Charles Ellicott Commentary 1 Timothy 6:18

"that they do good, that they be rich in good works, that they be ready to distribute, willing to communicate;" — 1 Timothy 6:18 (ASV)

That they do good, that they be rich in good works.—These words—coming directly after the statement that the good and pleasant things of this world, which are possessed in so large a share by the “rich,” are, after all, the gifts of God, who means them for our enjoyment—these words seem to point to the highest enjoyment procurable by these “rich”—the luxury of doing good, of helping others to be happy, the only enjoyment that never fails, never disappoints.

Ready to distribute, willing to communicate.—In distinguishing between these words, which are nearly synonymous, the first points rather to the hand which generously gives, and the second to the heart which lovingly sympathises.

The first obeys willingly the Master’s charge—“Give to him that asketh;” the second follows that loving command which bids His own to rejoice with those that rejoice, and to mourn with those that mourn.

The grace.—This is his “salutation.” The Greek secular salutation, at greeting and parting alike, was chaire (literally, rejoice); so St. Paul, alike at beginning and ending, uses a word of kindred origin, charis (“grace”). Observe the word “all” again, as in 2 Thessalonians 3:16.

St. Chrysostom’s beautiful comment may well be given: “What he calls his ‘salutation’ is the prayer, showing that the whole business they were then involved in was spiritual; and even when he must give a salutation, some benefit must accompany it, and it must be a prayer, not a mere symbol of friendship. It was with this he would begin, and with this he would end, fencing around what he said with mighty walls on either side; and safe were the foundations he laid, and safe the conclusion that he built upon them. Grace to you, he cries, and peace; and once more, [Peace always and] the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all.—Amen.”