1 Timothy 2:5

KJV

For [there is] one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus;

KJV (with Strong's)

For {G1063} there is one {G1520} God {G2316}, and {G2532} one {G1520} mediator {G3316} between God {G2316} and {G2532} men {G444}, the man {G444} Christ {G5547} Jesus {G2424};

Complete Jewish Bible

For God is one; and there is but one Mediator between God and humanity, Yeshua the Messiah, himself human,

Berean Standard Bible

For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus,

American Standard Version

For there is one God, one mediator also between God and men, himself man, Christ Jesus,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
First Timothy 2:5 stands as a foundational statement of Christian theology, asserting the singular nature of God and the exclusive role of Jesus Christ as the sole mediator between the divine and humanity. This verse underpins the necessity and efficacy of prayer for all people, establishing the unique pathway to reconciliation and access to God through the incarnate Son, who bridges the chasm between a holy God and sinful mankind.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is embedded within Paul's practical instructions to Timothy concerning order and conduct in the church at Ephesus. Immediately preceding [1 Timothy 2:5](/1-timothy/2-5 "1 Timothy 2:5 - The One Mediator") are exhortations for prayer for all people, including kings and those in authority, so that believers may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and dignity ([1 Timothy 2:1-2](/1-timothy/2-1-2 "1 Timothy 2:1-2 - Prayers for All People")). Paul then declares that such prayer is "good and pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth" ([1 Timothy 2:3-4](/1-timothy/2-3-4 "1 Timothy 2:3-4 - God's Desire for Salvation")). Verse 5, therefore, serves as the theological bedrock for these preceding statements, explaining *why* God desires all to be saved and *how* that salvation is made possible—through the singular God and the singular mediator. It transitions from the general call to prayer to the specific theological truth that enables it.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul wrote this letter to Timothy around 62-64 AD, likely from Macedonia, while Timothy was leading the church in Ephesus. Ephesus was a major metropolitan center, a hub of diverse religious and philosophical thought, including the prominent worship of Artemis (Diana) and various mystery cults. In such a polytheistic environment, the assertion of "one God" and "one mediator" would have been a radical and exclusive claim, directly challenging the prevailing syncretism and multiplicity of deities and spiritual intermediaries. The emphasis on "the man Christ Jesus" also countered Gnostic tendencies that might deny Christ's full humanity or present alternative paths to divine knowledge. Paul's teaching here provides a clear, uncompromising theological framework for a nascent Christian community navigating a complex religious landscape.
* **Key Themes:** The overarching themes in 1 Timothy 2, which [1 Timothy 2:5](/1-timothy/2-5 "1 Timothy 2:5 - The One Mediator") profoundly contributes to, include the **universality of God's saving will** ([1 Timothy 2:4](/1-timothy/2-4 "1 Timothy 2:4 - God Desires All to be Saved")), the **exclusivity of the gospel**, and the **unique role of Jesus Christ** as the sole means of reconciliation. This verse firmly establishes the **oneness of God** (monotheism) in contrast to pagan polytheism, and the **singular mediatorial work of Christ**, which is central to Christian soteriology. It also highlights Christ's **dual nature**—fully God and fully man—which is essential for His mediatorial function, bridging the gap between the divine and human. These themes are foundational to understanding Christian access to God and the basis for evangelism.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **God (Greek, _theós'_):** This term, G2316, refers to a deity, specifically (with the definite article) the supreme Divinity. In the context of 1 Timothy 2:5, it emphasizes the singular, ultimate, and sovereign Creator of the universe, distinct from the myriad of gods worshipped in the Greco-Roman world. The declaration of "one God" is a fundamental tenet of monotheism, inherited from the Old Testament and affirmed in the New, asserting His absolute uniqueness and authority.
* **mediator (Greek, _mesítēs'_):** This word, G3316, denotes a "go-between," an "internunciator," or, by implication, a "reconciler" or "intercessor." It describes one who stands between two parties to bring them together, settle a dispute, or facilitate an agreement. In this verse, it profoundly signifies Jesus' unique role as the sole agent who bridges the infinite chasm between a holy God and sinful humanity, making reconciliation and peace possible. His mediatorial work is not merely advisory but active and redemptive.
* **man (Greek, _ánthrōpos'_):** This term, G444, refers to a human being, emphasizing the full humanity of Christ. It is derived from words meaning "man-faced" or "human being." The specification "the man Christ Jesus" is crucial because it highlights that the mediator is not an angelic being or a disembodied spirit, but one who fully participated in human experience, including suffering and death. This shared humanity enables Him to truly represent humanity before God and to offer a perfect, atoning sacrifice on their behalf.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For there is one God,"**: This opening clause establishes the absolute monotheism of Christian faith. It asserts the singular, unique, and supreme nature of God, the Creator and Sustainer of all things. This declaration stands in stark contrast to the polytheistic beliefs prevalent in the ancient world, affirming that the Christian God is not one among many, but the one true and living God.
* **"and one mediator between God and men,"**: Following the declaration of one God, this clause introduces the exclusive means of access to Him. The term "mediator" signifies one who stands between two estranged parties to bring them into reconciliation. The emphasis on "one mediator" underscores the singularity and exclusivity of this role, meaning there is no other path, no other person, and no other ritual that can bridge the gap between a holy God and sinful humanity. This mediator alone possesses the authority and capacity to reconcile.
* **"the man Christ Jesus;"**: This final phrase identifies the specific individual who fulfills the role of the unique mediator. The designation "the man Christ Jesus" is profoundly significant. It highlights His full humanity, which was essential for Him to represent humanity and to offer a vicarious sacrifice for sin. Simultaneously, "Christ Jesus" points to His divine identity and messianic office, indicating that He is the anointed Son of God, uniquely qualified to mediate between God and humankind. His dual nature—fully God and fully man—makes Him the perfect and only bridge.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs **Repetition** to emphasize the exclusivity of God and Christ's mediatorial role, using "one" twice ("one God, and one mediator"). This rhetorical device underscores the singular nature of both the divine being and the pathway to Him, leaving no room for alternatives. Furthermore, the phrase "the man Christ Jesus" functions as a powerful **Appellation** or **Title**, clearly identifying the mediator and highlighting His incarnate nature. The structure of the verse itself, moving from the universal truth of God's oneness to the specific, personal identity of the mediator, creates a sense of **Logical Progression**, building a theological argument that grounds the possibility of salvation and prayer in these fundamental truths.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
First Timothy 2:5 is a cornerstone of Christian soteriology, asserting that salvation and access to God are exclusively through Jesus Christ. This declaration of "one God" and "one mediator" directly counters any notion of multiple paths to the divine or the efficacy of other spiritual intermediaries. It underscores the unique nature of God's plan for redemption, centered entirely on the person and work of Jesus. The verse highlights the necessity of Christ's incarnation—His full humanity—to serve as a representative for mankind, and His divine nature to offer a sufficient sacrifice and to perfectly represent God. This theological truth forms the basis for the universal call to repentance and faith, as God desires all people to be saved, and Christ has provided the sole means for that salvation.

