SERMON OUTLINE:
(1). The Context: Prayer (v 1-3).
(2). The Motive: Salvation (verses 1-7).
(3). The Mind-set: Submission (verses 9-15).
SERMON BODY:
Ill:
• A story from Readers Digest:
• On the way to my parents’ house for dinner one evening,
• I glanced over at my fifteen year old daughter and said;
• “Isn’t that skirt a bit short?”
• She rolled her eyes at my comment and gave me one of those ‘oh mum’, looks.
• When we arrived, my mother greeted us at the door,
• She hugged my daughter, then turned to me and said;
• “Elizabeth! Don’t you think that blouse is awfully low-cut?”
Transition:
• Well when it comes to clothes and styles and fashion,
• You can be sure we will all disagree and have many varied opinions.
• But when it comes to the importance of prayer in our lives;
• Then I am sure we all agree and share one opinion that it is very important!
• I know this chapter contains some controversial verses;
• But prayer is the main focus of our thoughts tonight;
• And our title for this sermon is ‘Prayers of all kinds’.
(1). The context: Prayer (v 1-3).
Ill:
• A successful industrialist once addressed a large group of executives.
• He was speaking to them on the topic "Follow my leader",
• And he was encouraging them to be better leaders.
• Among the many helpful things he said was this statement;
"I have found that there are two things most difficult to get people to do..... first, to think..... second, to do things in their order of importance".
The apostle Paul gives us in chapter 2 verse 1 the Christians priority:
• "I urge then, FIRST of all that.....”
• You be a good preacher.
• You know your Bible inside out.
• You be a good listener & counsellor.
• You have good church attendance.
• You are active in evangelism.
• No! none of those things (they may be important – but he has a higher priority in mind)
• Listen to what he says:
• “That requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for...."
• In other words his priority is that YOU be a man or woman of prayer!
Notice:
• The scope of who Paul asks us to pray for:
• Verse 1: “…all people” (some versions have: "...everyone", or "...all mankind").
• Don’t miss this expression it used 4 times in the first 6 verses.
• i.e. verse 1b: “…ALL people”.
• i.e. verse 2: "For kings and ALL those in authority".
• i.e. verse 4: "Who wants ALL men to be saved".
• i.e. verse 6: "Who gave himself a ransom for ALL men".
Ill:
So don’t be like the man who prayed this prayer:
“God bless me and my wife,
My son and his wife,
Us four and no more.
Amen”.
Paul tells Timothy (and us) to pray broad, to include everyone!
• Our prayers are to be all-inclusive;
• They are to be given for everyone – especially those in authority;
• And not just for family members, close friends, or other Christians.
• So Paul’s priority is prayer.
• Now let’s look at his motive:
(2). The motive: Salvation (verses 1-7).
Question: Why does he encourage Timothy to pray:
• For "ALL mankind" (verse 2)
• For "All who are in authority" (verse 2).
Answer:
• Well initially 2b tells us the answer;
• "That WE may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness".
• When we pray for those in authority there is a reward, there is a pay-off,
• Prayer is a bit like a boomerang – often, the blessing comes back to us!
• That’s the immediate motive.
• But notice verse 4 gives us the ultimate reason we are to pray:
• Because: "God wants all mankind to be saved".
• The key word here is "Wants".
• It is key because it reveals to us the desire in the heart of God.
• In the heart of God there is a longing, a craving, a yearning, an ache;
• God wants something to take place in the lives of people.
• And for that to happen it requires prayer from his people.
Question: What does God wants, desires, God longs to see?
Answer: That "ALL mankind" are saved, are made right with himself.
We see this truth again and again in the Bible:
• i.e. 2 Corinthians chapter 5 verse 18-19:
• "Through Christ God was reconciling the world (all mankind) to himself".
• i.e. John chapter 3 verse 16:
• "God so loved the world (All mankind) that he gave his one and only son".
• i.e. Jesus himself said in John chapter 12 verse 32;
• "If I am lifted up from the earth, I will draw ALL mankind to myself".
Quote: E.F. Brown calls this passage in Timothy:
• "The charter of missionary work".
• He goes on to say,
• "That it is proof that ALL MEN are capable of receiving God...
• They may be lost, but they can be found;
• They may be ignorant, but they can be enlightened;
• They may be sinners but they can be saved".
Quote:
‘For God so loved the world, not just a few,
The wise and great, the noble and the true,
Or those of favoured class or rank or hue.
God loved the world. Do you?’
