1 Timothy 2:1
What does 1 Timothy 2:1 mean?
A plain-English look at 1 Timothy 2:1 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What 1 Timothy 2:1 means
Paul opens with an urgent priority: the church’s gathered life must be marked first by prayer. He names several facets—supplications for specific needs, general prayers of devotion, intercessions that plead on behalf of others, and thanksgivings that recognize God’s goodness. The scope is deliberately wide: for all people. Christian prayer refuses narrowness; it embraces friend and stranger, neighbor and opponent. Gratitude and concern together shape our outlook, softening hard hearts and aligning us with God’s merciful purposes. Prayer is not an optional preface to ministry; it is the work itself, expressing dependence on God and love toward all whom he has made.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000I exhort therefore, first of all, that supplications, prayers, intercessions, thanksgivings, be made for all men;
KJV
King James Version · 1611I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men;
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901I exhort therefore, first of all, that supplications, prayers, intercessions, thanksgivings, be made for all men;
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949My desire is, first of all, that you will make requests and prayers and give praise for all men;
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862I exhort, then, first of all, there be made supplications, prayers, intercessions, thanksgivings, for all men:
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752I desire therefore, first of all, that supplications, prayers, intercessions and thanksgivings be made for all men:
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890I exhort therefore, first of all, that supplications, prayers, intercessions, thanksgivings be made for all men;
Context
This opening command begins Paul’s instructions on public worship and congregational order. He starts not with structure or office but with prayer, the chief business of the assembly. Verse 2 will narrow the focus to those in authority, showing a practical aim for such prayer. Verses 3–6 will root this practice in God’s saving character and Christ’s unique mediation. The movement is from practice to principle: pray broadly because God’s heart is broad.
v.1This passage
v.2for kings and all that are in high place; that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and gravity.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Matthew 6:9
After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father who art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
- Psalms 67:1
God be merciful unto us, and bless us, And cause his face to shine upon us; [Selah
- Acts 17:30
The times of ignorance therefore God overlooked; but now he commandeth men that they should all everywhere repent:
- 2 Corinthians 8:6
Insomuch that we exhorted Titus, that as he had made a beginning before, so he would also complete in you this grace also.
- Philippians 1:3
I thank my God upon all my remembrance of you,
- Psalms 72:19
And blessed be his glorious name for ever; And let the whole earth be filled with his glory. Amen, and Amen.
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