1 Timothy 2:4
Verse
Context
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Who will have all men to be saved - Because he wills the salvation of all men; therefore, he wills that all men should be prayed for. In the face of such a declaration, how can any Christian soul suppose that God ever unconditionally and eternally reprobated any man? Those who can believe so, one would suppose, can have little acquaintance either with the nature of God, or the bowels of Christ. And to come unto the knowledge of the truth - The truth - the Gospel of Christ, should be proclaimed to them; and it is the duty of all who know it, to diffuse it far and wide, and when it is made known, then it is the duty of those who hear it to acknowledge and receive it. This is the proper import of the original word, that they may come, εις επιγνωσιν αληθειας, to the acknowledgment of the truth - that they may receive it as the truth, and make it the rule of their faith, the model and director of their life and actions.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
"Imitate God." Since He wishes that all should be saved, do you also wish it; and if you wish it, pray for it. For prayer is the instrument of effecting such things [CHRYSOSTOM]. Paul does not say, "He wishes to save all"; for then he would have saved all in matter of fact; but "will have all men to be saved," implies the possibility of man's accepting it (through God's prevenient grace) or rejecting it (through man's own perversity). Our prayers ought to include all, as God's grace included all. to come--They are not forced. unto the knowledge--Greek, "the full knowledge" or "recognition" (See on Co1 13:12; Phi 1:9). the truth--the saving truth as it is in, and by, Jesus (Joh 17:3, Joh 17:17).
John Gill Bible Commentary
For there is one God,.... This does not so much regard the unity of God, with respect to himself, or his divine essence, though that is a truth; but does not carry in it any apparent and forcible reason why all men should be prayed for, for which it is produced; but the unity of God with respect to men, as that there is but one God, who is the Creator of all men, and who, in a providential way, is the Saviour of all men; and in a way of special grace is the one God, the one covenant God of all sorts of men, of Jews and Gentiles; for he has taken of the latter into the covenant of his grace, as well as the former, and has loved them with a special and distinguishing love, has chosen them in Christ to salvation, and has sent his Son to redeem them; and of these he calls by his grace, regenerates, sanctifies, adopts, pardons, and justifies; see Rom 3:29 and therefore all sorts of men, Gentiles as well as Jews, are to be prayed for: another argument follows, and one Mediator between God and men; a Mediator is of more than one, and has to do with two parties; and these at variance among themselves, between whom he stands as a middle person; his business is to bring them together, and make peace between them; and such an one is Christ: the two parties are God and his elect, who in their natural state are at a distance from God, and at enmity to him, and who have broken his law, and affronted his justice; Christ stands as a middle person, a daysman between them, and lays his hands upon them both; has to do with things pertaining to the glory of God, and makes reconciliation for the sins of the people; brings them that were afar off nigh to God, and makes peace for them by the blood of his cross, by fulfilling the law, and satisfying justice for them; in consequence of this he appears for them in the court of heaven, intercedes and pleads for them, is their advocate, and sees that all covenant blessings, of which he is the Mediator, are applied unto them, and preserves their persons, which are committed to his care and charge, safe to everlasting happiness; and this Mediator is the man Christ Jesus; not that he is a mere man, for he is truly and properly God; or that he is a Mediator only according to the human nature: it was proper indeed that he should be man, that he might have something to offer, and that he might be capable of obeying, suffering, and dying, and so of making satisfaction in the nature that had sinned; but then, had he not been God, he could not have drawn nigh to God on the behalf of men, and undertook for them, and much less have performed; nor would his blood, righteousness, and sacrifice, have been available to cleanse from sin, to procure the pardon of it, justify from it, make atonement for it, or make peace with God: the reason why he is particularly mentioned as man, is, with a view to the argument in hand, praying for all men; since he who is the Mediator between God and man, has assumed a nature which is common to them all: and this Mediator is said to be one, not so much in opposition to other mediators, angels or saints departed, though it is a truth, and stands full against them, but with respect to men; there is but one Mediator between God and all sorts of men, through whom both Jews and Gentiles have an access to God, and peace with him; and therefore prayer through this Mediator should be made for all. So the Jews say of the Messiah (u), that he is , "a Mediator, God", a middle person between God and men. And they call him , "the Pillar of mediation" (w) or the middle Pillar; that is, the Mediator or Reconciler. And Philo (x) the Jew speaks of the word, as a "middle" person, and standing in the middle between the dead and the living, and between God and men. The Ethiopic version here renders it, "there is one elect of God"; which is one of the characters of the Messiah, Isa 42:1. (u) R. Albo, Sepher Ikkarim, orat 2. c. 28. (w) Sepher Jetzira, p. 126. (x) Quis rerum divin. Hares, p. 508, 509, 510.
