Verse
Context
A Charge to the Rich
16He alone is immortal and dwells in unapproachable light. No one has ever seen Him, nor can anyone see Him. To Him be honor and eternal dominion! Amen.17Instruct those who are rich in the present age not to be conceited and not to put their hope in the uncertainty of wealth, but in God, who richly provides all things for us to enjoy.18Instruct them to do good, to be rich in good works, and to be generous and ready to share,
Sermons





Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Charge them that are rich - He had before, in Ti1 6:9, Ti1 6:10, given them a very awful lesson concerning their obtaining riches; and now he gives them one equally so concerning their use of them. That they be not high-minded - That they do not value themselves on account of their wealth, for this adds nothing to mind or moral worth. Nor trust in uncertain riches - Πλουτου αδηλοτητι· The uncertainty of riches; things which are never at a stay, are ever changing, and seldom continue long with one proprietor; therefore, as well as on many other accounts, they are not to be trusted in: they cannot give happiness, because they are not fixed and permanent; neither can they meet the wishes of an immortal spirit; but in the living God, who is the unchangeable fountain of perfection. Who giveth us richly all things to enjoy - Who not only has all good, but dispenses it liberally for the supply of the wants of all his creatures; and he does not give merely what is necessary, but he gives what tends to render life comfortable. The comforts of life come from God, as well as the necessaries. He not only gives us a bare subsistence, but he gives us enjoyments. Were it not for the oppression and rapine of wicked men, every situation and state in life would be comparatively comfortable. God gives liberally; man divides it badly.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Resuming the subject from above, Ti1 6:5, Ti1 6:10. The immortality of God, alone rich in glory, and of His people through Him, is opposed to the lust of money (compare Ti1 6:14-16). From speaking of the desire to be rich, he here passes to those who are rich: (1) What ought to be their disposition; (2) What use they ought to make of their riches, and, (3) The consequences of their so using them. rich in this world--contrasted with the riches of the future kingdom to be the portion of believers at Christ's "appearing," Ti1 6:14. high-minded--often the character of the rich (see Rom 12:16). trust--Greek, "to have their trust resting." in . . . in--rather, "upon . . . upon," as the oldest manuscripts. uncertain riches--rather as Greek, "the uncertainty of riches." They who rest their trust on riches, rest trust on uncertainty itself (Pro 23:5). Now they belong to one person, now to another, and that which has many masters is possessed by none [THEODORET]. living God--The best manuscripts and versions omit "living." He who trusts in riches transfers to them the duty he owes to God [CALVIN]. who giveth--Greek, "affordeth." all things richly--temporal and eternal, for the body and for the soul. In order to be truly rich, seek to be blessed of, and in, God (Pro 10:22; Pe2 1:3). to enjoy--Greek, "for enjoyment." Not that the heart may cleave to them as its idol and trust (Ti1 4:3). Enjoyment consists in giving, not in holding fast. Non-employment should be far removed, as from man, so from his resources (Jam 5:2-3) [BENGEL].
