From the selling of indulgences to the prosperity gospel, the church has been ravaged by what Paul calls “lovers of money” or those “greedy for filthy lucre”. Although we would never categorize ourselves among those of the prosperity gospel, we can be much more subtle at “earning” indecent/dishonorable gain. The overseer must fight these selfish desires. He must exemplify diligence in his work ethic and seethe with honorable motives. The overseer is an honest worker with healthy desires.
Discuss: What types of materialistic desires compete with your faith in your service to the Lord?
Paul describes for Timothy those who use the gospel for gain. He says, “They are puffed up with conceit and understands nothing. He has an unhealthy craving for controversy and for quarrels about words, which produce envy, dissensions, slander, evil suspicions, and constant friction among people who are depraved of mind and deprived of the truth, imagining that godliness is a means of gain.” (6:4-5) Paul goes on to exhort Timothy with contentment. He says, “Now there is great gain in godliness with contentment, for we brought nothing in to the world and we cannot take anything out of the world. But if we have food and clothing, with these we will be content.”(6:6-8). In verses 9 and 10 Paul teaches Timothy that loving money results a plethora of others godless desires which make a shipwreck of the faith. Therefore in verse 11 Paul exhorts Timothy to “fight the good fight of faith”.
The overseer must fight off competing desires that would attempt to diminish holy affections for Jesus Christ and his church. Richard Baxter writes,
Nor is man fitted to be a minister of Christ who does not have the proper public spirit towards the Church. He needs to delight in its beauty, long for its happiness, seek for its good, and rejoice in its welfare. He must be willing to spend and to be spent fo the sake of the Church.[1]
Discuss: Theologically, how do we fight for Christ-centered affections?
Answer the following questions:
1. Do you give generously and sacrificially?
2. Are your investments heavenward or earthly-minded?
3. What is your philosophy about gain in this life?
4. Are your professional and personal decisions calculated to pursue gain?
5. Do you show more regard for money and ‘stuff’ than people?
6. How does your perspective of money affect your outlook on the church’s financial decisions?
Read: Thomas Brooks, Precious Remedies against Satan’s Devices, Satan’s Devices to Keep Souls from Holy Duties, To Hinder Souls in Holy Services, To Keep Them Off From Religious Performance, p. 102-141
[1] Baxter, Richard. The Reformed Pastor. Carlisle, PA: The Banner of Truth Trust, 2007.