Pastoral Epistles: 1 Timothy 2:2 - Praying for Rulers & Authorities

We can be tempted to pray for our political leaders in ways contrary to what Paul is directing here. We may be tempted to ask God to sick them instead of save them, but that would be contrary to Scripture’s counsel. The injunction here calls for the Ephesian assembly to pray for the emperor, who at that time was the cruel and vicious blasphemer, Nero. The request for kings and all who are in authority is not limited to just a petition that they would be wise and just, but that they would repent of their sins and believe the gospel for the sake of their eternal souls.