In God We Trust

Paul takes up this issue of riches in his final words at the end of his letter to Timothy. As you have learned, this seasoned apostle wrote 1 Timothy much like a pastoral handbook, reminding his younger friend of the importance of the gospel and how members of the church ought to conduct themselves. As we see in our passage, this includes the rich in the church. As mentioned, Ephesus was most likely a wealthy church. Paul has already warned those seeking to be wealthy of the dangerous temptations that can lead to ruin (6:9-10). However, here he calls those already rich not to divest themselves of riches but to use them with wisdom while not losing one's love for the gospel.