John Gill Bible Commentary
Charge them that are rich in this world,.... Or in the things of this world. The Arabic version reads, "in this present world": in distinction from the world to come: some are poor in this world, and rich in another; others are rich in this world, and poor, and wretched, and miserable in the world to come: some are rich in both worlds, and such were at least some of those the apostle here refers to, who were members of the church at Ephesus, which was a rich city, and some rich men in it were called by the grace of God; and to distinguish these from others, who, though poor in this world, were rich in grace and in spiritual gifts, he so calls them; as well as to observe that their riches were like the world they were in, deceitful, empty, unsatisfying, and perishing: these the apostle would have not only spoke to, instructed, exhorted, and entreated, but strictly charged and commanded, without paying any regard to their worldly grandeur and riches, that they be not high minded; the Ethiopic version reads, "that they be not lifted up in this world"; with their wealth and worldly substance, and look down from the height of their honour and riches with contempt upon the poor, entertaining high thoughts of themselves, as if their bodies were of another matter and make, when they have all one Maker, are of one blood, and of the earth, earthly, and must return to it; or as if their souls were more large and capacious, and they were wiser and more knowing, whereas riches are not always to men of understanding, a fool may be rich, and a wise man poor; or as if they were the peculiar favourites of heaven, when, for the most part, God chooses and calls the poor of this world; or as if others were unworthy of their looks, company, and conversation. Riches produce pride; rich men are apt to be proud of themselves, and despise others; and therefore this evil is taken notice of, as what they are to be cautioned against, and charged to the contrary: nor trust in uncertain riches; or "in the uncertainty of riches"; they are here today, and gone tomorrow; no man that is possessed of them can be sure of them a moment; they make themselves wings and flee away; he that gives them, can take them away at pleasure: and there are various ways by which they are suddenly, and at once taken from the owners of them; as by loss in trade, by shipwreck, by inundations, by fire, by thieves, &c, and yet men are apt to promise themselves a continuance of them, and to have their dependence upon them, and place their trust and confidence in them, yea, even good men; and that very much to the neglect of, and disregard to the providence of God, which is always best and safest in every circumstance and station of life to depend upon, as follows: but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; almost every word carries in it an argument or reason why he should be trusted, because he is God, and not a creature; the "living" God, who has life in himself, essentially and originally; is the author, giver, and maintainer of life in others; and who always is, ever continues unchangeably the same: and "giveth all things"; every good gift comes from him; all the gifts of nature, and bounties of Providence; and as he gives, he can take away, and therefore should be only regarded; and he gives all things "richly", largely, and plenteously; what is necessary and convenient, and abundantly more than men deserve: and that "to enjoy"; not to lay up, but to use for support, refreshment, and pleasure, though not to abuse.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
6:17-19 In light of 6:11-16, it is folly to treasure the transient wealth of this age (Jas 5:3). It is better to store up treasure for the coming age through trust in God and by being rich in good works and generous in love for others (see 1 Tim 1:5). 6:17-18 for our enjoyment: Christian hope does not lead to asceticism or communism but to the management of resources (Gen 1:28-30; 2:15), which we are to use for enjoyment (see 1 Tim 4:3-5; Ps 145:16; Acts 14:17) and for sharing Christ’s love with others (see Luke 12:16-34; 2 Cor 8:1–9:15).
A Charge to the Rich
16He alone is immortal and dwells in unapproachable light. No one has ever seen Him, nor can anyone see Him. To Him be honor and eternal dominion! Amen.17Instruct those who are rich in the present age not to be conceited and not to put their hope in the uncertainty of wealth, but in God, who richly provides all things for us to enjoy.18Instruct them to do good, to be rich in good works, and to be generous and ready to share,
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Biographies) John Bunyan
By John Piper4.1K1:33:15JDG 16:30MAT 6:33ROM 8:32ROM 8:352CO 1:91TI 6:17HEB 13:8In this sermon, the speaker shares a story about a family who recently joined their church. The family had faced difficulties in their previous church but had learned about the sovereignty of God during their time at the new church. Shortly after joining, they received news that their son had a serious health issue. Despite the challenges they faced, the husband continued preaching, relying on the sovereignty of God. The speaker also references a scene from "The Pilgrim's Progress" where the protagonist realizes he has a key called promise that can unlock any lock in Doubting Castle. The sermon emphasizes the need to trust in God's sovereignty even in the midst of difficult circumstances.
The Gospel, Possessions and Prosperity - Session 4
By David Platt3.5K1:32:09Possessions2CO 8:91TI 6:17In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the need for believers to see the world differently and be moved with compassion. They highlight the reality of judgment and the importance of realizing the eternal stakes at hand. The speaker encourages listeners to pray and submit to Christ, recognizing that only He can produce the fruit of Scripture and obedience in their lives. They also emphasize the importance of prioritizing the church and evangelizing the lost, while being wise and discerning in their efforts to help those in need. The sermon concludes with exhortations to not compare oneself to others, commit to the church, and work diligently.
