Slavery - hate how this passage has been misapplied by white so-called Christians to justify capturing, selling, enslaving, raping, torturing and killing generations of blacks, in violation of Golden Rule. Roman slavery often more like indentured servitude, entered into by choice. Elsewhere Paul compares slave traders to homosexuals, and doesn’t forbid efforts to leave slavery.
Love of Money (to the tune of America the Beautiful) - "O beautiful the hands and feet that run to serve the poor / that need no more than clothes and food / contentment to restore / America, America, God shed his grace on thee / don't let your dough ensnare you so / be rich in charity."
Paul’s Charge to Timothy – flee love of money like Joseph fled Potiphar’s wife. Instead pursue love of God and other gifts of Spirit: free, more satisfying, retirement plan much better. Young man: don’t settle, go for the best. The slavers, the money lovers, the arrogant finance barons and any Strong who enslave, oppress and kill the Weak for love of money or lust - they have chosen their false gods, but YOU Timothy, worship and confess and give glory to and wait for the return of the Son of the one true God -
The Blessed and Only Ruler
The King of Kings and Lord of Lords
Who alone is immortal and who lives in unapproachable light
Whom no one has seen or can see
To Him be honor and might forever
Total words: 247!
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