Those who have believers as their masters must not be disrespectful to them because they are (A)brothers or sisters, but must serve them all the more, because those who [a]partake of the benefit are believers and beloved. (B)Teach and [b]preach these principles.

If anyone (C)advocates a different doctrine and does not [c]agree with (D)sound words, those of our Lord Jesus Christ, and with the doctrine (E)conforming to godliness, he is (F)conceited and understands nothing; but he [d]has a sick craving for (G)controversial questions and (H)disputes about words, from which come envy, strife, abusive language, evil suspicions, and constant friction between (I)people of depraved mind and deprived of the truth, who (J)suppose that [e]godliness is a means of gain.

Read full chapter

Footnotes

  1. 1 Timothy 6:2 Or devote themselves to kindness
  2. 1 Timothy 6:2 Lit exhort, urge
  3. 1 Timothy 6:3 Lit come to; or come with
  4. 1 Timothy 6:4 Lit is sick about
  5. 1 Timothy 6:5 Or religion

If the masters are believers, that is no excuse for being disrespectful. Those slaves should work all the harder because their efforts are helping other believers[a] who are well loved.

False Teaching and True Riches

Teach these things, Timothy, and encourage everyone to obey them. Some people may contradict our teaching, but these are the wholesome teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ. These teachings promote a godly life. Anyone who teaches something different is arrogant and lacks understanding. Such a person has an unhealthy desire to quibble over the meaning of words. This stirs up arguments ending in jealousy, division, slander, and evil suspicions. These people always cause trouble. Their minds are corrupt, and they have turned their backs on the truth. To them, a show of godliness is just a way to become wealthy.

Read full chapter

Footnotes

  1. 6:2 Greek brothers.