1 Timothy 6: Expository Bible Preaching and Study Guide

Overview

1 Timothy 6 serves as Paul’s final exhortation to Timothy, reinforcing sound doctrine, godly leadership, and faithful living in the context of the local church. Paul addresses issues of slavery, false teaching, godliness with contentment, the dangers of wealth, and the charge to pursue righteousness and guard the faith. The chapter underscores the sufficiency of Scripture, the necessity of godly contentment, and the eternal significance of maintaining a pure witness before God. Paul ends with a solemn charge that affirms God’s sovereignty and the Lordship of Christ, highlighting His return and the hope of eternal life.

Key Highlights:

Instructions for Christian slaves (vv.1–2)
Warnings against false teachers and godlessness (vv.3–5)
Godliness with contentment as great gain (vv.6–8)
Dangers of desiring to be rich (vv.9–10)
The good fight of faith (vv.11–16)
Instructions to the wealthy (vv.17–19)
Guarding what has been entrusted (vv.20–21)

Theological Significance:

Biblical authority is evident in Paul’s repeated emphasis on sound doctrine.
Stewardship of wealth and truth is central.
Eschatological hope is proclaimed in Christ’s appearing.
The inerrant Word of God serves as the foundation for leadership and correction.

Historical and Literary Context

Historical Context:
Paul writes this letter to Timothy, his spiritual son and pastoral representative in Ephesus, around AD 62–64. The early church was facing doctrinal corruption, social pressures, and leadership challenges. The Roman world, with its structured system of slavery and class divisions, heavily influenced daily life. Within this setting, Christian conduct became a critical witness to the surrounding culture.

Slavery (vv.1–2) was not directly abolished in the early church but transformed from within by the radical ethic of mutual dignity and service in Christ. False teachers, possibly early Gnostics, threatened the purity of the church with speculative doctrines and greed-driven motives.

Literary Context:
This chapter concludes a pastoral epistle written in epistolary form, characterized by personal exhortation, doctrinal instruction, and ethical mandates. 1 Timothy as a whole focuses on church order, sound doctrine, and godly leadership. Chapter 6 shifts from internal church structure to a broader view of Christian living and perseverance, anchoring leaders in gospel truth as they shepherd others.

The literary structure of 1 Timothy 6 is built around:

Ethical commands (vv.1–2)
Polemical warnings (vv.3–10)
Pastoral exhortations (vv.11–16)
Stewardship teachings (vv.17–19)
A final personal charge (vv.20–21)

Key Themes and Doctrinal Points

1. Godliness with Contentment is Great Gain (v.6)

Paul sets a foundational doctrine: true wealth is found in a life devoted to God. Contentment stems from trusting God’s provision and rejecting the world’s pursuit of material gain. This aligns with Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 6:33 and calls Christians to seek first the Kingdom.

Doctrine: Christian contentment is rooted in God’s sovereign provision.
Application: Disciples must resist consumerism and instead practice stewardship.

2. The Danger of Loving Money (vv.9–10)

Paul issues a stern warning: the desire to be rich leads to ruin. While money itself is not evil, the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. This is a timeless caution for Christians, especially leaders, to avoid covetousness and pursue eternal values.

Doctrine: Idolatry of wealth corrupts the heart and can lead to apostasy.
Application: Teach biblical stewardship and generosity, not prosperity gospel.

3. The Good Fight of Faith (vv.11–12)

Paul uses military imagery to exhort Timothy to pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, and gentleness. The Christian life is not passive—it requires intentionality, perseverance, and spiritual discipline.

Doctrine: Sanctification is a Spirit-empowered pursuit of holiness.
Application: Equip believers to fight temptation and stand firm in doctrine.

4. The Sovereignty and Glory of God (vv.13–16)

Paul exalts God as the only Sovereign, King of kings, and Lord of lords—immortal, invisible, and dwelling in unapproachable light. This high Christology and theology proper ground the church in a reverent fear of God.

Doctrine: God is utterly sovereign, majestic, and worthy of worship.
Application: Elevate the worship of God in teaching and preaching.

5. Stewardship of Wealth (vv.17–19)

To the wealthy, Paul instructs generosity and humility. Riches are uncertain, but good works and generosity are eternal investments. Christians are stewards of all they possess.

