For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all, the testimony in its own times 1 Timothy 2:5-6 WEB
The first letter to Timothy is one of three pastoral epistles written by Paul in the biblical canon. In the second chapter of this book, Paul gives Timothy instructions on proper worship. Paul teaches Timothy that it pleases God for the faithful to strive through prayer and worship to bring all people to the truth of Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.
Jesus taught the faithful to love one another. As we read in John 13:34, “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also love one another. WEB” In addition, Jesus taught the faithful to love even their enemies. Matthew 5:43-44 records this command as it reads, “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who mistreat you and persecute you. WEB”
The Glory of God
In accordance with the teaching of Christ, Paul instructs Timothy to lead worship services that petition God on behalf of all people. He encourages prayer and intercession focused on bringing all people to the knowledge of the truth of Christ. As such, Paul directs Timothy to offer thanksgiving to God for all of mankind in order to live godly and peaceful lives. Paul’s reasoning is that Jesus gave himself as a ransom for all people. And so, it is the responsibility of the church to lovingly pray for the repentant and the unrepentant alike in hopes that more and more individuals come to Christ.
Scripture makes clear that we are all sinners. As Paul writes in Romans 3:23, “for all have sinned, and fall short of the glory of God. WEB” In as much as Jesus died for the sins of those who follow him today, Christ also died on the cross for the sins of those who are yet to place their faith in him.
Come to Repentance
As a ransom for all, Jesus is the mediator between sinful man and God. Each of us needs Christ to cover our sins. As we read in 2 Peter 3:9, “The Lord is not slow concerning his promise, as some count slowness; but he is patient with us, not wishing that anyone should perish, but that all should come to repentance. WEB”
God is patient, holy, and righteous, Our Lord does not tolerate sin. However, he is slow to anger. It pleases our heavenly Father to witness our repentance and welcome new members into his holy family. As in the story of the prodigal son, God is overjoyed when we turn from sin and seek him. For this reason, Paul instructs Timothy to lead worship services that petition God in prayer, interceding not only for our faithful friends, but also for those who do not yet believe. God wants us to love as he loves, patiently offering love to both friends and enemies.
Prayer: “Father God, thank you for each individual you place in my life. Thank you for every opportunity I have to share the truth of Jesus as a ransom for all. Give me wisdom to make the most of every opportunity you give. Help me to live a life that serves your purpose. In Jesus name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: The Poor in Spirit
