Having told Timothy to pray for kings and all those in authority, including Nero, he now declares (if it is at all needed) who is above all these titles.
“For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus, 6 who gave himself as a ransom for all people. This has now been witnessed to at the proper time. 7 And for this purpose I was appointed a herald and an apostle—I am telling the truth, I am not lying—and a true and faithful teacher of the Gentiles.” (1 Tim 2 v 5-7)
There is one God. We are reminded of the great Shema of Deuteronomy 6 declaring monotheism over polytheism.
There is one mediator. The man Christ Jesus who became the bridge between God and mankind.
There is one ransom. The price paid to release slaves and prisoners.
There is one proper time. As part of God’s eternal plan, the incarnation, death and resurrection didn’t happen randomly but with perfect timing.
There is one purpose. That is for all to be saved. Not just the Jews but the Gentiles also.
In these 3 verses Paul gives a complete theology of salvation. God desires all to be saved, through a Saviour who gave His all, to make that possible and a mission that continues to go to every part of this world.
Where is the herald? The one who proclaims the gospel to those close and far.
Where is the apostle? Who is sent.
Where is the teacher? Who instructs and explains the gospel.
Where? Right here, the one writing and the one reading this devotion today!
Missions Paul 