² Those who have believing masters should not show them disrespect just because they are fellow believers.^(A) Instead, they should serve them even better because their masters are dear to them as fellow believers and are devoted to the welfare^[a] of their slaves.

False Teachers and the Love of Money

These are the things you are to teach and insist on.^{(B) 3} If anyone teaches otherwise^(C) and does not agree to the sound instruction^(D) of our Lord Jesus Christ and to godly teaching, ⁴ they are conceited^(E) and understand nothing. They have an unhealthy interest in controversies and quarrels about words^(F) that result in envy, strife, malicious talk, evil suspicions ⁵ and constant friction between people of corrupt mind, who have been robbed of the truth^(G) and who think that godliness is a means to financial gain.

⁶ But godliness with contentment^(H) is great gain.^{(I) 7} For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it.^{(J) 8} But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that.^{(K) 9} Those who want to get rich^(L) fall into temptation and a trap^(M) and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. ¹⁰ For the love of money^(N) is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith^(O) and pierced themselves with many griefs.^(P)

¹⁷ Command those who are rich^(A) in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth,^(B) which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God,^(C) who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.^{(D) 18} Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds,^(E) and to be generous and willing to share.^{(F) 19} In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves^(G) as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of^(H) the life that is truly life.