Doctrine: God entrusts resources for Kingdom purposes.
Application: Encourage giving, missions support, and investment in eternity.

6. Guard the Deposit (vv.20–21)

Timothy is charged to protect the gospel from false philosophies and oppositions of “what is falsely called knowledge.” This is a direct reference to early Gnostic ideas.

Doctrine: The gospel is a sacred trust that must be preserved.
Application: Train leaders to refute error and hold fast to sound teaching.

Verse-by-Verse Analysis

1 Timothy 6:1-2 – Instructions for Slaves

“All who are under the yoke of slavery should consider their masters worthy of full respect…” (v.1)

Explanation: Paul addresses believing slaves (Greek: douloi) and commands them to show honor to their masters so that God’s name and doctrine may not be slandered.
Cross-reference: Titus 2:9-10 – slaves should be subject to masters, showing integrity.
Doctrinal Insight: Christianity does not endorse slavery but transforms relationships from within. The goal is not social upheaval but gospel witness.
Application: Employees should respect employers, working with excellence as a Christian testimony.

“Those who have believing masters are not to show less respect…” (v.2)

Explanation: Equality in Christ does not nullify proper order in society.
Cross-reference: Galatians 3:28 – equality in Christ does not remove social roles.
Application: Christians must live out their faith with humility, especially among fellow believers.

1 Timothy 6:3-5 – Warning Against False Teachers

“If anyone teaches otherwise and does not agree to the sound instruction of our Lord Jesus Christ…”

Explanation: True doctrine is centered on Jesus Christ and leads to godly living.
Cross-reference: 2 Timothy 4:3-4 – people will turn from sound doctrine.
Doctrinal Insight: Sound teaching is inseparable from Christ; all deviation is dangerous.
Application: Guard the pulpit and teachings in the church.

“…they are conceited and understand nothing…”

Explanation: False teachers promote division, pride, and greed.
Cross-reference: Jude 1:16-19 – mockers driven by self-interest.
Application: Test teachings against Scripture and expose error with gentleness.

1 Timothy 6:6-10 – Godliness and the Danger of Riches

“But godliness with contentment is great gain.”

Explanation: True spiritual gain is found in contentment, not wealth.
Cross-reference: Philippians 4:11-13 – contentment in all circumstances.
Doctrinal Insight: This verse defines prosperity not materially, but spiritually.
Application: Encourage satisfaction in God, not possessions.

“For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil…” (v.10)

Explanation: Money is not evil, but loving it leads to sin and spiritual ruin.
Cross-reference: Matthew 6:24 – you cannot serve both God and money.
Application: Teach believers to treasure Christ more than wealth.

1 Timothy 6:11-16 – The Good Fight and the Glory of God

“But you, man of God, flee from all this…”

Explanation: Timothy is called to pursue six virtues: righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, and gentleness.
Cross-reference: 2 Timothy 2:22 – flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness.
Doctrinal Insight: Sanctification is an active pursuit.
Application: Leaders must model moral clarity and spiritual maturity.

“I charge you… to keep this command without spot or blame until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ…” (vv.13–14)

Explanation: Timothy’s faithfulness is tied to Christ’s second coming.
Cross-reference: Titus 2:13 – the blessed hope of Christ’s return.
Application: Faithful ministry must be driven by eternal perspective.

“God, the blessed and only Ruler… who lives in unapproachable light…” (vv.15–16)

Explanation: Paul ends with praise to the Father, exalting His sovereign majesty.
Cross-reference: Exodus 33:20 – no one can see God and live.
Doctrinal Insight: God is transcendent, holy, and immortal.
Application: Lead with reverence for the living God.

1 Timothy 6:17-19 – Instructions for the Wealthy

“Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant…” (v.17)

Explanation: Wealth should not lead to pride but be used generously.
Cross-reference: Proverbs 11:28 – trusting riches leads to ruin.
Application: Teach the rich to live with open hands and hearts.

“…be rich in good deeds… lay up treasure for themselves…” (vv.18–19)

Explanation: Eternal investments are made through earthly generosity.
Cross-reference: Matthew 6:19-21 – lay up treasures in heaven.
Application: Stewardship is a practical outworking of faith.

