Font Size
In 6:3-5 Paul discusses the controversies and quarrels characterizing the opponents of the Gospel and the confusion of godliness with financial gain. Sound instructions, better translated “healthful,” sets up the contrast in 6:4 with unhealthy [unhealthful] interest in controversies. The lifestyle of 6:4-5 is diametrically opposed to that of the Christian community in 2:2. Have been robbed seems to indicate that they had the truth and it was stolen from them. However, another possibility is that the robbery results from their constant friction. This would fit with the concept of seared consciences (4:2) and place the responsibility on the false teachers.
1Ti 6:6-8 is an insight into Paul’s understanding of the relationship between godliness and money. Contentment is really the great gain/profit. If our daily need for food and clothing is met, we should be contented.
This attitude of v.8 contrasts with that of v.9. Here the one who wants riches is pictured in ruin and destruction. In v.10 the love of money is pictured as a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money had wandered from the faith and pierced, or wounded, themselves with many griefs.