1Tim. 5:1 ¶ Rebuke not an elder, but intreat him as a father; and the younger men as brethren;
1Tim. 5:2 The elder women as mothers; the younger as sisters, with all purity.
The previous chapter ended with a charge for Timothy to provide confident leadership; he was not to let anyone disparage him just because of his youth. This chapter begins with words that temper those words. He is to be confident, but humble and loving. He is to minister to older men as though they were his father, younger men as his brothers, older women as his mom, and younger women as sisters. His actions were to be “clean and chaste” (from the Greek); in other words, free from any sexual impropriety.
1Tim. 5:3 ¶ Honour widows that are widows indeed.
1Tim. 5:4 But if any widow have children or nephews, let them learn first to shew piety at home, and to requite their parents: for that is good and acceptable before God.
Paul now begins quite a lengthy instruction regarding the treatment of widows. Instead of looking upon a believer that has been widowed and in need of support as a burden, they were to value them by providing financial support (from the Greek for honour, to “fix a valuation upon”). God established this principle in the Old Testament scriptures.
Deuteronomy 24:19–21 “When thou cuttest down thine harvest in thy field, and hast forgot a sheaf in the field, thou shalt not go again to fetch it: it shall be for the stranger, for the fatherless, and for the widow: that the LORD thy God may bless thee in all the work of thine hands. When thou beatest thine olive tree, thou shalt not go over the boughs again: it shall be for the stranger, for the fatherless, and for the widow. When thou gatherest the grapes of thy vineyard, thou shalt not glean it afterward: it shall be for the stranger, for the fatherless, and for the widow.”
Isaiah 1:17 “Learn to do well; seek judgment, relieve the oppressed, judge the fatherless, plead for the widow.”
Verse 4 seems to define a “widow indeed” as one who has no children or grandchildren (better choice from the Greek than nephew) to take care of her. After looking at the Greek for piety, I think the NIV gives the heart of the meaning: “But if a widow has children or grandchildren, these should learn first of all to put their religion into practice by caring for their own family and so repaying their parents and grandparents, for this is pleasing to God.”
My friend Dixie is an amazing example of a child who pleased God by the sacrificial tender care of her mom until He decided it was time for her to enter His presence. It seems as though our culture is moving very quickly to the point of embracing more programs that tend to just “get rid of the problem” through assisted suicide, mandates for withholding medical treatment for the elderly, etc.
God’s declaration for His will was made clear in the commandment that tells us to “Honor thy father and thy mother.” (Exodus 20:12) He also declared through the prophet Isaiah that the type of fast or self-denial that honors Him is one that takes care of the poor and of one’s family.
Isaiah 58:6–7 “Is not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke? Is it not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that are cast out to thy house? when thou seest the naked, that thou cover him; and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh?”
Jesus castigated the Pharisees for justifying their neglect of their parents based on the traditions of men, disregarding the command of God.
Mark 7:9–13 “And he said unto them, Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition. For Moses said, Honour thy father and thy mother; and, Whoso curseth father or mother, let him die the death: But ye say, If a man shall say to his father or mother, It is Corban, that is to say, a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me; he shall be free. And ye suffer him no more to do ought for his father or his mother; Making the word of God of none effect through your tradition, which ye have delivered: and many such like things do ye.”
These thoughts will be emphasized in verses 7-8 below.
1Tim. 5:5 Now she that is a widow indeed, and desolate, trusteth in God, and continueth in supplications and prayers night and day.
1Tim. 5:6 But she that liveth in pleasure is dead while she liveth.
I think it is important to keep in mind that Paul is instructing Timothy regarding guidelines and responsibilities of the body of believers. Paul seems to expand the definition of one who is a “widow indeed” to be in reference to a woman lacking a husband (from the Greek for widow) whose faith in God is obvious. Her life is one of ministry in prayer and she is not seeking solace in the pleasures of the world. Those who turn to finding comfort in the flesh through what the world has to offer give a testimony of being spiritually dead though obviously physically alive.
