Chapter
1 2 3 4 5 6
Verse
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21

1 Timothy 6:6

ESV But godliness with contentment is great gain,
NIV But godliness with contentment is great gain.
NASB But godliness actually is a means of great gain when accompanied by contentment.
CSB But godliness with contentment is great gain.
NLT Yet true godliness with contentment is itself great wealth.
KJV But godliness with contentment is great gain.
NKJV Now godliness with contentment is great gain.

What does 1 Timothy 6:6 mean?

Prior verses described the flaws common in false teachers. These include aspects such as bickering, greed, and hard-headedness. Envy was also mentioned; the false teacher is often seeking to gain what others have.

Verses 6 through 10 are a brief explanation of a proper Christian view of wealth. In contrast with the sinful lives and desire for profit by false teachers, "godliness with contentment is great gain." Godliness is a theme throughout 1 Timothy, used nine times in this short letter.

Contentment is a theme Paul also develops elsewhere. For example, Philippians 4:11 shares, "Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content." He could live with little or plenty because he knew God could supply his needs. But how is godliness with contentment great gain? The idea is literally that of a large or wonderful gain or advantage. Those who live in a way which honors God, and who are satisfied with whatever they have, possess a strong spiritual life. This can help them through any of life's difficulties.

This teaching echoes Old Testament verses such as Proverbs 15:16 and Psalm 37:16.
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