1 Timothy 2:1

KJV

¶ I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, [and] giving of thanks, be made for all men;

KJV (with Strong's)

I exhort {G3870} therefore {G3767}, that, first {G4412} of all {G3956}, supplications {G1162}, prayers {G4335}, intercessions {G1783}, and giving of thanks {G2169}, be made {G4160} for {G5228} all {G3956} men {G444};

Complete Jewish Bible

First of all, then, I counsel that petitions, prayers, intercessions and thanksgivings be made for all human beings,

Berean Standard Bible

First of all, then, I urge that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgiving be offered for everyone—

American Standard Version

I exhort therefore, first of all, that supplications, prayers, intercessions, thanksgivings, be made for all men;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Timothy 2:1 serves as a foundational exhortation from the Apostle Paul to Timothy, emphasizing the paramount importance and comprehensive nature of prayer within the Christian community. It calls believers to engage in a wide spectrum of prayer—supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings—not merely for themselves or fellow believers, but universally "for all men," setting the stage for a holistic and outward-focused approach to corporate and individual devotion that reflects God's redemptive heart for humanity.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse initiates a critical section within Paul's first letter to Timothy, transitioning from instructions regarding false teaching and sound doctrine in [chapter 1](/1_timothy/1 "1 Timothy 1 - Warnings Against False Doctrine") to practical guidelines for public worship and church order. The "therefore" (οὖν, G3767) links this exhortation directly to the preceding discussion, implying that proper prayer is a necessary response to the challenges of false teaching and a key component of a healthy church. Verses 2-7 elaborate on the reasons for praying for "all men," specifically mentioning kings and those in authority, and connecting this practice to God's universal desire for salvation. This passage thus forms the theological and practical bedrock for the subsequent instructions on gender roles in worship and qualifications for church leadership, as seen in [1 Timothy 3](/1_timothy/3 "1 Timothy 3 - Qualifications for Overseers and Deacons").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Written likely between A.D. 62-64, during Paul's release from his first Roman imprisonment, 1 Timothy addresses Timothy, who was leading the church in Ephesus, a prominent city in Asia Minor known for its diverse religious practices and the pervasive cult of Artemis. The Ephesian church faced internal challenges, including false teachers promoting asceticism and myths ([1 Timothy 1:3-7](/1_timothy/1-3-7 "1 Timothy 1:3-7 - Warnings Against False Teachers")), as well as external pressures from a pagan society. In this environment, Paul's instructions on orderly worship and prayer, especially for "all men" and those in authority, were crucial. Such prayers would have been counter-cultural, as Christians were often viewed with suspicion or hostility by Roman authorities, yet Paul insists on a posture of respectful and beneficial intercession, aiming for a peaceful environment conducive to gospel proclamation ([1 Timothy 2:2-4](/1_timothy/2-2-4 "1 Timothy 2:2-4 - The Purpose of Prayer for All Men")).
* **Key Themes:** The overarching theme of [1 Timothy](/1_timothy/1 "The First Letter of Paul to Timothy") is the proper conduct in God's household, which is "the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth" ([1 Timothy 3:15](/1_timothy/3-15 "1 Timothy 3:15 - The Church as God's Household")). Within this broader context, [1 Timothy 2](/1_timothy/2 "1 Timothy 2 - Instructions for Prayer and Conduct") specifically emphasizes the **priority of prayer** as foundational to church life, underscored by the phrase "first of all." It also highlights the **comprehensiveness of prayer**, detailing various forms (supplications, prayers, intercessions, thanksgivings) to ensure a rich and balanced communion with God. Most significantly, the passage champions the **universal scope of prayer**, commanding intercession "for all men," which directly reflects God's redemptive will for humanity, as further articulated in [1 Timothy 2:4](/1_timothy/2-4 "1 Timothy 2:4 - God's Desire for All to be Saved").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **exhort (Greek, _parakaléō'_):** From G3870, meaning "to call near, i.e. invite, invoke (by imploration, hortation or consolation)." Paul's use of this word indicates a strong, earnest appeal or urging, more than just a suggestion. It carries the weight of pastoral authority combined with a deep concern for the spiritual well-being and proper conduct of the church.
