[:en]SCRIPTURE: 1 TIMOTHY 6
“But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it” (1 Timothy 6:6-7)
“For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs” ( 1 Timothy 6:10)
“Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds and to be generous and willing to share” (1 Timothy 6:17-18)
Brothers in Christ have to show respect to each other. People who argue on godly teachings cause controversies, quarrels that result in envy, strife, malicious talk, evil suspicions and constant friction. Be contented with what you have and enjoy what God has given you. Use your wealth to do good. Be generous and willing to share.
Money is neutral and not the root of all evil. It is the LOVE OF MONEY that is the root of all evil. People who desire to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge them into ruin and destruction” (v. 9). They denied God, blasphemed His name, stole, lied , murdered, etc..
We have to flee from pride, covetousness, and false teachings. We have to follow God’s command and fight for our faith.
Paul’s charge to Timothy:
- Flee from false doctrines
- Fight the good fight of the faith
- Stand up for the Lord
- Take hold of the eternal life
- Guard the spiritual truth
- Turn away from godless chatter and false knowledge.
For those who are rich, be humble and accept that your wealth comes from the Lord. Know how to enjoy the gifts and the blessings of life. Do good works with your money and use your wealth to win souls. Invest treasures in heaven. Guard the gospel message and pass it on to others.
LESSON:
In modern world, slaves and master no longer exist. But this can apply to an employer and employee relationship. Believing employers must not take advantage of their employees with unfair wages. Employees must also respect their employers and do their job faithfully as if doing for the Lord.
Learn to be contented with what you have. Do not become the slave of your money. Instead be the master and use it wisely
Avoid people who reject the sound doctrine of the Word of God and feed on empty questions that lead to envies, strifes and disunity. These people have deprived of the truth and are using religion to pursue their goal to acquire wealth.[:]