1 Timothy 2
Berean Standard Bible Par ▾ 

A Call to Prayer

1First of all, then, I urge that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgiving be offered for everyone— 2for kings and all those in authority—so that we may lead tranquil and quiet lives in all godliness and dignity. 3This is good and pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, 4who wants everyone to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.

5For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, 6who gave Himself as a ransom for all—the testimony that was given at just the right time.

7For this reason I was appointed as a preacher, an apostle, and a faithful and true teacher of the Gentiles. I am telling the truth; I am not lying about anything. 8Therefore I want the men everywherea to pray, lifting up holy hands, without anger or dissension.

Instructions to Women

9Likewise, I want the women to adorn themselves with respectable apparel, with modesty, and with self-control, not with braided hair or gold or pearls or expensive clothes, 10but with good deeds, as is proper for women who profess to worship God.

11A womanb must learn in quietness and full submissiveness. 12I do not permit a woman to teach or to exercise authority over a man;c she is to remain quiet. 13For Adam was formed first, and then Eve. 14And it was not Adam who was deceived, but the woman who was deceived and fell into transgression. 15Women, however, will be savedd through childbearing, if they continue in faith, love, and holiness, with self-control.

Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible.

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1 Timothy 2 Summary
A Call to Prayer

Verses 1–2 – A Call to Comprehensive Prayer
Paul urges “that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be offered for everyone— for kings and all those in authority” so that believers may “lead tranquil and quiet lives in all godliness and dignity.”

Verses 3–7 – God’s Universal Desire and the One Mediator
Such prayer “is good and pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved.” There is “one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave Himself as a ransom for all,” and Paul has been appointed to proclaim this message to the Gentiles.

Verse 8 – The Posture and Purity of Men in Worship
Men are to pray “lifting up holy hands, without anger or dissension,” emphasizing clean hearts over mere outward posture.

Verses 9–10 – Modest Adornment and Good Works for Women
Women are to dress with “decency and propriety,” avoiding showy styles, and highlight their faith with “good works,” which is the true adornment of believers.

Verses 11–12 – Learning Quietly and Authority in the Assembly
A woman is to “learn in quietness and full submission.” Paul does not “permit a woman to teach or to exercise authority over a man; she is to remain quiet.”

Verses 13–15 – Creation Order and the Promise in Childbearing
Paul bases the order on Genesis: “For Adam was formed first, then Eve. And it was not Adam who was deceived.” Yet women “will be saved through childbearing, if they continue in faith, love, and holiness with self-control.”


In the second chapter of 1 Timothy, Paul provides Timothy with guidance about prayer, the role of Jesus Christ as a mediator, and the conduct of men and women in worship. He also details the concept of modesty and decorum in the context of worship and societal relations.

Historical Setting: Paul, Timothy, and Ephesus

Timothy is pastoring in Ephesus, a bustling port ruled by Rome and dominated by the colossal Temple of Artemis—one of the Seven Wonders. Artemis worship featured priestesses, fertility rites, and loud public ceremony. Into that world Paul sends clear instructions meant to protect gospel witness in a city where spiritual noise and gender confusion were common.

Prayer for All, Especially Leaders

• The emperor on the throne was likely Nero. Praying for him did not endorse his morals; it affirmed God’s sovereignty (Romans 13:1).

Jeremiah 29:7 calls exiles to “seek the welfare of the city.” Paul echoes the same heart.

• Peaceful public life (“tranquil and quiet”) grants believers space to evangelize (Acts 9:31).

One God and One Mediator

Deuteronomy 6:4 affirms one God; John 14:6 reveals the one Mediator.

• “Ransom for all” mirrors Jesus’ own words in Mark 10:45.

• Universal invitation does not erase personal response. Revelation 22:17: “Let the one who is thirsty come.”

Men and Holy Hands – Inner Purity before Outer Gesture

• “Lifting up holy hands” was a normal Jewish posture (Psalm 134:2). Paul keeps the form but insists on pure motives: no anger, no arguing.

Matthew 5:23-24: reconcile before you worship—same principle.

• Churches today may stand, kneel, or sit; purity of heart remains the core command.

Women, Appearance, and Witness in a Pagan Culture

Roman high society flaunted gold, pearls, and elaborate hairstyles. Paul’s words contrast:

1. Modesty—clothing that does not distract.

2. Self-control—attitude of restraint.

3. Good works—visible acts of service (Proverbs 31:20).

The point is not gray vs. bright fabric but heart posture. Peter teaches the same (1 Peter 3:3-4).