What Jesus Wants for His Church
By Vance Havner3.2K26:42LukewarmnessPRO 29:18ISA 61:10MAT 6:33LUK 15:201TI 6:171PE 1:7REV 3:18In this sermon, the preacher addresses the current state of society, which is filled with scandal, filth, and a lack of moral values. He emphasizes the need for individuals to lift their sights and recognize their spiritual poverty, blindness, and nakedness. The preacher shares his personal experience of going through a difficult period in his life while also experiencing spiritual growth. He then references the city of Laodicea, known for its wealth, clothing market, and medical school, and relates it to the needs of the church. The preacher concludes by highlighting the importance of being rich in Jesus, understanding the true value of what we have in Him, and seeking spiritual wealth, clothing, and vision.
Prove Me Now
By Keith Daniel3.1K1:02:13Trusting GodMAT 25:421TI 6:17In this sermon, the preacher recounts a personal experience of being publicly humiliated and finding solace in the Bible. He opens the Bible randomly and finds a tear falling on a verse that speaks about showing kindness and compassion to the poor. This brings him peace and joy as he realizes that God is comforting him. The preacher emphasizes the importance of not being high-minded or trusting in worldly riches, but instead being rich in good works and ready to help those in need. He also highlights the need for Christians to live out their faith by showing love and compassion to others, as James and John admonish in the Bible.
The Use and Abuse of Money
By Keith Daniel1.6K1:14:13MoneyJOB 21:13JOB 21:15PSA 73:3PSA 73:17MRK 10:171TI 6:17JAS 2:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of obeying God's commandments and warns of the repercussions for ignoring them. He specifically focuses on the message in James 2:1, urging believers not to show favoritism based on wealth or appearance. The preacher also highlights the need for those who are rich to not trust in their wealth, but rather in the living God. He encourages believers to do good, be rich in good works, and be ready to share with others. The sermon emphasizes the importance of living out the teachings of the Bible and warns against merely having a testimony without a commitment to following God's word.
(The Church and Satans Wiles) 2 - as Jesus Is So Are We
By Zac Poonen1.5K1:14:54MAT 6:33MAT 16:18JHN 8:442CO 2:111TI 6:171JN 4:11JN 4:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of knowing and understanding the Bible. He believes that many Christians are unaware of the truth of Scripture and are easily deceived by the lies of the devil. The preacher encourages his audience to live a life of victory and joy, citing 1 John 4:17 which states that as Jesus is, so are we in this world. He challenges the notion that the Christian life is boring and asserts that his own Christian life is exciting and fulfilling. The preacher also highlights the need to persevere and overcome challenges, comparing it to passing grades in education and the pursuit of higher goals.
(Gifts) the Gift of Giving
By Dwight Pentecost1.4K28:16Gifts1TI 6:17In this sermon, Dr. Paul emphasizes the importance of having a willing and generous attitude towards material possessions. He explains that God cannot give someone the gift of giving if they are unwilling to share or distribute what they have. This unwillingness to give can lead to poverty. Dr. Paul also highlights the responsibility of being a good steward of the gifts God has given, and warns against being selfish or greedy with material possessions.
(Genesis) 27 - the Faith of the Father of the Faithful: Uncompromising
By S. Lewis Johnson1.4K55:15Uncompromising FaithGEN 14:16EXO 2:11MAT 6:33ROM 12:21TI 6:17JAS 1:273JN 1:7In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of Abram in Genesis chapter 14. He describes Abram as a man who is both deeply connected to God and capable of handling worldly affairs, even in military matters. The sermon discusses a small war in which five rebel cities defy their masters and face swift punishment. The preacher also touches on the financial practices of evangelicalism today, highlighting the importance of living by faith rather than being swayed by worldly possessions.
Introduction to Finance Seminar
By George Verwer1.3K57:51FinancesPRO 10:9PRO 22:7MAT 6:33ACT 20:272CO 10:41TI 6:101TI 6:17The sermon transcript discusses the importance of meeting people where they are, including businessmen who may be busy. The speaker emphasizes the need for honesty and open communication when it comes to financial support in ministry. They also highlight the importance of prayer and action, urging for tangible steps to be taken rather than just talk. The transcript mentions the need to mobilize laypeople and not solely rely on full-time workers for fundraising efforts.
