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1 Timothy 2 · a question people ask

"for kings and all who are in high places" (2:2). Why does the letter ask for prayers for them?

In the text

The letter gives its own reason in the same sentence: "that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and reverence." (2:2). Then it says, "For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior" (2:3). It names no king and no one in high places, and says no more about them. These notes apply these words to no government, ruler, party or nation today.

The verses

“I exhort therefore, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and givings of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in high places, that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior,”
1 Timothy 2:1-3 · World English Bible

From Favor's study of 1 Timothy 2

1 Timothy 2: Petitions, prayers, intercessions

1 Timothy 2 asks first for "petitions, prayers, intercessions, and givings of thanks" (2:1), and says, "For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior" (2:3). And the godliness of 2:2 and the godliness of 2:10 are two different Greek nouns.

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Last reviewed October 8, 2026. Scripture quotations are from the World English Bible, which is in the public domain. Every answer cites the verses it rests on. What we believe · All Bible questions