1 Timothy 2:1-7, September 18-24, Year C:

First of all, Paul tells Timothy that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings should be made for all people, for "kings and all who are in high positions." And he gives a very good reason why these prayers should be offered. It is for the purpose of aiding us in leading a quiet and ordered life. It is conducive to the process of evangelization. God desires that all those who are predestined for salvation will come to a knowledge of the truth; but this process is made more difficult when society and nations are in turmoil. In our culture and throughout western civilization, we are more likely to criticize those in authority than we are to pray for them. We act as though we know everything we need to know and can pass judgment on those we don't like. Certainly, we may share our opinions; but the greatest tool we have in our efforts to encourage godliness in life and government is the weapon of prayer. The prayers should not be simply that everybody does what we want; but that all in authority--in church, government, or business--should seek the will of God. In this way, the spread of the Gospel can be facilitated and societal transformation can occur. We will not bring in the kingdom; but we can pray for those who may be seeking to hinder God's purposes. And note that Paul even urges that "thanksgivings" be made for the subjects of our prayers. This gives credence to the idea that even a bad ruler is better than none. All of this is important because, as Paul reminds Timothy here, "there is one Mediator" between God and men; and that Mediator is Christ Jesus. The testimony of this fact was given in God's own time, at the proper time; and it was for this purpose that Paul was made an apostle. Our pluralistic world today resists the notion that there is only one Mediator between God and humanity. This goes against our human pride, our desire for autonomy, and our sense of fairness. However, this is the clear teaching of Scripture that was affirmed throughout the history of the early church. It is presumptuous of modern man to think that we have some understanding that corrects or transcends the apostolic teachings. Let us again consider the context of this chapter. Paul is saying that because there is just this one Mediator, we need to be especially careful to pray for the conditions that will aid in worldwide evangelization. Clearly, this would be to the glory of God and for the good of His creation. Would we not prefer a Christian world to a world of clashing conflict and noisy confusion? It is not arrogant of us to desire those things which God Himself desires. We should pray that all would come to a knowledge of the saving truth of Christ Jesus.