Instructions on Prayer

First of all, then, I urge that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for everyone, for kings and all those who are in authority,(A) so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness(B) and dignity.(C) This is good, and it pleases God our Savior,(D) who wants everyone(E) to be saved(F) and to come to the knowledge of the truth.(G)

For there is one God(H) and one mediator(I) between God and mankind, the man(J) Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all,(K) a testimony at the proper time.

For this I was appointed a herald, an apostle(L) (I am telling the truth;[a] I am not lying), and a teacher of the Gentiles(M) in faith and truth.

Instructions to Men and Women

Therefore, I want the men in every place to pray, lifting up holy hands without anger or argument.(N)

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Footnotes

  1. 2:7 Other mss add in Christ

Instructions about Worship

I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them. Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity. This is good and pleases God our Savior, who wants everyone to be saved and to understand the truth. For,

There is one God and one Mediator who can reconcile God and humanity—the man Christ Jesus. He gave his life to purchase freedom for everyone.

This is the message God gave to the world at just the right time. And I have been chosen as a preacher and apostle to teach the Gentiles this message about faith and truth. I’m not exaggerating—just telling the truth.

In every place of worship, I want men to pray with holy hands lifted up to God, free from anger and controversy.

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