Learning Activities
Bible conversation guide: True wealth
1Timothy 6:6-10; 17-19
Key concepts
1. Money and riches are not helpful for a godly life.
2. Yet those who are rich have opportunities for ministry.
Background
This section of Timothy sometimes gets quoted in proof-texting about only the dangers of wealth. In its larger context, though, the musings of Paul about lifestyle matters can be seen as well-balanced advice for those who, like Timothy, intend to live in God’s service. In other words, both danger and opportunity exist side-by-side in this text. Their interplay is fascinating.
Items for discussion or sharing
- Why do you think that one part of this text is so often misquoted as, “Money is the root of all evil?”
- Talk about someone you know who truly does not love money. Why do they think and act the way they do?
- What contributes to a general societal desire to be rich?
- Give examples of how verses 18-19 work in today’s real world.
- How do you know, really, if you’re “rich”? Why would you want to know?
- How do you think this text would be received by people living in poverty? By people living in the top 1% of income brackets?
- Which parts of this text indict you and your family? Which parts give you hope or courage? Explain the difference.
- Where in the journal, Sustaining Simplicity, do you see some of these themes explored or echoed?
Activities and next steps
- Read this text in several versions, flagging interesting or important words or phrases and writing them on newsprint or a chalkboard. Which words or phrases seem rich with meaning?
- Read aloud children’s books that explore the basic ideas of these verses. Talk about what strikes you as necessary wisdom for children and for their parents.
- Use a search engine to find places on the Web where philanthropists talk about the good they hope their personal wealth might accomplish. Talk about what you find.
- Make a list of the ways in which you are “rich” and post the list in a place where you can see it readily and often.
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