1Tim. 5:7 And these things give in charge, that they may be blameless.
1Tim. 5:8 But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.
Paul is basically telling Timothy that he is to instruct the church according to Paul’s teaching so that those in the church would be blameless before God. He emphasizes again that anyone who refuses to provide for family that is in need, especially those of his own house (mom or grandma) is openly rejecting God’s authority. Then he makes a very interesting statement; he declares this person to be worse than an unbeliever. How so? The unbeliever does not claim God as the authority in his life. One who professes to be a believer and knowingly rejects God’s authority is obviously dishonoring God as well as himself; his actions do not support his declaration of faith.
James 2:17 “Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.”
The unbeliever is to be pitied; the hypocrite is to be rebuked as Paul instructs in verse 20 below.
1Tim. 5:9 Let not a widow be taken into the number under threescore years old, having been the wife of one man,
1Tim. 5:10 Well reported of for good works; if she have brought up children, if she have lodged strangers, if she have washed the saints’ feet, if she have relieved the afflicted, if she have diligently followed every good work.
Paul now adds an age limit to consider in defining a widow that is deserving of support. She should be at least 60 years old and known as a faithful spouse. She should have a reputation of good works. He then gives a list of the types of good works that should characterize her life:
She has fulfilled her duties as a parent (from the Greek for “brought up”).
She has shown hospitality to others, including strangers.
She has ministered with humility to others in the body of Christ.
She has provided help to those who are suffering and/or in trouble.
She is known for doing good works.
1Tim. 5:11 But the younger widows refuse: for when they have begun to wax wanton against Christ, they will marry;
1Tim. 5:12 Having damnation, because they have cast off their first faith.
1Tim. 5:13 And withal they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house; and not only idle, but tattlers also and busybodies, speaking things which they ought not.
1Tim. 5:14 I will therefore that the younger women marry, bear children, guide the house, give none occasion to the adversary to speak reproachfully.
1Tim. 5:15 For some are already turned aside after Satan.
Paul goes on to explain the reason for having an age guideline. Practically speaking, younger widows would be better off getting remarried. Knowing that, it would be better for them not to dedicate themselves to the service of God through the church and then have to go back on their word. The implication seems clear from verse 12 that this was involved in being “taken into the number” to qualify for provision from the church. Scripture is full of admonitions regarding the keeping of vows before God. In fact, there is specific instruction regarding the widow.
Numbers 30:9 “But every vow of a widow, and of her that is divorced, wherewith they have bound their souls, shall stand against her.”
Younger women are also much more prone to using idle time to gossip and meddle in the affairs of others. It is much better for a younger woman to remarry, have children (if able), and take care of her home. This will help them avoid being in a position to suffer reproach or shame that would affect her personally as well as the church. Probably the most often heard excuse given by people today as to why they aren’t Christians is to blame the hypocrisy of so many who claim His name.
Even as he is writing this letter, Paul is evidently being influenced by observing the actions of some who have already turned their attention to the things of Satan, the things of this world.
John 8:44 “Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do.”
1 John 2:16 “For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.”
Ephesians 2:2–3 “Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others.”
1Tim. 5:16 If any man or woman that believeth have widows, let them relieve them, and let not the church be charged; that it may relieve them that are widows indeed.
Paul again emphasizes that it is God’s will for His people to take care of their own families. I think he is saying that Christian families should be willing to care for any of their widowed relatives that are in need so as not to burden the church since it has a responsibility to provide for those who have no one else to turn to.
1Tim. 5:17 ¶ Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine.
1Tim. 5:18 For the scripture saith, Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, The labourer is worthy of his reward.
The Greek for honour is the same as used in verse 3 regarding widows in reference to provide financial support. “Double honour” would seem to be a reference to greater financial support because of the greater responsibility of the ministry involved. This support is to be based on the effort and energy they invest in sharing the truth of God’s word and teaching the people how to apply it to their lives. Paul utilizes a principle from the law that declares you should allow the ox to take nourishment from the corn he is treading on your behalf. The elders that are working so hard in one’s behalf in providing proper instruction from God’s word are worthy of reward. You are benefitting so you should express your gratitude through financial support.
