Over the past two weeks we have been examining the condition of materialism. An easy and simple definition of materialism is: to examine and value the events and opportunities of life from a singular perspective of the immediate and physical results or rewards. This past Sunday we went to 1Timothy 6:1 to see an example of materialism from the pen of the apostle Paul. In this text he speaks of the matter of employees giving due honor and respect to their supervisors. It is the teaching of this text that to do otherwise will bring discredit to the person of God and the doctrine of the New Testament.
1 Timothy 6:1 Let as many servants as are under the yoke count their own masters worthy of all honour, that the name of God and his doctrine be not blasphemed.
To see how greatly materialism has encroached upon us we need only observe the caustic, adversarial relationship between management and labor these days. Paul calls this an ungodly thing, yet we as believers today openly and agreeably participate with this for the cause of our own material benefit. This is only one clear example of how greatly materialism has overcome the life of God’s people today.
I sense you already objecting to what I am saying here and challenge you to observe that you justify your objection with the material argument that such a relationship is necessary or management would take unmeasured advantage of labor. It is blatant and bold materialistic idolatry. It is the confession that you will be obedient to Scripture only when it does not cost you material loss. Think about it!