1 Timothy 6:20-21 – Final Charge

“Guard what has been entrusted to your care…”

Explanation: Timothy must protect the gospel from error and speculation.
Cross-reference: 2 Timothy 1:14 – guard the good deposit with the Holy Spirit.
Doctrinal Insight: The gospel is a sacred trust, not to be altered.
Application: Leaders must guard Scripture with boldness and love.

Theological Implications and Connection to Jesus Christ

1 Timothy 6 exalts Jesus Christ as Lord, returning King, and standard of sound teaching (v.3, v.14). His authority defines the church’s doctrine, and His second coming motivates faithful endurance.

Christ is the model of godliness (v.3) and the object of our hope (v.14).
He is described in majestic terms that reflect His divine glory and connection to the Father (vv.14–16).
Paul’s teaching aligns with the broader redemptive theme: salvation through Christ alone, sanctification through His Spirit, and glorification at His return.

Key Insight: The life and return of Christ are not only theological doctrines but practical anchors for holiness, humility, and hope.

Connection to God the Father

1 Timothy 6 powerfully affirms God the Father’s sovereignty, holiness, and glory:

God is the blessed and only Sovereign (v.15), demonstrating His absolute rule over kings and lords.
He is immortal and dwells in unapproachable light (v.16), revealing His transcendence and holiness.
The charge given to Timothy is “in the sight of God” (v.13), reminding leaders that their ministry is accountable to the Father.

These affirmations uphold a high view of the Father’s rule, purity, and authority, emphasizing that all Christian conduct, especially that of leaders, flows from reverent obedience to Him.

Connection to the Holy Spirit

While 1 Timothy 6 does not mention the Holy Spirit explicitly by name, His presence and work are woven into the very fabric of the text. Here’s how the chapter connects to the Spirit:

1. The Spirit and Sound Doctrine (vv.3–5)

Paul describes those who reject sound teaching as prideful and deceived. The Spirit is the One who illumines the truth (John 16:13) and enables believers to discern falsehood from truth (1 John 2:20).
Without the Spirit, people follow vain speculation. With Him, believers hold to Christ-centered, Spirit-empowered doctrine.

2. The Spirit and Godliness (vv.6–8)

Godliness is not produced by effort alone but is the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). The contented life described in these verses is evidence of Spirit-filled transformation.
Contentment arises from resting in God’s provision, a posture enabled by the Spirit’s work of sanctification.

3. The Spirit and the Fight of Faith (vv.11–12)

The command to “pursue righteousness, godliness, faith…” reflects a life led by the Spirit. The “good fight of the faith” is fought not by flesh, but by relying on the Spirit’s power (Romans 8:13-14).
Ministry and endurance require the Spirit’s strength, not merely human resolve (Acts 1:8).

4. The Spirit and Guarding the Deposit (v.20)

In 2 Timothy 1:14, Paul explicitly says, “Guard the good deposit… with the help of the Holy Spirit.” The same charge applies here—Spirit-empowered protection of the gospel.
It is the Spirit who enables discernment, courage, and endurance in upholding sound doctrine.

In Summary: The Christian leader described in 1 Timothy 6 is one who depends daily on the indwelling Holy Spirit for doctrine, contentment, courage, generosity, and faithful ministry.

Sermon Outline and Flow

Sermon Title: “The Fight of Faith and the Treasure of Godliness”

Text: 1 Timothy 6

Homiletical Big Idea:

True gain is found not in riches, but in godliness, contentment, and faithfulness to Christ, empowered by the Spirit.

I. Guard Your Witness (vv.1–2)

Main Point: Your life reflects the gospel.

Transition: From your relationships to your doctrine, what you do says something about what you believe.
Application: Treat authority with honor to honor God’s name.
Illustration: A Christian employee’s attitude at work often speaks louder than their words.

II. Reject False Teaching and Greed (vv.3–10)

Main Point: False teachers distort the truth for personal gain.

Transition: But Paul contrasts their greed with the believer’s gain—godliness with contentment.
Application: Test every teaching. Desire Christ more than money.
Illustration: Imagine a doctor prescribing poison—so too are preachers who twist Scripture for profit.

