God Has a Universal Desire to Redeem Humanity
Paul’s desire for universal prayer was based on the universal desire of God—the salvation of all the human race. God’s desire defines and shapes the nature of this age and should also shape the behavior of believers. Paul desired that the Ephesian believers would pray sincerely for the salvation of all people. This would provide the link between praying and having a quiet life. Prayer for the world’s salvation would also bring peace and righteousness. Salvation is characterized as “good” and pleasing to God (1 Timothy 2:3). Sadly, in their disputes the believers were excluding some from their prayers who needed salvation. God is not partisan (cf. 1 Timothy 1:16; 1 Timothy 4:10). This fact is the reason why it is good to pray for the salvation of all people (cf. 1 Timothy 1:13).
Hughes, Robert B., and J. Carl Laney. Tyndale Concise Bible Commentary. Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House Publishers, 2001. Print. The Tyndale Reference Library.
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