Silence, Learning, and Authority: What Paul Is and Is Not Saying

• “Learn” (Greek manthanō) affirms women as serious students—a radical step in first-century culture.

• “Quietness” (hēsychia) means calm respect, not forced muteness; the same word describes the desired political climate in verse 2.

• “Teach” (didaskein) and “exercise authority” (authentein) appear together only here. Paul restricts the authoritative instruction of the gathered church to men qualified as elders (3:1-7).

• Priscilla teaches Apollos privately (Acts 18:26); older women teach younger women (Titus 2:3-4). Context matters.

Grounded in Genesis: Adam, Eve, and the Fall

• Creation order: Adam first (Genesis 2:7) establishes headship.

• Deception order: Eve first deceived (Genesis 3:13) highlights vulnerability to false teaching in Ephesus (1:3-7).

• Paul’s reasoning is creational, not cultural; he roots it in timeless Scripture.

“Saved Through Childbearing” – Clarifying the Promise

• The phrase can read “saved through the Child-bearing”—a veiled reference to the Messiah born of a woman (Genesis 3:15; Luke 1:31).

• It may affirm that motherhood, not public pulpit, is a sphere where women contribute uniquely to God’s plan.

• Salvation is always “by grace through faith” (Ephesians 2:8). Ongoing faith, love, holiness, and self-control prove that faith is alive.

Archaeological Glimpse: Artemis, Midwifery, and Early Christian Women

Excavations in Ephesus uncover amulets invoking Artemis for safe delivery. Christian women no longer trusted the goddess; they trusted Christ, the true Savior in childbirth and in life. Early believers gathered in homes decorated with simple fish symbols rather than goddess reliefs, displaying modesty in architecture and attire.

Links to the Wider New Testament

• Government prayer: Romans 13:1-7; 1 Peter 2:13-17.

• One Mediator: Hebrews 9:15; 12:24.

• Lifting hands: Psalm 63:4; Lamentations 2:19.

• Modesty: Proverbs 11:22; 1 Peter 3:3-4.

• Creation order: 1 Corinthians 11:8-9.

• Deception motif: 2 Corinthians 11:3.

• Childbearing hope: Genesis 3:15; Galatians 4:4.

Practical Implications for Today

Believers live under various governments; gracious intercession is still commanded. A noisy, image-driven culture pressures both men and women; Paul’s answer is holy hands and modest hearts. Church order that reflects creation honors God and guards gospel clarity. Women flourish as students of Scripture and models of good works; men lead with sacrificial purity. When family, congregation, and society align with these patterns, the watching world glimpses the beauty of “God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.”

Connections to Additional Scriptures
Prayer and Intercession
Philippians 4:6 - Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

Authority and Leadership
Romans 13:1 - Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except that which is from God.

Salvation for All
2 Peter 3:9 - The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise, as some understand slowness, but is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.

Unity in the Church
Ephesians 4:3 - Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.
Teaching Points
The Call to Prayer
Paul begins by urging that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgiving be offered on behalf of all men (1 Timothy 2:1). This highlights the importance of prayer in the life of the church and the believer.

Praying for Leaders
Paul emphasizes praying for kings and all those in authority (1 Timothy 2:2), underscoring the need for intercession for those in leadership positions to ensure a peaceful and godly society.

God's Desire for Salvation
The passage reveals God's heart, who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth (1 Timothy 2:4), reminding us of the universal scope of the Gospel.

Role of Men in Worship
Men are instructed to pray, lifting up holy hands, without anger or dissension (1 Timothy 2:8), indicating the importance of purity and unity in worship.

Role of Women in Worship
Women are encouraged to dress modestly and to learn quietly with full submission (1 Timothy 2:9-11), reflecting an attitude of humility and respect within the church setting.

Theological Foundation
Paul grounds his instructions in the creation order and the fall (1 Timothy 2:13-14), providing a theological basis for the roles he describes.
Practical Applications
Commit to Regular Prayer
Make it a habit to pray for all people, especially leaders, to foster a peaceful and godly environment.

Promote Unity in Worship
Encourage an atmosphere of peace and unity in your church by addressing conflicts and promoting reconciliation.

Embrace God’s Design
Respect and honor the roles God has established within the church, seeking to understand their purpose and significance.

Reflect Modesty and Humility
In both dress and demeanor, aim to reflect modesty and humility, focusing on inner beauty and godliness.
People
1. All People
Paul urges that prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people (1 Timothy 2:1). The Greek term used here is "πάντων ἀνθρώπων" (pántōn anthrṓpōn), emphasizing the inclusivity of prayer for every individual.

