” suggests an independence of external circumstances. It suggests not resignation to one's station but a confidence in Christ that all needs will be met (Philippians 4:12-13). Godliness benefits the believer but not necessarily with a larger bank account.

We enter this world with nothing and take nothing out. Physical necessities are represented by “food and clothing.” Anything beyond this is luxury to most of the world's population where some fail to have even adequate food and clothing. Paul's words recall that Jesus taught that God is concerned about plants and birds (Matthew 6:25-34; Luke 12:22-31). God's concern for “small” things reminds us God will provide for us.

The desire for riches tempts many people. The word “trap” is described elsewhere as the devil's snare (1 Timothy 3:7; 2 Timothy 2:26). Being consumed by the desire to gain wealth ensnares us.

A person enamored by wealth is “plunged into” (“drowned by”) ruin and destruction. Paul used two words with similar meaning to stress the completeness of the action.

Paul appears to have quoted a proverb to drive home his point. The craving for wealth and not material possessions themselves are the root of the problem. While all evil cannot be traced to the love for money, the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil.

Focus on what is important (6:11-12)

Paul inserted a personal word to Timothy to warn him to resist the temptations that had ensnared the false teachers. He instructed Timothy to strive for qualities of being right with God, acting with obedience and godly manner, and being gentle toward others.

Paul called Timothy a “man of God,” to liken him to other heroes of the faith such as Moses, David and Elijah. The qualities Paul mentioned would equip Timothy for the effective service God had called him for.

Timothy may have had a timid streak (2 Timothy 1:7), and Paul urged him to keep struggling to the best of his ability. Living the Christian life is difficult. God had called Timothy to discipleship and service at his baptism. Timothy's baptism also demonstrated his acceptance of God's call. Paul encouraged Timothy to take and keep hold of the life that was his in Christ.

Use wealth unselfishly (6:17-19)

Wealth has appropriate uses, although it may lead to arrogance and become the source of one's hope. We cannot trust wealth–it can be as quickly lost as gained. Since wealth can so quickly dissolve, the wealthy should generously share with others. One's generosity both reveals and builds a person's godly character, forming a foundation for the coming eternal life. Enduring hope comes from God who provides all we need.

Money cannot buy happiness, but proper use of money can enhance Christian maturity–something that will benefit us both in this age and the age to come.

Question for discussion

How can wealth be a problem?