1 Timothy 2

New Testament for Everyone

The first rule: prayer for the world

2 So, then, this is my very first command: God’s people should make petitions, prayers, intercessions and thanksgivings on behalf of all people— ² on behalf of kings, and all who hold high office, so that we may lead a tranquil and peaceful life, in all godliness and holiness. ³ This is good; it is acceptable with God our savior, ⁴ who wants all people to be saved and to come to know the truth. ⁵ For, you see,

⁷ This is why I was appointed a herald and an apostle (I’m speaking the truth, I’m not lying!), a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth.

Women must be allowed to be learners

⁸ So this is what I want: the men should pray in every place, lifting up holy hands, with no anger or disputing. ⁹ In the same way the women, too, should clothe themselves decently, being modest and sensible about it. They should not go in for elaborate hairstyles, or gold, or pearls, or expensive clothes. ¹⁰ Instead, as is appropriate for women who profess to be godly, they should adorn themselves with good works. ¹¹ They must study undisturbed, in full submission to God. ¹² I’m not saying that women should teach men, or try to dictate to them; rather, that they should be left undisturbed. ¹³ Adam was created first, you see, and then Eve; ¹⁴ and Adam was not deceived, but the woman was deceived, and fell into trespass. ¹⁵ She will, however, be kept safe through the process of childbirth, if she continues in faith, love and holiness with prudence.