1 Timothy 2

KJV · Chapter 2/6

1I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men;

2For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.

3For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;

4Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.

5For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus;

6Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time.

7Whereunto I am ordained a preacher, and an apostle, (I speak the truth in Christ, and lie not;) a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and verity.

8I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting.

9In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array;

10But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works.

11Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection.

12But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence.

13For Adam was first formed, then Eve.

14And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the transgression.

15Notwithstanding she shall be saved in childbearing, if they continue in faith and charity and holiness with sobriety.

📖 Chapter study

Summary

Paul asks that prayers be offered for everyone, including those in authority, so that the church may live in peace. He also gives instructions on conduct and order in the public worship of that specific community.

Explanation

The request to pray for kings and authorities reflects the desire for the church to live out and bear witness to its faith in a stable environment, even under the rule of an empire that often persecuted Christians. This chapter also deals with behavior and order in worship at Ephesus, a context shaped by customs specific to that culture and era. It is important to remember that the instructions about clothing and conduct reflect a local, first-century situation. The lasting principle behind the text is the pursuit of a quiet, godly, and dignified life before God and society.

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