1 Timothy 2: Barriers to Renewal
DO YOU EVER have difficulty approaching God in prayer? The Christians in Ephesus did. The barriers to prayer described here are anger, an over-emphasis on appearance, and an inappropriate role for women. Having sized up the situation and reminded Timothy of his mission, Paul outlines first steps to dealing with the needs of the church.
Warming Up to God
When do you find prayer difficult?
Read 1 Timothy 2. »
Discovering the Word
- Find all the times Paul says "all" and "everyone" (vv. 1-6). What does the use of these terms communicate about God?
- Why do you think Paul emphasizes the word one in verse 5?
- This entire chapter deals with worship. The church in Ephesus was probably a network of house churches. Their worship may have been patterned after the Jewish synagogues which separated men and women. What problem hindered the worship by men (v. 8)?
- What problem hindered the worship by women (v. 9)? 5. In verses 11-12, Paul forbids women to teach men. But in 1 Corinthians 11:5, he tells them how to dress when they preach (or prophesy). How do you reconcile these texts?
Applying the Word
- According to this passage, what could hinder worship and sharing the gospel?
- Consider which of those are problems for you. How can you better deal with them?
Responding in Prayer
Pray for your church's worship and for your personal worship.
For Further Study
1 & 2 Timothy and Titus by Pete Sommer