The Christian's Stewardship

1 Timothy 6:6–21

I. THE FORSAKING—vv. 6–10

A. Satisfaction

—vv. 6. Godly living with contentment is great gain. What we have doesn’t make us happy—enjoying what we have makes us happy. Where you live doesn’t make you happy—its how you live.

B. Security

—v. 7. We were born with nothing. When we die, we will take nothing with us. We cannot take our money with us when we die, but we can send it ahead, by giving it to God.

C. Simplicity

—v. 8. Wanting things will lead to lust. Lust leads to sin. Wanting good things is not wrong, but when it comes between us and God, then it is sin!

D. Snare

—vv. 9–10.

1.) Lusts—v. 9. If not careful, money will bring lust and sin.

2.) Love—v. 10. Money is not wrong—loving money is wrong.

II. THE FOLLOWING—11–16

A. Person

—v. 11. A Christian must follow righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. Follow these, and you will be a successful Christian.

B. Persistent

—v. 12. The Christian must fight to hold unto eternal life, which has been given to us by Christ. Christians are in a constant battle—Ephesians 6:12–18. Many Christians become indifferent, and drift back into sin.

C. Perfection

—vv. 13–16. By following Christ, we will perfect ourselves. Note the words of Jesus in Matthew 5:48. The word perfect means to grow and improve ourselves in the Lord.

III. THE FINDING—vv. 17–21

A. Dependence

—v. 17. Depend upon God for happiness, not money or material possessions.

B. Distribution

—v. 18. Be willing to share what you have with others. By this you will find real joy and peace. Help spread God’s Word with your possessions and money.

C. Dedication

—v. 19. Dedication of your money always brings the blessings of God. The future heavenly reward will be great.

D. Disorder

—v. 20. Don’t waste time arguing with people. This only creates disorder and problems.

E. Destruction

—v. 21. Arguing with these people not only wastes time, but these foolish people influence you and destroy you spiritually.[1]