2. Kings and All Those in Authority
Specific mention is made of praying for "kings and all those in authority" (1 Timothy 2:2). This highlights the importance of interceding for leaders, which in the original Greek is "βασιλέων καὶ πάντων τῶν ἐν ὑπεροχῇ" (basileōn kai pántōn tōn en hyperochē), indicating those in positions of power and governance.

3. God
God is described as "our Savior" who "wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth" (1 Timothy 2:3-4). The Greek word for Savior is "σωτῆρ" (sōtēr), underscoring God's role in salvation.

4. Christ Jesus
Jesus is referred to as the "one mediator between God and men" (1 Timothy 2:5). The Greek term "μεσίτης" (mesitēs) is used for mediator, highlighting His unique role in reconciling humanity with God.

5. Men
Paul instructs that "men should pray, lifting up holy hands, without anger or dissension" (1 Timothy 2:8). The Greek word "ἄνδρες" (andres) specifies males, focusing on their role in public prayer.

6. Women
Women are advised to dress modestly and to learn quietly with full submission (1 Timothy 2:9-11). The Greek term "γυναῖκες" (gynaikes) is used, referring to females and their conduct in worship settings.

7. Adam
Adam is mentioned in the context of creation and the fall, as Paul states, "For Adam was formed first, then Eve" (1 Timothy 2:13). The reference to Adam underscores the order of creation.

8. Eve
Eve is noted in relation to the fall, as Paul writes, "And it was not Adam who was deceived, but the woman who was deceived and fell into transgression" (1 Timothy 2:14). This highlights Eve's role in the narrative of sin entering the world.
Places
1. Place of Prayer
The chapter begins with an exhortation to pray for all people, including kings and those in authority. This "place" is a metaphorical setting where believers are encouraged to engage in intercessory prayer. The Greek word for prayer used here is "προσευχή" (proseuchē), emphasizing a devout petition to God.

2. Place of Worship
Paul instructs men to pray "lifting up holy hands, without anger or dissension" (1 Timothy 2:8). This refers to the communal setting of worship, where unity and purity of heart are essential. The act of lifting hands is a physical expression of worship and surrender.

3. Place of Learning
Women are advised to learn quietly and submissively (1 Timothy 2:11). This "place" is the context of learning within the church, where order and respect for teaching authority are emphasized. The Greek word "μανθανέτω" (manthanetō) implies a continuous process of learning.

4. Place of Authority
The chapter discusses the roles within the church, particularly concerning teaching and authority. Paul states, "I do not permit a woman to teach or to exercise authority over a man" (1 Timothy 2:12). This reflects the structured order of leadership and authority in the early church.

5. Place of Creation
Paul references the creation order, stating, "For Adam was formed first, then Eve" (1 Timothy 2:13). This "place" is the theological context of creation, which is used to support the argument for specific roles within the church.
Events
1. Call to Prayer for All People
Paul begins by urging that "petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgiving be offered for everyone" (1 Timothy 2:1). The Greek word for "petitions" (δεήσεις, deēseis) emphasizes specific requests, while "prayers" (προσευχάς, proseuchas) refers to general communication with God. "Intercessions" (ἐντεύξεις, enteuxeis) implies a more intimate, personal appeal, and "thanksgiving" (εὐχαριστίας, eucharistias) highlights gratitude.

2. Prayer for Leaders
Paul specifically mentions praying "for kings and all those in authority" (1 Timothy 2:2). The purpose is "that we may lead tranquil and quiet lives in all godliness and dignity." The Greek term for "tranquil" (ἤρεμον, ēremon) suggests a peaceful existence, while "quiet" (ἡσύχιον, hēsychion) implies a life free from disturbance.

3. God's Desire for Salvation
Paul states that God "wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth" (1 Timothy 2:4). The Greek word for "knowledge" (ἐπίγνωσιν, epignōsin) indicates a full, experiential understanding, not just intellectual assent.

4. One Mediator
The passage emphasizes that "there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus" (1 Timothy 2:5). The term "mediator" (μεσίτης, mesitēs) in Greek denotes someone who intervenes to restore peace and friendship.

5. Christ's Ransom for All
Paul explains that Christ "gave Himself as a ransom for all" (1 Timothy 2:6). The Greek word for "ransom" (ἀντίλυτρον, antilytron) conveys the idea of a price paid for liberation, underscoring the sacrificial nature of Christ's atonement.

