Paul gave Timothy remarkably specific instructions about wealthy people in his church.
He didn't tell Timothy to avoid them.
He didn't tell him to flatter them.
And he didn't tell him to shame them for having resources.
He told Timothy to pastor them.
In 1 Timothy 6:17–19, Paul tells Timothy to instruct those who are rich not to become arrogant and not to place their hope in wealth, which is uncertain. Instead, they should place their hope in God, who richly provides for us.
Then Paul goes further.
He tells them to do good.
To be rich in good deeds.
To be generous.
And to be willing to share.
That's an extraordinary framework for pastoring high-capacity people.
Notice that Paul doesn't attack wealth.
He addresses the spiritual dangers that can accompany it.
Pride.
False security.
Self-sufficiency.
And then he redirects wealth toward kingdom purpose.
That's our job as pastors.
We're not supposed to make wealthy people feel guilty for what God has entrusted to them.
We're supposed to help them become faithful with it.
There is an enormous difference.
I want people with significant resources to understand:
Your wealth may be one of the greatest stewardship assignments God has ever given you.
It isn't your identity.
It isn't your security.
And ultimately, it isn't even yours.
You've been entrusted with it for a season.
The question is what you will do with it.
Paul finishes by connecting generosity with eternity. Through generosity, believers “lay up treasure” for the coming age and take hold of life that is truly life.
In other words, generosity isn't merely funding ministry.
It's forming disciples.
That's why pastors must not surrender the conversation about money.
If we refuse to talk about wealth because we're afraid someone will think we're fundraising, we may neglect an important part of someone's discipleship.
Pastor them.
Teach them.
Challenge them.
Encourage them to enjoy God's provision while holding it with open hands.
Then help them discover the joy of turning temporary resources into eternal impact.