1 Timothy 6:17-21 Commandments for the Rich

17 Command those who are rich in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy. 18 Let them do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share, 19 storing up for themselves a good foundation for the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life. 20 O Timothy! Guard what was committed to your trust, avoiding the profane and idle babblings and contradictions of what is falsely called knowledge— 21 by professing it some have strayed concerning the faith. Grace be with you. Amen.

The Apostle Paul now commands those who are rich not to be haughty. That is for the rich not to think more highly of themselves, or those like them, than their poor brethren. For In Christ ones earthly stature, appearance; natural attributes or giftedness here and now means nothing in regards to ones usefulness for, and or standing in the Kingdom of heaven (consider 1 Cor. 1:26-31). Indeed the N.T. Scriptures do not cast a favorable light on those who are "rich" and wealthy now. Especially those who have an arrogant or indifferent attitude towards their fellow poor brethren (consider Jesus' Words in Luke 6:20-26; Matt. 25:31-46). Again the Scriptures warn of a generation whose eyes are haughty and whose eyes are lifted up; whose glances are ever disdainful towards others (Prov. 30:13 NKJ; NIV); who basically do not see themselves and their sins as they really are (Rev. 3:14-22). Or maybe they have forgotten how they were washed by the blood of Christ and cleared of all their sins by what He has done, not by what they are, do, or have done. In 1 Corinthians 4:7 the Apostle Paul explicitly asks in regards to salvation: “What makes you better than anyone else? “For who makes you differ from another? And what do you have that you did not receive? Now if you did indeed receive it,why do you boast as if you had not received it?”

Again haughtiness seems quite particular to those who are rich now; whose wealth by nature empowers them, and or raises them up in a societal standing sense; but never in the eyes of God (consider Job 34:19; 1 Sam 2:3; 7). Thus arrogance more readily finds the rich or those who think by their own skills and wisdom they excel others (please consider Ecc. 9:11-12 and the antithesis of haughtiness Matt. 5:3). Now the the word the Apostle Paul uses in commanding the rich not to be haughty appears only here and in Rom. 11:20 . Being used there to warn all Gentile believers not to be haughty towards the Jews because some of them were broken off so that believing Gentiles could be grafted into God’s vine. For it is only by the grace of God that both poor and rich (whether Jew or Gentile) enter into the Kingdom of God. Therefore in Romans 12:16 we are exhorted: “Be of the same mind toward one another. Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own opinion.” The Apostle James also commanded: 9 Let the lowly brother glory in his exaltation, 10 but the rich in his humiliation, because as a flower of the field he will pass away. 11 For no sooner has the sun risen with a burning heat than it withers the grass; its flower falls, and its beautiful appearance perishes. So the rich man also will fade away in his pursuits. James 1:9-11

Therefore in light of the coming day of the Lord and the Lord Jesus’ own life's example of humility, as well as the current economic disparity that exits not only in church congregations, but around the world. It seems incredibly non Christ like for those whom God has financially blessed now to be haughty, especially in the presence of those who are poor (Consider Isaiah 2:11-12; Luke 6:20-26).

“For thus says the High and Lofty One
Who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy:
“I dwell in the high and holy place,
With him who has a contrite and humble spirit,
To revive the spirit of the humble,
And to revive the heart of the contrite ones.” Isaiah 57:15

Now the next part of the Apostle Paul’s exhortation is that the rich are not to trust in their riches, but in the living God who gives us richly all things to enjoy. Having wealth then is not sinful. Rather as the Lord Jesus warns it is the place riches have in ones heart. For when mammon supplants God, or ones fellow person's well being, than that is a grave sin (Matt. 6:19-24; Luke 12:16-21; 16:14-15; 19-31; Col. 3:5). Therefore the Scriptures throughout warn about in trusting riches, and the effects thereof; for riches are transient, but God is eternal (Deut. 8:11-20; Ps. 49:1-20; 52:1-9; Prov. 11:4, 23:4-5; Ecc. 5:13-15; James 1:9-11 antithesis Psalm 32:10).

“He who trusts in his riches will fall,
But the righteous will flourish like foliage.” Prov. 11:28

Now in saying that, those who have riches and who keep their trust in God, should richly enjoy all things that God gives us to enjoy. Just as the Scriptures declare:

“The blessing of the Lord makes one rich,
And He adds no sorrow with it.” Prov. 10:22

Now it is fitting that the Apostle Paul though stating that God gives us richly all things to enjoy, also enjoin those who are rich to be “…rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share, 19 storing up for themselves a good foundation for the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.” vs. 18-19 

Not as a means to salvation but that they lay up for themselves ( ejpilambavnomai) a good foundation for the time to come, that they may lay hold of eternal life (vs. 19). Investing in the Kingdom of heaven (in all of its diverse activities) as the Lord Jesus said is the wisest use of one’s resources here and now. Consider Jesus’ parable of the rich fool who laid up treasures for himself but forgot about God (Luke 12:12-21); or the rich man and Lazarus, where the rich man lived his life in luxury while ignoring the impoverished man who was literally right outside his door (Luke 16:19-31); or as a contrast the wise Stewart, who used his master’s possessions to bless others and thus endeared himself to many friends, who would receive him for eternity (Luke 16:1-13). Therefore the Apostle’s command here is to direct those are rich into good and generous works rather than just living a life of self indulgence. For a greedy follower of the Lord Jesus Christ is an oxymoron (Prov. 13:7; Luke 16:14-15; James 2:14-18; 1 John 3:17).

Vs. 20-21 The Apostle Paul concludes his letter to Timothy by urging Timothy to guard the Spiritual truth’s that have been committed to his trust by avoiding the profane and idle babblings and contradictions of what is falsely called knowledge “by professing it some have strayed concerning the faith. Grace be with you. Amen.”  

The warning being not just for Timothy and his congregations but for us all who believe in Jesus and receive the Word of God by faith. For there are many false and misleading teachings out there that though appearing spiritual or use spiritual language have nothing to do with the Spirit of God, or the Word of God. Therefore be discerning and beware, for if it contravenes the Scriptures or rips them them out of their contexts to support or justify someones sins or sinful desires than there not from God.

Scripture Quotations
The New King James Version. Nashville:Thomas Nelson, 1982

1 Timothy 6:11-15 Pursue These

But you, O man of God, flee these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, gentleness. 12 Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, to which you were also called and have confessed the good confession in the presence of many witnesses. 13 I urge you in the sight of God who gives life to all things, and before Christ Jesus who witnessed the good confession before Pontius Pilate, 14 that you keep this commandment without spot, blameless until our Lord Jesus Christ’s appearing, 15 which He will manifest in His own time, He who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings and Lord of lords, 16 who alone has immortality, dwelling in unapproachable light, whom no man has seen or can see, to whom be honor and everlasting power. Amen.