Added insight from Wuest on verse 18: “This verse is especially interesting in connection with the inspiration of the Scriptures. Paul takes one verse from the OT and one from the NT, places them side by side on the same level, and refers to them both as “the Scripture.” It is obvious from this that Paul considered the NT writings as of equal authority with the OT.”
Deuteronomy 25:4 “Thou shalt not muzzle the ox when he treadeth out the corn.”
Luke 10:7 “And in the same house remain, eating and drinking such things as they give: for the labourer is worthy of his hire. Go not from house to house.”
1Tim. 5:19 Against an elder receive not an accusation, but before two or three witnesses.
I believe this instruction is to limit the possibility of false accusation doing damage to the ministry of an elder. This instruction is based on the law established by Moses.
Deuteronomy 19:15 “One witness shall not rise up against a man for any iniquity, or for any sin, in any sin that he sinneth: at the mouth of two witnesses, or at the mouth of three witnesses, shall the matter be established.”
This principle was also taught by the Lord Jesus.
Matthew 18:15–17 “Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican.”
1Tim. 5:20 Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear.
This is the natural follow up to the previous verse based on the words of the Lord quoted above. Consequences of sin should always be such as to instill godly fear into others. Consistent application of the consequences is an effective deterrent to others who might face testing through the same type of sin. God’s heart in providing consequences for sin is expressed beautifully in Hebrews.
Hebrews 12:5–11 “And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him: For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth. If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not? But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons. Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh which corrected us, and we gave them reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live? For they verily for a few days chastened us after their own pleasure; but he for our profit, that we might be partakers of his holiness. Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby.”
1Tim. 5:21 I charge thee before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect angels, that thou observe these things without preferring one before another, doing nothing by partiality.
In this verse Paul is emphasizing the importance of treating everyone as equal before the Lord; no one is to be shown partiality due to social position or perceived importance to the ministry. In doing so he claims God, the Lord Jesus Christ and the elect angels as his witness. The “elect angels” I would assume to be a reference to those angels who chose to remain faithful to God and reject Satan’s call of rebellion. This would equate to those of us who are “elect” as part of God’s family of faith.
Colossians 3:12–13 “Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.”
This is just one of several verses that indicate that there are heavenly witnesses to what is happening on planet earth—especially as concerning men and women of faith.
2 Kings 6:15–17 “And when the servant of the man of God was risen early, and gone forth, behold, an host compassed the city both with horses and chariots. And his servant said unto him, Alas, my master! how shall we do? And he answered, Fear not: for they that be with us are more than they that be with them. And Elisha prayed, and said, LORD, I pray thee, open his eyes, that he may see. And the LORD opened the eyes of the young man; and he saw: and, behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha.”
Matthew 18:10 “Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven.”
Luke 15:10 “Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth.”
Luke 16:22 “And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham’s bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried;”
Hebrews 1:13–14 “But to which of the angels said he at any time, Sit on my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool? Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?”
Hebrews 13:2 “Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.”
1Tim. 5:22 Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other men’s sins: keep thyself pure.
Paul here instructs Timothy to give careful consideration before laying hands on anyone for specific ministry. This goes hand-in-hand with the principles laid out in chapter 3 regarding designating men to positions of leadership. Those so appointed should be men of proven faith. This provides the best possible safeguard to any service done in the name of the Lord as representing a specific church or Christian ministry.
Paul then adds a warning for Timothy to safeguard his own testimony by avoiding sin through association. This would seem to be directly related to making wise choices concerning those who would assist him in leadership positions in the church.
Paul also encourages Timothy to be conscientious in trying to maintain a life of purity that is above reproach. Again, this is so very important to safeguarding the honor of God’s name when you claim Him as Lord. I pray often for God to safeguard His name through the ministry of my church and through my pastor and his chosen assistants.
