Or, “then.” Paul now turns to counsel on various practical matters relating to public worship that Timothy will find helpful while administering his duties as pastor of the church at Ephesus.
First of all.
Paul proceeds to state a fundamental principle of church administration, one basic to freedom of worship.
Supplications.
Gr. deēseis, “entreaties,”“petitions.” Prayer is here viewed from the standpoint of personal need, implying a recognition that God alone can satisfy these needs.
Prayers.
Gr. proseuchai, the usual term for all sacred communion with God.
Intercessions.
Gr. enteuxeis, “intercessory prayers” (cf. on Rom. 8:26, 27). Childlike confidence, in the assurance of ready access to God, characterizes the genuine Christian.
Giving of thanks.
Gr. eucharistiai, “giving of thanks,”“thanksgivings.” Christians are to be thankful for the favors received both from men and from God, who “giveth to all men liberally” (see on James 1:5).
All men.
The Christian’s concern for his fellow men transcends the artificial boundaries of race, nation, and social status. Christian love yearns to include “all men” within the plan of salvation.