Vs. 11 The Apostle Paul having given a command for us to flee from Godless greed and those who expound it. Now gives us six things that we as believers should covet and pursue. For ppracticing Christian disciplines in our lives is the only way to bear the fruit of them. The first the Apostle commends to us is:
Righteousness That is pursuing what God says in His Word is morally an ethically righteous; not what ones culture says this is. For though there maybe overlap with ones societal values these will inevitably change as people embrace or reject God's moral will for them. Nonetheless God's Word does not change and it is He to whom we are all accountable too. Therefore there should be no doubt in anybodies mind that God's moral standards have not been altered or amended with the coming of Jesus Christ His Son as Savior of the world (John 12:48; Heb. 13:8). For they are a reflection of His unchanging Person and Character and thus humanity (and most certainly believers) are to bear His moral image. That is one sure way the we honor God and Christ. The problem in doing so is sin. Sin is the plague and scourge that makes bearing God's image quite problematic. For it is sin that uses God's commandment (which is good) to arouse all manner of evil desires within all who wish to live righteous lives (Rom. 7:9-11). That is the dilemma of Law given without changing the heart and soul of the person first. Therefore regeneration of ones person (which only comes by a personal faith in Jesus Christ as Lord) must take place before one can experience the empowering of God to live the righteous lives that He requires of us all. And that is why the gospel is Good News for all who believe, for it deals with sin completely (John 8:34-36). Both the wrath of God against it, and or our bondage to it, by Jesus' Crucifixion death; Resurrection from the dead; and ascension back to heaven by which we are brought by the Holy Spirit to life and into Christ when we believe in Him. (For greater detail on this spiritual new life and reality see John 3:1-21 and Romans 3:19-8:36). That's straight forward; Christians as a manner of life should live and strive to live righteous lives, and not seek to lessen God's moral requirements, but rather through the gospel increase grace for doing so. Making distinctions between those who are struggling, and those who are willingly living disobedient lives (Gal. 6:1-2; Jude 20-23 contrast 1 Cor. 5:9-13).

Therefore there is also a two-fold aspect to righteousness. The first is the righteousness of God imputed to us by our faith in Jesus Christ by which we are justified or declared righteous in the sight of God (2 Cor. 5:21; Rom. 5:1). That is the righteousness of God which brings us into a personal relationship with Christ when we repent and believe in Him. Therefore it is the Lord Jesus Christ whom everyone must have their faith or trust in, and not their own righteousness (Luke 18:9-14; Rom. 3:19-28; Gal. 2:21). That said, as those redeemed by the grace of God we must pursue the righteousness that Jesus Christ commands of us all (Matt. 5:19-20). That is what the Apostle Paul is emphasizing here, just as the Apostle John does in his epistles, emphasizing both righteousness and love. For “If you know that He is righteous, you know that everyone who practices righteousness is born of Him.” ^{1 John 2:29} So then it is incumbent upon everyone who believes in the Lord Jesus to put to death the sinful deeds of their flesh and pursue righteousness (Rom. 6; 13:12-14). For that is in accord with our new nature and standing In Christ. For we having died to sin and been raised to righteousness with Him are free from the Law of sin and death. And thus we can now bear the fruits of the Holy Spirit, against such there is no law (Gal. 5:16-23). Now in pursuing righteousness i.e. that which is Biblically morally and ethically right and sound and required of us all as Believers in the Lord Jesus Christ, there will be both victories and set backs as we strive against the old sinful nature. As well there will be opposition both outside and within to our doing so. Especially if coming out of previously sinful lifestyles, or family backgrounds that had no previous knowledge of, or adherence to God and His ways, and continue on that path. As the Lord Jesus Christ and the Apostles Paul and Peter warn us about (Matt. 10:34-39; 1 Peter 4:1-6; 2 Tim. 3:12). Nonetheless Jesus promises His blessing and future joy on everyone who suffers for righteousness' sake here and now (Matt. 5:10). For truly "Light is sown for the righteous, And gladness for the upright in heart." Ps. 97:11
Therefore we must strike a balance between the righteous lives that the Lord Jesus wants us to live. While not forsaking the grace of God which reconciles and makes right in the sight of God every sinner who repents and believes (Mark 1:15; Luke 15:11-32; John 3:16; 1 John 1:9; 2:1; Heb. 4:14-16). Now this we do when we are led by the Spirit of God, and not the letter of the Law (Rom. 7:6; 2 Cor. 3:6). For Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior is our exemplary role model demonstrating for us all what it means to live righteously in the sight of God, while extending the grace of God to everyone who repents and believes. Pursuing righteousness then is the pursuit of moral excellence that God has always commanded of His people, whether in the law or the gospel.

Godliness: Is next in the series of transforming character traits given by the Apostle Paul for us to pursue. Now the word Paul uses here is the same word that the Apostle Peter also makes use of in his second epistle to both affirm the mystery of Godliness (compare 1 Tim. 3:16 with 2 Peter 1:3) and to encourage a believer’s pursuit of it (2 Peter 1:6, 7). In the main it is to be devoted to God, piety and or the Scriptural admonishment of the "fear of the Lord "(See Psalms and Proverbs where this phrase is most prevalent). Thus it is reverence and holiness towards God by our obedience to the Lord Jesus Christ and the Biblical Apostle commandments; regarding our conduct both inside and outside of the house of faith. And is spoken of both here and in the Apostle Peters second epistle as an admonition in expectation of the Day of the Lord (1 Tim. 6:14-16; 2 Peter 3:10-14). Godliness then is a virtue that all who follow Jesus Christ must embrace.

Faith: The third in the series is faith. Now the pursuit of faith can be thought of in several ways:

