It Starts Small

⁴ who wants everyone to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. ⁵ 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, a testimony at the proper time.

1 Timothy 2:4-6

 who wants everyone to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.

This is the deep desire of God’s heart. A loving parent longs for a profound connection with each child. Similarly, God yearns for an intimate relationship with every single soul He has fashioned. However, this journey is a shared path. God graciously offers the incredible gift of salvation (Ephesians 2:8-9). Yet, each individual must embrace this divine treasure with open arms.

one God and one mediator between God

These verses profoundly illuminate essential elements of the gospel. God deeply desires the salvation of all humanity. In His infinite wisdom, He set a magnificent plan in motion. This divine plan beautifully encompasses the sending of His Son as the ultimate mediator. His Son bridges the gap between heaven and earth. Here are some vital qualities that a truly exceptional mediator should embody:

• Deeply understands both sides.
• Personally lived through the challenges of both perspectives, transcending mere theory.
• Champions the best interests of each party with unwavering commitment.
• Possesses exceptional communication skills that ignite collaboration.
• Crafts a powerful and clear vision to unite diverse parties in harmony.

Jesus possessed all of this and so much more! He stood as the ultimate mediator for our salvation, fervently interceding for us even now (Romans 8:34). Likewise, we have been entrusted with the profound mission to reconcile the world to Him. We are not mediators in the same sense. We are called to rise as passionate peacemakers. Our mission is to fervently reach out and bring a lost world back to God!

 who gave himself as a ransom for all

With this powerful act, we witness that Jesus truly held the purest interests of both sides close to His heart. He was never in it for Himself; His motivations were as pure as gold. Imagine a slave girl, helplessly trapped, being auctioned off in a market. Then, a kind-hearted gentleman appears and, moved by compassion, buys her freedom. He gently tells her, “You are redeemed. Go on your way.” Overflowing with gratitude and love for her savior, she joyfully follows him, pledging her life in heartfelt service, exclaiming, “My redeemer! My redeemer!” How do you respond to the profound sacrifice of Jesus? It should ignite a fiery motivation within us to serve Him wholeheartedly.

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Cross-References

• Proverbs 11:30
• 2 Peter 3:9
• Romans 8:34
• Hebrews 8:6

Discussion Questions

• What can we learn about God’s character from verses 4-6?
• What is the relationship between these verses and the instruction to prayer?
• What are some important qualities that good mediators have?
• Are there any areas that you need to mediate in?
• If Jesus were standing here right now, what might you say to Him about His ransom sacrifice for you?
• Explain the phrase “the testimony given at the proper time.”

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