The Generosity of God
By William MacDonald1.3K30:43GenerosityPSA 68:19PSA 139:18MAT 6:332CO 1:31TI 6:17JAS 1:5JAS 1:17In this sermon, the speaker discusses the generosity of God in both nature and the spiritual realm. He emphasizes that God is often unappreciated despite his abundant blessings. The speaker highlights the beauty and diversity of the world, with its numerous plants and natural wonders, as evidence of God's generosity in nature. He then shifts to the spiritual realm, emphasizing that God generously provides for all our needs through Christ Jesus. The sermon concludes with a call to thank God for his love and generosity, particularly for the gift of his Son, Jesus.
Studies in 1 Timothy-06 1 Timothy-6
By William MacDonald1.2K36:401TI 6:17In this sermon, the preacher starts off by telling a story about someone who tried to acquire as much land as possible but ended up going too far and had to rush back. The preacher then transitions to the topic of wealth and warns against being consumed by the desire to accumulate material possessions. He quotes from the Bible, specifically from the book of Timothy, urging those who are rich to not be arrogant or put their trust in uncertain riches, but rather to trust in God who provides all things abundantly. The preacher emphasizes the importance of doing good works and laying up a foundation for eternal life.
Welfare Christianity
By Derek Melton9991:01:28WelfareMAT 5:16MRK 10:42LUK 9:24ROM 12:1EPH 2:101TI 6:17JAS 2:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the need for Christians in America to have a mindset of mission and to actively engage in spreading the gospel. He criticizes the complacency and welfare mindset that he believes is prevalent in American Christianity. The preacher urges believers to be rich in good works, ready to serve and communicate, and to lay down their lives for the sake of the gospel. He highlights the importance of being a doer of the word of God and emphasizes the need for Christians to shine their light through their good deeds. The sermon concludes with a reminder of the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ and the need for believers to be prepared for His return.
You Will Reap What You Sow
By Erlo Stegen9351:01:38SowingGAL 6:71TI 6:172PE 2:15JUD 1:12In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of honesty and integrity in our actions. He uses the example of people who were sneaky and dishonest in taking free potatoes, warning that sin will eventually be exposed. The preacher also shares the story of a teacher who faced challenges with disobedient students, but ultimately avoided harm due to his strictness and the use of a walking stick. The sermon concludes with a reminder that God sees and knows all our actions, and we will ultimately face the consequences of our choices, even if we repent and are forgiven.
The God of Jacob
By Robert Constable80545:58JacobGEN 25:21GEN 27:36GEN 47:7EXO 1:8MAT 22:391TI 6:17In this sermon, the speaker recounts the story of Jacob from the Bible. Jacob had worked for seven years to marry Rachel, but on the wedding day, he discovered that he had been deceived and married her sister Leah instead. Despite this, Jacob agreed to work another seven years to marry Rachel. Jacob then encountered God and had a life-changing experience where he realized his connection to the God of heaven. The sermon emphasizes the importance of understanding our significance in relation to God and trusting in His guidance.
On Eagles' Wings Pt 108
By Don Courville34026:40Radio ShowGEN 14:22JHN 12:6ACT 20:291TI 6:17In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of Achan from Joshua chapter 7. Achan's disobedience and greed led to his downfall and caused problems for the entire community. The preacher emphasizes the importance of being careful not to have a "Judas spirit" and warns against picking on God's people. He also highlights the example of Abraham, who refused to take any reward from the king of Sodom, acknowledging that everything he had came from God. The sermon encourages listeners to trust in God and seek His provision rather than compromising their integrity for worldly gain.
