1 Timothy 2:2

For kings, and [for] all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.

For {G5228} kings {G935}, and {G2532} for all {G3956} that are {G5607} in {G1722} authority {G5247}; that {G2443} we may lead {G1236} a quiet {G2263} and {G2532} peaceable {G2272} life {G979} in {G1722} all {G3956} godliness {G2150} and {G2532} honesty {G4587}.

including kings and all in positions of prominence; so that we may lead quiet and peaceful lives, being godly and upright in everything.

for kings and all those in authority—so that we may lead tranquil and quiet lives in all godliness and dignity.

for kings and all that are in high place; that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and gravity.

Context

This verse is part of Paul's comprehensive instructions to Timothy, a young pastor, regarding public worship and the proper conduct of believers within the nascent church in Ephesus. Following his initial exhortation in 1 Timothy 2:1 to offer "supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men," Paul immediately specifies a crucial group for whom these prayers are particularly important: those in positions of power. This instruction was given in a context where Christians lived under the Roman Empire, which was often indifferent or hostile to their faith, highlighting the early church's understanding of its relationship with governing authorities.

Key Themes

  • Prayer for Leaders and Authorities: Paul's command to pray "For kings, and for all that are in authority" establishes a fundamental Christian duty. This directive transcends the character or policies of the specific rulers and applies to all who hold governmental power. It reflects a recognition of their God-ordained role in maintaining order (Romans 13:1). Such prayers are not just for the leaders' personal welfare but for the societal conditions they influence.
  • Purpose of Prayer: A Quiet and Peaceable Life: The explicit reason given for these prayers is "that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life." This indicates a desire for social stability and an environment free from civil unrest, persecution, or undue governmental interference. A peaceful society provides an optimal setting for the church to grow, for the gospel to be proclaimed without hindrance, and for believers to live out their faith openly and effectively.
  • Qualities of Christian Living: Godliness and Honesty: The desired life is not merely externally calm but also characterized by profound moral and spiritual integrity: "in all godliness and honesty."
    • Godliness (eusebeia): This term signifies reverence towards God, piety, and a life lived in devotion and obedience to Him. It encompasses both inward devotion and outward conduct that reflects one's faith.
    • Honesty (semnotēs): In the KJV, this word translates the Greek term semnotēs, which implies gravity, dignity, or respectability. It speaks to a life lived with moral seriousness, integrity, and decorum, earning respect from both fellow believers and the wider society. This quality is vital for maintaining the church's credible witness.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "quiet and peaceable" translates the Greek words hēsuchios (quiet, tranquil, undisturbed) and erēnikos (peaceful, inclined to peace). Together, they convey a state of calm and order, both internally and externally. The KJV's use of "honesty" for semnotēs might be better understood today as 'dignity,' 'reverence,' or 'respectability,' emphasizing the importance of a morally upright and honorable life that complements true godliness.

Practical Application

This verse provides a timeless mandate for believers. It calls us to consistently pray for our governmental leaders, irrespective of their political stance or our personal agreement with their policies. Our prayers should seek divine wisdom for them, stability for our nations, and an environment conducive to the flourishing of the gospel and the free exercise of faith. Furthermore, living "in all godliness and honesty" means that Christians are to be exemplary citizens, demonstrating integrity, moral uprightness, and respect in all areas of life. This lifestyle serves as a powerful witness to the transforming power of Christ and contributes to the overall peace and well-being that God desires for humanity, as also expressed in God's desire for all people to be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • 1 Peter 2:9

    But ye [are] a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:

  • 1 Peter 2:13

    ¶ Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme;

  • Ezra 6:10

    That they may offer sacrifices of sweet savours unto the God of heaven, and pray for the life of the king, and of his sons.

  • Jeremiah 29:7

    And seek the peace of the city whither I have caused you to be carried away captives, and pray unto the LORD for it: for in the peace thereof shall ye have peace.

  • Romans 13:1

    ¶ Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.

  • Romans 13:7

    ¶ Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute [is due]; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.

  • Proverbs 24:21

    ¶ My son, fear thou the LORD and the king: [and] meddle not with them that are given to change:

Add TrulyRandomVerse to your Home Screen for quick access!

← Back