1 Timothy 6 reminds me of status symbols. Every generation has them. From luxury cars, to expensive shoes; people carry and possess things that reflect their ideal of success. Some people follow the hottest trends, but quality and value never go out of style. Today’s lesson is about proper investing. Paul begins with an uncomfortable subject, “All who are under the yoke of slavery should consider their masters worthy of full respect”. Today we associate slavery with racism. In ancient Rome, freedom was not a general right. It was a privilege for the elite. In certain regions as much as 30% of the population were slaves. They were viewed as sub-human property. Any time we act as if a subset of humans is inferior, we operate with a slave master’s mentality. We are to view every life as precious to God so that “God’s name and our teaching may not be slandered”. Paul encourages slaves with “believing masters”, to “serve them even better because their masters are dear to them as fellow believers”. Does that mean the Bible condones slavery? No, the Gospel restored dignity to the hopeless slave by declaring them brothers with the free. The Bible changed hearts, leading to the elimination of slavery. Paul commands believers to be “devoted to the welfare of their slaves”. Do not allow yourself to be taken captive to belief that anyone deserves your contempt.
Next Paul directs Timothy to “teach and insist on… the sound instruction of our Lord Jesus Christ”. He warns, those that teach otherwise are “conceited” and “have an unhealthy interest in controversies”. Those words are directed at pastors, but he notes what happens to all who are misled; “result in envy, strife, malicious talk, evil suspicions and constant friction between people”. That is a terrible way to live. Paul describes the outcome of a church that turns away from sound doctrine. They are “robbed of the truth and… think that godliness is a means to financial gain”. If your goal is great wealth, you are bound to be disappointed. Rather, Paul insists, “godliness with contentment is great gain”. That means deriving joy from serving God and man with no expectation of being repaid. Are you content?
Paul warns, “Those who want to get rich fall into temptation”. Greed can obscure risk. He calls it “a trap” that can “plunge people into ruin and destruction”. Paul is very clear, wealth is not evil, but the reckless pursuit of wealth can lead us astray. “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil”. Even those who begin with good intentions can be corrupted. Paul notes that some have “wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs”. He sternly cautions Timothy, “flee from all this”. This expression means to run for your life. Greed and lust can destroy the overconfident. Instead, make the conscious decision to “pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness”. That happens when we consider eternity. That perspective elevates people above stuff, and helps us look past the accessories. Knowing our tendency toward selfishness, Paul says to look outside ourselves. “In the sight of God… keep this command without spot or blame until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ”. He specifically warns everyone with resources; “Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant”. It is easy to trust the tangible. He points to the danger, they should not “put their hope in wealth”. Instead, the status symbols that should be displayed on every follower of Christ is to, “be rich in good deeds… generous and willing to share”. Because these investments will last forever; “they will lay up treasure for themselves… for the coming age”. He admonishes Timothy to “guard what has been entrusted to your care”. Lat’s take joy as we share His love. He closes the chapter and book with the mark of Christian quality that will never go out of style; “Grace be with you all”. Amen!