What does 1 Timothy 6:18 mean?

Explanation

1 Timothy 6:18 is an exhortation directed towards wealthy individuals, instructing them on how they should use their wealth.

The apostle Paul, who is widely believed to be the author of this pastoral epistle, provides clear guidance to the rich members of the early Christian community.

Instead of focusing on their wealth, they are called to "do good" by being active in performing good deeds.

"Rich in good works" suggests that their abundance should be manifested not in material possessions but in generous actions.

"Ready to distribute" implies an eagerness to share their wealth with those in need.

"Willing to communicate" can mean being generous or willing to share in the context of contributing to the needs of others, indicating a readiness to be part of the community both in fellowship and by providing financial assistance.

Historical Context

1 Timothy is one of the pastoral epistles and is traditionally ascribed to Paul.

It is likely written in the first century A.D., a time when the early Christian Church was establishing its identity and ethical standards amidst various cultural and economic backgrounds.

Given the diverse socio-economic statuses of early Christians, the epistle addresses the challenges that come with the possession of wealth.

The Greco-Roman world at that time had a class structure where the rich could significantly impact society.

Paul sought to guide the Christian rich to use their resources in a way that reflected the teachings and spirit of Jesus Christ.

Theological Insights

From a Christian theological perspective, this verse emphasizes the virtue of generosity as an expression of faith. It contrasts the transient nature of earthly wealth with the eternal value of good works.

Theologically, the verse can be seen under the lens of 'stewardship,' which suggests that believers are managers of God's resources and must use them in accordance with divine will.

Protestant viewpoints often focus on the idea of sola fide (faith alone), yet they acknowledge that faith must be evidenced by actions, such as those encouraged by Paul in this verse.

Catholic and Orthodox traditions also highlight this verse when discussing social justice and the moral responsibility to care for the poor.

Practical Applications

Practically, this verse calls for individuals, particularly those with abundant resources, to be proactive in philanthropy and in supporting communal life.

It encourages believers to prioritize charitable works and generosity over the accumulation of wealth for its own sake.

For individuals today, it suggests involving oneself in volunteerism, donating to charitable causes, participating in outreach programs, and cultivating a mindset of sharing blessings with others.

Cross-References

• Acts 20:35: "I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive."
• Hebrews 13:16: "But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased."
• 2 Corinthians 9:7: "Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver."
• Luke 12:33: "Sell that ye have, and give alms; provide yourselves bags which wax not old, a treasure in the heavens that faileth not, where no thief approacheth, neither moth corrupteth."
• Matthew 6:20: "But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal."

Language Study

The key terms in this verse in the original Greek are as follows:

• agathoergein (ἀγαθοεργεῖν): Literally translates to "do good." This term combines "agathos" (good) and "ergon" (work), encompassing active well-doing.
• plousioi (πλουσίοι): Translates to "rich." This term implies abundance and wealth.
• eumetadotos (εὐμεταδότους): Comes from "eu" (well) and "metadidōmi" (to give), meaning "ready to distribute" or generous.
• koinōnikous (κοινωνικούς): Translates to "willing to communicate." "Koinōnia" relates to fellowship or sharing in common, which denotes generosity or a sense of community.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In many ancient religions and philosophies such as Stoicism and Judaism, the practice of charity and philanthropy was emphasized as a virtue.

In the Judaic tradition, tzedakah (righteousness) often translated into a moral obligation to do charitable works, a concept akin to the Christian understanding of charity.

Similarly, in the Greco-Roman context, benefaction to the community was a way for the elite to demonstrate virtue and gain social status, though Christian teaching redirected this concept from personal glory to selfless acts inspired by faith.

Scientific Perspectives

There are numerous studies in psychology and sociology that analyze the effects of charitable giving and community support on well-being.

Research often concludes that altruistic behavior can lead to greater life satisfaction and mental health for the giver, in addition to the obvious benefits for the recipients.

This adds a scientific dimension to the practice of good works endorsed by this Biblical passage, suggesting that Paul's advice aligns with what modern research reveals about human well-being.

commentaries

Various Biblical scholars and theologians have provided commentary on 1 Timothy 6:18.

John Chrysostom, an early Church Father, emphasized the spiritual wealth that comes from being "rich in good works." Contemporary commentaries often reflect on how the love of money can be the root of all kinds of evil, as mentioned earlier in 1 Timothy 6, and contrast it with the call to use wealth beneficially.

Matthew Henry's commentary suggests that the advice to the rich is not to heap up treasure on earth but to lay a good foundation against the time to come.

These interpretations collectively stress using earthly treasures for heavenly gains through good works and generosity.