1 Timothy 6:3-10

³ “If anyone advocates a different doctrine and does not agree with sound words, those of our Lord Jesus Christ, and with the doctrine conforming to godliness, ⁴ he is conceited and understands nothing; but he has a sick craving for controversial questions and disputes about words, from which come envy, strife, abusive language, evil suspicions, ⁵ and constant friction between people of depraved mind and deprived of the truth, who suppose that godliness is a means of gain. ⁶ But godliness actually is a means of great gain when accompanied by contentment. ⁷ For we have brought nothing into the world, so we cannot take anything out of it, either. ⁸ If we have food and covering, with these we shall be content. ⁹ But those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap, and many foolish and harmful desires which plunge people into ruin and destruction. ¹⁰ For the love of money is a root of all sorts of evil, and some by longing for it have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.”

Verse 3: Paul warns against those who teach contrary to the sound instruction of our Lord Jesus Christ and godly teaching. He describes such individuals as conceited and lacking understanding. This highlights the importance of adhering to the simple gospel of God’s grace while embracing godly instruction, rather than being swayed by false or misguided teachings such as the Gnosticism being addressed in 1 Timothy.

Verse 4: Paul continues to describe the characteristics of those who teach differently from the sound instruction of Jesus. He points out their unhealthy fascination with controversies and quarrels, which lead to envy, strife, malicious talk, and evil suspicions. This serves as a warning against engaging in divisive and argumentative behavior, emphasizing the importance of pursuing unity and peace within the body of Christ. Believers are designed to live in love and unity. Fleshly behavior is not fitting for believers because we have been given new hearts.

Verse 5: Paul highlights the negative consequences that arise from the teachings of those with corrupt minds. He mentions the constant friction that results from their distorted views and their belief that godliness is a means to financial gain. This exposes the false motives and misguided priorities of such individuals, emphasizing the need for genuine devotion to God rather than pursuing personal gain. The true gospel of grace will always encourage godly behavior amongst believers.

Verse 6: In contrast to the false teachings centered around financial gain, Paul affirms that true gain comes from godliness combined with contentment. This highlights the importance of finding satisfaction and fulfillment in our relationship with God, rather than seeking material wealth or worldly success.

Verse 7: Paul reminds believers of the transient nature of material possessions. He emphasizes that we enter this world with nothing and will leave with nothing. This serves as a reminder to prioritize eternal values and the pursuit of godliness over the accumulation of worldly possessions.

Verse 8: Paul encourages contentment with the basic necessities of life, such as food and clothing. This highlights the importance of cultivating a grateful and satisfied heart, recognizing that true contentment does not come from material abundance but from a deep trust in God’s provision.

Verse 9-10: Paul issues a warning against the desire to become rich as a means of finding fulfillment in life, as such an ambition often leads to temptation, foolish and harmful desires, and ultimately, ruin and destruction. He emphasizes that the love of money is the root of various kinds of evil. Paul highlights the detrimental effects of pursuing wealth at the expense of one’s faith, noting that it can lead to personal grief and spiritual harm.