Our scripture this morning is 1 Timothy 2:5-6 (NRSV).
For there is one God; there is also one mediator between God and humankind, Christ Jesus, himself human, who gave himself a ransom for all —this was attested at the right time.
Paul reminds us “there is one God”, perhaps a reference to the Shema, the Hebrew prayer that begins “Hear, O Israel: The Lord is our God, the Lord alone” (Deuteronomy 6:4). He teaches that the one God made one way for us to be saved, through His one and only Son, Jesus. We also read that Jesus came as a human to save us through His obedience.
Prior to these verses Paul explained that God reaches out to all people because of His love: “This is right and is acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires everyone to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth” (1 Timothy 2:3-4). He wants us to understand so we can choose for ourselves and be reconnected to Him.
Timothy was a strong believer, so why was it necessary for Paul to remind him? We all need reminding, we all need to keep God’s truth first and foremost. So many things compete for our attention or intentionally distract us from our primary mission – to love God, love neighbor and make disciples.
Gracious God, in Your mercy You made a way for us to be saved through the life, death and resurrection of Jesus. Help us to share this blessing with all Your children everywhere. Amen.
