1 Timothy 2:13 - Printer Friendly

ESV: For Adam was formed first, then Eve;

NIV: For Adam was formed first, then Eve.

NASB: For it was Adam who was first created, and then Eve.

CSB: For Adam was formed first, then Eve.

NLT: For God made Adam first, and afterward he made Eve.

KJV: For Adam was first formed, then Eve.

NKJV: For Adam was formed first, then Eve.

This short verse, consisting of only six Greek words, states the basis of Paul's teaching regarding women in the church. This stance, given in the prior two verses, was not based on his own preference, but on the Torah. His reference is to Genesis chapters 1 and 2. Those passages affirm God's creation of Adam as the first man. Jesus affirmed this same truth in Matthew 19:3–6.

Eve was formed second, as the first woman on earth (Genesis 2:21–23). She was made from Adam (Genesis 2:21). This emphasis on order is Paul's guide for how men and women are to function in church worship gatherings. Men are to lead in prayer (1 Timothy 2:1–2, 8) and in teaching (1 Timothy 3:1–7). Women can certainly perform both of these functions, but cannot overstep their authority by serving in roles in which a male elder is expected to lead (1 Timothy 2:8–12).

First Timothy 2:9–15 is one of the more hotly-debated passages of the New Testament. This section provides instruction on the role of women in the context of Christian worship. Despite some phrases which are unclear, the core message is fairly well-defined. Women are not to focus on dramatic appearance or behavior, but to put their efforts into godliness and good works. Women are also not to override the spiritual leadership of men. Understanding the cultural and scriptural context resolves most objections to the text, but this passage remains a source of contention in the modern church.

In this passage, Paul encourages Timothy to lead his church in prayer, including prayers for government and worldly leaders. This flows naturally from the Christian view of humanity, which sees all men as loved by God and in need of the same salvation from sin. A large portion of the chapter is taken by Paul's comments on the role of women in worship services. Rather than focusing on flashy clothes and dramatic behavior, women are to be modest and godly. In addition, women should not take on specific spiritual leadership roles reserved for men.

In chapter 1, Paul charged Timothy to hold fast against false teaching. In chapter 2, Paul begins to lay out the practical steps a church needs to take in order to prevent false doctrine from taking over. This begins with prayer, including prayers for leaders outside the church, so Christians can be left in peace. Paul also explains the separation between the roles of men and women in worship services, which should be read in the context of his comments in chapter 3.

First Timothy is one of Paul's three ''Pastoral Epistles.'' Paul's other letters, such as Romans, Ephesians, and Colossians, are meant for a broader audience. First Timothy, 2 Timothy, and Titus are written to specific people whom Paul is advising on how to best lead their local churches. These three letters present a close look at the form and function of church leadership. First Timothy, like 2 Timothy and Titus, is less formal and systematic, and more personal. This gives great insight into the way pastors, deacons, and elders ought to prioritize their time and energy.

Accessed 5/18/2024 8:08:13 PM