1 Timothy 2:7

Whereunto. Or, “which” Paul here refers to the provision for man’s salvation as set forth in vs. 4-6. This was the theme of Paul’s message.

I. That is Paul.

Ordained. Or, “appointed.” The apostle’s remarkable record of courage and undiminished energy was the result of his deep conviction that God personally had called him to the ministry (see on 1 Cor 1:1; 1 Tim. 1:12).

Preacher. Gr. kerux, “herald.” A kerux was an official messenger who proclaimed publicly the decrees of a king or other government official. Paul compares the divinely appointed minister with such a messenger.

Lie not. Compare Rom. 9:1. Because of his conflicts with the Judaizers and the misusers of the law (1 Tim. 1:4—7), Paul wishes to obviate any charges of treason to his own nation. This he does by stressing God’s part in sending him to the “Gentiles” (see on Gal. 2:8-9).

Gentiles. Gr. ethne, “nations” (see on Acts 14:16). Because God desires “all men” to be saved (1 Tim. 2:4), He has made provision that all men should have the tidiest opportunity to know the “truth” (v. 4).

Through Paul and his successors the proclamation of God’s love would be heralded to all nations. For this reason we should pray for and be concerned with the well-being of “all men” (see on v. 1). See on Acts 17:30.

In faith and verity. That is, in matters relating to faith in Christ and the truths of salvation.