* **first of all (Greek, _prōton'_):** From G4412, meaning "firstly (in time, place, order, or importance)." This adverbial phrase emphatically prioritizes prayer. It signifies that prayer is not merely one item on a list of church activities but holds a preeminent position in terms of importance, foundational necessity, and possibly even chronological order in public worship.
* **all (Greek, _pâs'_):** From G3956, meaning "all, any, every, the whole." This word is used twice in the verse ("first of all," "for all men") and is crucial for understanding the expansive scope of Paul's instruction. It leaves no room for exclusion, emphasizing the universal reach of Christian prayer, extending beyond the community of believers to encompass all humanity without exception.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"I exhort therefore":** Paul begins with a strong pastoral directive, linking this instruction to previous discussions (likely concerning the challenges faced by the Ephesian church). The term "exhort" (G3870, *parakaléō*) conveys a deep urgency and authoritative plea, not merely a suggestion, indicating the vital importance of what follows.
* **"that, first of all":** This phrase (G4412, *prōton*) establishes the absolute priority of prayer. It is not just one spiritual discipline among many, but the foundational and preeminent activity for the church and individual believers. Its placement at the beginning of the list of instructions for public worship underscores its supreme importance.
* **"supplications, prayers, intercessions, [and] giving of thanks":** Paul provides a comprehensive taxonomy of prayer. "Supplications" (G1162, *déēsis*) refer to specific requests born out of a sense of need. "Prayers" (G4335, *proseuchḗ*) is the most general term for worshipful address to God. "Intercessions" (G1783, *énteuxis*) denote bold approaches to God on behalf of others. "Giving of thanks" (G2169, *eucharistía*) highlights the essential element of gratitude and praise, ensuring prayer is not solely petitionary but also worshipful acknowledgment of God's goodness.
* **"be made":** This phrase (G4160, *poiéō*) indicates that these various forms of prayer are to be actively and intentionally performed or offered. It implies a deliberate and consistent practice, both individually and corporately, within the life of the church.
* **"for all men":** This crucial phrase (G3956, *pâs* and G444, *ánthrōpos*) defines the universal scope of Christian prayer. It commands believers to pray for all humanity, regardless of their faith, status, or relationship to the church. This expansive mandate reflects God's own benevolent character and His desire for the salvation of all people, as further explained in the subsequent verses.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several literary devices to convey his urgent and comprehensive message. The use of a **List** of four distinct but complementary terms for prayer—supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings—creates a sense of completeness and ensures that no aspect of communication with God is neglected. This **Enumeration** emphasizes the richness and breadth of the prayer life Paul envisions for the church. The emphatic phrase "**first of all**" functions as a form of **Emphasis**, underscoring the supreme priority of prayer, making it clear that this is not merely a suggestion but a foundational command. Furthermore, the repeated use of the word "**all**" (G3956, *pâs*) in "first of all" and "for all men" serves as a powerful **Repetition** that reinforces the universal scope of the exhortation, highlighting both the preeminence of prayer and its boundless reach to all humanity.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Timothy 2:1 lays a theological cornerstone for understanding the church's mission and posture in the world. By commanding prayer "first of all" and "for all men," Paul underscores the profound truth that prayer is not merely a spiritual discipline but a primary means through which God's will is advanced on earth. This universal scope of prayer reflects God's own character as a loving Creator who desires the salvation of all humanity, transcending social, ethnic, or political divides. It challenges believers to move beyond self-centered or insular prayers, embracing a missional perspective that intercedes for the lost, the powerful, and the vulnerable, thereby participating in God's redemptive plan for the entire world. This comprehensive approach to prayer, encompassing petition, worship, intercession, and gratitude, ensures a holistic and mature relationship with God.