Wise as Serpents, Harmless as Doves
By Thomas Watson1PRO 4:7PRO 19:11MAT 10:16LUK 4:29PHP 4:41TI 6:17JAS 3:171PE 5:5Thomas Watson preaches about the importance of being wise as serpents and harmless as doves, emphasizing the need for Christians to unite prudence and holiness in their lives. He highlights the Apostles' commission, the foretold dangers they faced, and the instructions given by Christ. Watson explains that Christians must be both wise and innocent, showing examples from biblical figures like Moses, Daniel, and Paul who embodied this balance of wisdom and innocence. He urges believers to be prudent in their actions, yet maintain their integrity, avoiding sin while navigating through challenges and dangers.
The Glory of God
By Mary Wilder Tileston1PSA 33:5PSA 65:8PSA 145:9MAT 5:61TI 6:17Mary Wilder Tileston preaches about finding joy and delight in God's righteousness, justice, and lovingkindness that fills the earth. She emphasizes the beauty of God's works and the triumph of the soul in His righteous ways. The sermon highlights the fullness of joy in beholding God in all things, knowing that He leads everything towards Himself with love and wisdom. It also points out that God richly provides all things for us to enjoy, with Himself being the ultimate gift to be cherished and enjoyed naturally, not out of duty.
Lend, Expecting Nothing
By David Servant1EXO 22:25DEU 15:7PSA 112:5PRO 19:17PRO 28:8MAT 5:42LUK 6:331TI 6:17HEB 13:16David Servant delves into Jesus' command to 'lend, expecting nothing in return,' emphasizing the importance of lending without expecting repayment, especially to the poor and needy. He highlights the virtue of lending as an act of compassion and generosity, reflecting God's kindness to all. Servant explores the biblical context of lending, focusing on God's expectations regarding loans made to the poor and the significance of lending without interest. He challenges listeners to consider their ability to be lenders and suggests practical ways to obey Jesus' commandment in today's context.
Uncertain Riches - Jer. 9:23
By Bernard Fell0JER 9:23MAT 6:19LUK 16:191TI 6:17Bernard Fell preaches about the contrast between the rich man's glory in his riches and the humble, yet rich, life of Lazarus, emphasizing the transient nature of worldly wealth and the eternal value of treasures in heaven. He highlights the consequences of selfish living and the importance of accepting Jesus as our Savior to avoid spiritual poverty. Through the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross, we are brought to a wealthy place, redeemed from sin, and filled with unceasing joy.
The Sin of Silence
By Denis Lyle0DEU 28:15ISA 10:5JHN 3:16ROM 8:32GAL 6:10EPH 1:31TI 6:17JAS 4:171JN 3:4Denis Lyle preaches about 'The Sin of Silence' using the story of the four lepers in 2 Kings 7:3-16 as an illustration. He emphasizes the importance of not remaining silent about our faith in Christ, even in the face of ridicule or indifference from others. Lyle highlights the need to speak up and share the Gospel, pointing out that silence can be a sin of omission. The sermon challenges listeners to be like the lepers who refused to stay silent and instead shared the good news, leading to the salvation of many in the city.
Not to Trust in Uncertainriches
By George Fox0Trust in GodEternal RichesMAT 6:191TI 6:17George Fox emphasizes the importance of not placing trust in uncertain riches and worldly possessions, which are temporary and deceptive. He encourages believers to view themselves as pilgrims and strangers in this world, focusing instead on the eternal and durable riches found in a relationship with God. Fox highlights that true wealth comes from knowing the Creator and experiencing the everlasting grace and life He offers. He warns that reliance on material wealth can lead to deception and failure, urging a shift towards spiritual riches that endure forever.
(Reformers and Their Stepchildren) Kommunisten! - Part 1
By Leonard Verduin0MAT 19:21LUK 12:33ACT 2:441CO 7:301TI 6:17Leonard Verduin delves into the historical tension between the Reformers and their Stepchildren regarding the concept of 'community of goods,' as seen in the Belgic Confession and accusations of rejecting authority and introducing disorder. The sermon explores the ancient cliche of heretics seeking to abolish magistracy and decency, often associated with advocating 'community of goods.' Verduin highlights the biblical perspective on ownership, emphasizing that God is the ultimate owner and humans are stewards accountable for sharing with those in need. The sermon also addresses false accusations of 'community of wives' and 'goods in common' against the Stepchildren, revealing a lack of understanding and unfair treatment by the Reformers.