The apostle Paul encourages Timothy to pray;
• And notice that as he does that;
• He answers four important questions regarding prayer:
• (1). ‘How should we pray?’ (verse 1).
• (2). ‘For whom do we pray?’ (verse 1b-2a).
• (3). ‘Why do we pray?’ (verse 2b-4).
• (4). ‘What is the way we should pray?’ (verse 8).
(1). ‘HOW SHOULD WE PRAY?’ (VERSE 1).
• Notice that four different words are used in verse 1 regarding our praying;
• Four words that bring richness and variety to our prayers:
(A). Requests.
• It is the same word we would use if we were requesting something from one another.
• The thought here is of a sense of need, weakness, inadequacy.
• Therefore the help of another is required,
• We are calling out to someone who can help us and fulfil our requests,
ill:
• Two weeks ago on the ‘BB’ Houseparty one the mini-bus broken down,
• So I called the RAC recovery service and made a request to help.
• They answered my request and fixed the bus.
Likewise as Christians we have to make requests of God who can:
• Meet our needs with his boundless resources,
• Replace our weakness with his mighty strength,
• And equip us and make us adequate to do his work.
(B). Prayers.
• Whenever this word is used in the New Testament,
• It always refers to prayer that focuses on God.
• The idea is NOT that we inform God so that he can understand our situation;
• And then fulfil our request.
• Rather it is through prayer we can centre our attention on the Lord,
• So that we can begin to see ourselves and our circumstances from his perspective.
• In other words prayer is not for God’s benefit but ours.
• It helps us to see things as he sees and to feel as he feels.
(C). Intercession or Petitions.
• This word involves familiarity and intimacy.
• It originally meant to speaks to someone in intimate conversation,
• i.e. the kind of communication that is common between friends.
• So when we petition and appeal to God:
• We reveal our thoughts, feelings, needs and desires,
• Just as we would to a close friend,
Note:
• Later this Greek word translated as ‘Intercession’ or ‘Petitions’,
• Acquired a special meaning and meant;
• To enter into a kings presence and submit a petition to him.
• Just imagine being intimate with the king,
• And to have the kings ear and the kings favour!
• With that privilege who wanted want to pray! And to pray big!
Quote: As John Newton once penned,
“Thou art coming to a King, Large petitions with thee bring;
For His grace and power are such,
None can ever ask too much.”
(4). Thanksgiving.
• Prayer does not only mean asking God for things;
• It also means thanking God for things.
• And as we offer our thanks to God;
• We are declaring our gratitude to him!
• The attitude of gratitude is important for several reasons:
• Thankfulness acknowledges that God is our provider.
• Thankfulness prevents a complaining spirit.
• Thankfulness creates a positive outlook on life
• Thankfulness invites joy to dwell in our hearts.
First question concerning prayer was ‘What are we to do?’ (verse 1).
(2). ‘FOR WHOM DO WE PRAY?’ (VERSE 1B-2A):
"Be made for everyone - for kings and all those in authority".
• The Greek verb translated "Be made" is in the present tense,
• Which means it is conveying habitual or continual prayer.
• It is the idea of doing something on a regular basis.
• So the apostle Paul urges us to pray continually for all people;
• But especially those in authority:
As we apply this to our situation today, that word "Authority" would include:
• The Queen & Royal family.
• Prime Minister & his Government & also the opposition Members of Parliament.
• City Council officials.
• Judges, magistrates and governors of schools & local teachers.
• Church leaders.
• And even your own employees
First question: ‘What are we to do?’ (verse 1).
Second question: ‘For whom are we to do we pray?’ (verses 1b-2a).
(3). ‘WHY DO WE PRAY?’ (VERSE 2B-4):
"That we may live (literally, keep on living) peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness".
• Prayer changes things;
• That for the Christian is more than a cliché - it’s a fact!
• When we pray, we benefit because;
• We influence and change the environment and the conditions that we live in,
• And so we are able to live a more peaceful and God centred life.
Not only that, notice the apostle Paul in verses 3-4 goes on to say three things:
"This is GOOD and PLEASES God our saviour,
who wants ALL men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth".
(a).
• This verse reminds us again that prayer is ‘good’ in the sight of God;
• In other words it is the right thing to do!
(b).
• It also says it is ‘pleasing’ to God.
• And surely the desire of every Christian is to want to please God.
• So therefore the opposite must be true;
• If we are not praying for those in authority we are displeasing God!
(c).
• Prayer is paramount, it is of chief concern or importance in seeing folks converted.