* [John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus, the Way, the Truth, and the Life")
* [Hebrews 9:15](/hebrews/9-15 "Hebrews 9:15 - Christ, the Mediator of a New Covenant")
* [Acts 4:12](/acts/4-12 "Acts 4:12 - Salvation Through No Other Name")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The profound truth of 1 Timothy 2:5 calls believers to a deep appreciation for the unique and exclusive work of Jesus Christ. In a world that often promotes spiritual pluralism or suggests many paths to God, this verse stands as an unwavering declaration of Christ's singular authority and sufficiency. For personal application, it encourages us to rely solely on Christ for our reconciliation with God, to approach God with confidence through His mediation, and to live in light of this exclusive truth. It also fuels our evangelistic passion, knowing that the "one mediator" is the only hope for a lost world, compelling us to share the good news with conviction and clarity. This verse reminds us that our access to the Father is not earned through works or rituals, but is a gracious gift secured by the perfect, once-for-all sacrifice of "the man Christ Jesus."

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the exclusivity of Christ as the "one mediator" shape your understanding of salvation and your approach to God in prayer?**
* **In what ways might the cultural pressures of spiritual pluralism challenge the truth of this verse, and how can believers faithfully articulate its message?**
* **What practical implications does Christ's full humanity ("the man Christ Jesus") have for His ability to sympathize with our weaknesses and intercede on our behalf?**

### FAQ
**Why is it important that there is "one God" and "one mediator"?**

Answer: The declaration of "one God" is fundamental to Christian monotheism, distinguishing the biblical God from the many deities of pagan religions. It asserts His absolute sovereignty and uniqueness. The "one mediator" is equally crucial because it emphasizes the exclusivity of salvation and access to God through Jesus Christ. In a world offering various spiritual paths, this verse declares that only Jesus, through His perfect life, atoning death, resurrection, can bridge the infinite gap between a holy God and sinful humanity. This singularity ensures that reconciliation is achieved by God's provision, not human effort, and that the path to Him is clear and unambiguous.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
First Timothy 2:5 finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus as the unique bridge between God and humanity. The Old Testament foreshadowed the need for a mediator through figures like Moses, who interceded for Israel ([Exodus 32:30-32](/exodus/32-30-32 "Exodus 32:30-32 - Moses Intercedes for Israel")), and the Levitical priesthood, which offered sacrifices on behalf of the people ([Leviticus 16](/leviticus/16 "Leviticus 16 - The Day of Atonement")). However, these were temporary and imperfect, pointing forward to the perfect and eternal mediator. Jesus, as "the man Christ Jesus," perfectly embodies this role because He is both fully God and fully human. His humanity enables Him to represent us before God, experiencing our temptations and sufferings yet without sin ([Hebrews 4:15](/hebrews/4-15 "Hebrews 4:15 - Jesus, Our High Priest")). His divinity ensures His sacrifice is of infinite value, sufficient to atone for the sins of the world ([1 John 2:2](/1-john/2-2 "1 John 2:2 - Christ's Atoning Sacrifice")). Through His death on the cross, He offered Himself as the ultimate sacrifice, establishing a new covenant ([Hebrews 9:15](/hebrews/9-15 "Hebrews 9:15 - Christ, the Mediator of a New Covenant")), and through His resurrection and ascension, He now continually intercedes for us at the right hand of the Father ([Romans 8:34](/romans/8-34 "Romans 8:34 - Christ's Intercession")). Thus, Jesus is not merely *a* mediator, but *the* mediator, fulfilling all prior types and shadows, providing the singular, perfect, and eternal access to God.

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

Galatians 3:20

Now a mediator is not [a mediator] of one, but God is one.

1 Corinthians 8:6

But to us [there is but] one God, the Father, of whom [are] all things, and we in him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom [are] all things, and we by him.

Hebrews 9:15

¶ And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions [that were] under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance.

Hebrews 7:25

Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them.

Deuteronomy 6:4

¶ Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God [is] one LORD:

Hebrews 12:24

And to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh better things than [that of] Abel.

John 1:14

And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.