In 1 Timothy 2 we have a series of directions given by the great apostle to Timothy regarding prayer. It brings to mind Jesus’ words, commonly called the Lord’s prayer (Luke 11) as the disciples requested of Him, “Lord, teach us to pray” (11:1).
Paul was teaching Timothy how to pray, or to be more specific, a part of what his prayers to God should consist. How should we pray for others?
First, note who the others are… they are specified. First, “all men” (2:1). We do not pray merely for those with whom we are familiar, but with all the family of man.
It is the desire of God that all men be saved (cf. 1 Timothy 2:4). It is certainly appropriate for us to be like Him in this desire. This is the reason why Jesus came to earth. “For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved” (John 3:17).
With that in mind, he specifies within the group of “all men” specific individuals like “kings and all who are in authority” (2). The Old Testament teaches clearly the strong and evil influence that ungodly kings and other authority figures can have over society in general. The priesthood during the days of Malachi serve as a good example, ‘“For the lips of a priest should keep knowledge, and people should seek the law from his mouth, for he is the messenger of the Lord of hosts. But you have departed from the way; you have caused many to stumble at the law. You have corrupted the covenant of Levi,’ says the Lord of hosts” (Malachi 2:8-9).
There are myriad ways that those in authority can impact the spiritual welfare of the believer. One way implied here is the persecution or the frustration of our efforts to serve God. This is why Paul states the intended end result of our prayers, “that we all may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior” (2:2-3).
So, what kind of prayers do we offer? Imprecatory prayers? (wishing harm, cf. Psalms 69:26; 109:8). No, while both of those were prophetic of Judas’ betrayal and later replacement as an apostle, (cf. Acts 1:20), Paul is not considering this.
Instead, we are to offer supplications (asking God, in an entreaty for), prayers (a general term for addressing God), intercessions (to speak on behalf of another to God), giving of thanks (being grateful for). All of these things are positive, intended to save the souls of both the one for whom we pray, and by extension, the salvation of any he may impact.
Which gets us to the final point of Paul’s instructions in verse 4. God desires all men to be saved. It is the Christian’s purpose to assist in this effort to save all, whether it be through preaching, example, edification or prayer!
