A note from our Pastor:

“That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate;”

1 Timothy 6:18

Good Morning Dearly Beloved,

Our study verse this week continues the thoughts introduced in the prior verse. As noted in our writing last week, there were those in Ephesus who had wealth. This verse continues a teaching on how that wealth should be handled. And, importantly, what the mindset of the disciple with wealth should be.

Starting from a place of trusting in God and not being high-minded, this verse outlines four actions for the disciple who has any excess of natural goods. Before examining the details of this verse, note that neither the Apostle Paul nor Jesus set a threshold for wealth. These instructions apply to any disciple who has any amount of excess.

That they do good. Those who have wealth or the ability to create wealth have a choice in life. They can choose methods that increase wealth but cause oppression and suffering. Or they can choose to do good for others and possibly limit their own increase. The Apostle says the first instruction from God is simply to do good. To evaluate business decisions on how it impacts others.

That they be rich in good works. The beauty of service to God is that it looks different for each individual. There are not defined actions which qualify as good works. Each individual can chart their own path, use their influence in different areas, and have an impact on different people. The Apostle’s point was not to instruct certain actions. Instead, he aimed to promote a mindset of doing things that God would see as good works.

Ready to distribute. The Apostle now becomes blunt with his message. Those with wealth should be ready to distribute that wealth to the less fortunate. This was the message of Jesus Christ during his ministry as well. The scriptures teach the disciple, who has excess, to be willing to give of that excess. They can do this through various means. This giving falls in line with continual instructions to love one’s neighbor.

Willing to communicate. The Apostle ends this verse with the most difficult instruction. It is easy for a person with wealth to set in motion giving to those in need. He or she can create an organization and never actually know those that are receiving the help. But the Apostle says that is not sufficient for the disciple. This phrase means the disciple should be willing to learn, to empathize, and to have compassion for those in need. This action cannot occur without learning about those who are being helped.

The point of the Apostle in these verses is having wealth is not inherently opposed to serving God. But the disciple with excess must decide how they use that wealth. That decision will reflect their desire to serve God or to serve themselves.

Our Prayers are with you daily,

Brother Jeremiah