Commentary on 1 Timothy 6:6-19

Week 2 (7/19/26): Take hold of eternal life

Preaching text: 1 Timothy 6:6–19; accompanying text: Luke 16:27–30 

Yes, we’ve all been there: that earnest, well-meaning resolution—we’ll take up gym membership, start running, lose weight … And we all know that it is one thing to begin a race; it is another thing entirely to complete the course. In terms of our faith and our spiritual journey of following after Christ, we are all familiar with the challenge to daily keep on keeping on. One of the greatest secrets to success is to begin with the destination in mind; keep your eyes on the prize.

There is a particular temptation in view in this passage—the deceptive seductiveness of wealth, and a passionate encouragement to invest in a more certain and steadfast future.

The pursuit of wealth is ultimately futile—when we die, we cannot take any of it with us; it gives rise to all sorts of temptations and problems; and for some, the thorns of wealth choke the life out of faith. 

But how do we counter this and nurture a vibrant faith in a culture where wealth and status are sure signs of success and, moreover, accepted signs of divine blessing? We are reminded of the faithfulness of the Lord Jesus Christ, and passionately encouraged to “pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, gentleness.” Make a deliberate choice to be active and disciplined in the practice of your faith. Be content with what you already have. Reach out and take hold of eternal life.