But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. 1 Timothy 6:6-10
One question that is often asked “Is it a sin to be rich?” Now of course those who actually have money are usually the ones offended with any rebuke of this! It always amazed me how strongly people wanted to defend their ownership of money, and while I’m not explicitly saying being rich is a sin, there are many warnings throughout the Bible about being driven by it.
So lets walk through what the Apostle Paul says here under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. Lets remember Paul probably walked away from alot of money, or atleast a comfortable career as a Pharisee, to be become a poor Apostle of Jesus Christ. A calling that literally cost him his life, so if anyone understands this, its Paul. He begins by saying “But godliness with contentment is great gain” meaning if we learn to be content with whatever God provides for us, this will be very beneficial for our spiritual walk with Christ. As the Apostle Paul also said “I learned to be content in whatever state or situation” (Philippians 4:11) If your a Christian long enough you know there are going to be seasons of testing and seasons of abundance, and I’m not trying to sound like a prosperity preacher, I have experienced it in my own walk.
The Apostle Paul gives a strong warning here “those who desire to be rich fall into temptation and a snare” this is the key to the context of this issue. It’s not a sin to have money, but if your desire is to become rich, you have now made it an idol in place of God. Also to me it demonstrates a lack of faith in God to provide, as I have learned in my walk also to rely on God to provide and not our wealth. Now this doesn’t mean we don’t work or sit back and be lazy, but it means don’t obsess over making money, God will provide for you just as He does for the birds (Matthew 6)
Another strong warning “The love of money is the root of all evil” This is a big statement, think about it, the root of all evil. But when you think about it, what is usually the driving force behind criminals and cult groups, its usually they are trying to make money. Money in this fallen world usually equals to power, and many will sell their souls to become a King in their false Kingdoms. As Jesus warned “What does it profit to gain the whole world, and to lose your soul”? (Mark 8:36)
Another strong warning by Paul is “they have strayed from the faith” We see this too many times in Christianity, how many Pastors or Bishops have fallen for the love of money? How many are like Judas, and have sold their Lord for 30 pieces of silver?Beware and be careful and remember Jesus is your Lord and not money, Amen!
Trending Products
