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On behalf of kings and all those having authority1 – that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life2 in all reverence and seriousness.3
| 1 | Kings and all those having authority: Or, eminent station, high positions, high office, positions of responsibility. The Nazarene gave similar advice. [Compare notes on Matthew 5:44 in Nazarene Commentary 2000©.] As does Peter [1 Peter 2:14]. Christians are urged or encouraged to pray for persons in political power. Paul clarifies this in the next phrase. See notes on Romans 13:1ff. |
| 2 | That we may lead a tranquil and quiet life: Or, peaceable, undisturbed, calm. Paul does not urge prayers for political successes or failures but rather than Christians may lead a normal and life of peacefulness. The Church had no fight with the powers that be but sought a means – as peacemakers – to be peaceable with all persons. [See notes on Romans 12:18.] The Christian neighbor is not characterized as confrontational or adversarial, but rather strives to get along with those in the community. |
| 3 | In all reverence and seriousness: The Greek for “reverence” is EU-SEBEIA [Strong’s Concordance #2150, godliness, piety] The root has the meaning of an excellent and proper awe-inspiring fear of God. Or, godliness, godly. The Greek for “seriousness” is SEMNOTETI [Strong’s Concordance #4587, honorable, honest, venerableness, gravity] Or, honesty, gravity, decorum, dignity, respectful, reverent spirit, high standards of morality. The Christian neighbor is characterized in the community as a religious, well-mannered and decent human being who strives for peaceful relations with all. The whole idea of Paul seems to echo Jeremiah 29:7. |
Dear Friends of the Nazarene,
We choose 1 Timothy 2:2 as the theme verse of chapter two – Counsel to Men and Women. First Paul addresses himself to the men in the Christian Church. [1-8] He encourages them to continue in prayers in order to “live a tranquil and quiet life.” God would wish that everyone would be save and gain as complete knowledge of the Truth. For there is but one mediator who sacrificed himself as a substitutionary ransom for all. So all Christian men are encouraged in their prayers, apart from any “divisive opinions.”
Paul next addresses sister in the Christian Church. [9-15] Sisters should dress with modesty, avoiding showy and expensive clothing and jewelry. Christian women should be characterized by “good works.” They should “learn in silence with all submissiveness.” Women are not permitted to teach in the Christian Church, or to exercise any authority over men. Paul gives his reasons for this Christian standard. It is best for Christian women to bear children and continue in their faith and loving charity to others.
Abba our Father bless Christian men and women who obey Paul’s commands.
[23 July 2002]