• First faith is foundational to ones redemption (Heb. 11:6). That is ones absolute trust in the Word of God and the Person to whom it attests; that is God Himself in the Person of Jesus Christ. The Bible has a purpose beyond teaching moral absolutes or prophecy to revealing the Son of Man so that mankind might be saved from their sins by their absolute trust or faith in Him. Thus the Biblical pursuit of faith starts with the pursuit of the Biblical God Himself in the Person of Jesus Christ the Lord.
• Second the pursuit of faith is the living out the commandments of the Lord Jesus Christ, revealed both in the gospel and Biblical Apostle’s writings. That is what discipleship is. The Lord Jesus said: “He who does not love Me does not keep My words; and the word which you hear is not Mine but the Father’s who sent Me. ^{John 14:24}
• Third the pursuit of faith is sharing or proclamation of the gospel and God’s love and redemption of all people through it. The Lord Jesus said: “Follow Me and I will make you fishers of men.” Matt. 4:19 The pursuit of faith then is sharing the Biblical truth’s our faith attests too and are believed by us. The Apostle Paul simply said: “I believed and therefore I spoke.” 2 Cor. 4:13 Therefore genuine faith In Jesus Christ always results in genuine witness of Him (Acts 1:8).
• Fourth the pursuit of faith is not only believing the gospel; but also doing good works and deeds of kindness that are born out of the gospel. Just as Jesus did and commands, and the New Testament declares as coming out of a Spirit filled person's life and faith (Matt. 5:16; John 10:32; Acts 9:36; Eph. 2:10; Col. 1:10; 1 Tim. 2:9-10; 5:9-10; 5:25; 6:18; 2 Tim. 2:20-21; 3:17; Titus 2:7-8 antithesis Titus 1:16). Therefore the Apostle Paul does not differ from the Apostle James in his outlook about believers doing good works (Acts 26:20). Rather in light of peoples wrong beliefs of self-redemption. The Apostle Paul sets out to shatter all such delusions in his Epistle to the Romans. There he emphasizes the sole agency of salvation is God’s Work through Jesus Christ and an individuals faith in Him apart from their own works or righteousness (Rom. 3:19-28; 4:4-5, 11:6). Whereas the Apostle James has a different problem to address. Profession of faith In Jesus Christ without any good works that attest to it (James 2:14-26). The pursuit of faith then is doing good works as both the Apostle James and the Apostle Paul asserts we are to do (Titus 2:14; 3:8; 3:14). “Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.” ^{Gal. 6:10}
• Fifth the pursuit of faith is belief in the absolute Power and Authority of the Lord Jesus Christ both for salvation and for judgment (Matt. 28:18; John 3:16-21, 5:21-23; Rev. 1:8; 21:6-8; 22:12-17). Therefore those who deny Christ's Sovereign Lordship or the power of His gospel that brings salvation to all who believe (Rom. 1:16-17; Eph. 1:13-14), and or the eternal judgment on those who don’t, we are to turn away from (2 Tim. 3:5). For as in the Old Covenant to deny the Sovereign Authority and Power of Yahweh, either for redemption or judgment, was considered blaspheme (Num. 14:11, 23). For there is only Mediator between God and mankind that is the Man Christ Jesus (1 Tim. 2:5-6). "Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other Name under heaven by which we must be saved" (Acts 4:12).
• Six the pursuit of faith is to live by faith, for “we walk by faith and not by sight.” 2 Cor. 5:7 Therefore a believer’s faith (what we believe about Jesus Christ and ourselves, and what we do as a result of it) is both a current transforming reality; as the Holy Spirit progressively transforms us into Christ likeness. And a future hope yet to be revealed with the return of Jesus Christ for us and the establishment of the Kingdom of God. That is why the Bible says: “Faith is the substance of things hoped for the evidence of things not seen.” Heb. 11:6 Therefore believers must remember that no one is perfected at the point of salvation (Phil. 3:12-14), thus no one is sinless or attains to sinlessness in this life (1 John 1:8-10). Believers will have to struggle against their sin natures and in this there will times of great victory and times of setback. So don’t get discouraged when you’re not all that you aspire to be, or you are chastened by God (Rom. 7; Heb. 12:4-11). The pursuit of faith then is a life lived in faith, hope and love. Lived not in the letter (Rom. 2:29; 2 Cor. 3:5-6, 9, 17) but in the Spirit, being led by the Spirit and in the Power of the Spirit (Gal. 3:2-3; 5:16-26; Rom. 8; Phil. 3:3; Col. 1:18; Rev. 1:10 etc.) in anticipation of Jesus Christ’s return and the redemption of our bodies (Rom 8:23-25).  Therefore living in the Spirit with such anticipation is not idle, but active (Heb. 10:24). Consider the Apostle Paul’s encouraging words to the Thessalonians in his first epistle to them: “Remembering without ceasing your work of faith, and labor of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ, in the sight of God and our Father” 1 Thess 1:3 Again believers live purposeful lives, (not perfect lives) knowing that all things in this life ultimately bring us closer to our finial destiny. 12 Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. 13 Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, 14 I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Phil. 3:12-14
• Seven the pursuit of faith is keeping the ordinances the Lord Jesus Christ instituted in the New Covenant which all Believers are to follow; the Lord’s Table and Baptism. Or if one broadens that scope this includes the Apostle’s doctrine (Acts 15:22-29; 1 Cor. 11:2; 2 Thess. 2:15). Which is not keeping the doctrines, commandments or traditions of men (Matt. 15:1-9; Gal. 4:9-11; 21-31; Col. 2:8-10; 20-22) which invariably alienate believers from one another and or mankind in general from the grace of God.The pursuit of faith in this sense then is growing in the grace of God (Rom. 5:20), of being led by the Spirit of God and not the letter of the law (2 Cor. 3:6). For having been set free from both sin and the law (Rom. 6:14; Gal. 4:21-31) there is an immeasurable amount of liberty and freedom that God affords His children to do good in the Name and Power of His Son our Savior Jesus Christ the Lord (Titus 2:11-15).
• Eight The pursuit of faith is a pursuit of faithfulness towards God through Jesus Christ and the Spiritual truths He teaches us. Thus constancy in profession and application. Since it is through these that our faith is made known and God is glorified (Matt. 5:16).
• Nine: the pursuit of faith is interceding for sinners that mercy might be shown. For that is what Jesus Christ does (Heb. 4:14-14; 1 John 2:1).
• Ten: the pursuit of faith is living life richly and fully in both the Power of the Spirit and the grace of God; thus liberty of life and person (2 Cor. 3:17). For being in Jesus Christ means you are complete in Him. Therefore: 8 Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ. 9 For in Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily; 10 and you are complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power. Col. 2:8-10 

Love: The Apostle Paul now commends the pursuit of love to us all who believe in Jesus Christ. Love is the essence of knowing God and believing in Jesus (1 John 4:8, 16). Divorce the Christian life from love and all you’ve got is "religion". Now Jesus linked having the love of God inside us to our having faith in Him (John 5:42-43). Therefore we cannot love God until we first believe in His love for us (John 3:16). God’s love then is brought to us through Jesus Christ and His death on a cross and kept in us by the Holy Spirit (Eph. 1:13-14). God’s love then bought us back from sin and death. Therefore the Bible declares we love God because He first loved us (1 John 4:7-13). Now all believers are not only inseparably linked to the love of God (Rom. 8:35-39) but are commanded to walk in love (Eph. 5:2) which is the first fruit of the Holy Spirit (Gal. 5:22). That said the Lord Jesus linked loving Him with both keeping His commands and loving one another (John 13:35); for in doing so we abide In His love (John 15:9-12). The proof of discipleship then is both obedience to Christ’s commands (1 John 5:3) and loving fellow believers (1 John 4:7-8). For love does no harm to ones neighbor and thus fulfills the law (Rom. 13:10). Love then excels knowledge (1 Cor. 8:1); Spirit gifts, great personal sacrifices or even accomplishing mighty works as the primary goal of our sanctification (1 Cor. 13). Yet love is not without the pursuit of Spirit gifts (1 Cor. 14:1), wisdom (Pr. 8:1-36), knowledge (Col. 1:10; 2 Peter 1:6), good works (Eph. 2:10), justice (Luke 11:42) or discernment (Phil. 1:9). But these are to be governed by non-hypocritical love (Rom. 12:9; 1 Cor. 16:14; 1 Tim. 1:5). Love then finds its expression not only in affectionate displays and feelings (1 Peter 5:14) but also in obedience (Prov. 9:10; 1 John 5:2-3; 2 John 6) service (Gal. 5:13; Heb. 10:24), benevolence (1 John 3:17), mercy (2 Cor. 2:6-11) and kindness (1 Cor. 13:4). Love is the culmination of a Godly life (2 Peter 1:5-7). Therefore all believers are charged to keep themselves in the love of God (Jude 21). For love is above all else the bond of perfection (Col. 3:12-14).

