1 Timothy 2:1-4
“Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all people, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.”
What’s the Call?
To pray for all people.
To pray for all who are in authority.
What’s the Goal?
That we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence.
That people come to know Jesus.
Jesus-followers are peace-bringers and peace-makers. We are agents of peace.
Through prayer, humility, gentleness, joy, and acts of generosity and service, we infuse society with hope and peace.
We are especially remarkable in tough times. When it’s darkest, the light shines brightest.
The time in which we live provides a golden opportunity for followers of Jesus to operate in the opposite spirit and make a difference in our world.
What We Pray
As followers of Jesus…
We pray for followers of Jesus to be salt and light in these testing times.
We pray for those who don’t believe yet, that they find comfort and truth in Jesus in the midst of the challenging circumstances the world faces.
We pray for all who are in authority, that they enjoy God’s wisdom and favour as they navigate the turbulent waters of these days.
What We Do
As followers of Jesus…
We pray for all who are in authority (1 Timothy 2:2).
We submit to the governing authorities (Romans 13:1-7, 1 Peter 2:13-17).
We walk in wisdom toward those who are outside, redeeming the time. Our speech is always with grace, seasoned with salt, that we may know how to answer the questions others ask (Colossians 4:5, 6).
We let no corrupt word proceed from our mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers (Ephesians 4:29).
We let our light shine before people, that they may see our good works and glorify our Father in heaven (Matthew 5:16).
What We Do NOT Do
As followers of Jesus…
We do not peddle in conspiracy theories no matter how juicy they sound. (Instead, we speak words of hope with our eyes set on Jesus and His ever-increasing Kingdom.)
We do not dishonour our governing authorities no matter how inept or corrupt we think they are. (Instead, we pray for them and honour their office while using the democratic tools available to us.)
We do not promote anarchy no matter how desperate or frustrated we become. (Instead, we trust God and lean on our community of faith, knowing God is faithful to provide.)
We do not spread fear no matter how valid we feel our concerns might be. (Instead, we act in the opposite spirit and by faith, we shape a better future.)
#1Tim2
Join me in making the #1Tim2 response.
Full of faith and hope, pray and act in the way of Jesus.
Resist the temptation to be a channel of fear and chaos.
While this is a terribly testing time, it is also an incredible opportunity to demonstrate the love, hope and peace of God.
We were born for such a time as this.
Interested in more on this topic? See our article entitled Unto Caesar.