Prayers for All

Scripture text:  1 Timothy 2:1-4
 
In 1 Timothy 2, Paul writes about one of the duties of the Church in order to war a good spiritual warfare: the duty of prayer.

Verse 1: Prayer is of supreme importance. It is to be put first, before all things. If we want to fight a good fight, we must pray. Prayer is talking to God. Reading, studying and meditating of God’s Word are important but these will be fruitless when done without prayer. We must take note of our prayer life.

Paul lists four types of prayers:

1.  “supplications” – These are prayers that focus on special needs. They are made with great urgency, knowing that only God can supply the needs. E.g.: salvation of our loved ones.
2.  “prayers” – The Greek word refers to a set time of prayer. E.g.: prayer meetings, pre-service prayer and pastoral prayer. It is a time where the church comes together in prayer.
3.  “intercessions” – These are prayers for others and are done in boldness. You may see a gap between God and a sinful people and you act as the one to fill the gap. E.g.: a parent praying for God’s mercy on his child who had sinned or misbehaved.
4.  “giving of thanks” – These are prayers in which we thank God. E.g.: for hearing our prayers, for what He has done, for giving us the best, for His faithfulness.

Paul also states that prayers must be made for all men. We must be willing to pray for one for another. Everyone needs prayer.

Verse 2: Paul singles out kings and people in authority to be in need of prayer. Benefits of praying for them:

1.  We may lead a quiet and peaceable life. These are physical benefits.
2.  We may live in godliness and honesty. This is a spiritual benefit: that we may have freedom to worship God and freedom to declare our faith.

Verse 3 & 4: Pray for all men is what God wants us to do. For God’s will is for all men to be saved, for all to come unto the knowledge of the truth.