6. Paul's Role as a Preacher and Apostle
Paul asserts his role, stating, "I was appointed a preacher and an apostle" (1 Timothy 2:7). The Greek term for "preacher" (κήρυξ, kēryx) refers to a herald or proclaimer of divine truth, while "apostle" (ἀπόστολος, apostolos) signifies one who is sent with authority.

7. Instructions for Men and Women in Worship
Paul instructs that "men everywhere to pray, lifting up holy hands, without anger or dissension" (1 Timothy 2:8). The Greek word for "holy" (ὁσίους, hosiou) implies purity and devotion. For women, Paul advises modesty and propriety, stating, "women are to dress modestly, with decency and propriety" (1 Timothy 2:9). The Greek terms for "modestly" (κοσμίῳ, kosmiō) and "propriety" (αἰδοῦς, aidous) emphasize orderliness and respectability.

8. Women’s Role in Learning and Authority
Paul instructs that "a woman must learn in quietness and full submissiveness" (1 Timothy 2:11). The Greek word for "quietness" (ἡσυχίᾳ, hēsychia) suggests a peaceful demeanor. He further states, "I do not permit a woman to teach or to exercise authority over a man; she is to remain quiet" (1 Timothy 2:12). The term "authority" (αὐθεντεῖν, authentein) is unique in the New Testament and implies a form of domineering control.

9. Theological Reasoning from Creation and Fall
Paul provides a theological rationale, citing that "Adam was formed first, then Eve" and "Adam was not deceived, but the woman was deceived and became a transgressor" (1 Timothy 2:13-14). This reflects a creation order argument and the narrative of the Fall in Genesis.

10. Salvation through Childbearing
The chapter concludes with a statement that "women will be saved through childbearing, if they continue in faith, love, and holiness with self-control" (1 Timothy 2:15). The Greek word for "saved" (σωθήσεται, sōthēsetai) can imply preservation or deliverance, and the context suggests a broader understanding of women's roles in faith and family life.
Topics
1. Instructions on Prayer (1 Timothy 2:1-2)
Paul urges that "petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgiving be offered on behalf of all men, for kings and all those in authority." The Greek word for "petitions" (δεήσεις, deēseis) emphasizes specific requests, while "prayers" (προσευχάς, proseuchas) refers to general communication with God.

2. Purpose of Prayer (1 Timothy 2:3-4)
The passage states that such prayers are "good and pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth." The Greek term for "knowledge" (ἐπίγνωσιν, epignōsin) implies a full, discerned understanding.

3. One Mediator (1 Timothy 2:5-6)
Paul declares, "For there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave Himself as a ransom for all." The term "mediator" (μεσίτης, mesitēs) highlights Christ's unique role in reconciling humanity with God.

4. Paul's Apostolic Role (1 Timothy 2:7)
Paul affirms his role as "a herald and an apostle...a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth." The Greek word for "herald" (κήρυξ, kēryx) indicates a proclaimer of divine truth.

5. Instructions for Men in Worship (1 Timothy 2:8)
Paul instructs that "men everywhere to pray, lifting up holy hands, without anger or dissension." The phrase "lifting up holy hands" (ἐπαίροντας ὁσίους χεῖρας, epairontas hosious cheiras) symbolizes purity and devotion in prayer.

6. Instructions for Women in Worship (1 Timothy 2:9-10)
Women are advised to "adorn themselves with respectable apparel, with modesty and self-control, not with braided hair or gold or pearls or expensive clothes, but with good deeds." The Greek word for "modesty" (αἰδοῦς, aidous) suggests a sense of reverence and propriety.

7. Role of Women in Learning and Teaching (1 Timothy 2:11-12)
Paul states, "A woman must learn in quietness and full submissiveness. I do not permit a woman to teach or to exercise authority over a man; she is to remain quiet." The term "quietness" (ἡσυχίᾳ, hēsychia) implies a peaceful demeanor.

8. Theological Basis for Gender Roles (1 Timothy 2:13-14)
Paul references the creation order and the fall, stating, "For Adam was formed first, and then Eve. And it was not Adam who was deceived, but the woman who was deceived and fell into transgression."

9. Salvation through Childbearing (1 Timothy 2:15)
The passage concludes with, "But women will be saved through childbearing, if they continue in faith, love, and holiness, with self-control." The Greek word for "saved" (σωθήσεται, sōthēsetai) can imply preservation or deliverance, often interpreted in the context of fulfilling God-given roles.
Themes
1. Prayer and Intercession
1 Timothy 2:1 emphasizes the importance of prayer, urging believers to offer "petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgiving" for all people. The Greek word for "intercessions" (ἐντεύξεις, enteuxeis) suggests a personal and earnest appeal, highlighting the role of prayer in the Christian life.

