In Paul’s first epistle to Timothy, he addresses the duties of various groups within the church.  In chapter 2 the roles of men and women are discussed.  Chapter 3 includes the qualifications and duties of elders and deacons.  Timothy is given specific instructions on how to be a good minister of the gospel in chapter 4.  The responsibility of taking care of widows is emphasized in chapter 5.  In the final chapter of this letter, Paul addresses attitudes and duties that ought to accompany riches (6:6-11, 17-19).

This last command is to those who “are rich in this world” (1 Timothy 6:17).  It is possible to be rich and be a Christian.  Jesus statement in Mark 10:25 is sometimes misconstrued to mean that no rich man can ever be saved; however, there are several rich men in the Bible who were acceptable in God’s sight.  Abraham, Job, and King David are just a few examples.  The early church had those who were wealthy enough that they sold land they owned and gave it to the church (Acts 4:37).  Lydia was “a seller of purple,” cloth only the wealthiest could afford (Acts 16:14; cf. Luke 16:19).  Apparently, there were some in Ephesus where Paul had left Timothy to preach that were wealthy as well (1 Timothy 1:3).  These needed instructions regarding their wealth.

The statement of Mark 10:25, mentioned above, shows there are particular temptations to being rich in earthly goods.  Paul tells Timothy to command the rich to “be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy” (1 Timothy 6:17).  Any earthly advantage one has can become a temptation.  Those who possess authority are tempted to be proud and abuse it.  Those who are very intelligent are tempted to view themselves as superior to others.  Those who are very beautiful physically are tempted to look down on others.  In the same way, possessing wealth can tempt a man to be proud.  Wealthy Christians should remain humble and not trust in uncertain riches.  If anything is uncertain, it is riches.  Periods of financial boom and bust are seen even today.  Proverbs 23:5 says, “for riches certainly make themselves wings; they fly away as an eagle toward heaven.”  Instead of trusting in riches we ought to trust in God who richly gives us all blessings.  He not only gives us wealth, but the ability to get wealth (Deuteronomy 8:18).  He will not change (Malachi 3:6).  He will not forsake us (Hebrews 13:5).  He is far more dependable than riches (Ezekiel 7:19).

Those who will stay rich in this life are concerned about preserving wealth for the future.  First Timothy 6:18-19 gives the wealthy the best plan for preparing for the future.  Laying up treasures in heaven is more important than holding onto money in this life (Matthew 6:19-20).  Thus, Paul writes that if they will be ready to help others and give to true needs, then they will be laying a good foundation for the future – laying hold on eternal life.

Though we have our economic woes, we are still among the wealthiest of the world.  Will your riches help or hinder you from going to heaven?  Why not use them to help others to the glory of God and lay hold on eternal life?