In the first section of this chapter Paul is exhorting us that no one should be left out of our prayers. "First of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men;" (vs 1)
Because the destruction of Jerusalem was drawing near, the Jews were realizing their freedom and began to speak evil of dignities. Some Christians began to be 'holier than thou' to the non-Christians, looking down on them. When Paul said to pray for them he tells us why: "For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth." (vs 3-4)
I love how he gives us another one God verse to cling to immediately following with further explanation of why all should be prayed for. "For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; who gave himself a ransom for ALL, to be testified in due time." (vs 5-6) And in verse 8 he charges the men to "pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting."
Paul then goes on to describe how women should adorn themselves--with modest apparel. Not with something flashy, extravagant or luxurious which the wealth of some of the women in Ephesus had caused them to do. But instead, "which becometh women professing godliness." (vs 9)
As men, we love the next few verses which tell the women how they should act in church. The woman was instructed to learn in silence in the church, be submissive. Shouldn't teach or exude authority over the man, but again, be in silence. (vs 12) Vs 13-14 tell us why: "Adam was first formed, then Eve and Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the transgression."
Jamieson, Faussett and Brown's commentary explain that this was for reason of the precept; the original order of creation. That because she was more easily deceived, she more easily deceives.
But let's not get too excited about these charges to the women. We can't read these scriptures to our wives then close the book and expect our family and our ministry to lead themselves. We can't neglect the teaching, developing and preaching to the saints and the next generation. We must be the leaders in our home, our marriage and our ministry. Strong men who labor in the word and doctrine and take our place in the role God has called us to.
Tim Jacobs