III. Pursue Godliness and Eternal Life (vv.11–16)

Main Point: Flee temptation and fight the good fight by pursuing eternal treasures.

Transition: This fight is not passive—it demands your whole life, grounded in Christ’s return.
Application: Let your daily choices reflect kingdom priorities.
Illustration: Training for a marathon requires discipline—so does pursuing righteousness.

IV. Steward Wealth for Eternal Purposes (vv.17–19)

Main Point: Wealth is a tool, not a treasure. Use it to bless others and store up eternal reward.
Application: Hold riches loosely, give generously, live freely.
Illustration: You never see a hearse pulling a U-Haul. You can’t take it with you—but you can send it ahead (Matthew 6:19-21).

V. Protect the Gospel Deposit (vv.20–21)

Main Point: Guard the truth entrusted to you.
Application: Defend the gospel with clarity, conviction, and courage.
Illustration: Like a soldier guarding a king’s treasure, we must protect the truth from compromise.

Conclusion & Call to Action:

What are you pursuing: comfort or Christ?
Are you fighting the good fight or coasting in complacency?
Will you lay hold of eternal life and live generously, faithfully, and boldly for the gospel?

Challenge: Ask the Holy Spirit to ignite in you a passion for godliness, the courage to flee temptation, and the strength to stand firm in the faith.

Illustrations and Examples

Modern-Day Example – Contentment vs. Consumerism

A Christian couple, living simply and generously, decided to downsize their home to give more to missions. In contrast, their peers chased bigger houses and more debt. The couple’s joy and peace stood out—they had learned the secret of contentment.

Personal Story – Fighting the Good Fight

A pastor battling a long illness once said, “I don’t have much strength left, but I’ll still preach the truth as long as I have breath.” His life was a living sermon of endurance and faithful service to Christ.

Analogy – Guarding the Truth

Think of a vault in a museum housing a priceless manuscript. The vault is monitored, locked, and guarded at all times. That’s how Paul urges Timothy—and us—to guard the truth of Scripture, with seriousness and vigilance.

Cultural Connection – The Idol of Wealth

In a world obsessed with influencer lifestyles, Paul’s warning about the love of money speaks louder than ever. Social media promotes riches and fame as ultimate goals—but Scripture calls us to pursue Christ and store treasure in heaven.

Application for Today’s Christian

1 Timothy 6 is profoundly relevant for modern believers, offering direction in how to live faithfully amidst materialism, false teaching, and spiritual complacency. It calls Christians to a life of discipleship, stewardship, and unwavering faith.

1. Discipleship: Pursuing Christ above all (vv.11–12)

Daily Discipline: Make time for Scripture, prayer, and spiritual disciplines as part of fighting the good fight.
Moral Courage: Flee temptation—whether lust, greed, or pride—and pursue the virtues listed in verse 11.
Spiritual Accountability: Surround yourself with mature believers who will help you run the race faithfully.

2. Stewardship: Managing wealth with eternity in view (vv.17–19)

Give Generously: Set aside regular giving for church, missions, and those in need.
Live Simply: Resist the pull of materialism. Use what you have as a tool for Kingdom impact.
Invest Eternally: Ask, “How can my resources reflect my hope in Christ?” Focus on what lasts.

3. Living Out the Faith: Guarding the Gospel in a truth-starved culture (vv.20–21)

Know the Word: Study Scripture diligently to discern truth from error.
Speak Boldly: Do not shrink from speaking gospel truth in love, even when unpopular.
Lead Faithfully: Whether in the home, church, or workplace, let your life reflect Christ’s lordship.

Bottom Line: God calls every Christian—not just pastors—to fight the good fight of faith, steward all they have for God’s glory, and walk in truth and godliness in a confused world.

Connection to God’s Love

Though 1 Timothy 6 emphasizes warnings and commands, underneath it flows a current of God’s loving care for His people. The entire chapter reveals how much God desires to guard, guide, and grow His children.

1. God Cares About Our Conduct (vv.1–2)

He wants His people to live in such a way that His name and doctrine are honored. This is love expressed through protection of His reputation and the witness of His people.

2. God Warns Us for Our Good (vv.9–10)

Like a loving Father, God warns us about the dangers of riches—not to deprive us, but to deliver us from spiritual destruction.