Patience: Given the nature of Jesus’ mission that will bring hostility towards all who believe in Him, not only from the world (John 15:19) but potentially even from those closest to us (Matt. 10:34-39). Each of us will need patience to endure, as we through many tribulations enter the Kingdom (Acts 14:22); especially as the end draws near (Matt. 24:9-26; Luke 21:19; Mark 13:13). Therefore Jesus gave warnings about the cost of discipleship (Mark 8:36-39) and of not finishing the salvation course that we start on (Luke 14:25-33). Therefore as believers we all have need of endurance to inherit the promises of God (Heb. 12:35-39). Patience then is a thread that must be knit through all the other attributes that we are to pursue; for without patience our desire to puruse these can wane. The Apostle Paul exhorts that God will render to each person according to their deeds: "eternal life to those who by patient continuance in doing good seek for glory, honor, and immortality; 8 but to those who are self-seeking and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness—indignation and wrath, 9 tribulation and anguish, on every soul of man who does evil, of the Jew first and also of the Greek; 10 but glory, honor, and peace to everyone who works what is good, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. 11 For there is no partiality with God. Rom. 2:7-11

On the other hand it is through our trials that our patience is developed; our character grows; and our hope is assured (Rom. 5:3-5; 8:25; 15:4-5). Therefore in every difficult trial our Sovereign God and our Saviour Jesus Christ has a purpose, and His designs for us are always intended for our good in the end (James 5:10-11). We are wise when we do not get discouraged by the process, but rather focus on the intended results. The Apostle James understood this when he declared: “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, 3 knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. 4 But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.” James 1:2-4 Now whatever God permits in our lives He always bountifully repays at the other end as Job's suffering reveals. 10 For God is not unjust to forget your work and labor of love which you have shown toward His name, in that you have ministered to the saints, and do minister. 11 And we desire that each one of you show the same diligence to the full assurance of hope until the end, 12 that you do not become sluggish, but imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises. Heb. 6:10-12

Finally the Apostle James declares blessed are those who endure temptation, “…for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.” James 1:12 For it is through patient endurance that not only our character is formed (just as a black smith forges a metals properties conforming both its shape and its qualities) so we bear the fruit of the Word of God; by patiently continuing in it (Luke 8:15). Therefore the Apostle Paul’s exhortation here to pursue patience is that of both a needed virtue (2 Peter 1:6), and needed endurance which is necessary to maintain a sound perspective in difficult times (2 Tim. 3:10-13); effectively lead in the church (Titus 2:2); encourage others in their own faith journeys (2 Cor. 1:6; Heb. 12:1-11) and or continue on in the work Jesus Christ has called us to do (1 Thess. 1:3-4). “Now may the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God and into the patience of Christ.” ^{2 Thess. 3:5}

Gentleness: is one of the key attributes that defines Jesus Christ’s Person; Lordship and Salvation (Matt. 11:28-30). Therefore it must also define His followers (2 Cor. 10:1; Eph. 4:2). Nelson’s New Illustrated Bible Dictionary defines the word used here as: “kindness, consideration, a spirit of fairness and compassion...” Therefore gentleness must denote not only ones demeanor but more importantly ones conduct. Gentleness is an attribute of the wise (James 3:13-17); who maintain their composure even when circumstances or feelings might seemingly warrant a more emphatic response (1 Peter 3:15-16). Thus it is to be an expression of Christian love (Col. 3:12), being a fruit of the Holy Spirit (Gal. 3:23). Τhat believers are to manifest not only towards each other but to everyone (Phil. 4:5; Titus 3:2). Now in terms of Pastoral leadership gentleness is a perquisite (1 Tim. 3:3) as well as a requirement when restoring believers who fall into sin (Gal. 6:1), or when correcting those in opposition, who are outside the household of faith (2 Tim. 2:25). The Apostle Paul once asked the Corinthians whom he discipled: “What do you want? Shall I come to you with a rod, or in love and a spirit of gentleness?” 1 Cor. 4:12 Thus the Godly manner in which we are to regulate all the other virtues is in a spirit of gentleness.

Vs. 12 “Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, to which you were also called and have confessed the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.”

The Apostle Paul’s exhortation here to “Fight the good fight of faith...” is a colorful metaphor in light of what he previously wrote telling us how to flesh that out. Hence Paul is not saying fight and argue with those outside the household of faith, rather contend for the faith and the doctrines that are true to it (Jude 3), lay hold on eternal life, which Jesus Christ has given us all who believe by the grace of God. Thus we are called by Jesus Christ not just to believe in Him through the gospel, but also to declare the gospel. Now in this there will be spiritual opposition both to the truth of the gospel as well as the doctrines within it; even inside the house of faith, there will be adversaries’ who will oppose segments of it or the apostolic doctrine given by the Spirit of God found only in the New Testament, as the Apostle Paul already warned: “For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. 4 For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, 5 casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ. 2 Cor. 10:3-5 Thus the Apostle Paul wants Timothy (and us all) to succeed in our lives and live up to our confessions of faith In Jesus Christ by holding fast to the truth. That is what fighting the good fight of faith is; believing, obeying and declaring Jesus Christ the Lord in the face of all mortal and spiritual opposition to God and the truth.

Vs. 13-16 To conclude the Apostle Paul strongly appeals to Timothy to heed and obey the things he has written him. Declaring his exhortation as coming in the sight of God who gives life to all things, who brought Timothy to life through the gospel, by faith in His Son the Lord Jesus Christ; whom Paul cites as also having witnessed the good confession before Pontius Pilate (vs. 13). Timothy then must strive to keep all that the Apostle has written him, both as an individual believer as well as a church Pastor, keeping this commandment without spot, blameless until the Lord Jesus Christ’s appearing, which He will manifest in His own time. Therefore Timothy is not to be dissuaded by false teachers or ungodly scoffers in pursuing the things that make for having a true faith In Christ. Rather he is to hold fast to Jesus Christ in anticipation of His return. Consider than how the Apostle Paul began his epistle with an exhortation saying to Timothy; “that you teach no other doctrine” 1 Tim 1:3 then at different points continued to admonish him to do so: “These things command and teach” 1 Tim. 4:11 “…Teach and exhort these things.” 1 Tim. 6:2 For if Timothy's congregation or any church body is going survive; obedience to, and confession of the gospel of Jesus Christ is paramount. For it is the Lord Jesus Christ alone who is “…the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings and Lord of lords, 16 who alone has immortality, dwelling in unapproachable light, whom no man has seen or can see, to whom be honor and everlasting power. Amen.” Vs. 14-16 Therefore since it is Jesus Christ alone whom we must give an accounting too, let us submit too and hallow the Fullness of His Person, Sovereignty; Divinity; Immortality, Eternal Glory, Honor and Power. Amen

Scripture Quotations

The New King James Version. Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1982

1 Timothy 6:6-10 Godliness with Contentment

Vs. 6-10 Now godliness with contentment is great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. 8 And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content. 9 But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and harmful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition. 10 For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.