• If we are not praying for people by office and by name;
• Then don’t be surprised if we do not see people being converted.
First question: ‘What are we to do?’ (verse 1).
Second question: ‘For whom are we to do we pray?’ (verses 1b-2a).
Third Question: ‘Why should we pray?’ (verse 2b-4).
(4). ‘WHAT IS THE WAY WE SHOULD WE PRAY?’ (VERSE 8).
"I want men everywhere to lift up holy hands in prayer, without anger or disputing".
• Commentators all agree that the reference to prayer in verse 8;
• Is to audible prayer in the presence of others.
• And this letter was written & read out & taught to the local assembly.
• The Greek word translated "Men" here is the word for a male.
• Rather than the word used in verses 1, 4, & 5 which is the word "Men" for mankind.
• In this verse the apostle Paul;
• Is exhorting that men are to be the role models of authentic prayer persons,
• That is to take the lead, the predominate role,
Note:
• In Bible interpretation - you have to be consistent;
• Otherwise you can make this book say almost anything!
• I don’t believe the apostle Paul is literally saying "Men only" are to pray.
• If you believe that is what it is saying then;
• YOU MUST be consistent and take the rest of the verse literally as well.
• "Lifting up holy hands" – those two things rise or fall together!
• If ‘men only’ are to pray,
• Then they must always pray with their physical hands lifted up.
• You cannot interpret a four words of a verse one way, and the next four words another.
Please note:
• If this instruction is that men only are to pray – but women must not (verse 8);
• Does the same rule of interpretation apply to verses 9-10;
• i.e. women should dress modestly – but men do not have to?
• No! That would be a ludicrous interpretation;
• Verses 9-10 are written primarily to women;
• But obviously the principles apply to men as well!
Ill:
• Often in New Testament letters particular groups are addressed;
• But this is NEVER at the exclusion of other groups:
• e.g. Titus 2:2 Older men should but sound in the faith;
• But that does not mean that other groups must not be sound.
• e.g. Titus 2:3 Older women should teach what is good;
• But that does not mean that other groups can teach what is bad.
• e.g. Titus 2: 5 Younger women should be pure;
• But again that does not mean that other groups can be impure.
I would suggest and believe that Paul in verse 8:
• Is not forbidding women to pray but rather;
• He is exhorting men to be the role-models of authentic prayer,
• He is saying that they should take the lead, set the example & take the predominate role.
• So men here tonight – it would be great in our open times of prayer and worship;
• To hear you pray!
• Remember there is no ‘gift of prayer’.
• So your prayers are as valid as anyone else’s;
• The only rider is – be sincere, mean what you say, when you say it!
Notice:
• In verse 8:
• Three things are mentioned that should be free from our lives as we pray:
• First: We should be ‘Without sin’.
• Second: ‘Without ‘anger’.
• Third: ‘Without disputing’.
• Those qualities in our lives will hinder and render our prayers ineffective.
• The opposite is therefore true.
• If we are without sin – keeping short accounts with God (confessing our failings);
• If we are right with other Christians (loving and fellowshipping);
• Then our prayers will be effective and purposeful.
(3). The Mind-set: Submission (verses 9-15):
• There are some final instructions here to women in verses 9-11:
• Note: these verses are not the only verses regarding the role of women in the church,
• If you want that you must compare them to other relevant verses addressed to women,
• i.e. 1 Corinthians chapter 11 verse 1-16.
• i.e. 1 Corinthians chapter 14 verse 34-35.
• i.e. Titus chapter 2 verse 3-5.
• i.e. 1 Peter chapter 3 verse 1-6.
Tonight we are looking at verses (9-15) let me remind you:
• Paul here is talking about the times when Christians meet together,
• That is when the church, the congregation comes together.
• For prayer and praise and worship.
• Again once again a principle is given to a certain group;
• In this case – to women.
• The instruction given is that women should dress properly i.e. modestly & discreetly
• Question: In verse 9 Paul teaches regarding hair;
• (N.I.V.) ‘Elaborate hairstyles’ or (K.J.B.) ‘Braided hair’.
• The point the apostle Paul is surely making is;
• That a woman should be known for her inward beauty and not her outward adornment!
• Be noticed not because of your hairstyle or clothes;
• But rather be noticed because of your character and your lifestyle.
Quote: From The Living Bible translation:
"And women should be in the same way, quiet and sensible in manner and clothing. Christian women should be noticed for being kind and good, not for the way they fix their hair or because of jewels or fancy clothes".