1 Timothy 2:4
A Call to Prayer
3This is good and pleasing in the sight of God our Savior,4who wants everyone to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
A World of Idols
By Tim Keller13K45:58GospelPRO 14:12JHN 14:6ACT 17:16ROM 1:161CO 9:192CO 5:141TI 2:4In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes that religion is often seen as a superficial and temporary experience. However, the speaker argues that true faith in Christianity is meant to permeate every aspect of a person's life, including work, relationships, and cultural engagement. The speaker uses the example of the Athenians, who were caught up in the latest fads and ideas, to highlight the need for a deeper and more substantial faith. The sermon encourages listeners to understand that Christianity is not just about personal transformation, but also about transforming one's relationship with the world.
(1 Peter - Part 31): Christian's Trial and His Committal
By A.W. Tozer9.3K26:07TrialsMAT 6:331CO 11:261TI 2:41PE 1:22JUD 1:20In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of holding onto correct doctrine and teaching the truth as it is. He encourages believers to build themselves up in their faith and not rely solely on external sources for their spiritual growth. The speaker also highlights the need to acknowledge and accept the reality of God's creation, both in the physical and spiritual realms. He urges believers to remain steadfast in their faith and not give in to the pressures of the world or compromise with false teachings. Overall, the sermon emphasizes the importance of staying true to God's word and standing firm in the face of opposition.
Once Saved, Always Saved 1
By Jacob Prasch5.3K1:15:43AssuranceMAT 6:33JHN 3:36ROM 11:22PHP 2:121TI 2:4In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of active witnessing in the Christian life. He compares not actively witnessing to neglecting other essential aspects of the Christian faith, such as reading the Bible and praying. The speaker uses a metaphor of someone trying to swim across the English Channel but getting overwhelmed by the storm and drowning. In the metaphor, Jesus appears in a helicopter to save the person, but instead of simply rescuing them, Jesus gives them a white jacket and tells them to hold on. The speaker explains that this represents the tension between faith and works, highlighting the need for both trust in Jesus and active obedience in the Christian life. The sermon references the book of Philippians, specifically chapter 2 verse 12, which encourages believers to work out their salvation with fear and trembling, emphasizing the connection between obedience and salvation.
The Human Face of God
By David Wilkerson4.9K55:00MAT 23:33JHN 20:19JHN 21:1ROM 2:41TI 2:42TI 3:162TI 4:2In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of preaching both the goodness and severity of God to produce a healthy congregation. He highlights the human face of God as seen in Christ, which is characterized by unconditional love and kindness. The preacher emphasizes the need for a personal relationship with God, where we are called to love Him above all else. He shares the testimony of Nikki Cruz, who attributes his long-lasting faith to his love for Jesus. The preacher also mentions that Jesus chose three special manifestations to reveal who God is to his disciples. Overall, the sermon encourages listeners to express their love for Jesus and acknowledge His faithfulness.
1 Peter 3:1
By A.W. Tozer3.8K15:54Wives and HusbandsMAT 22:37ROM 12:181CO 1:181TI 2:4HEB 10:252PE 3:9JUD 1:22In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of preserving truth while showing love to both friends and enemies. He urges believers to build themselves up in their faith by reading the Bible, memorizing scripture, and seeking to know God personally. The preacher highlights the mercy of Jesus Christ, both on the cross and in receiving sinners, and encourages Christians to show compassion and fear in their efforts to bring others to Christ. He warns against false teachings and emphasizes the need to have a correct understanding of God and ourselves based on the study of the Bible.
Redeemed From the Law
By Harry Ironside2.6K05:31LawGEN 12:3JHN 3:16ACT 17:30ROM 3:24GAL 3:13EPH 1:31TI 2:4In this sermon, the speaker shares his personal testimony of coming to the Lord Jesus Christ as a sinner. He emphasizes the understanding of breaking God's law and being under condemnation. However, he found that Christ had given himself as a ransom for his soul, bringing joy and blessing to his heart. The speaker encourages the audience to trust in Christ and experience the deliverance from the curse of the law and the blessing of Abraham through faith. He also emphasizes the importance of repentance and acknowledging one's guilt before God.
