Tyndale Open Study Notes1 Timothy 6

Proper behavior in God's spiritual household involves everyone, including:

• the old and young (5:1–2),

• widows (5:3–16),

• old people (5:17–25), and

• slaves (6:1–2a).

Showing respect within the household goes beyond social boundaries.

Paul recommends that those who are slaves should treat both non-Christian and Christian masters with respect. This practice will honor God's name and give a good reputation to Christian teaching (see study note on 5:1–6:2).

This paragraph reveals that the true desire of false teachers is wealth, not God.

The final major part of the letter focuses on Timothy's need to challenge the false teachers. This section mirrors the structure of 1:3–20.

he has an unhealthy interest in controversies and semantics: It is the same problem as in 1:4 (see also 2 Timothy 2:23–24; Titus 3:9).

• who are devoid of the truth: Literally have been robbed of the truth; see 2 Timothy 2:18; 3:7, 8; 4:4; Titus 1:14.

• regard godliness as a means of gain: (see 1 Timothy 2:2; 3:8; 4:8; 6:3; see also 2 Timothy 3:2; Acts 8:9–25): It is uncertain how these false teachers thought they would profit. In the broader culture, many traveling teachers earned money through teaching. Abuse of this system was common, and people often accused them of teaching for "gain and glory." Perhaps the false teachers in 1 Timothy brought this practice into the church or promoted a gospel marked by wealth or success. They seem to have influenced wealthy Christians and possibly women in particular (1 Timothy 6:17–19; 2:9; 5:6).

with contentment: This is not only a philosophical view but also a true reliance on Christ as all-sufficient. See 4:8; 2 Corinthians 9:8; 12:7–10; Philippians 4:10–13; Hebrews 13:5.

Before ending the discussion on wealth, Paul urges Timothy to live an innocent life. Paul encourages Timothy to flee the desire for wealth.

• The promise of eternal life reduces the attraction of wealth (see 6:19).

• Paul probably refers to when Timothy confessed his faith during baptism.

Paul emphasizes the historical aspect of Christ's role as a mediator (see 2:5–6). Paul holds up the way Christ Jesus testified during his trial before Pontius Pilate to set an example for Timothy to remain strong under pressure (Matthew 27:11–14; Luke 23:1–4; John 18:33–38; 19:9–11).

until the appearance of our Lord Jesus Christ: The letters to Timothy and Titus describe Christ's comings, both past and future, as “epiphanies” or “appearances” (2 Timothy 1:10; Titus 2:11; 2 Timothy 4:1, 8; Titus 2:13). An epiphany is a divine intervention at a specific historical moment. The church exists between these past and future appearances of Christ.

Christ’s first saving epiphany allowed for a new life. His future epiphany will bring final salvation. Although the present is evil, our anticipation of Christ’s appearance encourages us to live a life pleasing to God now (the “later times,” 1 Timothy 4:1–3; 2 Timothy 3:1–9). False teachers allowed sinful behaviors because they believed the resurrection had already happened (2 Timothy 2:18). Paul clarifies that salvation has started but is not yet complete. Being part of God’s household requires responsible conduct in the light of Christ’s past, present, and future saving work (1 Timothy 3:15–16; Titus 2:11–14).

• in his own time: At the right time, God will complete the salvation promised to us before the world began (compare 2:6); 2 Timothy 1:9; Titus 1:2). Christ began this salvation in his first appearance (1 Timothy 2:6; Titus 1:3). Christ's work of salvation fits within God's eternal plans. This knowledge naturally leads to worshiping God who saves us (see 1 Timothy 1:17).

• This prayer might come from a confession saying for use at baptisms (see study note on 6:12).

for us to enjoy: Christian hope encourages us to manage resources responsibly (Genesis 1:28–30; 2:15). We should use our resources for enjoyment and to share Christ’s love with others (see 1 Timothy 4:3–5; Psalm 145:16; Acts 14:17; see Luke 12:16–34; 2 Corinthians 8:1–9:15).

According to 6:11–16, it is unwise to value the temporary wealth of this age (James 5:3). It is wiser to gather treasure for the future age by trusting in God, doing good deeds, and showing generosity and love to others (see 1 Timothy 1:5).

This short but pointed message emphasizes how important Timothy's task is in Ephesus (see 1:18–20; 2 Timothy 1:13–14).

what has been entrusted to you (literally the deposit): The good news about Jesus is a deposit given to the church and its leaders to keep safe (1:15; 2:5–6; 3:16). It includes an entire way of life (2 Timothy 1:13–14; 3:10–11). It strengthens and cleanses the church when confronted with false teachings in challenging times (2 Timothy 3:1). The deposit is part of the church's tradition (see 2 Timothy 2:2; 1 Corinthians 11:23–25; 15:1–8; 2 Thessalonians 2:15; 3:6). It needs creative and true interpretation to address changing situations and problems (see 2 Timothy 1:12–14).

• The letter ends suddenly. There was no need for mission directions (see Titus 3:12–14). Greetings were either not necessary or not appropriate (see Titus 3:15; Romans 16:3–16).

• you all: Paul sent the letter to Timothy. But Paul meant it to be read to the entire church (see 1 Timothy Book Introduction, “Literary Genre”).