When we claim Jesus as Lord, we pretty much paint a target on ourselves. The enemy takes great delight in getting the man or woman of faith to fall into sin and besmirch the reputation of His Lord. God takes the honor of His name very seriously.
Exodus 20:7 “Thou shalt not take the name of the LORD thy God in vain; for the LORD will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain.”
Leviticus 19:12 “And ye shall not swear by my name falsely, neither shalt thou profane the name of thy God: I am the LORD.”
Malachi 2:2 “If ye will not hear, and if ye will not lay it to heart, to give glory unto my name, saith the LORD of hosts, I will even send a curse upon you, and I will curse your blessings: yea, I have cursed them already, because ye do not lay it to heart.”
1Tim. 5:23 Drink no longer water, but use a little wine for thy stomach’s sake and thine often infirmities.
Evidently, Timothy was a bit sickly and had some ongoing stomach problems. Paul advises him to quit drinking only water and start drinking a little wine to provide a bit of physical relief from his ailments. Note that he was careful to say a “little” wine; he wasn’t encouraging him to drink himself into oblivion or even enough to dull his leadership capabilities. Medicines available at that time were minimal compared to the wide variety of choices we have today that are targeted to specific ailments. Several commentaries noted that wine was also effective at preventing dysentery because fermentation kills germs.
I think it is also important to note that Paul didn’t “heal” Timothy. There is simply no basis in scripture for assuming that it is God’s will for everyone to experience physical healing.
1Tim. 5:24 Some men’s sins are open beforehand, going before to judgment; and some men they follow after.
1Tim. 5:25 Likewise also the good works of some are manifest beforehand; and they that are otherwise cannot be hid.
This chapter closes with more wise counsel; my paraphrase: Some men’s sins are obvious, while the sins of others are hidden. It is also true that the good deeds of some are obvious, while the good deeds of others are not. Eventually the truth about both will come out.
We humans have a tendency to judge based on what we see without regard for the fact that what we see can sometimes be deceiving. Satan and his followers like to operate as angels of light or as wolves in sheep’s clothing.
2 Corinthians 11:13–15 “For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.”
Matthew 7:15 “Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.”
This is important truth to remember when considering those to appoint to leadership. You are more likely to make better choices when you allow time for flaws in character to be revealed and for strength of character to emerge.
1Tim. 6:1 ¶ Let as many servants as are under the yoke count their own masters worthy of all honour, that the name of God and his doctrine be not blasphemed.
I think it is important to note that this instruction is being made to Christian servants or slaves, whether by choice or not (from the Greek). Paul is teaching that Christian servants are to serve their masters well because God’s honor is at stake since they claim His name. Fair or not, God is more often judged by the testimony of those who claim His name than He is by the life exampled by Jesus, God in flesh, or the teaching in His word, the scripture. When we declare ourselves to be “Christians,” our lives should reflect righteous character as described by God in His word. Others should be able to depend upon our word and should not have to question whether or not we can be trusted or will provide an honest day’s work for a day’s wage.
Of note is the fact that Paul is not addressing the morality of slavery. It was acceptable according to the laws and customs of that day, and Paul wanted Christian servants/slaves to understand that their service to their master directly reflected on the honor of God’s name.
I think it is important to note that servitude and slavery are prominent throughout scripture. God used slaves/servants to accomplish great things. Because Joseph was a slave in Egypt, he was positioned to provide for his family as they began to grow into the nation of Israel. Daniel was taken captive to Babylon to serve in the king’s court and positioned to receive and reveal prophecy from the Lord that identified much of the plan and purposes of God until the time that Messiah comes to take His throne. All through scripture, however, God emphasizes that servants/slaves should be well treated and provided for.
Deuteronomy 5:14 “But the seventh day is the sabbath of the LORD thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, nor thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thine ox, nor thine ass, nor any of thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates; that thy manservant and thy maidservant may rest as well as thou.”
