Wealth as Generosity in Giving: Linguistic and Theological Study of 1Tm 6:17-19 Cover Image

Bogactwo jako hojność dawania. Analiza lingwistyczno-teologiczna 1Tm 6,17-19
Wealth as Generosity in Giving: Linguistic and Theological Study of 1Tm 6:17-19

Author(s): Dominik Tomasz Tomczyk
Subject(s): Christian Theology and Religion, Theology and Religion, Biblical studies
Published by: Papieski Wydział Teologiczny
Keywords: wealth; First Letter to Timothy; Apostle Paul; generosity; doing good; solidarity; ethics

Summary/Abstract: The author of the article provides a linguistic and theological study of the text from 1Tm 6:17-19, which is a sort of “instruction” offered by the author of the Letter on the Christian attitude towards wealth. Each one of these three verses is analysed separately. The paper draws the reader's attention to the fact that the material riches owned by a man is a gift from God and brings with itself a threefold account- ability: to man, to society and to God. The text under study underlines two main components of wealth which are captured by the adjectives ευμετάδοτος (generosity beyond measure) and κοινωνικός (the social dimension of wealth). God's intention for providing men with tangible assets (wealth) is, primarily, doing good to others, also by generous sharing of their possessions. We should perceive wealth from the eschatological point of view which ought to influence the present attitude of wealthy people. A rich man should put his trust not in ephemeral and temporary things but in God who is everlasting and eternal. He is the source of all abundance and wealth. Rich Christians should imitate God in His universal attitude of sharing with everybody.

  • Issue Year: 29/2021
  • Issue No: 1
  • Page Range: 71-93
  • Page Count: 23
  • Language: Polish