1 Timothy 6:9

Rich. Paul continues his evaluation of religious teachers who make merchandise out of their religious duties. However, the principles clearly apply to all Christians. Those who strive for riches are nurturing within themselves a fire of passion that will eventually destroy the finer qualities of the soul. Man cannot serve God and mammon simultaneously (see on Matt. 6:24; James 1:8–11).

Fall. The passion for riches presents a limitless assortment of enticements to compromise principle (see on James 1:12–15).

Foolish. Or, “unwise,” “unreasonable.” Regardless of the reasons men give for their headlong rush for riches, few prove reasonable when health fails or when the grave beckons. To acquire extensive material possessions presupposes that other important matters are neglected. Daily Christian duties that call for time and personal attention are almost sure to be reduced to a minimum.

Lusts. See on Rom. 7:7.

Drown. By its very nature the lust for riches is a threat to the life and health of the spirit. The seductiveness of riches is here compared to the false sense of security a mediocre swimmer possesses when he attempts an untried channel.

Destruction. Gr. olethros, “ruin,” from a word meaning “to destroy.” In classical Greek olethros is used to describe the destruction of property. Here Paul notes the ruin, in this life, of the soul’s finest qualities, which results from the pursuit of riches. The tender ties of parent and child are often sacrificed on the altar of material possessions. The happy atmosphere of a contented home is often blighted by the insatiable quest for wealth. The finer features of a man’s character always suffer when he measures his service by the fees he receives.

Perdition. Gr. apōleia, “utter ruin,” “complete destruction,” from a word meaning “to destroy utterly,” “to perish.” The man who allows himself to be trapped by the lure of riches destroys his peace of mind, often severing the bonds of affection of this life, and at the end is doomed to eternal destruction. However, there is no Biblical basis for the belief that the unsaved will live forever amid tormenting flames. After the judgment sin and sinners are utterly destroyed (see on Matt. 25:41; John 3:16; Rev. 20:15).