Having rejected Godless greed the Apostle Paul now expounds Godly contentment, which is great gain (vs. 6). For we brought nothing into this world and it is certain that we can carry nothing out. And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content (vs. 7-8). Now by stating such the Apostle Paul is not preaching asceticism, for there is no virtue in self-imposed hardship and misery. Rather Paul is preaching Godliness with contentment (consider Prov. 23:4-5; 30:7-9) which is great gain for us all, and of course is the antidote to covetousness, as the Lord Jesus warns us all: "Take heed and beware of covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses." Luke 12:15
Consider than that the Lord Jesus Christ and the Kingdom of heaven is our inheritance and is our eternal riches. For it is Jesus Christ whose Presence, Person and Life within us is immeasurable in value, and will be the most prized possession a person will have in the Day of the Lord's judgment (Mark 8:36-9:1). For it is by Jesus Christ that we not only receive remission of all our sins; the moment we believe, but we are also brought to Holy Spirit life and into God's Eternal Presence. And thus we experience not only God's grace, mercy and kindness, but also God's eternal love, joy, peace in and through our lives here and now. For when you have a personal relationship with God by faith in Jesus Christ He changes everything (John 4:14; 6:35). While discontentment only breeds covetousness, which is a sin of idolatry (Job 31:24-28; Col. 3:5); because it places ones own desires for things, stature, or pleasure before God and ultimately other people's welfare (Ex 20:17). Thus it closes ones heart to the heart of God, and shuts ones eyes to the gospel (consider Matt. 6:24; 13:22; Luke 12:15-21; 16:19-31; Titus 2:11-14 etc.). Therefore covetousness not only takes away ones own life; and the Spirit seeds of life sown in the individuals heart, as people given over to it spend their lives in their never ending pursuits for more (Prov. 1:19; Ecc. 4:7-8; James 1:9-11; James 4:13-14 etc.). But the Scriptures also warn us that covetousness breeds all manner of violence, injustice and corruption within the individual, as well as the societies ordered by it. And thus ultimately brings such into the judgment of God (consider Psalm 10:3; Jer. 6:10-19; vs. 13; 8:8-12; vs. 10; 51:10; Ezek. 22:12-13; 28:16; Micah 2:1-5 vs.2; 3:11-12; 7:3; Hab. 1:6; Rom. 1:29; Phil. 3:18-19; James 4:2-3; 5:1-6; 2 Peter 2:1-22; Jude 11). Therefore we as believers, who are saved by the grace of God, are to shun it with all our being (Ex. 20:17; Ps. 119:136; 1 Cor. 5:11; 6:9-11; Eph. 5:3; 5; 1 Thess. 2:5; Heb. 13:5). For love of the world and the things within it, is not the pathway to believers sanctification, unity and peace (1 John 2:15-17; 3:16-18).

For again no where does Jesus promise us earthly riches when we follow Him. On the contrary we must through many tribulations enter the Kingdom of Heaven (John 15:18-25; Acts 14:22; Rom. 5:3-5; 2 Cor. 6:3-10; Eph. 3:13; 2 Thess. 1:3-12; Heb. 10:32-39; 11:4-40). For daily picking up our cross and following Jesus Christ says nothing other then coveting the will of God for our lives (Luke 9:23-27; 1 John 2:15-17). Now in His parable of the sower the Lord Jesus Christ warns of the deceitfulness of riches which choke out the Word and it becomes unfruitful in peoples lives (Matt. 13:22). In fact if you search the gospels Jesus gives far more warnings about people’s covetous desires for mammon then He does about blessing His followers with it (Matt. 6:19-24; 21:12-13; Mark 8:34-38; 10:23-25; Luke 1:53; 6:24-26; 12:16-21; 27-34; 16:1-13, 14-15, 19-31; 18:22-23; John 2:14-16; 12:4-6). Therefore beware of anyone who promises you God’s financial blessings in your life because you support their ministry. Or those who make following Christ and the places where His Name abides refuges for furthering ones own monetary ends. For God is not in the business of making us financially rich to satisfy our greedy nature. He's in business of Kingdom building and furthering His agenda through richly blessing people’s lives first by Holy Spirit regeneration then by our living out Christ’s commandments to walk and live in love by which greater change and blessing comes to all (Acts 3:26). "But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and harmful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition. 10 For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows." Vs. 9-10

Word Illumination:
foolish: ajnovhto~ is the antithesis of perceiving or understanding; it is used in verse nine in regards to ones failure to perceive the spiritual and moral ruin and destruction that comes on all those whose love for money drives their lives and "faith" as verse ten makes clear: "For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows."

Scripture Quotations

The New King James Version. Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1982

Note: This is a draft version

1 Tim 6:3-5 Godless Greed Refuted

Vs. 3-5  If anyone teaches otherwise and does not consent to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which accords with godliness, 4 he is proud, knowing nothing, but is obsessed with disputes and arguments over words, from which come envy, strife, reviling, evil suspicions, 5 useless wranglings of men of corrupt minds and destitute of the truth, who suppose that godliness is a means of gain. From such withdraw yourself.

With the Apostle Paul’s strong language here (which we will look at later) he is drawing a clear demarcation line between those who truly serve God and those who only serve their own greed and interests. In 1 Tim. 5:22 the Apostle Paul warned Timothy not to share in other people’s sins, but to keep himself pure. Here Paul gives a direct command to withdraw from everyone who supposes godliness as a means of gain (vs. 5). From the false preachers and teachers who prey on their listeners own covetousness, by which they seek to profit themselves by exploiting (2 Peter 2:3). To those who heed them and likewise use the gospel (and or think of godliness) as a means to achieving a selfish and self-serving end (consider Phil. 3:18). All which distorts the gospel's message and Kingdom's true purpose. Which is likely why Jesus pronounced woes on those who are full and rich now *(Luke 6:24-26). For inevitably there will be some who will try to make following Him a means of gain for themselves; who are only seeking to satisfy their own selfish and self serving desires (consider Rom. 16:17-18; 2 Cor. 2:17; Titus 1:10-11). It must have been these types who were corrupting the minds of bondservants. Telling them to forsake their earthly masters and or responsibilities under the guise of "liberty" (vs. 1-2). Luring them (and others) through false and misleading promises of guaranteed wealth and prosperity, simply by following godliness. Which is rarely the case, for if love of mammon is driving your zeal for the Lord it is highly unlikely that you will find yourself in the end following either Christ or godliness (consider Matt. 6:24; 2 Peter 2:14-15; Jude 11; antithesis 2 John 3:2). Unfortunately the same situation exists today, where the prosperity gospel and profiteering from the gospel has become so ingrained in popular Christian culture, that some people rarely question it, or even recognize the dangers of doing so anymore.