3. God Gives Us Eternal Treasure (vv.6–8, 17–19)

True contentment and lasting wealth are gifts from God. His love offers satisfaction that money never can.
He calls the rich to use their wealth not for self-indulgence but for eternal reward—a loving invitation to something greater than this world.

4. God Entrusts Us with His Gospel (vv.20–21)

He lovingly gives us the gospel not just for our own salvation, but so we can guard and share it with others.
Being entrusted with the truth is a divine sign of trust, love, and purpose.

God’s love is seen in how He shapes His people into content, godly, generous, and faithful stewards of His grace, preparing them for eternity.

Broader Biblical Themes

1 Timothy 6 does not stand alone—it connects deeply to the grand narrative of Scripture. It echoes timeless biblical truths found throughout the Bible.

1. Creation and Stewardship

From the beginning, humanity was created to be stewards (Genesis 1:28-30). Paul calls believers to live this out in regard to their wealth and relationships.
Contentment is rooted in understanding our place as created beings under a sovereign Creator who provides all we need (Psalm 104:27-28).

2. Redemption and the Fight of Faith

The command to “fight the good fight” and “lay hold of eternal life” is rooted in Christ’s redemptive work.
Because of Christ, believers are rescued from sin and empowered to live holy lives (Ephesians 2:8-10).
Christ’s return (v.14) places our current struggle in the context of redemptive history—we live between the cross and the crown.

3. Covenant and the Gospel Trust

Timothy is charged to guard what has been entrusted to him (v.20), echoing the covenantal responsibility of God’s people to preserve and pass down His Word (Deuteronomy 6:6-9).
The “good deposit” represents the unchanging gospel, the center of the New Covenant sealed by Christ’s blood (Hebrews 9:15).

Thematic Summary:
1 Timothy 6 fits within the storyline of creation (stewardship), fall (the danger of idolatry and greed), redemption (through Christ’s return and our call to fight the good fight), and restoration (living for eternal reward).

Reflection Questions

Use these questions for personal devotion, discipleship, or small group discussion. Each question helps bring the truths of 1 Timothy 6 into practical focus, encouraging spiritual growth, biblical reflection, and Christ-centered living.

Verses 1–2 – Living Out the Gospel in Everyday Relationships

How does your attitude toward authority reflect your commitment to Christ?
In what ways can you show respect and integrity in your workplace or service roles?

Verses 3–5 – Sound Doctrine and False Teaching

What are some signs of false teaching you’ve seen in the world or the church today?
How can you grow in discerning truth from error? What role does Scripture play in that?

Verses 6–10 – Godliness and Contentment

Are you content with what God has provided in this season of life?
Where are you tempted to love money, status, or possessions more than Christ?
How can you cultivate a heart of gratitude and simplicity?

Verses 11–16 – The Fight of Faith and Pursuing Righteousness

Which of the six virtues in verse 11 (righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, gentleness) do you need to grow in most?
What does it look like to “fight the good fight of the faith” in your current situation?
How does the promise of Christ’s return motivate your daily obedience?

Verses 17–19 – Stewardship and Eternal Investment

Do you view your wealth and possessions as a trust from God? Why or why not?
What steps can you take to be more generous with your time, talents, and treasures?
How are you storing up treasure in heaven right now?

Verses 20–21 – Guarding the Gospel

How are you helping to protect and pass on the truth of God’s Word?
What “godless chatter” or false philosophies might be tempting you to drift from the faith?
What practical ways can you commit to guarding the gospel in your life, home, and church?

Conclusion: Rooted in Scripture. Focused on Christ. Lived in Faith.

1 Timothy 6 calls believers to a life of spiritual clarity, Christ-centered contentment, and bold faithfulness. As the final charge in Paul’s letter to Timothy, it speaks with urgency and love to every Christian leader and disciple today.

We are called to honor God in every relationship.
We are warned to resist false teaching and greed.
We are urged to pursue godliness and generosity.
We are entrusted with guarding the gospel until Christ returns.

The Word of God is our foundation. Christ is our focus. The Spirit is our strength. Let us live and lead with truth, courage, and grace—until the day we see our Lord face to face.