1 Timothy 6:1–2 (ESV) - Let all who are under a yoke as bondservants regard their own masters as worthy of all honor, so that the name of God and the teaching may not be reviled. 2Those who have believing masters must not be disrespectful on the ground that they are brothers; rather they must serve all the better since those who benefit by their good service are believers and beloved. Teach and urge these things.

Honor your employer.

Romans 5:8 (ESV) - …but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

Every interaction you have with someone is like a building block in their view of what God is like.

Your earthly boss is not your true master.
Colossians 3:23 (ESV) - Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men,

Romans 12:17–21 (ESV) - Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. 18If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. 19Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” 20To the contrary, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.” 21Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

Galatians 6:9–10 (ESV) - And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. 10So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.

1 Timothy 6:3-5 (ESV) - If anyone teaches a different doctrine and does not agree with the sound words of our Lord Jesus Christ and the teaching that accords with godliness, 4he is puffed up with conceit and understands nothing. He has an unhealthy craving for controversy and for quarrels about words, which produce envy, dissension, slander, evil suspicions, 5and constant friction among people who are depraved in mind and deprived of the truth, imagining that godliness is a means of gain.

1 Timothy 6:6 (ESV) – But godliness with contentment is great gain, 7for we brought nothing into the world, and we cannot take anything out of the world. 8But if we have food and clothing, with these we will be content. 9But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation, into a snare, into many senseless and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. 10For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils. It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pangs.

Contentment = confidence in God’s adequate provision (The Theological Dictionary of the New Testament - Abridged)

Philippians 4:11–13 (ESV) - …I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. 12I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. 13I can do all things through him who strengthens me.

You should never pursue godliness out of motive for gain.

We have to keep bringing ourselves and others back to the truth of the gospel!!!

Pursue godliness because you desire to represent God well on earth.

Pursue godliness with awareness that any gain you receive is purely a blessing of God’s grace.

Discussion Questions
1. What is one point from today’s message that you want to be sure and discuss with this group?

2. Read Ephesians 6:5-9. Who are we really working for and how should this affect our attitude and performance? What instruction does v9 provide for those with responsibility over others as well?

3. How can pursuing godliness (e.g. honesty, justice, generosity, honor, etc.) make an impact in your workplace?

4. Are you convinced that godliness with contentment is great gain? Why or why not? How can you learn to pursue “godliness with contentment” while living in a society that constantly bombards you with a message that you need and deserve more?

5. Read Matthew 6:19-24. How is this similar to Paul’s statement in 1 Timothy 6:10? What signs should you look in your life to discern if you love money or love God?

6. (Bonus - meaning if time permits) Should Christians ever go on strike? Why or why not?