1 Timothy 6:19 – “In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.”
Extended Explanation
This verse wraps up Paul’s instructions to wealthy believers. After telling them to be generous and willing to share, Paul explains why it matters: because when they give and live generously, they are storing up treasure-not here on earth, but in heaven.
Paul calls this treasure a firm foundation for the coming age. In other words, the way we live now-especially in how we use our resources-impacts eternity. We’re not earning salvation, but we’re building a life of eternal significance. Paul contrasts the temporary riches of this world with something far more solid and lasting.
He ends with this phrase: so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life. That’s the kind of life Jesus offers-real, full, and eternal. Paul is saying that when people live generously, they are actually stepping into the kind of life God designed them to live-a life of purpose, joy, and freedom.
Historical Context
In Paul’s time, Roman society was highly materialistic and class-based. Wealth was often seen as a sign of power and status. The rich were tempted to focus only on the here and now-on luxury, influence, and social standing.
But Paul, writing to Timothy as a pastor in that environment, gives a radically different message. He teaches that what we do with wealth has eternal value. Paul wanted believers to lift their eyes from temporary things and fix them on eternal rewards.
This wasn’t a new message. Jesus Himself taught often about storing up treasure in heaven, not on earth (Matthew 6:19–21). Paul is simply echoing that teaching and helping Timothy apply it to the wealthy in his church.
Theological Implications
This verse teaches that generosity and eternal reward are closely linked. God sees what we do with what He’s given us, and He honors faithful stewardship. We don’t give to earn heaven, but our giving shows where our heart is-and it prepares us for eternal joy.
It also teaches that “life” is more than just existence. Paul talks about the life that is truly life. That means many people may be alive physically, but not really living the way God intended. True life is found in Christ-and it is lived out in generosity, selflessness, and eternal hope.
This verse shifts our understanding of value. What lasts forever? Not wealth, but what we do with it.
Literary Analysis
The verse flows naturally from the one before it. Paul starts with practical instructions (“do good,” “be generous”), then moves into the deeper spiritual reason behind those actions.
The phrase “lay up treasure for themselves” echoes Jesus’ teaching in the Sermon on the Mount. The phrase “firm foundation for the coming age” suggests something solid, dependable, and lasting-unlike the fleeting riches of this world.
The expression “take hold of the life that is truly life” is rich with meaning. It suggests that many people settle for a shallow or empty version of life, but through godly living, we can experience the real thing.
Biblical Cross-References
- Matthew 6:19–21 – “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth… but store up for yourselves treasures in heaven.”
- Luke 12:33 – “Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out…”
- Proverbs 11:24–25 – “One person gives freely, yet gains even more… a generous person will prosper.”
- 1 Corinthians 3:11–14 – Our lives are built on Christ, and what we build with will be tested and rewarded.
- John 10:10 – Jesus said, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse challenges today’s believers to think long-term-eternally, in fact. It tells us that every act of generosity, every gift, every time we help someone in need, is not wasted. God sees it, and it matters forever.
It also reminds us that the good life isn’t about having more stuff-it’s about living for God. The world offers distractions, but only God offers life that is truly life.
For those who have wealth or resources, this verse offers purpose: Use what you have to make a difference, not just for now, but for eternity.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is seen in the way He teaches us what really matters. He doesn’t want us wasting our lives chasing temporary things. Instead, He invites us to invest in what lasts forever-His kingdom, His people, His purposes.
A loving God doesn’t just give us good things-He shows us how to use them well. He calls us to give, not because He needs anything, but because He knows it leads us to joy, freedom, and true life.
God wants more for us than comfort-He wants us to experience the richness of a life lived with eternal impact.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is the perfect example of generosity. He left the riches of heaven to serve and save us (2 Corinthians 8:9). He gave His life freely so we could have eternal life. He didn’t store up treasure on earth-He gave Himself completely.
When we live generously, we reflect the heart of Jesus. When we let go of our grip on possessions, we take hold of the kind of life He came to give us.
Jesus also taught about eternal rewards-not to motivate selfishness, but to help us value what God values. Our lives now are meant to prepare us for eternity with Him.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What are you currently “laying up” in terms of eternal value?
- Are you using your time, money, or talents in ways that reflect God’s priorities?
- How do you define “the life that is truly life”? Is that what you’re pursuing?
- What changes might God be calling you to make so your generosity has eternal impact?
- How does Jesus’ example of giving challenge and encourage your daily decisions?