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Outline 082 of 100 · 1 Timothy

The Mediator and the Ransom

1 Timothy 2:1-6 — One God, one Mediator, one ransom for all

Hands-free narration of this study — good for the car.

Synopsis

In the middle of instructions on prayer, Paul drops one of the clearest gospel statements in his letters: 'For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; who gave himself a ransom for all.' This is the doctrinal foundation for the church's mission and its worship — because there is only one Mediator, prayer is offered through Him alone, and because His ransom is for all, prayer must be made for all, even kings and those in authority. Righteousness by faith rests entirely on this single Mediator; no priest, saint, or system stands between the sinner and God's grace. The ransom is not a partial payment awaiting completion but a finished transaction, 'to be testified in due time.' Paul, the chief of sinners, is himself proof that this Mediator saves to the uttermost.

  1. I. The call to universal prayer

    • Supplications for all men (2:1)
    • Even for kings and authorities (2:2)
    • That we may live quiet, godly lives

  2. II. The one God and one Mediator

    • Only one God over all
    • Only one Mediator — the man Christ Jesus
    • No other mediator needed or possible

  3. III. The ransom given for all

    • Christ gave Himself, not merely a gift
    • A ransom paid, not a demand made
    • Testified in due time — the gospel proclaimed to every nation

  4. IV. Paul as living proof

    • The chief of sinners obtained mercy (1:15-16)
    • A pattern for all who would believe
    • Longsuffering displayed as encouragement
The appeal

There is only one Mediator between you and God, and He has already paid your ransom in full. Will you come to Him directly today, laying aside every other hope of acceptance?

Key points

  • Christ alone is the one Mediator between God and every human being.
  • His self-given ransom was for all, not a select few.
  • Prayer and mission flow from the certainty of this finished mediation.

Key passages

  • 1 Timothy 2:5-6
  • 1 Timothy 1:15-16
  • Hebrews 9:15
  • John 14:6