Deuteronomy 24:14 “Thou shalt not oppress an hired servant that is poor and needy, whether he be of thy brethren, or of thy strangers that are in thy land within thy gates:”
Ephesians 6:8–9 “…Knowing that whatsoever good thing any man doeth, the same shall he receive of the Lord, whether he be bond or free. And, ye masters, do the same things unto them, forbearing threatening: knowing that your Master also is in heaven; neither is there respect of persons with him.”
Colossians 4:1 “Masters, give unto your servants that which is just and equal; knowing that ye also have a Master in heaven.”
1Tim. 6:2 And they that have believing masters, let them not despise them, because they are brethren; but rather do them service, because they are faithful and beloved, partakers of the benefit. These things teach and exhort.
Again, it is interesting to me that Paul feels the need to give instruction as to how servants are to serve even their Christian masters. He seems to be implying that the servant might try to take advantage of his/her master in light of Christian love, mercy and forgiveness. Frankly, my experience of working in the Christian community gives evidence of just such propensity. When you work for or with Christians, you tend to have higher expectations of their work ethic (at least I do). It was really frustrating to have to acknowledge that pagans were often better to work with than some Christians in that respect. I want to clarify that working with other committed and motivated Christians have been some of the most enjoyable work experiences in my life. And that is as it should be.
Paul reminds Timothy that he should determine to teach and encourage the Christian community according to all the instructions he has given him to this point. I don’t think this admonition applies only to the first two verses in this chapter; I think it applies to all the instruction he has given him in this letter.
1Tim. 6:3 If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness;
1Tim. 6:4 He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings,
1Tim. 6:5 Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself.
My summary statement of these verses: Any person who teaches in any way that is not consistent with the teaching of the word of God is to be avoided.
The Greek for the word wholesome makes reference to that which promotes sound health and is not corrupt. Teaching the “doctrine which is according to godliness” is teaching so as to promote holiness and reverence for God by living according to the truth revealed in His word. Paul describes those who refuse to teach accordingly as being “proud and knowing nothing.”
When one refuses to teach the whole counsel of God, the result is false teaching. When one teaches scripture out of context, the result is going to cause division, trouble and/or wrong conclusions about the truth. The Pharisees were prime examples of those who had taken the word of God out of context to establish a set of traditions and laws that were held to be of greater importance than the actual word of God as revealed to His prophets. These traditions and laws were a collection of the wisdom and thinking of men; they had strayed far from the truth as revealed by God to His prophets. Does that remind you of any false religions today?
I thought the NLT translation of verses 4-5 was quite to the point: “Anyone who teaches anything different is both conceited and ignorant. Such a person has an unhealthy desire to quibble over the meaning of words. This stirs up arguments ending in jealousy, fighting, slander, and evil suspicions. These people always cause trouble. Their minds are corrupt, and they don’t tell the truth. To them religion is just a way to get rich.”
My, what an apt description of so many of the most popular “spiritual leaders” in America today. So many want to “quibble over the meaning of words” and twist the scripture to say what they want it to say to support their sin. They aren’t promoting unity in the body of believers; they are causing division. They aren’t concerned about the honor of God’s name; they are concerned about making a name for themselves. Many are using religion as a way to get rich through the marketing of books and “spiritual tokens” intended to fleece the unsuspecting flock. They are more concerned with appealing to the masses and bringing in large numbers of people than they are in teaching the truth of the word of God. I think it is important to note, however, that the flock is also guilty in that they don’t spend enough time in scripture to recognize that they are being fleeced or misled.
I want to emphasize that Paul says we are to avoid these kinds of teachers. You won’t be able to identify the false teachers if you aren’t familiar with the truth. Spending time in the word of God is vital to the spiritual health of every child of God.
1Tim. 6:6 ¶ But godliness with contentment is great gain.
1Tim. 6:7 For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.
1Tim. 6:8 And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.
I decided to look further into the meaning of godliness. The Greek made reference to piety, which Webster defines as “…loving obedience to the will of God, and earnest devotion to his service.” In other words, when we choose to serve God in obedience according to His will, we will gain far more than anything this world has to offer. I think this is the correct implication since Paul emphasizes that we are both born and will leave this world empty handed. No earthly treasures will go with you when you die; it will all be left behind for others to enjoy. The only things we truly need in this life are food and clothing.
