Discussion Questions
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Why did Paul teach against asceticism? What danger(s) did he see in it?
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People who do these practices are creating an environment where they are focusing on works to gain approval of God instead of focusing on the gift that God has given them for salvation. Asceticism is adding to the gospel message.
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We do not need to deny any physical pleasure as long as it is achieved according to how Christians should. It does not lead to true spirituality.
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He taught against asceticism because the false teaching could lead people astray from true spiritual behavior.
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Evidently there were people who were probably influenced by Greek philosophy that were teaching that to deny our fleshly desires, whether they were food, sex ot anything else, would make us more spiritual. Paul teaches that that is wrong because it can make some people think that if they can do that they are better than others.
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But godliness with contentment is great gain, 7 for we brought nothing into the world, and3 we cannot take anything out of the world. 8 But if we have food and clothing, with these we will be content.
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First Timothy 6:10 contains the often misquoted verse about money. In your opinion, what is Paul teaching in 1 Timothy 6:3-10? How can you apply this teaching in your life today?
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Greed is an unhealthy state of mind, and a negative attitude; dangerous in fact. Quoting, referring Job 1:21, we came into the world with nothing and we leave with nothing. We need to content with that which we have, giving thanks to God for everything we receive, however great or small. Godliness does not allow for greed, dissatisfaction or grumpiness about our earthly situation regarding possessions, God is in control. He knows what we need, when we need it.
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Paul is teaching that we need to be content with what God gives us and not keep seeking the next new or best thing. There will also be a bigger house, higher paying job, new version of an iphone. We need to be content and not love those items which could become idols.
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The truth is money is not evil, our desire and what people will do to get it is the root of the issue. It becomes Idolatry and where people focus their time talent and energy. Which should be focused on God. Money is also one thing most people use/need. How much is the issue. It reminds us to keep my focus on the Lord and what he provides is always enough.
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I guess for me Paul is saying exactly what the verse says. It’s not the money that’s evil but what we do with it. Do we use for good or for evil. The love of money can bring lots of evil, as we see in today’s world.
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He is teaching that people who are not content with what they have and are always seeking more worldly possessions are falling into a trap that is designed to take their focus and desire off of God and into the world. Continue to focus on what God has done for me and what I can do to glorify Him.