1 Timothy 2
CHAPTER 2
Paul encourages prayerfulness
I urge therefore, first of all, that supplications, prayers, intercessions and thanksgivings be made for all men; 2 for kings, and all that are in high place, that we may lead a calm and quiet life in all Godliness and dignity. 3 This is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour, 4 who would wish all men to be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth. 5 For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, 6 who gave himself as a ransom for all, the testimony made at the due time. 7 To this I was appointed a preacher and an apostle (I speak the truth, I do not lie), a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth.
8 I therefore desire that the men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without anger and dispute. 9 In like manner, I urge that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with bashfulness and sobriety; not with braided hair and gold or pearls or costly clothing, 10 but apparel which becomes women professing reverence towards God through good works. 11 Let a woman learn in quietness with all subjection; 12 I do not permit a woman to teach, nor to have dominion over a man, but to be in submission. 13 For Adam was first formed, then Eve; 14 and Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived fell into transgression. 15 But she shall be saved through the child-bearing, if they continue in faith, love and sanctification with sobriety.
Commentary
2:5 This verse clearly shows the Trinity to be a wrong understanding. Writing even after Jesus ascended to Heaven, Paul calls Him “the man Christ Jesus”. He is a mediator between God and man; not God Himself, for there is only one God.
2:8 I therefore desire- Because we have such a powerful mediator for our prayers before God (v. 5), therefore we should make use of this blessing, and pray.
2:13,14 The basis for Paul’s teaching about the differing roles of men and women is based upon the principles of Adam and Eve in Eden; his teaching is therefore not just a special expedient for his own times, because it is continuing the principles God laid down in creation.