I couldn’t help but wonder why shelter wasn’t a part of this list. As I looked at the Greek for raiment, it made reference to “a covering.” I wonder if that could be making reference to both clothing and shelter.
Verse 8 is another statement that flies in the face of the teaching of the prosperity gospel that is so prevalent today.
I almost moved on without addressing the reference to contentment. The fact that it was paired with godliness is important. Frankly, I don’t think anyone can find true satisfaction in life apart from the Lord. Only when we yield to His will because of our love for Him will we have the mindset that allows us to accept and/or enjoy the place and position in which we are called to serve Him. Only in Christ can one understand that the slave is just as valued by the Lord as the master; the janitor as valued as the pastor; the wife as valued as the husband; the baby in the womb as valued as the adult; etc.
Romans 2:11 “For there is no respect of persons with God.”
Romans 8:16–17 “The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.”
This is a very important truth for the believer in light of the culture of our day that promotes a lifestyle of striving to get more and more and tends to place a higher value on those that have more. It’s a culture totally focused on a desire for the pleasures and treasures of this world. As a child of God, our focus is to be on accumulating heavenly treasure that will give eternal pleasure.
1Tim. 6:9 But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition.
1Tim. 6:10 For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
Again, these are important verses of truth in light of today’s culture. Earning and possessing material wealth is not a sin; it is a burden. Those who are rich by this world’s standards are constantly confronted with temptations of the flesh on a much grander scale than those who are poor. Why? Because wherewithal is not an issue in fulfilling those desires, and there are many in business with the purpose of encouraging them to do just that.
The pride of man is strong and deeply rooted in our sin nature; it was pride that caused man to sin in the first place. I define pride as anything we do in rejection of God’s revealed for our lives. It signifies that we think we know better than He what is right. It is significant that Paul is addressing those that want to be rich; their focus in life is to accumulate wealth. Their ambition and pride make them more susceptible to justifying questionable ethics as a means to an end. The more money they make, the more powerful they become in the eyes of the world; and history is full of examples of the truth that power whets the appetite for more power. I think recent news (such as that regarding John Edwards and Tiger Woods) tend to make such men falsely surmise that they are entitled and beyond consequence for their actions. As verse 9 warns, their wealth and perceived power serve as a snare to making foolish (unintelligent from the Greek) and hurtful choices to fulfill their lusts. Both destruction and perdition make reference to being ruined.
As I read through the different translations, I thought the NAS95 translation best expressed the intended teaching: “…the love of money is a root of all sorts of evil.” The Greek for erred included both straying from the truth and being seduced. The Greek describes coveting as reaching out for something you desire; in other words, taking action to fulfill that desire. If a believer allows himself to covet money, he is more susceptible to being seduced into straying from the truth of the faith that he professes to achieve what he desires. This always results in grief and sorrow, especially in the life of the believer.
1Tim. 6:11 But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness.
Paul here interjects a personal plea for Timothy, a man of God, to avoid falling into such temptation; he is to “flee these things.” If we would but avoid or flee from temptations and sin, we would live much happier lives. In fact, as Paul instructs Timothy, the believer is to actively pursue:
Righteousness = innocence, known for being fair and unbiased
Godliness = having piety, earnestly devoted to serving God
Faith = relying on Christ for salvation with assurance
Love = possessing true gratitude that is evidenced by showing reverence to God and serving others accordingly
Patience = cheerful endurance, constancy
Meekness = gentle, humble, controlled strength or power
How many advertisements on TV promote these character traits? How many people admired by the public possess these traits? How many professing believers give testimony to this type of pursuit in their lives? Do you and I?
1Tim. 6:12 Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.
Paul often compares the life of the Christian to athletics. In this verse he compares living the Christian life to a fight. The Greek defines this fight as competing for a prize and contending with an adversary; both are true. We are competing to earn heavenly rewards that will benefit us for eternity. In the process we have to contend with the adversary, the devil and his evil minions, as they set traps and lures to deceive us and entice us to sin and forfeit those rewards.