Epistle 249
By George Fox0DEU 30:12JOB 1:21ISA 26:3JHN 1:3ROM 16:20PHP 4:111TI 6:17HEB 2:141JN 2:16REV 19:13George Fox preaches about the importance of keeping our minds stayed upon the Lord to experience perfect peace that comes from God. He emphasizes that imperfect peace comes from focusing on worldly things rather than on the Creator. Using examples from Job's life, Fox illustrates the significance of retaining peace by keeping our minds on the Lord even in times of trials and loss. He urges people to learn from Christ, the light and truth, to find contentment in all circumstances and not to trust in temporary riches but in the living God for an everlasting inheritance.
Epistle 250
By George Fox0Spiritual ModestyWorldly FashionsMAT 6:251CO 2:121CO 6:21TI 6:71TI 6:171PE 1:141PE 3:41JN 2:16George Fox emphasizes the importance of avoiding the vain fashions of the world, urging believers to focus on modesty and sobriety in their appearance and lifestyle. He warns that chasing after worldly trends can lead one away from a solid life in unity with God, and encourages a life that prioritizes spiritual over material concerns. Fox calls for a rejection of the spirit of the world, advocating for a focus on the hidden man of the heart and the eternal riches found in God. He reminds the faithful to live as pilgrims and strangers, valuing their heavenly inheritance over earthly possessions.
The Greedy "Christian"
By David Servant0DEU 8:18PRO 21:13PRO 28:27MAT 6:19MRK 12:41LUK 14:331TI 6:17David Servant preaches about the importance of sacrificial giving and caring for the poor, using the story of a poor Christian man named Pablito living in a Manila dump as an example. Pablito's faith and generosity despite his poverty challenge listeners to examine their own hearts and actions towards those in need. The sermon emphasizes the biblical call to love and serve others, especially the less fortunate, as a reflection of true discipleship and obedience to Christ's teachings on generosity and compassion.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Charge them that are rich - He had before, in Ti1 6:9, Ti1 6:10, given them a very awful lesson concerning their obtaining riches; and now he gives them one equally so concerning their use of them. That they be not high-minded - That they do not value themselves on account of their wealth, for this adds nothing to mind or moral worth. Nor trust in uncertain riches - Πλουτου αδηλοτητι· The uncertainty of riches; things which are never at a stay, are ever changing, and seldom continue long with one proprietor; therefore, as well as on many other accounts, they are not to be trusted in: they cannot give happiness, because they are not fixed and permanent; neither can they meet the wishes of an immortal spirit; but in the living God, who is the unchangeable fountain of perfection. Who giveth us richly all things to enjoy - Who not only has all good, but dispenses it liberally for the supply of the wants of all his creatures; and he does not give merely what is necessary, but he gives what tends to render life comfortable. The comforts of life come from God, as well as the necessaries. He not only gives us a bare subsistence, but he gives us enjoyments. Were it not for the oppression and rapine of wicked men, every situation and state in life would be comparatively comfortable. God gives liberally; man divides it badly.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Resuming the subject from above, Ti1 6:5, Ti1 6:10. The immortality of God, alone rich in glory, and of His people through Him, is opposed to the lust of money (compare Ti1 6:14-16). From speaking of the desire to be rich, he here passes to those who are rich: (1) What ought to be their disposition; (2) What use they ought to make of their riches, and, (3) The consequences of their so using them. rich in this world--contrasted with the riches of the future kingdom to be the portion of believers at Christ's "appearing," Ti1 6:14. high-minded--often the character of the rich (see Rom 12:16). trust--Greek, "to have their trust resting." in . . . in--rather, "upon . . . upon," as the oldest manuscripts. uncertain riches--rather as Greek, "the uncertainty of riches." They who rest their trust on riches, rest trust on uncertainty itself (Pro 23:5). Now they belong to one person, now to another, and that which has many masters is possessed by none [THEODORET]. living God--The best manuscripts and versions omit "living." He who trusts in riches transfers to them the duty he owes to God [CALVIN]. who giveth--Greek, "affordeth." all things richly--temporal and eternal, for the body and for the soul. In order to be truly rich, seek to be blessed of, and in, God (Pro 10:22; Pe2 1:3). to enjoy--Greek, "for enjoyment." Not that the heart may cleave to them as its idol and trust (Ti1 4:3). Enjoyment consists in giving, not in holding fast. Non-employment should be far removed, as from man, so from his resources (Jam 5:2-3) [BENGEL].
