Tuesday 14 February 2012
"First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgiving be made for everyone, for kings and all who are in high positions, so that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and dignity. This is right and is acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour, who desires everyone to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth." (1 Timothy 2:1-4)
Background
Timothy was highly thought of by Paul, accompanying him onseveral of his missionary journeys. When Paul sent him to theCorinthian Church he described Timothy as "my beloved and faithfulchild in the Lord" (1 Corinthians 4:17), and here again we haveinstruction from Paul to "Timothy, my child" (verse 18) concerningpastoral matters and conduct in worship.
Timothy is told to hold fast to the faith he has received, as thereare some within the church who are spreading a false doctrine whichmight lead others astray.
Rather than be diverted by internal opposition and false teaching,Paul encourages his friend to show real leadership in the way inwhich worship is conducted. It would be through the fellowshipliving out their faith in worship and their daily lives that otherswould be drawn to a God who wants all people to be saved. Keep calmand carry on is the message.
We are drawn to Paul's belief in the universality of the gospel.The message of the Methodist Church has been summarised beautifullyas:
"All need to be saved.
All may be saved.
All may know themselves saved.
All may be saved to the uttermost."
The priority in Paul's mind was the focus of prayer within the lifeof the Church (verse 1). Prayer should not simply be a shoppinglist of requests, but encompass a sharing of deeper needs as wellas including a time of thanksgiving for all the blessings that Godhas provided.
Timothy is encouraged to pray for leaders and those in authority(both Christian and non-Christian), for peace and a change of heartthat might bring a real sense of reverence towards God. That, ofcourse, might include praying for those who were hostile to theChurch, but such prayer was pleasing to God who wants all to turnto God.
To Ponder
How vibrant is the worship and prayer life ofyour church? Could it be improved and if so, how?
Do you find it easy to 'hold fast to the faith'(see Acts 14:22) when faced with doubts andopposition? If not, do you have someone with whom you can share andpray over these situations?
If a stranger wandered into a service at yourchurch, what do you hope would be their first impressions of yourworship?