1 Timothy
6:6-19— Timothy is charged to
seek spiritual values. There are countless people who have no aim in life, no
purpose, no reason for living. Others have low aim, such as the massing of
world possessions. Some aim only to make as much money as possible, own at
least one home, get a higher education, or climb the ladder of success.
The question explored here is this; what are the
riches that are truly worth a fight? The first half of our epistle reading
dismisses the every present wrong conclusion that material wealth is the grand
prize for those who believe in Christ.
There is gain; literally, “good business.” In
godliness, but Christ crucified and risen, as well as the life lived in Him
(v.11) is what the real “good business” is about. Today, as in apostolic times, some say, in effect,
that the resurrection is past already; that is, that “two chickens in every
pot,” are the object of the Christian hope. But we move on to what the real
fight is all about. Here is what the emphasis ought to be as Paul explains in
verses 11-16.
What is the aim of a Christian? Paul would suggest the
Christian’s aim in life is to seek the highest values – vs. 11 and to fight for
the faith vs. 12 while we keep the Lord’s commandments –vs.14.
Father, You show Your almighty power in Your mercy and
forgiveness. Continue to fill us with Your gifts of love. Help us to hurry
toward the eternal life Your promise and come to share in the joy of Your
kingdom. Grant this through our Lord Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with
You and the Holy Spirit, One God, forever and ever. Amen [2]
[1]
The rich man and Lazarus, Schnorr von Carolsfeld woodcuts © WELS permission
granted for personal and congregational use
[2]
Lutheran Service Book, © 2006 Concordia Publishing House. St. Louis
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