Wealth according to 1 Timothy 6, 6-10 and 6, 17-19

The First Epistle to Timothy develops the theme of wealth in two different sections (6:6-10 and 6:17-19), not far apart but clearly separated. This doubleness is surprising, and Samuel BENETREAU wonders whether it is mere redundancy or, on the contrary, tension, or even opposition? His study endeavours to point out what belongs to each, one being an outcome of the antiheretical controversy, the other instructions aimed at the rich in the church. The addressees are not the same, but the basic message is. Desire to possess is a lure for for all, whether they are longing for wealth or already well off. What really matters is the heart and how it induces priorities.