World Missions in the 80's
By Oswald J. Smith2.3K43:08World MissionsMAT 9:35MAT 9:38MRK 16:15ACT 1:8ROM 10:141TI 2:4REV 14:6In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of sending laborers into the harvest fields of the world to spread the gospel. He shares a personal story about the impact of missionary work on his own life and poses the question of why anyone should hear the gospel twice before everyone has heard it once. The speaker urges the audience to take action by either going themselves or supporting missionaries financially. He concludes by stating that it is the responsibility of the Church to evangelize the world and fulfill the commands of Jesus Christ.
Beware of Becoming Puffed Up
By Alan Martin2.2K00:00PrideROM 8:4ROM 14:161TI 2:4In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of walking by the Spirit and not relying on our own carnal thinking. He highlights that when we walk by the Spirit, we fulfill the righteous requirement of the law, which is love. However, he warns against losing connection with Christ and relying solely on information from messengers or books. The preacher urges believers to preserve the unity of the Spirit and the bond of peace, as lacking peace and unity can hinder our ability to see the Lord.
Ye Shall Be Free Indeed!
By Keith Daniel2.1K55:52FreedomISA 53:6ROM 1:16ROM 6:16ROM 6:231TI 2:11TI 2:41JN 2:2In this sermon, the preacher shares a personal experience of searching for a young man who was lost and in danger. The preacher expresses his desperation and plea to God to find the young man before it's too late. Eventually, the preacher encounters the young man, who is covered in blood and in a drugged state. Despite warnings from others, the preacher gets out of his car and confronts the young man, revealing that he knows his name and the circumstances surrounding his disappearance. The preacher emphasizes the power of God's intervention and the importance of yielding oneself to obedience and righteousness.
Our Adversary the Devil and His Angels
By Keith Daniel2.1K1:16:44DevilGEN 3:1ISA 53:7ROM 1:16ROM 3:132CO 5:19EPH 6:101TI 2:4In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the second coming of the Lord Jesus and the ultimate defeat of Satan. He quotes over 400 verses, discussing topics such as the revelation of Satan, Armageddon, the antichrist, and God's eventual triumph. The preacher emphasizes the importance of recognizing Satan's hold on the world and the need to resist his temptations. He also highlights the power of the gospel to overcome the blindness caused by the God of this world. The sermon concludes with the mention of the judgment that awaits all men.
Divine Appointments
By Otto Koning1.6K39:46Christian LifeEXO 20:17MAT 6:33ACT 8:261TI 2:4In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of time and how people often prioritize worldly possessions over spiritual matters. He mentions how window shopping and constantly desiring new things can lead to discontentment. The speaker also emphasizes the importance of using time wisely for ministry and spiritual growth, rather than being consumed by material possessions. He shares personal examples of how he and others have been distracted by worldly things, and encourages listeners to focus on laying up treasures in heaven rather than on earth. The speaker references Matthew 6 and the parable of the harvest to illustrate the concept of kairos, the specific moment in history when God sent his son to redeem humanity.
The Coming Great Deception
By Steve Gallagher1.4K44:03Great DeceptionPSA 15:2PSA 51:6PSA 145:18MAT 24:3ROM 1:181TI 2:42TI 3:72TI 4:4In this sermon, the preacher discusses the consequences of rejecting the truth of God's word. He emphasizes the importance of understanding right from wrong and warns against accepting falsehoods as truth. The preacher also highlights the judgment that awaits those who do not believe in God. He concludes by mentioning the final giving over to one's desires and the need for continuous warning messages to ensure understanding and obedience. The sermon references verses from the Bible, including Matthew 24 and the concept of God's holiness being vindicated.
Studies in 1 Timothy-05 1 Timothy-5
By William MacDonald1.2K38:37DEU 25:4LUK 10:71TI 5:23The sermon transcript discusses various instructions given by Paul to Timothy on how to behave towards different classes in the Christian family. It begins by addressing the old and young, male and female, emphasizing the importance of showing honor and respect. The transcript then moves on to discussing the care and support of widows, highlighting the responsibility of the church in providing for them. It also touches on the role of elders in the church, emphasizing the need for financial care, caution in appointing men, and the importance of having multiple witnesses in cases of accusation. Overall, the transcript emphasizes the practical advice given by Paul to Timothy for the care of believers in the Christian assembly.