1 Peter 5:8 “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour….”
Ephesians 6:12 “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.”
“lay hold on eternal life” – I think the term “take hold” is a better translation. Scripture is clear in stating that once we “take hold” of eternal life through faith and are indwelt by the Holy Spirit, the Savior holds us in His strong grasp and He will bring our salvation to completion when He resurrects us to immortality.
John 10:27–28 “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.”
Philippians 1:6 “Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:”
Ephesians 1:12–14 “That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ. In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory.”
“earnest” = part of the purchase-money or property given in advance as security for the rest
“whereunto thou are also called” – Our calling is based on God’s foreknowledge.
Romans 8:29–30 “For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called….”
Paul is basically urging Timothy to live up to his public profession of faith; it is a good (valuable, worthy) thing. So many today take their profession of faith lightly, as evidenced by their life choices.
1Tim. 6:13 ¶ I give thee charge in the sight of God, who quickeneth all things, and before Christ Jesus, who before Pontius Pilate witnessed a good confession;
1Tim. 6:14 That thou keep this commandment without spot, unrebukeable, until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ:
Paul now identifies both God the Father and His Son Christ Jesus as witness to the instruction he is giving Timothy. His appeal is that he gives testimony to his profession in the same way that Christ gave testimony before Pontius Pilate, boldly but meekly (with strength under control).
Paul calls for Timothy to fulfill his commission “spotlessly and irreproachably” (from the CJB) until the Lord Jesus Christ returns. Paul knew that what he was asking was not easy. He transparently revealed in his letter to the Romans that it was a constant struggle to overcome the flesh.
Romans 7:18–23 “For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not. For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do. Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me. I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me. For I delight in the law of God after the inward man: But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members.”
He also stated that though it is hard, we have the power to be overcomers through the indwelling Holy Spirit.
Philippians 4:13 “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”
I think this statement also implies that Paul thought Timothy would be alive when the Lord returned. It is certainly the implication in his letters to the Thessalonians. Point being—All believers since the time of Christ have expected His return in their day. I don’t think anyone in the early church expected another 2,000 years to pass before His return.
1Tim. 6:15 Which in his times he shall shew, who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords;
1Tim. 6:16 Who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to whom be honour and power everlasting. Amen.
Paul is declaring that when the Lord returns, it will be according to His determination that the time is right. At that time it will be obvious to all that He is the only Potentate (the only Authority), the King of kings (greatest of all the kings of the earth), and Lord of lords (Supreme Master of all beings—natural and supernatural). He is the only immortal being (not subject to death) though He will impart immortality to those in His kingdom.
1 Corinthians 15:51–54 “Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.”
“dwelling in the light….” – I think this phrase is used to describe how different God is from man in that the light in which He dwells is beyond our ability to see. I think more verses from 1Corinthians “shed light” on this understanding.
1 Corinthians 15:40–41 “There are also celestial bodies, and bodies terrestrial: but the glory of the celestial is one, and the glory of the terrestrial is another. There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars: for one star differeth from another star in glory.”
The illumination of the planets is directly related to the importance of each as understood by man. The glory of the Lord Jesus Christ will be so bright as to leave no doubt to His being the one deserving of all honor in deference to His power as the source, the Creator, of all life.
1Tim. 6:17 Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy;
1Tim. 6:18 That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate;
1Tim. 6:19 Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.
Paul instructs Timothy to, in turn, instruct others accordingly. He again gives words of wisdom for those that are rich “in this world.” They should guard against becoming arrogant in their attitude toward others; nor should they trust in the fact that they have money. They should continue to trust in “the living God” Who is their true benefactor. They only have because they have been given (be it through inheritance or through talent and intelligence that they have parlayed into riches). Because God has blessed them, they should be ready to bless others—not only by sharing their wealth, but by “doing” good works. By using one’s wealth for good and choosing to serve others before the Lord, you are investing in treasure that will benefit you for eternity—the place where the child of God will enjoy life to the fullest. In fact, we aren’t even able to imagine the joys that await us.
