1 Timothy 6

http://www.esvbible.org/1+Timothy+6/

This passage shows that when Paul speaks of slavery, it is far different than that of the triangle trade and modern day slavery. Slavery at the times of Paul was something more pleasant, and the slaves had more freedom and were treated respectfully. Paul says that between slaves and masters who believe, there should be a mutual respect because they mean so much to each other. Slaves who believe should also serve masters who don't believe with respect so as not to slander the name of Jesus.

If anyone teaches other than what stands in faith, and they do not agree with the Good News, then they are only opening themselves up to the evils of contraversies and malicious talk. They have been robbed of truth because they seek financial gain. Godliness with contentment is great gain. We start life in this world with nothing and we leave the world with nothing. As long as we have food and clothing, which the Lord says He will provide for us, we should want for nothing. The desire to be rich leads to unright financial gain, and those people open themselves up to all kinds of evil. Many people hurt themselves in the pursuit of riches.

Paul commands Timothy as a man of God to stay away from such things, and that he should stay ahead as a good leader in faith. He should make a good confession when he makes his public confession, just as Jesus did before Pontius Pilate. Stay on the mark and in God's purpose until the second coming, which will only come in God's timing. God alone deserves all of the praise. Being rich is not a sin, but those who are rich should place their trust in God, who is stable, instead of money, which is unstable. They should be generous and willing to share so that they store up treasures in Heaven, which are far more valuable that those on Earth.