Message 5 of 5 - New Zealand
By Keith Daniel1.0K33:24New ZealandAcceptance of SalvationSacrificial LoveISA 53:5JHN 3:16JHN 14:6ROM 3:26ROM 6:232CO 5:21EPH 2:81TI 2:4HEB 2:91PE 2:24Keith Daniel expresses deep gratitude for the opportunity to share at the convention in New Zealand, reflecting on the importance of faith and the transformative power of his wife's poetry, which has led many to Christ. He shares poignant stories of personal loss and divine intervention, emphasizing the sacrificial love of God through Jesus Christ, who bore the sins of humanity. Daniel illustrates the necessity of accepting God's gift of salvation by faith, drawing parallels between personal experiences and biblical truths. He concludes with a heartfelt prayer, urging attendees to embrace the eternal life offered through Christ.
What It Means to Be Lost
By Rolfe Barnard91856:04MRK 16:15ACT 1:8ROM 10:141CO 2:4EPH 4:111TI 2:42TI 2:15In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of believing in the Bible and its teachings. They mention the apostles and their role in spreading the message of Jesus to the church. The speaker also highlights the need for individuals in the church to be well-versed in God's message and methods, rather than relying on external sources like schools or theology. They emphasize the power of being born again and the potential for believers to do more than just be spectators in the church. Overall, the sermon emphasizes the belief in the Bible and the importance of personal faith and understanding in spreading the word of God.
Misconceptions About Missions
By George Verwer73138:21MAT 28:19MRK 16:15ACT 17:30ACT 17:32ROM 10:141TI 2:4REV 14:6In this sermon, the preacher focuses on Acts 17:30, where God commands all men everywhere to repent. He emphasizes the importance of spreading the gospel to all people, regardless of their background or location. The preacher challenges the misconception that the job of evangelism is almost done, highlighting that there are still countless individuals who have never heard the gospel. He urges believers to actively engage in continuous evangelism, which includes not only preaching but also teaching, discipling, and bringing converts into the church for growth. The sermon emphasizes the urgency and responsibility of sharing the message of repentance and salvation with all people.
God's Love for All Men!
By Keith Daniel59940:52ISA 53:6ISA 55:6JHN 3:16ROM 3:25ROM 6:231CO 6:61TI 2:41PE 2:241PE 3:18This sermon emphasizes the sacrificial love of Jesus Christ, comparing it to a tragic story of a man and his son swept away by the sea, illustrating how God forsook His son to bear the sins of humanity. It delves into the concept of accepting God's gift of eternal life through faith, highlighting the importance of not rejecting this offer. The sermon concludes with a call to accept this gift of salvation and to live a life dedicated to praising God for His sacrifice.
Can America Survive (1969)
By Jack Van Impe5834:44Moral Decay in SocietyUrgency of SalvationMAT 28:19MRK 16:15LUK 14:21JHN 9:4ROM 13:122CO 6:21TI 2:4HEB 3:72PE 3:9REV 3:10Jack Van Impe emphasizes the urgent need for America to turn back to God amidst rising sin and moral decay, warning that without a revival, the nation faces imminent judgment. He cites biblical prophecies and current events to illustrate the potential for chaos and tribulation, urging listeners to accept Christ immediately for salvation. Van Impe stresses that the time for decision is now, as the coming of the Lord is near, and Christians must be prepared for the judgment of their works. He calls for a return to biblical truths and warns against the influences of secularism and immorality in society. The sermon concludes with an invitation for individuals to accept Jesus as their Savior.
Epistle 358
By George Fox0Unity in ChristTruthPSA 111:10JHN 8:32JHN 8:441CO 14:331TI 2:4HEB 13:81PE 1:233JN 1:4JUD 1:12REV 3:10George Fox emphasizes the unchanging nature of God's truth, which liberates those who embrace it and leads them to serve God and spread His message. He highlights the importance of unity, humility, and the fear of the Lord, which fosters a community that honors God and remains steadfast against disorder. Fox reassures that God's eternal power protects His people, contrasting it with the temporary nature of evil. He encourages patience and adherence to the word of God, which provides strength against worldly temptations. Ultimately, he expresses his love and desire for all to remain in the seed of life that reigns over all.
