1 Timothy 6:18 – “Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share.”
Extended Explanation
This verse follows Paul’s instructions about how wealthy believers should view their money and possessions. After telling Timothy to warn them not to be proud or trust in riches (verse 17), Paul now gives a positive command: teach the rich to do good with what they have.
Instead of just being rich in money, Paul says they should be rich in good deeds. That means actively using their time, resources, and abilities to help others. They are also called to be generous and willing to share, not tight-fisted or self-focused.
The heart of the verse is this: wealth isn’t just something to enjoy-it’s something to steward. God doesn’t bless people so they can hoard what they have. He blesses them so they can bless others.
Historical Context
In the early church, just like today, there were believers from all different backgrounds-some poor, some wealthy. In places like Ephesus (where Timothy was pastoring), there were people with influence and means who had come to faith. The danger was that some might live like the world-trusting in their riches or living selfishly.
Paul wanted the church to be different. Instead of copying the culture’s view of wealth, Christians were to live generously, with open hands and hearts.
This kind of generosity also stood out in the Roman world, where giving was often done for status, not love. Paul calls believers to give out of sincere kindness, not for recognition.
Theological Implications
This verse teaches us that faith isn’t just about what we believe-it’s about how we live. True faith changes how we treat people, especially in the way we use what we have.
It also reminds us that everything we have comes from God and belongs to Him. Wealth is not a reward to enjoy selfishly-it’s a tool to do good. When we use what God gives us to serve others, we reflect His character.
Generosity isn’t just a duty-it’s part of discipleship. God uses it to grow us in humility, love, and compassion.
Literary Analysis
Paul uses clear, simple phrases to build his point:
- Do good – live actively in kindness.
- Be rich in good deeds – let your life overflow with acts of love.
- Be generous and willing to share – hold loosely to what you own and freely give.
There’s a rhythm to the verse-a building up of what a faithful, wealthy believer should look like. Instead of just saying “don’t be greedy,” Paul paints a picture of what godly generosity looks like in action.
This approach helps the reader not only avoid sin but also aim for something better and higher.
Biblical Cross-References
- Acts 20:35 – “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”
- Luke 12:33–34 – “Sell your possessions and give to the poor… For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
- Hebrews 13:16 – “Do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.”
- 2 Corinthians 9:6–7 – “Whoever sows generously will also reap generously… God loves a cheerful giver.”
- James 2:14–17 – Faith without action, especially toward those in need, is dead.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, especially those living in areas of abundance, this verse is deeply relevant. Whether we consider ourselves “rich” or not, most of us have far more than many people in the world. Paul’s words are a call to action: don’t just hold onto your blessings-use them.
This means looking for ways to meet needs, support ministry, care for the poor, and live open-handedly. It’s about seeing everything we own-not just money, but time, skills, and even our homes-as opportunities to serve others.
It also means being intentional. Generosity doesn’t happen by accident. We need to plan to do good, look for needs, and act with joy.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is generous. He gives freely, graciously, and abundantly. And He invites His people to reflect that same spirit. When we give, we show others what God is like-a generous Provider who doesn’t hold back.
This verse reflects the heart of a Father who not only blesses His children but wants them to enjoy the deeper joy of giving. He doesn’t just want us to live comfortably-He wants us to live meaningfully.
God’s call to generosity isn’t a burden-it’s an invitation into something better.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus lived out this verse perfectly. Though He was rich in glory, He made Himself poor for our sake (2 Corinthians 8:9). His entire life was one of giving-His time, His love, His power, and ultimately, His life on the cross.
Jesus didn’t just teach generosity-He was generosity in the flesh. He shared with the hungry, healed the sick, welcomed the outcast, and gave everything He had to save us.
As followers of Christ, we’re called to walk in His footsteps. Our generosity points others to the greatest gift ever given-Jesus Himself.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- In what areas of your life has God blessed you with “wealth”-financial or otherwise?
- How can you use those blessings to do good and be rich in good deeds?
- Are there any resources you’ve been holding onto too tightly?
- What does joyful, willing generosity look like in your daily life?
- How does Jesus’ example challenge and inspire your attitude toward giving?