A note from our Pastor:

“For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.”

1 Timothy 2:2

Good Morning Dearly Beloved,

In verse one of this chapter, the Apostle instructs the reader regarding the need to pray for all men and the four types of prayers which the believer should endeavor to engage in on a regular basis. As we come to our study verse this week, the Apostle is instructing Timothy and those Timothy is teaching to pray for one particular group of people—those who were in secular authority. His reason for instructing them in prayer is also stated which is for them to live a quiet and peaceable life.

In order to properly interpret this verse we need to place it back in its original context. This verse, like so many, has adopted an interpretation based on American view point and egocentrism. When the Apostle wrote these words the audience he was writing to were still under Roman authority. Only a few years before, less than a decade, the Jews in and around Jerusalem had attempted to rebel against the Roman authority and were crushed. Their cities were destroyed and their people, men, women, and children, were killed. It is under these circumstances the Apostle writes these words.

The point being, unlike how Americans have twisted this verse, the Apostle had no thought of the leaders of the region leading from a place of shared values and morals. The Apostle and his audience were believers in Jesus Christ and the Roman authority were pagans with their own ideas and teachings. Thus, the instruction the Apostle is giving is more about influencing the mindset of the community of believers than it is about influencing how the leaders will govern. In other words, the Apostle was reminding them to respect and pray for their leaders instead of being rebellious and bringing destruction.

So how does this apply to the community of believers today? First, we should certainly continue to pray for the community of believers to be able to live quiet and peaceable lives without interference in how we worship. It does not matter the time or the place this prayer should remain as Christ is the head of the church and is the only one we give our allegiance to in this life. Second, the community of believers should pray for leaders in secular positions who protect the rights and liberties of all people. When secular leaders adopt the views of one group to the oppression of others it puts the government out of balance and leads to destruction.

Finally, we should remember the Apostle’s last statement in this verse, “in all godliness and honesty.” No matter the situation, circumstance, or topic the choices the disciple makes should reflect their desire to live a life which reflects the love, grace, mercy, and compassion of Jesus Christ.

Our Prayers are with you daily,

Brother Jeremiah