1 Timothy 6:11 Meaning and Explanation

Paul turns from warning to direct charge: as a man of God, Timothy is to run away from the love of money and run hard after six godly virtues instead.

The opening "But thou" sets Timothy apart from those just described who chased riches into ruin. The title "man of God" recalls the great prophets and gives weight to the command. Paul gives two opposite motions. First, "flee these things," actively escaping greed the way one runs from danger rather than negotiating with it. Second, "follow after" six qualities, a verb meaning to pursue or chase as eagerly as a runner after a prize. The list forms a portrait of mature character: righteousness (right living), godliness (devotion to God), faith (steady trust), love (self-giving care), patience (steadfast endurance under pressure), and meekness (strength held under gentle control). These are the active aim of a whole life. The Christian life, then, has both a flight and a chase, turning decisively from what destroys and pressing toward what builds. You cannot merely avoid evil; you must replace it with vigorous pursuit of the good.