1 Corinthians 2:9 “But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.”
MacDonald: “One of the great snares of riches is that it is difficult to have them without trusting in them.”
The Spirit gives us some insight according to the revelation God has given us in scripture, but I think it goes even beyond that. I think the Spirit testifies to our Spirit so as to give us an expectation that is beyond our understanding because God is beyond our understanding.
Isaiah 55:8–9 “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.”
It makes sense to me anyway that life in the presence of one so full of glory and so beyond our understanding will be full of joy unimaginable. Paul was given a glimpse and declared it to be so amazing an experience that God gave him a “thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me” to prevent him from becoming arrogant and considering himself a cut above all other men because he had been so privileged.
1Tim. 6:20 O Timothy, keep that which is committed to thy trust, avoiding profane and vain babblings, and oppositions of science falsely so called:
1Tim. 6:21 Which some professing have erred concerning the faith. Grace be with thee. Amen.
Again Paul urges Timothy to remain faithful in the ministry that has been entrusted to him. He warns him to avoid two things:
Profane and vain babblings - Discussions that do not honor God or accomplish anything beneficial.
Oppositions of science falsely so called
I think these are very important words for the believer today. Our culture is full of those who profess to possess wisdom based on human reasoning and “scientific” facts. Truth is that the wisdom and science upon which they base their reasoning is false at its core. Those who profess to be atheists criticize the “Christians” for their faith, while refusing to acknowledge that their belief that there is no God is based on faith as well. The faith of the Christian is rooted in confidence in the truth of God’s word as evidenced by the accuracy of prophecy and the testimony of creation. Those who believe that our existence sprang from a godless big bang refuse to admit that creation screams the existence of an intelligent, all-powerful Creator. Scientists continue to learn more about the universe in which we live and often have to admit that what was once accepted as truth has to be acknowledged as wrong and a new standard accepted. They also have to acknowledge that there is much that science cannot explain. Paul is telling Timothy that there is a danger in engaging in such dialogue with those who have no reverence for God and whose hearts are hard and stubborn. Some have been led astray from the truth by engaging in such activities.
This instruction goes hand-in-hand with Peter’s admonition to be prepared to give an answer for what we believe.
1 Peter 3:15–16 “But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear: Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ.”
The key seems to be in exercising discernment as to the motives of the one trying to engage you in such discussion. I am a big supporter of Ravi Zacharias and others like him who defend the faith in the public arena for the benefit of those who are seeking truth. Though I am sure there are many attending whose motives are to attack the Christian faith, many are there in order to learn how to defend their faith and to find answers in their own search for truth. There are people like Mr. Zacharias and William Craig who are called into the ministry of apologetics and who have especially prepared themselves through the study of scripture to deal with the lies and deceit used by those who would seek to deceive others concerning the truth through their charm and/or perceived intellect. I think as the time for the return of the Lord gets closer and the power of the enemy is allowed to exert even more influence, this type of ministry is important for defending the truth. Those who become involved, however, should be strongly rooted in their faith and in knowledge of the word of God.
It is important to note that Timothy was serving as a pastor/teacher at this time. Paul did not want Timothy to experience unnecessary problems in the church by allowing troublemakers to intimidate him with the “wisdom of man” and possibly cause him to question his faith. He needed to stay focused in his faith and on ministering God’s word to the body of believers.
Paul closes with a blessing for God’s grace to be with Timothy. I love what the Greek says about grace; it is “the divine influence upon the heart, and its reflection in the life.” I think this is a prayer for Timothy to be yielded to the Spirit so as to glorify God as He uses him to accomplish His purposes.
The first to Timothy was written from Laodicea, which is the chiefest city of Phrygia Pacatiana.
This addendum tells us that Paul wrote this letter while in Laodicea, the chief city of Phrygia. The IVP NB Dictionary states that Phrygia is the land associated with King Midas and eventually became part of Galatia.