God Not Pleased With the Death of the Wicked
By Charles Finney0Repentance and SalvationGod's JusticeEZK 18:32EZK 33:11MAT 18:14LUK 13:3JHN 3:16ACT 3:19ROM 6:231TI 2:42PE 3:9REV 3:19Charles Finney emphasizes that God takes no pleasure in the death of the wicked, urging sinners to turn from their evil ways to avoid eternal death. He explains that the death referred to is not merely physical but represents eternal separation from God, which is a state of misery rather than annihilation. Finney discusses why God does not prevent the death of the wicked, highlighting the importance of human free will and the necessity of repentance and faith for salvation. Ultimately, he calls on sinners to recognize their own responsibility in choosing life over death, as God desires their salvation and has provided the means for it through Christ.
Fare Ye Well in the Lord Jesus Christ, Our Common Hope
By Ignatius of Antioch0ROM 15:301CO 1:42CO 13:141TH 5:231TI 2:4Ignatius of Antioch expresses gratitude for Philo the deacon, Gaius, and Agathopus, commending their faithful service and testimony. He gives thanks to God for the believers who have received them, assuring that the Lord will also receive them. Ignatius prays for forgiveness for those who dishonored these faithful men, emphasizing the grace of Jesus Christ and His desire for repentance. He conveys greetings from the brethren at Troas and sends well wishes in the Lord Jesus Christ, the common hope, and the Holy Ghost.
Outlines of Theology: Pelagianism, Semi-Pelagianism & Augustinianism
By A.A. Hodge0JHN 6:44JHN 10:28ROM 5:12ROM 8:30ROM 8:38EPH 2:8PHP 3:121TI 2:4HEB 6:41JN 5:13A.A. Hodge presents a comparison of the three main theological systems: Pelagianism, Semipelagianism, and Augustinianism (Socinianism, Arminianism, and Calvinism). The early church focused on defending Christianity against heresies and defining the Trinity. The rise of contrasting views on sin, grace, and redemption led to the development of these systems. Augustinianism (Calvinism) emphasizes original sin, total depravity, irresistible grace, and unconditional election. Pelagianism (Socinianism) denies original sin, affirms free will, and believes in conditional election. Arminianism falls between these, advocating for free will, resistible grace, and conditional election.
First Service at Bootle. — Remarkable Gathering. — Many Converts.
By Gwilym Hughes0PSA 139:14MAT 7:13MAT 9:12MRK 2:17JHN 10:9ROM 10:131TH 5:161TI 2:4JAS 5:16REV 3:20Gwilym Hughes preaches at the Stanley Road Welsh Calvinistic Methodist Chapel in Bootle, Liverpool, amidst a magnificent gathering of thousands, including a great Welsh population. The congregation experiences a surge of spiritual fervor, with prayers, supplications, and hymns filling the air. Hughes emphasizes the choice between eternal life and destruction, urging individuals to enter through the narrow door to salvation. He paints a vivid picture of the great Physician who heals all wounds, contrasting the suffering on earth with the wholeness in Heaven. The service culminates in a powerful display of conversions, prayers for salvation, and a call to remain close to Jesus and engage in prayer and work.
Mercy and Judgment
By Catherine Booth0EXO 33:18PRO 29:1MAT 23:37ACT 7:51ROM 2:41TI 2:4HEB 10:262PE 3:9REV 3:20Catherine Booth preaches about the riches of God's goodness and His purpose for leading humanity to repentance, emphasizing the importance of not despising His mercy and longsuffering. She challenges the audience to consider the consequences of neglecting God's offer of Salvation, highlighting the continuous frustration of God's loving purposes by impenitent sinners. Booth urges individuals to recognize the urgency of accepting God's mercy and turning away from sin before it's too late, sharing poignant real-life examples of those who neglected God's goodness and faced tragic consequences.