2. Authority and Governance
Verse 2 calls for prayers for "kings and all those in authority," underscoring the theme of respect and support for governmental leaders. This reflects a conservative Christian view of maintaining order and peace, as the Greek term for "authority" (ὑπεροχῇ, hyperechē) implies a position of prominence and responsibility.

3. God’s Desire for Salvation
In 1 Timothy 2:3-4, it is stated that God "desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth." This theme highlights the universal scope of God's salvific will, with the Greek word for "desires" (θέλει, thelei) indicating a strong intention or wish.

4. The Mediatorship of Christ
Verse 5 declares, "For there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus." This theme emphasizes the unique and singular role of Jesus as the mediator, with the Greek term for "mediator" (μεσίτης, mesitēs) denoting one who intervenes to restore peace and friendship.

5. Roles of Men and Women in Worship
1 Timothy 2:8-12 discusses the conduct of men and women in worship settings. Men are encouraged to pray "lifting up holy hands," while women are advised to dress modestly and learn quietly. The Greek word for "quietly" (ἡσυχίᾳ, hēsuchia) suggests a demeanor of peace and submission, reflecting traditional views on gender roles.

6. Modesty and Good Works
The passage in verses 9-10 highlights the theme of modesty, urging women to adorn themselves with "good deeds" rather than elaborate hairstyles or expensive clothing. This reflects a conservative emphasis on inner character over outward appearance, with the Greek term for "modesty" (κοσμίῳ, kosmiō) implying orderliness and propriety.

7. Authority and Teaching
Verse 12 states, "I do not permit a woman to teach or to exercise authority over a man; she is to remain quiet." This theme addresses the structure of authority within the church, with the Greek word for "authority" (αὐθεντεῖν, authentein) suggesting a form of control or dominion, which is traditionally interpreted as a directive for church leadership roles.
Answering Tough Questions
1. 1 Timothy 2:11–12: Why does this passage restrict women from teaching or having authority, and how does that align with broader biblical teachings on equality?

2. 1 Timothy 2:13–14: Why does Paul reference Adam and Eve’s sin to justify gender roles, and does this argument hold consistently with other biblical narratives?

3. 1 Timothy 2:15: How do we reconcile the claim that women will be saved through childbearing with the broader Christian doctrine of salvation by grace through faith?

4. 1 Timothy 2:9–10: Does the emphasis on modesty and dress reflect cultural norms of the time, and can it be applied universally in today’s context?

5. 1 Timothy 2 (as a whole): Does the text historically reflect a cultural bias against women’s leadership, and how do we determine what was meant for a specific era versus timeless teaching?

Bible Study Discussion Questions

1. How does Paul's instruction on prayer in 1 Timothy 2 apply to your prayer life today?

2. How can praying for leaders and authorities affect your personal perspective and societal living?

3. How does understanding Jesus as the sole mediator between God and mankind affect your understanding of salvation?

4. How does Paul’s role as a teacher to the Gentiles inform the mission of the Church today?

5. How should modern Christians interpret and apply Paul's instructions regarding the conduct of men and women?

6. How does the cultural context of the time influence the interpretation of Paul’s guidance about the roles of men and women?

7. How can the principles of modesty and self-control be manifested in today's society, beyond physical appearance?

8. How can you reconcile the seeming disparity between Paul’s views on gender roles and the contemporary understanding of gender equality?

9. In what ways can women today exercise spiritual leadership while respecting the biblical texts?

10. How can men in modern times lift their hands in prayer "without anger or disputing"?

11. How does the reference to Eve's deception impact your understanding of the roles of men and women in the church?

12. How does the emphasis on prayer for all people inform your intercessory prayer practices?

13. How can the Church today promote an environment where all can learn in quietness and full submission?

14. How can the lessons from this chapter be applied to promote peaceful and respectful dialogue in today’s polarized world?

15. What do good deeds and modesty look like in the digital age?

16. How can we navigate cultural and societal changes while remaining faithful to Biblical teachings?

17. How can we understand the concept of Jesus' self-giving as a "ransom for all"?

18. What do you think it means to lead a "peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way" in today's world?

19. What implications does Paul’s advice to Timothy have for mentoring relationships in the church today?

20. How can the Church balance the importance of tradition and scripture with the evolving understanding of gender roles and societal norms?



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