6:1 slaves Slavery was part of the Graeco-Roman socio-economic structure in the first century (see note on Phlm 10). Paul is urging believers to demonstrate God’s love and kindness even within this particular structure (e.g., 1 Cor 7:21–24; Eph 6:5–8; Phlm 10–17). Here Paul urges slaves to remain respectful to their masters for the sake of the church’s reputation—so that the work of the gospel may not be hindered.

Slavery in the First Century

be slandered The Greek word used here, blasphēmeō, describes speaking against someone or something in order to damage their reputation.

6:3 teaches other doctrine See note on 1 Tim 1:3.

6:4 envy, strife These two vices affect not only individuals, but the entire community of believers, causing disruption and dysfunction (compare Gal 5:19–21).

6:5 a means of gain False teachers have financial gain as their motivation for living (or appearing to live) according to God’s standards. Paul warns that such desires only bring ruin (see 1 Tim 6:9).

6:6 contentment The Greek word used here, autarkeia, refers to satisfaction with one’s circumstances. Stoic philosophers valued contentment because it indicated self-sufficiency. The Apostle Paul, however, values contentment because it indicates Christ’s sufficiency (see Phil 4:11, 13).

6:7 neither can we bring anything Paul cautions the believers in Ephesus against prioritizing material wealth over godliness (see 1 Tim 6:17; compare Job 1:21).

6:9 ruin and destruction This is not a pronouncement of judgment on all wealthy people. Paul’s point is that the pursuit of riches is spiritually hazardous and does not contribute to contentment and godliness (compare 1 Tim 6:6–7). Paul warns the rich about the dangers of self-sufficiency (vv. 17–19). The Bible presents God as the giver of riches (Eccl 5:19); while riches cannot satisfy (Eccl 5:10; Luke 12:18), they can provide opportunity for good works (Luke 12:33).

6:10 the love of money Love of money (not money itself) is the root of all kinds of evil. Paul here describes a deep desire and commitment to possess money over and against loyalty and love for God. Like the young widows who put their desire to remarry before Christ (see 1 Tim 5:11 and note), those who love money allow their allegiance to Christ to be compromised because of selfish desires. Jesus also spoke on the idolatrous pursuit of riches (Matt 6:24).

6:11 man of God This ot expression referred to prophets (i.e., a man who speaks on behalf of God), such as Moses (Deut 33:1), David (Neh 12:24), and the other prophets (1 Sam 9:6). Timothy serves in a similar capacity because he preaches the word of God (2 Tim 3:17).

godliness See note on 1 Tim 2:2.

love The greatest Christian virtue (1 Cor 13:13), and the distinguishing trait among Jesus’ disciples (John 13:35).

6:12 Fight the good fight of the faith Timothy must remain faithful to God and His gospel message, despite opposition (compare 2 Tim 4:7).

eternal life See note on Rom 2:7.

good confession May refer to the confession of faith in Christ made at baptism.

Baptism

6:13 Pontius Pilate The Roman governor of Judaea who presided over Jesus’ trial and authorized his execution.

good confession See Matt 27:11; John 18:34–37; 19:11.

6:15 the King of those who reign as kings Compare note on Rev 19:16.

6:16 immortality Not subject to death (compare note on 2 Tim 1:10). Immortality is an attribute of God (Psa 90:2; Rom 1:23). Jesus Christ died as a sacrifice for sin (Phil 2:8); now death has no mastery over Him (Rom 6:9–10; John 10:18). Believers are blessed to share in Christ’s immortality (1 Cor 15:22, 54).

to whom be honor and eternal power See note on 1 Tim 1:17.

Amen See note on 1:17.

6:17 in this present age Refers to the present time, with a negative connotation (2 Tim 4:10; Titus 2:12). Paul reminds Timothy that material wealth is temporary and that believers must not adopt the world’s values concerning wealth.

for enjoyment Some false teachers promoted an ascetic lifestyle, denying good things for the sake of what they claimed was holiness (or piety). Paul argues that true godliness leads to gratitude and generosity toward others, not asceticism.

6:18 good works The rich must seek to be rich not only in wealth, but in good deeds that benefit others (see note on 1 Tim 5:10).

6:20 Timothy See note on 1:2.

what has been entrusted to you Most likely refers to the gospel (compare 2 Cor 5:19; Gal 2:7; 1 Tim 1:11). It may alternatively refer to the church in Ephesus or the call and gifting.

pointless empty talk Paul identified this as a common practice of false teachers (see 1:6). He urges Timothy to avoid any such chatter, which is empty and not beneficial (see 4:7).