“I want men everywhere to lift up holy hands in prayer, without anger or disputing. I also want women to dress modestly … with good deeds, appropriate for women who profess to worship God.”
1 Timothy 2:8-10
As we work through this letter to Timothy, we must address hard passages, like the one above. Paul knew problems had arisen in the corporate gatherings of God’s people. The men had been arguing instead of praying. The women had been immodest in their apparel. Both issues proved to distract from the real task—coming together to call on God in prayer.
Paul is not condemning sturdy debate, nor is he saying that it’s wrong for a woman to dress well or be concerned about her appearance. But he is holding accountable wealthy women in Ephesus who would spend hours with attendants, adorning themselves to be seen by others, proving to be a distraction in their gatherings. He’s confronting men who would descend into fruitless debates, leading them away from unified prayer. Therefore, Paul calls both men and women to examine their motives.
We can do the same as we gather for worship. Ask, “How will I give my full attention to the Lord? How might I help others to do that as well?” Let’s pray for God to form our community around such love and care.
Paul is not condemning sturdy debate, nor is he saying that it’s wrong for a woman to dress well or be concerned about her appearance. But he is holding accountable wealthy women in Ephesus who would spend hours with attendants, adorning themselves to be seen by others, proving to be a distraction in their gatherings. He’s confronting men who would descend into fruitless debates, leading them away from unified prayer. Therefore, Paul calls both men and women to examine their motives.
We can do the same as we gather for worship. Ask, “How will I give my full attention to the Lord? How might I help others to do that as well?” Let’s pray for God to form our community around such love and care.
Scripture Focus
1 Timothy 2:8-10
Insight
Lord, help us “look not only to our own interests, but to the interests of others.” Bless our life together with mutual love and care. Amen
Bible In A Year
- 1 Samuel 20-21
- Psalm 130
- 2 Corinthians 12