intercession – Three Minute Bible

March 18, 2026March 19, 2026

1 Timothy 2:1e – The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

A picture of Jesus praying over the people of the world -- all of us! (Grok)

[I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving]… be made for all people…

Summary: Paul’s instruction on prayer includes praying for “all people.” At first blush, this might seem counter-intuitive. However, if we remember our place in the universe, this command starts to make sense.

What, exactly, does Paul mean by “all people”? Does he have any idea what he is saying? Does he actually mean to be “thankful” for people who have beaten him, imprisoned him, stoned him, and left him for dead (2 Corinthians 11:24-26)? And what about the people preaching false doctrine (1 Timothy 1:3)? What about the people Paul wished would emasculate themselves (Galatians 5:12)?

March 16, 2026March 17, 2026

1 Timothy 2:1c – Three Kinds of Prayer

The image illustrates three kinds of prayer: personal requests, group prayer, and conversational intercessions. (Grok)

[I urge, then, first of all, that]… petitions, prayers, intercession …

Summary: In this passage, Paul points us to three ways of praying.

As we continue our examination of this verse, it might be helpful to take a closer look at the first three things Paul encourages us to do: make petitions, prayers, and intercession. What do these words mean, and what is the difference between them?

March 14, 2026March 16, 2026

1 Timothy 2:1b – In the Game

Picture of a high school football player sitting alone on the bench (Grok)

I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people—

Summary: Christians don’t “fight” like normal people. Instead of trying to dominate others, we strive to submit ourselves to God’s will.

Christians “fight” in ways that are different than the ways of the world. Instead of knowing the best techniques for kicking and punching, we strive to be expert at “petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving.”