I Timothy 6:18
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Instruct them to do good, to be rich in good works, and to be generous and ready to share,
Commentaries
Excerpts gathered from published commentaries to ground the reading.
do good--like God Himself (Psa 119:68; Act 14:17) and Christ (Act 10:38). TITTMANN translates, "to do," or "act well"; as the Greek for "to be beneficent" is a distinct word, agathopoiein. rich in good works--so "rich in faith," which produces good works (Jam 2:5). Contrasted with "rich in this world," Ti1 6:17. Literally, it is "rich in honorable (right) works." Greek, "kalois," "ergois," are works good or right in themselves: "agathois," good to another. ready to distribute--free givers [ALFORD]; the heart not cleaving to possessions, but ready to impart to others. willing to communicate--ready contributors [ALFORD]: liberal in admitting others to share our goods in common with ourselves (Gal 6:6; Heb 13:16).
Open source ↗I. He treats of the duty of servants (Ti1 6:1, Ti1 6:2). II. Of false teachers (Ti1 6:3-5). III. Of godliness and covetousness (Ti1 6:6-10). IV. What Timothy was to flee, and what to follow (Ti1 6:11, Ti1 6:12). V. A solemn charge (Ti1 6:13-16). VI. A charge for the rich (Ti1 6:17-19). And lastly, a charge to Timothy (Ti1 6:20, Ti1 6:21).
Open source ↗Original language
The Hebrew and Greek words behind this passage, with Strong's numbers — from openscriptures (CC BY-SA).
Cross-references
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And do not neglect to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.
If anyone with earthly possessions sees his brother in need, but withholds his compassion from him, how can the love of God abide in him?
if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is giving, let him give generously; if it is leading, let him lead with diligence; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully.
Trust in the LORD and do good; dwell in the land and cultivate faithfulness.
Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to the family of faith.
This is how it will be for anyone who stores up treasure for himself but is not rich toward God.”
He gave Himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for Himself a people for His own possession, zealous for good deeds.
This saying is trustworthy. And I want you to emphasize these things, so that those who have believed God will take care to devote themselves to good deeds. These things are excellent and profitable for the people.
Share with the saints who are in need. Practice hospitality.
For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, so that you through His poverty might become rich.