18 That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate;
18 Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share.
18 They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share,
18 to do good, to be rich in helping others, to be extravagantly generous.
18 Let them do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share,
18 Tell them to use their money to do good. They should be rich in good works and generous to those in need, always being ready to share with others.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on 1 Timothy 6:18
Commentary on 1 Timothy 6:17-21
(Read 1 Timothy 6:17-21)
Being rich in this world is wholly different from being rich towards God. Nothing is more uncertain than worldly wealth. Those who are rich, must see that God gives them their riches; and he only can give to enjoy them richly; for many have riches, but enjoy them poorly, not having a heart to use them. What is the best estate worth, more than as it gives opportunity of doing the more good? Showing faith in Christ by fruits of love, let us lay hold on eternal life, when the self-indulgent, covetous, and ungodly around, lift up their eyes in torment. That learning which opposes the truth of the gospel, is not true science, or real knowledge, or it would approve the gospel, and consent to it. Those who advance reason above faith, are in danger of leaving faith. Grace includes all that is good, and grace is an earnest, a beginning of glory; wherever God gives grace, he will give glory.