1 Timothy 6:3-10

1 Timothy 6:3-10

There were apparently some preachers who were advocating an economic reform to be imposed based on their understanding of the faith. Perhaps this referred to the early churches' common sharing of property, and these preachers wanted this to be the mandatory practice of all churches at all times. Like many economic theorists, their teaching deteriorated into harangues and noisy chaos of abuse for those with whom they disagreed. Paul identifies them in the harshest terms in verse five and points out that these teachers and those they try to recruit are followers who think that the purpose of godliness or religion is to bring about gain. When you hear a teacher claiming that Christianity promises wealth or supports a specific economic policy, rest assured that that person is of “depraved mind,” literally meaning completely ruined reasoning. The word ‘depraved’ literally means apostate from every form of the truth. The objective of faith is not to make us rich. It is interesting that in the American church we can easily associate the word depraved with a person engaged in sexual sin. But how often do we associate this word with persons who express greed or a passion for more wealth?

Our faith makes us rich when it is connected to contentment. That is when we have within our faith and ourselves all that we need. When we have contentment, whatever our circumstances are, they are sufficient. All that is needed to be human is with us when we are born. When we die, that is all we will take with us. Paul says what we need is food and covering, basically clothing and housing. Those needs are very simple. My wanting more than these creates a vicious cycle that can never be satisfied. We need so much less than we think.

Note that Paul doesn't say, “Those who are rich…” But rather, “Those who want to become rich…” Paul is not addressing a problem with a specific socioeconomic class but a problem of heart. Two deadly descriptions are used for those wanting to get rich. A snare, something that holds without release and is unexpected, takes them. The suddenness is the point to be emphasized here. They are also “plunged” into ruin and destruction. The word “plunged” is the word for a shipwreck. It is the doom that can be seen coming, and nothing can be done to avoid it. The pursuit of wealth is wholly hopeless, unsatisfying, and ultimately ruins the soul. 

“Grant to me Lord, great faith and great contentment. AMEN”