In our study of 1 Timothy chapter two, we compare the Old Testament worship at the temple to the freedom that we have in Christ to be the temple.
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First of all, then, I counsel that petitions, prayers, intercessions and thanksgivings be made for all human beings, including kings and all in positions of prominence; so that we may lead quiet and peaceful lives, being godly and upright in everything.
Paul refers back to chapter 1 and the fact that some had rejected the authority that had been granted to Timothy by God. Paul urges us to pray for everyone especially those that have been put in places of authority. That is even more appropriate to us today in that it seems that there is a general lack of respect for our spiritual and political leaders. We often forget that they would not be in their positions if God did not want them there. Christians spend so much time arguing about politics and even bashing some leaders but it is very rare that we see a call to prayer for those same leaders.
This is what God, our Deliverer, regards as good; this is what meets his approval. He wants all humanity to be delivered and come to full knowledge of the truth.
It pleases God when, by faith, we do not argue over the leadership but instead take them to God in prayer. We must remember that God's goal is for everyone to be saved through the knowledge of Jesus Christ. Arguments, name calling, and such things will not accomplish this goal but a peaceful attitude of prayer can make a big impact.
For God is one;a and there is but one Mediator between God and humanity, Yeshua the Messiah, himself human, who gave himself as a ransom on behalf of all, thus providing testimony to God's purpose at just the right time.
Even though we may not like some people or their actions, we must remember that Jesus died for them as well as for us. The same Jesus that speaks to the Father on our behalf also speaks for them. This understanding will help us to live peaceful as Paul described.
This is why I myself was appointed a proclaimer, even an emissary - I am telling the truth, not lying! - a trustworthy and truthful teacher of the Goyim.
Paul, speaks here of the freedom that is given not only to the Jews but also to the Gentiles. Although it was hard for the Jews of that time to accept, God wants all men to be saved. The "true faith" that he talks about was that we are all saved by grace and not by works.
Therefore, it is my wish that when the men pray, no matter where, they should lift up hands that are holy - they should not become angry or get into arguments.
Paul speaks, now, of men being focused on prayer during worship. The reference to "holy hands" speaks of the fact that these men are to be continually set apart for God's use and not just "playing church" on a Sunday. This prayer is not only a bringing a list of wants and needs to the Lord but also a listening to the leadership of God through the Holy Spirit. They are to come with peace in their hearts towards their fellow man so that their hearts will be prepared to meet with the Lord.
Likewise, the women, when they pray, should be dressed modestly and sensibly in respectable attire, not with elaborate hairstyles and gold jewelry, or pearls, or expensive clothes. Rather, they should adorn themselves with what is appropriate for women who claim to be worshipping God, namely, good deeds.
This passage is widely misunderstood as many pastors will say that, if a woman wears makeup or does not wear a dress to worship, she is going to hell. This is just modern legalism and a denial of the grace of God. Paul tells thisto Timothy and makes it clear that it is not some commandment but it is what he considers to be proper for worship. The simple fact of the matter is that all people should pray and seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit even in the way we dress.
Let a woman learn in peace, fully submitted; but I do not permit a woman to teach a man or exercise authority over him; rather, she is to remain at peace.
This passage has been widely misunderstood and used to keep women from becoming more active in the body of Christ. Paul says "I do not permit" which clearly lets us see that it is not an instruction from God but a rule of man. Our meditation on Women In Christian Leadership will give more insight on this topic.
For Adam was formed first, then Havah. Also it was not Adam who was deceived, but the woman who, on being deceived, became involved in the transgression.
Paul explains that the reason that he has this rule is the fact that Satan deceived the woman (see Genesis 3). We have to also remember that, at this time, women led in the pagan sex religions.
Nevertheless, the woman will be delivered through childbearing, provided that she continues trusting, loving and living a holy life with modesty.
Restoration (salvation) came through the birth of a child (Jesus) and this is for women as well as for men.
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