Those who have believing masters should not show them disrespect just because they are fellow believers.(A) Instead, they should serve them even better because their masters are dear to them as fellow believers and are devoted to the welfare[a] of their slaves.

False Teachers and the Love of Money

These are the things you are to teach and insist on.(B) If anyone teaches otherwise(C) and does not agree to the sound instruction(D) of our Lord Jesus Christ and to godly teaching, they are conceited(E) and understand nothing. They have an unhealthy interest in controversies and quarrels about words(F) that result in envy, strife, malicious talk, evil suspicions and constant friction between people of corrupt mind, who have been robbed of the truth(G) and who think that godliness is a means to financial gain.

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Footnotes

  1. 1 Timothy 6:2 Or and benefit from the service

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.

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Footnotes

  1. 6:2 Greek brothers.