1 Timothy 6:1-10
Q.1. Why were slaves to serve their masters with due honour? – (1 Tim.6:1-2)
Paul instructed all slaves to honour and obey their masters – that the name of God and our doctrine will not be spoke against (1 Tim.6:1). He advised them to serve their masters faithfully, especially those who were Christian. This was so that their success would benefit other believers (through their giving) and promote the advance of the Gospel (1 Tim.6:2).
Q.2. In what way is godliness more than mere talk? What attitude should be cultivated, in order for godliness to benefit the believers? – (1 Tim.6:3-6)
People debate about the extremes of legalism and licentiousness. Paul said that those who wrangle about such things vainly imagine that their words advance their reputation (1 Tim.6:3-5). Paul warned that we must practice what we preach about holiness. Furthermore – godliness actually is a means of great gain when accompanied by contentment (1 Tim.6:6). The benefits of godliness far outweigh the value of prosperity.
Q.3. What perspective should we keep toward the basic necessities and earthly riches? – (1 Tim.6:7-10)
The over-riding attitude that we must cultivate is to keep reminding ourselves that just as we had nothing when we arrived, we will leave in the same state – with nothing. That is a sobering truth, and a reality check as we go through life (1 Tim.6:7). Wealth can deceive us and increase the temptation to satisfy foolish and harmful desires that lead to destruction (1 Tim.6:9). Paul warned – 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 (1 Tim.6:10). The wise man, Agur, kept the balance right – 7 Two things I asked of You: Do not refuse me before I die: 8 Keep deception and lies far from me. Give me neither poverty nor riches; Feed me with the food that is my portion 9 that I not be full and deny You and say, ‘Who is the Lord?’ Or that I not be in want and steal and profane the name of my God (Prov. 30:7-9).