What does 1 Timothy 6:17 mean?
After giving praise to God in the prior two verses, Paul briefly transitions from commands specifically meant for Timothy to how Timothy should instruct wealthy Christians. Wealthy believers are to be reminded not to be overly proud, or arrogant. They should be taught not to put their trust in "the uncertainty of riches." In contrast, they were to set their focus on God, the one who provides all that we have.Interestingly, Paul notes that God "richly provides us with everything to enjoy." His attitude towards wealth reflected Ecclesiastes 5:19: "Everyone also to whom God has given wealth and possessions and power to enjoy them, and to accept his lot and rejoice in his toil—this is the gift of God." This is the consistent message of the Bible: wealth is not bad, and can be a gift from God. However, it is to be used for God's honor rather than to make a person proud. It also comes with its own set of temptations (1 Timothy 6:9–10) and drawbacks (Matthew 19:22–23).
First Timothy 6:11–21 provides a contrast to the errors and temptations exhibited by false teachers. Paul delivers a strong, unmistakable mandate to Timothy: maintain your testimony, maintain your faith, fight for what is true and right. As a church leader, Timothy's primary weapons against false doctrine and sin are keeping himself on God's path and refusing to waver in his instruction of fellow church members. At the same time, Paul warns Timothy not to be distracted by the pseudo-intellectual debates in which some false teachers engage.
This chapter completes Paul's highly practical instructions to his friend and student, Timothy. The major focus of this passage is proper Christian conduct, and the avoidance of evil. Paul gives several character flaws common in those who teach false doctrine. He also provides a stark warning about the dangers of greed and materialism. Those who become obsessed with wealth open themselves to virtually any other sin one can imagine. Timothy is given a clear mandate to uphold his faith and testimony, along with Paul's blessings and encouragement.