• The word translated as ‘propriety’ or ‘appropriate’ or in verse 9 means:
• ‘Orderly’ or ‘Well arranged, that which fits together nicely’.
• These guidelines leave a woman free to dress:
• According to her times, and according to the styles of her day.
• According to the custom of the place where she lives.
• And that will vary greatly - depending of course where she lives in the world.
Ill:
• What we consider acceptable here in Park Gate, Southampton, U.K.
• Would not be considered appropriate in many Middle Eastern countries.
• i.e. arms & shoulders not being covered up.
Paul then goes on to instruct the assembly regarding Bible teaching:
• Notice he says three things.
• Verse 11: She is to remain quiet rather than vocal.
• Verse 12a: She is to receive instruction rather than do the instructing.
• Verse 12b: She is to refrain from the act of exercising authority over men.
FIRST POINT: SHE IS TO REMAIN QUIET RATHER THAN VOCAL (VERSE 11).
“A woman should learn in quietness and full submission”.
• The Greek term translated as ‘quietness’ does not mean silence;
• Rather it conveys the idea of a calmness of mind.
• In other New Testament passages;
• e.g. Acts chapter 22 verse 2, 2 Thessalonians chapter 3 verse 12;
• The word clearly means "Settled down, undisturbed, not unruly".
• Paul is instructing women to receive instruction in the church assembly;
• With a calm, tranquil spirit.
• Just as orderliness and appropriateness should mark a woman’s clothing,
• So should these traits mark a woman’s behaviour!
SECOND POINT: SHE IS TO RECEIVE INSTRUCTION RATHER THAN DO THE INSTRUCTING. (VERSE 11-12).
“A woman should learn in quietness and full submission.
I do not permit a woman to teach or to assume authority over a man; she must be quiet”.
• Remember the context of these verses is when the whole Church comes together;
• The apostle Paul is not talking about teaching a Sunday School Class or Youth Group;
• Or asking a question or making a comment in a house group situation.
• He is saying when the Church comes to gather;
• Women (principle is the same for us men as well);
• Women are to receive the word of God,
• With the attitude of submission.
• In other words they are to have a welcoming attitude to that which is being taught
• They should have a willingness to embrace what is being taught,
• The opposite of resisting it.
THIRD POINT: SHE IS NOT TO EXERCISE AUTHORITY OVER THE MEN IN THE LOCAL ASSEMBLY. (VERSE 12).
“I do not permit a woman to teach or to assume authority over a man, she must be quiet.”
• Verses like this one are the reason we do not have women Elders;
• And women preachers at the main services here at Duncan Road Church.
Note:
• Although I have to say there is great debate as to what the word ‘authority’ means.
• Some Churches will allow women preachers as long as;
• They minister under the permission and authority of the male Church leadership.
• They would say they are not assuming or usurping authority;
• Because they are teaching with the blessing and guidance of the Church Leadership.
• Other Churches (and what we practice here at DRC);
• Is that this verse teaches Men should do the up-front teaching in the Church.
Please note:
• This instruction is not saying that women are second class citizens;
• Or in some way inferior to men.
• Both men and women are equally made in God’s image (Genesis chapter 1 verse 26-27);
• And both have dignity in Christ (Galatians chapter 3 verse 28).
Question: Why is that?
Answer: Is found in the next three verses. (13-15).
The apostle Paul gives two reasons why his instruction should be accepted:
FIRST: THE ORDER OF CREATION. (VERSE 13).
• Please notice that the apostle Paul’s argument is not based on culture.
• It is not based on political correctness.
• It is not based on human opinions.
• It is not based on some local Jewish or Greek traditions.
• Notice He goes all the way back to creation.
• In verse 13: He talks about the order of creation.
• In verse 14: He talks about the fall of mankind.
Paul reason for his instructions are based on two facts from the Book of Genesis:
• It was the woman was deceived by Satan and who sinned first.
• The man however was not deceived but wilfully chose to sin.
• Paul’s reasoning is found in two origins:
• One positive and one negative.
• Positively women should be under the male leadership in the church
• Because Adam was created before Eve.
• This does not mean women are therefore inferior;
• But rather this creation provides a pattern for the functioning of a local assembly.
• Negatively women should submit to male leadership;
• Because Eve sinned before Adam.
• Again this does not mean women are therefore inferior;
• But rather it provides a basis for establishing a functional order in the local Church life.
AND FINALLY:
• If you think some of these verses are guard to understand;
• Wait till you get to verse 15.
• Verse 15 is a beauty!
• And your homework this week is to go home and figure it out for yourself!
