Paul begins with instructions for bondservants, people who were owned by masters in that time. They were to honor their masters so the name of God and the teaching would not be spoken against. Those with believing masters were to serve them well, because they were brothers. Then Paul warns about false teachers who love arguments and think godliness is a way to get rich.

Paul writes: But godliness with contentment is great gain. We brought nothing into the world, and we cannot carry anything out. With food and clothing, we will be content. People set on getting rich are tempted and trapped by harmful wants. Paul warns that loving money leads to every kind of evil, and some have wandered from the faith because of it.

Paul writes to Timothy: But you, man of God, flee these things, and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, perseverance, and gentleness. He tells him to fight the good fight of faith and take hold of eternal life. Paul praises God as the King of kings and Lord of lords. He tells the rich not to be proud or hope in riches, but in God. They should do good, be rich in good works, and be ready to share.

Paul writes: Let as many as are bondservants under the yoke count their own masters worthy of all honor, that the name of God and the doctrine not be blasphemed. In that time many people were bondservants, owned by masters. Paul adds that those whose masters are believers should not look down on them for being brothers, but serve them even better. Then Paul warns against anyone who teaches a different doctrine. Such people are proud, love arguments, and suppose that godliness is a means of gain.

Paul answers that false idea: But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we certainly can't carry anything out. Having food and clothing, we will be content. Those determined to be rich fall into temptation, a trap, and many foolish and harmful desires that ruin people. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Paul adds that greed has pulled some away from the faith and brought them much sorrow.

Paul turns to Timothy: But you, man of God, flee these things, and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, perseverance, and gentleness. Fight the good fight of faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called. Paul charges him before God and Christ Jesus to keep the command until Jesus appears. He praises God, the blessed and only Ruler, the King of kings and Lord of lords, who dwells in unapproachable light. Paul tells the rich not to be arrogant or trust uncertain riches, but to hope in God, who richly provides everything to enjoy. They should be rich in good works and willing to share. Paul ends: Timothy, guard that which is committed to you.