John Gill Bible Commentary
Charge them that are rich in this world,.... Or in the things of this world. The Arabic version reads, "in this present world": in distinction from the world to come: some are poor in this world, and rich in another; others are rich in this world, and poor, and wretched, and miserable in the world to come: some are rich in both worlds, and such were at least some of those the apostle here refers to, who were members of the church at Ephesus, which was a rich city, and some rich men in it were called by the grace of God; and to distinguish these from others, who, though poor in this world, were rich in grace and in spiritual gifts, he so calls them; as well as to observe that their riches were like the world they were in, deceitful, empty, unsatisfying, and perishing: these the apostle would have not only spoke to, instructed, exhorted, and entreated, but strictly charged and commanded, without paying any regard to their worldly grandeur and riches, that they be not high minded; the Ethiopic version reads, "that they be not lifted up in this world"; with their wealth and worldly substance, and look down from the height of their honour and riches with contempt upon the poor, entertaining high thoughts of themselves, as if their bodies were of another matter and make, when they have all one Maker, are of one blood, and of the earth, earthly, and must return to it; or as if their souls were more large and capacious, and they were wiser and more knowing, whereas riches are not always to men of understanding, a fool may be rich, and a wise man poor; or as if they were the peculiar favourites of heaven, when, for the most part, God chooses and calls the poor of this world; or as if others were unworthy of their looks, company, and conversation. Riches produce pride; rich men are apt to be proud of themselves, and despise others; and therefore this evil is taken notice of, as what they are to be cautioned against, and charged to the contrary: nor trust in uncertain riches; or "in the uncertainty of riches"; they are here today, and gone tomorrow; no man that is possessed of them can be sure of them a moment; they make themselves wings and flee away; he that gives them, can take them away at pleasure: and there are various ways by which they are suddenly, and at once taken from the owners of them; as by loss in trade, by shipwreck, by inundations, by fire, by thieves, &c, and yet men are apt to promise themselves a continuance of them, and to have their dependence upon them, and place their trust and confidence in them, yea, even good men; and that very much to the neglect of, and disregard to the providence of God, which is always best and safest in every circumstance and station of life to depend upon, as follows: but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; almost every word carries in it an argument or reason why he should be trusted, because he is God, and not a creature; the "living" God, who has life in himself, essentially and originally; is the author, giver, and maintainer of life in others; and who always is, ever continues unchangeably the same: and "giveth all things"; every good gift comes from him; all the gifts of nature, and bounties of Providence; and as he gives, he can take away, and therefore should be only regarded; and he gives all things "richly", largely, and plenteously; what is necessary and convenient, and abundantly more than men deserve: and that "to enjoy"; not to lay up, but to use for support, refreshment, and pleasure, though not to abuse.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
6:17-19 In light of 6:11-16, it is folly to treasure the transient wealth of this age (Jas 5:3). It is better to store up treasure for the coming age through trust in God and by being rich in good works and generous in love for others (see 1 Tim 1:5). 6:17-18 for our enjoyment: Christian hope does not lead to asceticism or communism but to the management of resources (Gen 1:28-30; 2:15), which we are to use for enjoyment (see 1 Tim 4:3-5; Ps 145:16; Acts 14:17) and for sharing Christ’s love with others (see Luke 12:16-34; 2 Cor 8:1–9:15).