I Timothy 6:10, 17-19

Misquote: Money in the root of all evil

The actual saying: For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil.

How do I know if I have a love of money?- 1 (Ecclesiastes 5:10)

“Whoever loves money never has enough.”

Context: Major theme is Godliness

Godliness with contentment is great gain. (6:6)

  • “The richest people are not those who have the most. The richest people are those who need the least
  • Discontentment can make a rich person poor, and contentment can make a poor person rich.
  • The love of money robs a person of contentment.

The Truth:

Having money is not bad. It’s loving money that is dangerous.

Two Extreme Views

The Prosperity Gospel The Poverty Gospel
– If I’m godly, if I have enough faith

– If I give enough, then God  has to make me rich.

– If I am godly, then I will be poor

– I cannot be righteous and rich

Facing the Facts

  • By global standards we are all rich

The Command:  Do not put your hope in riches

  • Why do we trust in money? It promises what only God can deliver
  • Money promises: happiness, security and significance

How do know if I have a love of money? -2

  • I have it but don’t share it.
  • v.18 The antidote to the love of money is not more money.It’s generosity.
  • The love of money is expressed through greed and selfishness
  • Tithing is the best way to break that stronghold

Invitation:

  • Look for opportunities to be generous…
  • As an act of worship, recognize everything comes from God.
  • Consider it a great joy to give back as an act of worship and obedience,
  • Trust God with the first 10 percent of what you make.
  • Do not feel guilty for the blessings. Instead maximize the blessing by sharing it with others. Be a blessing to others.