Therefore the Apostle Paul is adamant in warning Timothy that if anyone teaches otherwise (eJterodidaskelevw);; meaning the doctrine that the Apostle Paul has already taught and has instituted for all the churches (1 Cor. 4:17); and does not consent to wholesome words (uJgiaivnw logo"); that is words which are healthy and bring health/wholeness to the entire person. Because they are not born out of ulterior motives, nor born out of the doctrines and commandments of greedy men, but are true and sound Biblically. Even the Words of our Lord Jesus Christ (the foundation of which the Apostle's own doctrine precedes from); and to the doctrine (didaskaliva) i.e. that which is taught, and which accords with true godliness (eujsevbeia); i.e. morally sound and ethically principled conduct born out of what God says in His Word is truly righteous, just, and holy. And thus is truly sound and profitable for everyone to live by. Therefore if anyone teaches otherwise the Apostle Paul says that such are proud; (tufovw lit. living in a state of extreme pride and by extension self delusion). Knowing nothing of Christ and less of Godliness; but are obsessed (nosevw lit. to be sick or unstable, i.e. having a morbid obsession) with disputes and arguments over words; the fruit of which the Apostle Paul describes as having an utterly negative and degenerating influence on others, producing nothing of godliness, but only envy, strife, reviling, evil suspicions (vs. 4). All which is contrary to brotherly love and unity and peace; which the Apostle began advocating for at the start of chapter two, and continued to do so with his ongoing exhortations and commandments to bring it about. Therefore the Apostle’s exhortation here is to stop those unregenerate individuals whose corrupted (diafqeivrw lit. depraved) minds which are destitute of the truth, who argue and dispute over words to the profit of no one. Who suppose that godliness is a means of gain. Therefore the Apostle commands: "From such withdraw yourself."

Scripture Quotations
The New King James Version. Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1982

* In no way am I limiting the scope of the Lord Jesus Christ's Words; rather I'm just stating that they find a clear application in this context.

1 Timothy 6:1-2 Servants and Masters

"Let as many bondservants as are under the yoke count their own masters worthy of all honor, so that the name of God and His doctrine may not be blasphemed. 2 And those who have believing masters, let them not despise them because they are brethren, but rather serve them because those who are benefited are believers and beloved. Teach and exhort these things."


Vs. 1 The Apostle Paul now commands bondservants to honor their masters; just as he does elsewhere (Eph. 6:5; Col. 3:22-25; Titus 2:9). “…So that the name of God and His doctrine may not be blasphemed.”

Honoring those we are employed by is probably the best workplace witness for Jesus Christ that we can have towards them. For God is often glorified or blasphemed according to how we conduct ourselves in our workplaces, just as in our homes and churches. Therefore the Apostle Paul commands bondservants honour their masters. Just as all believers as bondservants of Jesus Christ are to honour the Master, by honouring and obeying all those in positions of authority, regardless of their conduct towards us (Rom. 13:1-7; 1 Peter 2:11-17). Now in the early church it was not uncommon for believers to be, or to have slaves. Yet the Apostle’s commanding submission of slaves to ones master should not be confused with opposition to freedom if justly secured (1 Cor. 7:21-24). For under the law slaves were granted certain protections from overtly abusive masters (Ex. 21:20; 26-27; Deut. 23:15-16). As well Israelites who sold themselves into slavery could redeem themselves, if they became able to do so, or be redeemed by a near relative; since redemption of both people and possessions is foundational to the law (Lev. 25:23-55). Indeed it is because of that principal; of being able to purchase another's freedom from slavery. That Jesus Christ our Lord and Savoir came to redeem us from our sins by His suffering death on a cross, so that He might pay the ransom price of all our sins, and we might receive His having done so the moment we believe in Him.
This command then of honoring ones master should not be confused with endorsing the enslavement of whole peoples. Or worse the savagery of the sixteenth to nineteenth centuries; all of which the Bible thoroughly condemns (Amos 1:6-9; Rev. 18:13). Instead it should be understood in the context of the Roman Empire whose very societal fabric and economy was sustained by slaves. Thus though never wanting the enslavement of anyone, the Apostle Paul neither wants to incite those already bound as such to unlawful insurrection! All which could've destroyed the early and then rapidly spreading Christian faith and peaceful witness. Therefore the Apostle Paul never abdicates for a wholesale abandonment of ones earthly duties and responsibilities simply because Christ has made one free. For to be a slave when called by Christ makes one the Lord’s freed man; or to be free when called by Christ makes one the Lord’s slave. Therefore the Apostle Paul gives advice not to become slaves of men, but if duty bound as such to live in the calling which one is called (1 Cor. 7:21-24). For again neither the Lord Jesus Christ nor His Apostles advocate our abandoning our earthly responsibilities; whether in our homes, communities or even greater societies, simply because Jesus Christ has purchased and assures our freedom with Him as His people. That is the principal being exhorted here, not endorsement of slavery, or the bondage of any person to anyone. Just our willful submission to Jesus Christ by obeying those who have authority over us (Rom. 13).

For ultimately abolishment of all social injustice and inequality comes by way of Christ's cross; as people believe and are regenerated and their hearts and minds are renewed by the Spirit of God. These then being transformed by the grace of God, will transform their own homes; families; communities; greater societies etc. For that is always the gospel's effect when it is believed and obeyed; not just the salvation and regeneration of the individual's soul; but also believers inevitably become God's agents and advocates for positive societal change and justice as we exemplify the just treatment of men, women and children everywhere, from every walk of life. For having peace with God inevitably brings with it a God given desire for all to experience His life, liberty and love.

In his epistle to Philemon the Apostle Paul there tactfully appeals for a runaway slave named Onesimus who sought refuge with him after fleeing from his master Philemon. There Paul asks Philemon to receive Onesimus graciously back; as more than just a slave, but now as a beloved brother In Christ. As Paul begot Onesimus to Christ while they were together (See Philemon 8-22). For the Apostle Paul’s attitude towards slavery is consistently that, to bring men and women, bond and free; thus slaves and their masters into an equality In Christ through brotherly love that transcends all earthly positions and distinctions (Gal. 3:26-29).