* [Philippians 4:6](/philippians/4-6 "Philippians 4:6 - Be Anxious for Nothing") - "Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God."
* [Colossians 4:2](/colossians/4-2 "Colossians 4:2 - Continue in Prayer") - "Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving."
* [1 Timothy 2:4](/1_timothy/2-4 "1 Timothy 2:4 - God's Desire for All to be Saved") - "Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
1 Timothy 2:1 calls us to a profound re-evaluation of our prayer lives, both individually and corporately. The emphatic "first of all" challenges us to consider if prayer truly holds the preeminent place in our daily routines and church gatherings that Paul insists upon. Are our spiritual lives characterized by a deep dependence on God expressed through consistent, fervent prayer? Furthermore, the comprehensive nature of the four types of prayer encourages us to diversify our communion with God, moving beyond mere requests to include worship, specific intercession for others, and heartfelt thanksgiving, cultivating a rich and balanced dialogue. Most significantly, the command to pray "for all men" compels us to expand the boundaries of our concern, extending our intercessions to those outside our immediate circles—our communities, our nations, our leaders, and indeed, all humanity. This universal scope of prayer is a powerful act of love and obedience, aligning our hearts with God's desire for the salvation of all people and actively participating in His redemptive work in the world.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What does "first of all" mean for the priority of prayer in my personal life and in my church's corporate worship?**
* **Am I engaging in all four types of prayer—supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings—or do I tend to focus on only one or two? How can I cultivate a more comprehensive prayer life?**
* **How intentionally do I pray "for all men," including those in authority, those who are different from me, or even those who might be considered enemies? What practical steps can I take to expand the scope of my intercession?**

### FAQ
**Why does Paul list four different types of prayer? Are they distinct or overlapping?**

Answer: Paul's listing of "supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks" is not merely redundant but serves to emphasize the richness and comprehensive nature of our communication with God. While there is certainly overlap, each term highlights a distinct nuance:
* **Supplications (G1162, _déēsis_)** typically refer to specific requests arising from a sense of need or want, often implying a humble, earnest plea.
* **Prayers (G4335, _proseuchḗ_)** is the most general term for devotion or worshipful address to God, encompassing all forms of communion, whether praise, confession, or petition.
* **Intercessions (G1783, _énteuxis_)** implies a bold approach to God on behalf of another, often involving a direct appeal or intervention for someone else's benefit. It suggests a confident, personal appeal.
* **Giving of thanks (G2169, _eucharistía_)** is crucial, signifying gratitude and acknowledgment of God's blessings, provisions, and answers to prayer. It ensures that our prayer life is not solely focused on asking but also on worship and appreciation.
Together, these terms encourage believers to cultivate a well-rounded and holistic prayer life that encompasses personal needs, general worship, advocacy for others, and heartfelt gratitude.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
1 Timothy 2:1, with its universal call to prayer "for all men," finds its ultimate fulfillment and theological grounding in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The very reason we are to pray for all people is rooted in God's universal redemptive purpose, which is fully embodied in Christ. As [1 Timothy 2:5-6](/1_timothy/2-5-6 "1 Timothy 2:5-6 - The One Mediator") immediately clarifies, "For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time." Jesus is the singular bridge between a holy God and sinful humanity, having offered Himself as the perfect, all-sufficient sacrifice for the sins of the entire world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"); [1 John 2:2](/1_john/2-2 "1 John 2:2 - Christ's Atonement for the World")). Our prayers for "all men" are therefore an active participation in the Father's desire for all to be saved ([1 Timothy 2:4](/1_timothy/2-4 "1 Timothy 2:4 - God's Desire for All to be Saved")) and a reflection of Christ's boundless love and atoning work, which extends to every tribe, tongue, people, and nation ([Revelation 5:9](/revelation/5-9 "Revelation 5:9 - Redeemed from Every Tribe")). In praying universally, we align ourselves with the cosmic scope of Christ's mission and the ultimate triumph of His kingdom, which will gather believers from every corner of the earth.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

2 Thessalonians 1:3

We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is meet, because that your faith groweth exceedingly, and the charity of every one of you all toward each other aboundeth;

Matthew 6:9

¶ After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.

Matthew 6:10

Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as [it is] in heaven.

Psalms 67:1

¶ To the chief Musician on Neginoth, A Psalm [or] Song. God be merciful unto us, and bless us; [and] cause his face to shine upon us; Selah.

Psalms 67:4

O let the nations be glad and sing for joy: for thou shalt judge the people righteously, and govern the nations upon earth. Selah.

James 5:16

Confess [your] faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.

Ephesians 5:20

Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ;