1 Timothy 6:11

In contrast to the "some" (1 Timothy 6:10) who pursued money, Timothy should flee from this attitude. Paul evidently called him a "man of God" to remind Timothy of his calling and commitment to follow God. The Old Testament writers used the title "man of God" of prophets (i.e., Moses, Deuteronomy 33:1; David, Nehemiah 12:24; Elijah, 1 Kings 17:18; and Elisha, 2 Kings 4:7). God used it only of Timothy in the New Testament. Paul was giving Timothy a great honor and encouragement by calling him a man of God. The title describes one who stands for God faithfully against opposition as a spiritual leader and as an example to all believers.

In following God Timothy should pursue objectives different from the acquisition of wealth for selfish purposes. He should emphasize what the Holy Spirit seeks to produce in the life of a Christian (Galatians 5:22-23) and what is essential for a leader of God’s people (1 Timothy 3:1-3).

"Righteousness" includes all attitudes and actions in harmony with what God calls right.

"Godliness" is godlike character and conduct.

"Faith" is trust in God.

"Love" is selfless devotion to the needs of others.

"Perseverance" is faithful continuance through adverse or discouraging circumstances.

"Gentleness" is tender kindness toward others.

The first two of these goals are general characteristics that represent one’s relationship with God. The second two are specific attitudes that animate the Christian life. The third two are specific actions that define correct ways of relating to a hostile world. Together they draw a silhouette of a "man [person] of God." The trio of faith, love, and perseverance also appears in Titus 2:2.

"Virtue lists, such as this one (2 Timothy 2:22-25; 2 Timothy 3:10), were a typical feature of Hellenistic ethical teaching that allowed the cardinal virtues to be packaged and presented neatly and concisely. The use of this device by Paul and other NT writers (sometimes alongside a contrasting list of vices) shows indebtedness to the literary and pedagogical fashions of the day." [Note: Towner, The Letters . . ., p. 408.]