1 Timothy 6:10
For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
1 Timothy 6:10
This famous verse warns that “the love of money” is a root of all kinds of evil. It distinguishes loving money from money itself. The text notes that covetousness has drawn some away from faith and caused real sorrow. The cultural backdrop includes economic disparity and the lure of wealth as a source of power; within the church, it addresses how the desire for money can distort ministry and personal devotion.
The root metaphor is crucial: love or idolatry of wealth contaminates faith and leads to spiritual self-harm. It underscores the priority of faithfulness, righteousness, and eternal life over temporal gain. It also points to human vulnerability—without sanctification, wealth can co-opt conscience and lead to division.
Today, assess your money posture. Do you treat money as a master or a servant? Tactics include honest budgeting, transparency in financial matters within faith communities, and guarding against predatory financial influence. Practically, practice generosity as a counterbalance to greed, and consider spiritual disciplines that cultivate detachment from money, like almsgiving or debt-free living.
Cross-References
- Luke 12:15
- Hebrews 13:5
- James 5:1-6
- 2 Corinthians 9:7
- Colossians 3:5