1 Timothy 2:1-7
1 “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— 2 for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. 3 This is good, and pleases God our Savior, 4 who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 5 For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus, 6 who gave himself as a ransom for all people. This has now been witnessed to at the proper time. 7 And for this purpose I was appointed a herald and an apostle—I am telling the truth, I am not lying—and a true and faithful teacher of the Gentiles.”
All people: Paul is encouraging believers to pray and intercede for all people including those who are in authority. Notice that Paul does not state that we ought to only pray for those leaders that we like or who best represent our political beliefs. No, we are to pray for all who are in authority.
Peaceful and quiet lives: Paul wants believers to be known as good citizens who seek the good of all people. He is not encouraging passivity but rather an intentionally loving life even in the midst of suffering. This communicates that believers are a peaceful people and not militant about preaching the Gospel.
All people to be saved: Paul is clearly teaching a universal view of election. God is not only electing certain people to salvation. He has chosen Jews and Gentiles for salvation in Christ. Christ, therefore, died for the entire world so that all who call on His name may be saved. But God will not force His salvation on any person. Individuals must receive the Gospel.
The man Christ Jesus: Paul is esteeming both the humanity and divinity of Christ at the same time. The humanity and divinity of Christ work together because they are compatible with one another. This is the mystery in which we trust as believers. Just as the humanity of Jesus was compatible with His divinity, so also is our humanity compatible with his divinity.
Ransom for all people: Jesus bought us back from sin and death. We have been purchased by the blood of Jesus Christ. Through His death and resurrection, we have victory over death.
I am not lying: The false teachers were likely spreading lies about Paul in order to instill doubt about his credibility. This is why Paul constantly needs to defend his mission to the Gentiles.
