1 Timothy

2.1-15

In the two sections of this chapter, we are exhorted to a priority of how we should pray. The inclusion of "all men" in this direction carries the weight of our burden for the lost. It is God's intent for us to fervently seek Him on behalf of those whom He desires "to be saved and to come to the full knowledge of the truth" (v.4). The second section (9-15), often contentiously debated, should not be mistaken for needful of adaptation to modern thought. God's Word seeks no modification for the changes of the world through time. His Word is timeless. Instead, we should look to the time when these words were written to understand that the role of a woman in the church was directed to specify learning (v.11) - contrary to what would have been the standards of that day. Proper attire in the church should not distract from worship, which would have been immodest and lacked self-restraint (as a stumbling block). The prohibition of women exercising authority over a man does not impart that a woman is inferior to men. Authority in the church over a man would include assuming the role of a pastor or elder, or leading the teaching of the church. The role of male leadership is part of God's design, beginning with His creation of Adam. This was first undermined when Eve, who, unsuited suited by her nature to assume the position of ultimate responsibility, stepped out from under the protection and leadership of Adam.

"Men are to be leaders in the church and family. Women are kept from any accusation of inferiority through the godly influence they have on the lives of their precious children. For the church to depart from this divine order is to perpetuate the disaster of the Fall." - John MacArthur

CHAPTER 2

Exhortation to Prayer

1 First of all, then, I exhort that petitions and prayers, requests and thanksgivings, be made for all men,
2 for kings and all who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity.
3 This is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior,
4 who desires all men to be saved and to come to the full knowledge of the truth.
5 For there is one God, and one mediator also between God and men, the man Christ Jesus,
6 who gave Himself as a ransom for all, the witness for this proper time.
7 For this I was appointed a preacher and an apostle (I am telling the truth, I am not lying) as a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth.
8 Therefore I want the men in every place to pray, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and dissension.

Instructions for Women

9 Likewise, I want women to adorn themselves with proper clothing, with modesty and self-restraint, not with braided hair and gold or pearls or costly clothing,
10 but rather by means of good works, as is proper for women professing godliness.
11 A woman must learn in quietness, in all submission.
12 But I do not allow a woman to teach or exercise authority over a man, but to remain quiet.
13 For it was Adam who was first formed, and then Eve.
14 And it was not Adam who was deceived, but the woman being deceived, fell into trespass.
15 But she will be saved through the bearing of children, if they continue in faith and love and sanctification with self-restraint.