A note from our Pastor:

“For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; // Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.“

1 Timothy 2:3-4

Good Morning Dearly Beloved,

This week with our study verses we come to the conclusion of the Apostle’s lesson on prayer. In prior verses, the Apostle has set forth the types of prayers the disciple should engage in and the need to pray for those in authority. Now he concludes the lesson with a focus on the larger spiritual purpose of prayer.

In verse three of this chapter, the Apostle makes a very simple statement which needs little interpretation. Prayer, in all its forms, when done by the child of God is pleasing unto God. The very act of prayer is one of reverence and praise for the Almighty God we serve. Thus, we should be reminded and encouraged to pray if for no other reason that God finds it pleasing.

In contrast to the simplicity of verse three, verse four is quite complex and needs examination. First, the Apostle says in reference to God, “who will have all men to be saved.” In order to understand this verse, we must understand the distinction regarding the word “will”. In some places in scripture, God’s will is a reference to his purpose and actions. As stated in Psalm 115:3, God does his will and no one can stand in the way of it. However, in other places in scripture “will” is interpreted as desire. In other words, God desires for a certain action to take place but it is dependent on the person to do so. See the examples of Ezekiel 33:11 and Isaiah 55:12.

Thus, in examining this verse we must understand which meaning should be applied. The answer to that question is in the context of the verse. The Apostle has just said it is pleasing to God for people to pray for one another. To make intercessions for one another and to pray for those in authority. Thus, the saving in question is directly tied to the prayer. With this being the case, the clear understanding is the “will” of God described here is the desire of God, not his purpose and intent.

Finally, what saving is intended? The only saving which is connected to prayer. Eternal salvation is not connected to prayer because it is accomplished solely by God. However, the saving from evil and untruth in this lifetime is accomplished by prayer. When the child of God comes to the knowledge of the truth of Jesus Christ and begins to live in love, mercy, and grace they are saved from the forces of evil around them.

Our Prayers are with you daily,

Brother Jeremiah