Vs. 2 Therefore in verse one the Apostle Paul commanded believers who were servants or slaves of unbelievers to submit to and obey them; even though they now had a Higher Master in Christ who had liberated them. Since believers are never called to incite sedition or practice lawlessness in the cultures in which we are called. Advocacy yes, intercession yes, social justice and positive societal change by every peaceful and lawful means, yes! But never are we to pursue or justify breaking either moral or civil law as a means to an end. So here in verse two the Apostle Paul commands those who have believing masters, likewise not to despise them, because they are brethren. But rather to serve them since those who are benefited are brethren and beloved. “Teach and exhort these things.”

The Apostle Paul now gives some practical counsel on how slaves can honor their masters. These things apply to us who are likewise recipients of the grace of God through Jesus Christ our Lord and Master. First treat them with respect. The first duty of every believer is treat all in authority with respect. Those who treat people in authority with contempt put themselves in a perilous place. Since Jesus Christ Himself submitted to all earthly authority and He commands the same from all His followers (Matt. 23:1-3).

The second thing is to serve them. In regards to this the Apostle Paul commands elsewhere: "Bondservants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh, not with eyeservice, as men-pleasers, but in sincerity of heart, fearing God. 23 And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, 24 knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ. 25 But he who does wrong will be repaid for what he has done, and there is no partiality. Col. 3:22-25 Conversely the Apostle Paul says to those who are Masters: "Masters, give your bondservants what is just and fair, knowing that you also have a Master in heaven." Col. 4:1

Now taken up into our reality as citizens thankfully void of any traces of slavery; in large part due to Christian men and woman who fought for its absolution. Every Christian as a bondservant of Jesus Christ should treat their employers with respect and serve them heartily as the Apostle has commanded for in so doing we serve our true Master the Lord Jesus Christ. In fact worship of God and serving Him are inseparably linked in the Bible (Exodus 3:12; 1 Chron. 9:33; Daniel 7:13-14; Malachi 3:16-18; Luke 1:73-75; 2:36-37; Heb. 12:28-29; Rev. 7:13-17; 22:1-5). In many ways then how one does ones work is a reflection of their worship of God.

The third thing is to show them fidelity. In this the Apostle Paul wrote to Titus: "Exhort bondservants to be obedient to their own masters, to be well pleasing in all things, not answering back, 10 not pilfering, but showing all good fidelity, that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Savior in all things." Titus 2:9-10

Now the word translated fidelity is the same word used in the Bible to describe a believer’s faith in Jesus Christ for salvation. It is a fruit of the Spirit being translated faithfulness there. Thus believers are Spirit equipped to live as people others can likewise put their faith or trust in. In contrast the Book of Proverbs warns: 
"Confidence in an unfaithful man in time of trouble
Is like a bad tooth and a foot out of joint." Pr. 25:9

Therefore believers are to show themselves faithful in all areas of life. And for most of us this begins in the home and workplace by doing and fulfilling our duties and obligations there. Now in regards to monetary faithfulness towards God the Lord Jesus said: 10 He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much; and he who is unjust in what is least is unjust also in much. 11Therefore if you have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches? 12 And if you have not been faithful in what is another man’s, who will give you what is your own? Luke 16:10-12

Scripture Quotations

The New King James Version. Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1982.

1 Timothy 5:17-25 Honoring Ruling Elders

17 Let the elders who rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in the word and doctrine. 18 For the Scripture says, "You shall not muzzle an ox while it treads out the grain," and, "The laborer is worthy of his wages." 19 Do not receive an accusation against an elder except from two or three witnesses. 20 Those who are sinning rebuke in the presence of all, that the rest also may fear. 21 I charge you before God and the Lord Jesus Christ and the elect angels that you observe these things without prejudice, doing nothing with partiality. 22 Do not lay hands on anyone hastily, nor share in other people’s sins; keep yourself pure. 23 No longer drink only water, but use a little wine for your stomach’s sake and your frequent infirmities. 24 Some men’s sins are clearly evident, preceding them to judgment, but those of some men follow later. 25 Likewise, the good works of some are clearly evident, and those that are otherwise cannot be hidden.


Vs. 17-18 The Apostle Paul having commanded that those who are truly widows (i.e. women deprived of their husbands through death and have no other means of support) are to be honoured, i.e. supported financially by the church. Now Paul declares we count worthy those elders who rule well worthy of double honour; “especially those who labor in word and doctrine”; that is in preaching and study. The Apostle Paul cites two Scriptures to support his exhortation: …“You shall not muzzle an ox while it treads out the grain,” and, “The laborer is worthy of his wages.” vs. 18

The first is from Deuteronomy 25:4. The Apostle Paul also eloquently uses it in a dissertation defending a gospel workers right to be supported by the church in 1 Cor. 9:3-18. There the Apostle makes the case on several grounds; first citing Apostolic Authority; then the law; then the Old Covenant Priesthood. Yet he himself does not invoke his Apostolic privileges so that he will not hinder the gospel.

Now the analogy between muzzling an ox while it treads out the grain (thus depriving it of necessary food while it labours) and a gospel worker from likewise being hindered from his or her duties because of lack of financial support should not be lost on us. For though we are all God's labourers in Christ's Body. We are not all called to fulltime ministry as church or para-church workers per say. Thus God raises up men and women to do His work in this regard, and we should as His people support them (giving as each individual feels moved to do so) so that they are not hindered in serving Him (consider Rom. 15:25-27).

The second is a direct quote from the Lord Jesus in Luke 10:7. There Jesus’ addresses those He sends out to labour for Him. In which He emphasizes both provision and contentment. The statute then of honouring church elders is not to be abused by those who invoke it. Nor is it to be neglected by those who are required to obey it.

Vs. 19 The Apostle Paul now cautions against receiving an accusation against an elder "except from two or three witnesses." For the law states: "One witness shall not rise against a man concerning any iniquity or any sin that he commits; by the mouth of two or three witnesses the matter shall be established." Deut. 19:15

Now the word-translated accusation is a legal word used often when bringing a public charge against someone; here an elder, before a tribunal. Here an accusation is hypothesized as being brought against a church elder that maybe valid (as verses 20; 21; 24 indicate a potential for) or it may not. The point is not to receive an accusation without verifiable evidence. This means before taking further action the Pastor must verify that the charge is valid. Then one must follow Scriptural guidelines for dealing with such a matter. Now in pursuing this; because someone's reputation is on the line; a Pastor must be discreet and use great tact in his investigation. For any accusation against an elder (especially a ruling elder) is a very serious matter; yet it must be substantiated before ones moves to quickly to remove someone. However having said that, there are times when because of the nature of the allegation, that one will have no recourse but to remove the elder immediately, until the matter is fully settled. (Again this should be done with great tact). Now this may involve outside legal authorities. If so a Pastor's duty is cooperate fully with them in their investigation. Again the guideline is an accusation by two or more witnesses. So as not to let someone settle a personal vendetta by bringing a false accusation; or let Satan use someone to falsely accuse an elder and bring ruin to them, and or create disunity and disharmony and an open (yet unverified) scandal amongst brethren.

