1 Timothy 6:18
That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate;
Original Language Analysis
πλουτεῖν
that they be rich
G4147
πλουτεῖν
that they be rich
Strong's:
G4147
Word #:
2 of 8
to be (or become) wealthy (literally or figuratively)
ἔργοις
works
G2041
ἔργοις
works
Strong's:
G2041
Word #:
4 of 8
toil (as an effort or occupation); by implication, an act
Cross References
Hebrews 13:16But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.1 John 3:17But whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him?Romans 12:8Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness.Psalms 37:3Trust in the LORD, and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed.Luke 12:21So is he that layeth up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.Titus 3:8This is a faithful saying, and these things I will that thou affirm constantly, that they which have believed in God might be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable unto men.Titus 2:14Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.Romans 12:13Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality.Galatians 6:10As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.1 Timothy 5:10Well reported of for good works; if she have brought up children, if she have lodged strangers, if she have washed the saints' feet, if she have relieved the afflicted, if she have diligently followed every good work.
Historical Context
In the ancient world, wealthy patrons funded public works, supported clients, and provided for the poor—this brought honor. Christian wealthy believers should channel resources toward kingdom work—supporting ministers, caring for widows, funding mission, helping the poor. Rather than pursuing status through wealth display, use resources generously for God's purposes. This counter-cultural stewardship demonstrated gospel transformation.
Questions for Reflection
- What does it mean to be 'rich in good works'—how do we invest wealth in eternal things?
- How can wealthy Christians develop 'readiness to distribute'—what cultivates generosity?
- What practical steps move wealth from personal consumption to kingdom contribution?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
That they do good, that they be rich in good works (ἀγαθοεργεῖν, πλουτεῖν ἐν ἔργοις καλοῖς, agathoergein, ploutein en ergois kalois)—'to do good, to be rich in good works.' Agathoergeō means to do good. Plouteo means to be rich—here used metaphorically. Be rich in deeds, not just dollars. Ergon kalos means good work, noble deed. Ready to distribute, willing to communicate (εὐμεταδότους εἶναι, κοινωνικούς, eumetadotous einai, koinōnikous)—'generous, ready to share.' Eumetadotos means generous, ready to impart. Koinōnikos means generous, willing to share—from koinōnia (fellowship, sharing).
Wealthy believers should focus on generosity, not accumulation. Be rich in good works—use wealth for kingdom purposes. Two virtues: ready to distribute (actively seeking opportunities to give) and willing to share (generous spirit, not hoarding). Wealth is stewardship, not ownership—use it for others' benefit and God's glory.
This redirects wealth's purpose from consumption to contribution. The rich aren't condemned but commissioned—use your resources to bless others, fund ministry, relieve suffering. This transforms wealth from curse to blessing.