The Church Now Fruitful
By Clement of Rome0ISA 54:1LUK 5:32ROM 4:171TI 2:42PE 3:9Clement of Rome preaches about rejoicing in barrenness and offering sincere prayers to God. He explains that the church, once barren, now has many children through faith. By referencing the outcasts who have become numerous believers, he emphasizes the importance of salvation for sinners. Clement highlights Christ's mission to save those who are perishing, calling us to turn from destruction and embrace salvation.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Who will have all men to be saved - Because he wills the salvation of all men; therefore, he wills that all men should be prayed for. In the face of such a declaration, how can any Christian soul suppose that God ever unconditionally and eternally reprobated any man? Those who can believe so, one would suppose, can have little acquaintance either with the nature of God, or the bowels of Christ. And to come unto the knowledge of the truth - The truth - the Gospel of Christ, should be proclaimed to them; and it is the duty of all who know it, to diffuse it far and wide, and when it is made known, then it is the duty of those who hear it to acknowledge and receive it. This is the proper import of the original word, that they may come, εις επιγνωσιν αληθειας, to the acknowledgment of the truth - that they may receive it as the truth, and make it the rule of their faith, the model and director of their life and actions.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
"Imitate God." Since He wishes that all should be saved, do you also wish it; and if you wish it, pray for it. For prayer is the instrument of effecting such things [CHRYSOSTOM]. Paul does not say, "He wishes to save all"; for then he would have saved all in matter of fact; but "will have all men to be saved," implies the possibility of man's accepting it (through God's prevenient grace) or rejecting it (through man's own perversity). Our prayers ought to include all, as God's grace included all. to come--They are not forced. unto the knowledge--Greek, "the full knowledge" or "recognition" (See on Co1 13:12; Phi 1:9). the truth--the saving truth as it is in, and by, Jesus (Joh 17:3, Joh 17:17).
John Gill Bible Commentary
For there is one God,.... This does not so much regard the unity of God, with respect to himself, or his divine essence, though that is a truth; but does not carry in it any apparent and forcible reason why all men should be prayed for, for which it is produced; but the unity of God with respect to men, as that there is but one God, who is the Creator of all men, and who, in a providential way, is the Saviour of all men; and in a way of special grace is the one God, the one covenant God of all sorts of men, of Jews and Gentiles; for he has taken of the latter into the covenant of his grace, as well as the former, and has loved them with a special and distinguishing love, has chosen them in Christ to salvation, and has sent his Son to redeem them; and of these he calls by his grace, regenerates, sanctifies, adopts, pardons, and justifies; see Rom 3:29 and therefore all sorts of men, Gentiles as well as Jews, are to be prayed for: another argument follows, and one Mediator between God and men; a Mediator is of more than one, and has to do with two parties; and these at variance among themselves, between whom he stands as a middle person; his business is to bring them together, and make peace between them; and such an one is Christ: the two parties are God and his elect, who in their natural state are at a distance from God, and at enmity to him, and who have broken his law, and affronted his justice; Christ stands as a middle person, a daysman between them, and lays his hands upon them both; has to do with things pertaining to the glory of God, and makes reconciliation for the sins of the people; brings them that were afar off nigh to God, and makes peace for them by the blood of his cross, by fulfilling the law, and satisfying justice for them; in consequence of this he appears for them in the court of heaven, intercedes and pleads for them, is their advocate, and sees that all covenant blessings, of which he is the Mediator, are applied unto them, and preserves their persons, which are committed to his care and charge, safe to everlasting happiness; and this Mediator is the man Christ Jesus; not that he is a mere man, for he is truly and properly God; or that he is a Mediator only according to the human nature: it was proper indeed that he should be man, that he might have something to offer, and that he might be capable of obeying, suffering, and dying, and so of making satisfaction in the nature that had sinned; but then, had he not been God, he could not have drawn nigh to God on the behalf of men, and undertook for them, and much less have performed; nor would his blood, righteousness, and sacrifice, have been available to cleanse from sin, to procure the pardon of it, justify from it, make atonement for it, or make peace with God: the reason why he is particularly mentioned as man, is, with a view to the argument in hand, praying for all men; since he who is the Mediator between God and man, has assumed a nature which is common to them all: and this Mediator is said to be one, not so much in opposition to other mediators, angels or saints departed, though it is a truth, and stands full against them, but with respect to men; there is but one Mediator between God and all sorts of men, through whom both Jews and Gentiles have an access to God, and peace with him; and therefore prayer through this Mediator should be made for all. So the Jews say of the Messiah (u), that he is , "a Mediator, God", a middle person between God and men. And they call him , "the Pillar of mediation" (w) or the middle Pillar; that is, the Mediator or Reconciler. And Philo (x) the Jew speaks of the word, as a "middle" person, and standing in the middle between the dead and the living, and between God and men. The Ethiopic version here renders it, "there is one elect of God"; which is one of the characters of the Messiah, Isa 42:1. (u) R. Albo, Sepher Ikkarim, orat 2. c. 28. (w) Sepher Jetzira, p. 126. (x) Quis rerum divin. Hares, p. 508, 509, 510.