Vs. 20 Now the Apostle Paul makes it clear if they are found out to be sinning they must be rebuked “…in the presence of all, that the rest also may fear.”

The Apostle Paul publicly rebuked the Apostle Peter when Peter fell into transgression and hypocrisy by not eating with the Gentiles when the Jews were present. Then eating with them when they were not (See Gal. 2:11-21). Therefore this kind of rebuke is to call one to account by bringing their sins to light publicly. It is not meant to upbraid or humiliate the transgressor, rather to expose and correct them before God’s people so that their sin will spread no further.

In the law it was required of community members to rebuke their neighbor and not bear sin because of them. "You shall not hate your brother in your heart. You shall surely rebuke your neighbor, and not bear sin because of him." Lev. 19:17 Thus exposing another’s sin was not to be a means of personal vengeance by seeking to ruin someone’s reputation; or a “preemptive strike” to preserve one’s own reputation. But rather exposing sins against the commandments of God, which ultimately hurt the whole community (See 2 Cor. 2:5-11). Sins against the individual are to first be reconciled on a personal basis (Luke 17:3-4); only when a person refuses to acknowledge their transgression are sterner measures to be taken (Matt. 18:15-20).

 Vs. 21 “I charge you before God and the Lord Jesus Christ and the elect angels that you observe these things without prejudice, doing nothing with partiality.”

The Apostle Paul charges Timothy to observe these things for dealing with sin as if before God and the Lord Jesus Christ and the elect angels who are witnesses to everything we do and don’t do! Therefore without prejudice or partiality. The words translated prejudice and partiality appear only here in the N.T. Prejudice (prokrima) means having a prejudgment before hand. While partiality, i.e. “a leaning towards” an individual or group is condemned in the Scriptures as sin; especially as it relates to doing and living justly towards all people (Ex. 23:3; Deut. 1:16-17; 10:17; 16:19; 2 Chr. 19:5-7; Job 13:10; 32:21; Malachi 2:9; Acts 10:34-35; Col. 3:25; James 2:9-10 etc.). Therefore no one in the church must ever be thought excusable or left unaccountable. For leadership that is can become so independently minded; or so mindful of its own, that it will justify its own sins. Yet the Lord Jesus Christ didn’t allow any such things when He publicly reprimanded Israel’s leaders, which eventually cost Him His life. Therefore He commands the same of us all (Matt. 10:27-31).

Vs. 22 Having commanded integrity to emanate from Timothy's oversight/leadership in the church the Apostle Paul now warns Timothy: “Do not lay hands on anyone hastily, nor share in other people’s sins; keep yourself pure.” 

The laying on of hands here is given as a command against acting hastily and has a couple of possibilities. In its most frequently used sense it is the act of ordination; (of showing ones approval by laying on of their hands) and thus of hastily inaugurating someone who is unproven or untried; (something one may be tempted to do simply to fill a leadership void as ministries' grow or undergo personal changes etc.). Or it can also be commanding against, as some word study commentaries hold, of hastily restoring those once deposed. In either case a Pastor must not be hasty in laying on of his hands to confirm anyone for leadership until he is certain of their character and Spirit abilities. For Timothy may be inclined to lean towards certain individual’s simply out of sharing personal interests; or having familiar backgrounds etc. All of which can bias a person’s opinions of another if they are not discerning, and are simply following their own biases and or natural inclinations. Therefore if one remembers it is the Lord Jesus Christ whose Spirit equips and appoints men for church leadership they will not be duped by their own desires, or Satan, into letting men into church leadership that are neither Spirit qualified, or are ready for it. Similarly Timothy must guard himself against sharing in other people's sins; either by complacency towards them, or by outright involvement in them. For it's very easy to get swept up in the crowd mentality as it were. The Apostle's Peter and Barnabas along with Jewish church members all became caught up in the hypocritical treatment of Gentile church members until the Apostle Paul saw what they were doing and publically opposed Peter, as the Scripture says, to his face (See Gal. 2:11-21). Therefore ignoring an individual's or congregations sins will not make them, and the troubles that will come with them, go away. Just as yielding to them (or going along with them) will do nothing but bring ruin to oneself (Consider 1 Sam. 2:27-36; 3:10-14; Matt. 24:45-51; 2 Cor. 6:14-7:1; Rev. 18:3-4). Therefore the Pastor must always walk the narrow road of personal integrity; by being fully loyal to Jesus Christ and His Word; balanced with personal involvement in people’s lives (consider Exodus 32). Now if separation is called for this is not an end to reconciliation; for if a person repents there can be restoration (Luke 15:11-32; 17:3-4; Gal. 6:1-2; James 4:4-10; Rev. 3:19-20).

 Vs. 23 The Apostle Paul’s admonition here to Timothy to drink a little wine for his stomach's sake should not be misunderstood as endorsing wine consumption as something inherently good for believers to partake in (Prov. 23:29-35). Rather Paul is extending grace to Timothy to use the medicinal aspects of wine to relieve his frequent stomach aliments (Consider Prov. 31:6-7). Therefore the Apostle Paul’s admonishing Timothy in such a manner is not commending alcohol consumption for believers (See 1 Cor. 11:20-22; Eph. 5:18; 1 Thess. 5:6-8). It exists and there is liberty in regards to a believer’s use of it. But given all the woes and potential vice associated with it, one is wise if they truly judge their motives as to why they would want to use it. Especially if you came out of a lifestyle that was marked by drinking parties and such; dabbling in it again as a believer is simply standing on the edge of the cliff! Now if you have never drank the stuff why be swayed into trying it by your friends, associates or even fellow believers? Though they may like to have wine or a beer with a meal doesn't mean you have to. Especially if you have never tasted the stuff, why bother? For I can honestly tell you that few and far between are those who can limit themselves to just one drink, all the time; especially in a social setting where drinking alcohol is the social norm. If they love and respect you, then they will allow you liberty in regards to your convictions on abstinence. Just as you allow them liberty in regards to social consumption (which is far different than drinking for the intoxicating effects).

Vs. 24-25 "Some men’s sins are clearly evident, preceding them to judgment, but those of some men follow later. 25 Likewise, the good works of some are clearly evident, and those that are otherwise cannot be hidden."

Some people live openly sinful lives; whose sins precede them to the judgment. While others appear outwardly righteous, but inwardly they conceal what they are and do. Their sins will not be exposed until later (Matt. 13:36-43). Likewise the good works of some are clearly evident to all; while the good deeds and the persecutions of others will not be known until later, when Christ rewards their faithfulness (Matt. 25:31-46; James 1:12; Rev. 2:10). The Apostle Paul’s caution to Timothy here then is to be discerning in his dealings with all people.

Scripture Quotations

The New King James Version. Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1982