Speaking Up (1 Timothy 2:1)

1 Timothy 2:1 says, ''... that first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, (and) giving of thanks, be made for all men,..''

INTERCESSIONS - This word group, is used 8 times in the NT. (Acts 25:24; Rm. 8:26-27, 34; 11:2; 1 Tim. 2:1; 4:5; Heb. 7:25). The original meaning of the words, as with all language, changed over time:

1) Initially, the words meant a simple ''chance meeting'' with someone.

2) Since most interaction with others involves speaking, the meaning developed to mean, ''to meet with someone in order to converse'' or have a conversation with them. This term usually implied the meeting together of friends.

3) The third meaning that developed, became a technical term in the legal sphere for petitioning someone in authority, specifically the king. Since some individuals had favor with the king, there also developed the meaning of ''freedom and boldness of access'' as conversing with a friend on an intimate level, with, therefore, full confidence that any requests to the king would be granted.

In relation to prayer, this favor represents both:

(1) our position and privilege that we have as well as

(2) our authority and responsibility to see things changed.

These requests to the king, were legally, presenting a case for or against someone. The requests followed a specific formula:

1) Summary of the facts that motivated the petition. [a violation of some rights of the person or persons involved].

2) The actual petition itself. [ presenting specific legal support for the case].

3) Thanking the king in advance. [ for addressing the matter, and righting the wrong committed against the injured party].

WRITTEN

What is interesting, is that the petition was normally, though not always, presented in writing. In fact, the term was generally used, of any writing addressed to the king. [Usually in the form of a petition or request].

We can come boldly before our Father, the King, and have full confidence that our requests will be answered, for ourselves or others, based on our intimate relationship with Him. However, we need to present specific legal support [scripture] that clearly demonstrates the way it should be, to correct the injustice.

Change doesn't happen automatically. We need to speak up in court and declare what is legally our rights or the rights of others. Violations occur in this world and in the spiritual realm. Speaking up [in prayer] changes the situation and positively affects the lives of others.

You are God's Best and God's Best is Yours.