1 Timothy 6:3-21.  Paul’s final words to Timothy in this letter identify a false teaching in Ephesus that Timothy must publically reject, because it will do much harm.  It is the teaching that the faith will lead to wealth.

1. Those who adopt this false teaching will get into many arguments about the meaning of words.  Their fellowship will be disrupted by envy, dissension, slander, evil suspicions, and constant friction (3-10).
2. Instead of riches, believers should pursue lives of godliness and take hold of the eternal life to which they were called.  That is what they are to aim for, and they will receive it by grace when Christ appears (11-16).
3. The rich in this present age should serve as good examples of this reality.  They should use their wealth to do good works, but avoid giving the impression that they have arrived at their spiritual goal.  They also must take hold of that which is truly life (17-19).

Paul concludes the letter encouraging Timothy to “guard the deposit” that had been “entrusted” to him.  He uses banker’s terms because he is identifying the true wealth that the gospel brings.   The coming kingdom will bring riches and great honor.  But believers should not “set their hopes” on the uncertainty of present riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy (17).

LORD, our hope is your kingdom at your return.  It is that kingdom which we pursue – that eternal life which we are taking hold of.