Saint Paul On the Line: Instructions for Worship in 1st Timothy 2:1-2

The Apostle Paul wrote under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit: “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession, and thanksgiving be made for all people — for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness” (1 Timothy 2:1-2, NIV). Paul was writing to Timothy who was serving in church leadership in Ephesus. These verses speak to the quality of Paul’s approach concerning the edification of the church through his instruction to a young pastor who was his “son in the faith” (1 Timothy 1:2).

Because Ephesus was historically pagan, we see in the apostle’s instructions a socio-culture awareness that required attention for the good of all people. This was not a call to pluralism absent of faith. Paul strategically conditioned the missional seedbed of Ephesus with sincere concern for the people of the church and community in such a way that they would understand that their welcome at the cross was genuine. The purpose of living a peaceful and quiet life in godliness and holiness is not without notice either. Paul knew from his experiences as God’s missionary to the Gentile world that his message often challenged the status quo in ways that were unexpected. There were instances where the preaching of the Gospel affected local pagan economies leading to social disturbances (Acts 19:23–41).

Paul looked to protect Timothy and the church plant in Ephesus by extending an ongoing welcome in intercessory capacities on behalf of kings and the local authorities alike. In doing this, he instructed Timothy from a place of genuine compassion for others. His motivation also stemmed from his desire to see the church plant succeed and grow in God’s peace. 

Paul’s relational approach in the light of Timothy’s development would play a significant part in insuring the long term sustainability of the Ephesian church plant.  Respect, rooted in the ways of God, was central to his instructional appeal concerning worship within its historically pagan missional context.

In application, Paul’s words can be taken at face value. The Apostle Paul knew that he had a difficult job to do. That job was to nurture and support Timothy’s pastoral development with the knowledge that they were called to establish and serve God’s church in peace. God the Father delivered on outstanding results in his son — Jesus Christ. The Apostle Paul highlighted truth: “For he himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility” (Ephesians 2:14, ESV).