1 Timothy 6:19

1 Timothy 6:19 is part of Paul's practical instruction to Timothy regarding the proper use of wealth, particularly for those who are rich. It emphasizes that true and lasting security comes not from earthly possessions but from a life of generosity and good deeds, which serves as an investment in eternity.

Context

This verse concludes a passage (starting from 1 Timothy 6:17) where Paul specifically addresses the wealthy members of the church. He warns them against pride and trusting in uncertain riches, urging them instead to trust in God. The preceding verse, 1 Timothy 6:18, exhorts them to "do good, to be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate." Verse 19 then presents the profound spiritual benefit and eternal purpose of such a life of generous Christian stewardship.

Key Themes

• Eternal Investment: The verse reframes generosity not as expenditure but as a strategic investment. By "laying up in store" through good deeds and sharing, believers are building a lasting spiritual "foundation" that transcends earthly concerns. This echoes Jesus' teaching to lay up treasures in heaven, where they are secure.
• True Riches: It contrasts the fleeting nature of material wealth with the enduring value of spiritual riches. The "good foundation" is invaluable because it secures a future that extends beyond this temporal life.
• Securing Eternal Life: The ultimate goal of this spiritual investment is to "lay hold on eternal life." This phrase signifies not merely receiving salvation (which is by grace through faith, as seen in Ephesians 2:8-9), but actively embracing, grasping, and truly experiencing the fullness of the life God offers, both now and in eternity. It implies living out the implications of one's faith.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "laying up in store" comes from the Greek word apothesaurizontas (ἀποθησαυρίζοντας), which literally means "to treasure up" or "to store away." It strongly connects to the concept of accumulating wealth, but here applied to spiritual assets. The "good foundation" (themelion kalon) refers to a solid, excellent basis or groundwork. "Lay hold on eternal life" (epilabōntai aiōniou zōēs) suggests more than passive reception; epilabōntai means "to take firm hold of," "to seize," or "to grasp." This emphasizes an active appropriation and experience of the eternal life that God grants through Christ, not merely a future promise but a present reality to be lived out.

Practical Application

This verse offers a powerful challenge and encouragement for all believers, regardless of their financial status. It calls us to:

• Cultivate an Eternal Perspective: Shift our focus from accumulating earthly possessions to investing in things with eternal value. This includes generosity, serving others, and dedicating resources to God's kingdom.
• Practice Generous Stewardship: View our resources (time, talents, and treasure) as tools for God's glory and for the benefit of others. Sharing what we have is not a drain but a deposit into our spiritual account.
• Live with Purpose: Understand that our actions today have eternal implications. By living a life rich in good works and focused on God, we are actively "laying hold" of the abundant and eternal life that Christ offers, as promised in John 10:10. This is not about earning salvation, but demonstrating genuine faith through active love and obedience.