Paul writes to Timothy, his spiritual son and brother in Christ, urging “first of all…that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgiving be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. This is good, and is pleasing in the sight of God, our Savior.”
First of all — foremost, says Paul, we should pray, intercede, supplicate and be thankful for ALL PEOPLE, for those in government and those in “high positions.” Why? So “that we may lead peaceful and quiet lives.” Paul tells us to remain “godly and dignified in every way.” In this manner, we please our Lord and Savior. Christians want to defend what is right — take up the sword and fight for Jesus. But, Jesus Himself says, “Put your sword back into its place. For all who take the sword will perish by the sword.” (Matthew 26: 52) Rather Jesus looks to his disciples, to those closest to Him, in hope that they will watch with Him and pray with Him. “And He says to Peter, ‘Can you not watch with Me one hour?” (Matthew 26: 40) Paul writes, “Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer… Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them… Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to what is honorable in the sight of all… Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God.” (Romans 12: 12, 14, 17, 19) Paul strongly suggests, as does Christ, that we “overcome evil with good.” (Romans 12: 21)
