Topical Bible: Peace: Results From: Praying for Rulers

◄ Peace: Results From: Praying for Rulers ►

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In the Christian tradition, peace is often seen as a divine gift and a reflection of God's order and justice in the world. One of the ways believers are encouraged to seek peace is through prayer, particularly by praying for those in positions of authority. The Bible underscores the importance of interceding for rulers and leaders, suggesting that such prayers can lead to a peaceful and orderly society.

The Apostle Paul, in his first letter to Timothy, emphasizes the significance of praying for those in authority. He writes, "I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority—that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness" (1 Timothy 2:1-2). This passage highlights the direct connection between the act of praying for rulers and the resultant peace and tranquility in the lives of believers.

From a biblical perspective, the peace that results from praying for rulers is not merely the absence of conflict but encompasses a broader sense of well-being and order. It is a peace that allows for the flourishing of godliness and holiness, suggesting that when leaders are guided by divine wisdom and justice, the society they govern can experience stability and prosperity.

The Old Testament also reflects this theme. In the book of Proverbs, the wisdom literature advises, "When the righteous thrive, the people rejoice; when the wicked rule, the people groan" (Proverbs 29:2). This proverb implies that the character and decisions of rulers have a profound impact on the peace and happiness of the people. Therefore, praying for rulers to be righteous and just is seen as a means to ensure the well-being of the community.

Furthermore, the biblical narrative often portrays God as sovereign over the affairs of nations and rulers. In the book of Daniel, it is declared, "He changes times and seasons; He removes kings and establishes them" (Daniel 2:21). This acknowledgment of God's ultimate authority over rulers reinforces the belief that prayer can influence the course of governance and, consequently, the peace experienced by the people.

In the New Testament, the early Christians lived under Roman rule, which was often oppressive and hostile to their faith. Yet, they were encouraged to pray for their leaders, trusting that God could work through even pagan rulers to bring about His purposes. This practice of intercession for rulers is seen as an act of faith in God's sovereignty and His ability to bring about peace through human governance.

In summary, the Bible presents a clear link between praying for rulers and the experience of peace. By interceding for those in authority, believers participate in God's work of establishing justice and order in the world, leading to a society where peace and godliness can thrive.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Timothy 2:2
For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Prayer Takes in the Whole Man
... The largest results in praying come to him who gives himself ... "And the very God of
peace sanctify you ... It requires the entire man in praying till high and proud ...
/.../bounds/the essentials of prayer/i prayer takes in the.htm

Its Effects.
... to see that its sheltering fruits, Love and Peace, are kept ... (13) Spirit-filled men
will be praying always in ... Such are some of the results, on the positive side ...
/.../macneil/the spirit-filled life/chapter xv its effects.htm

Prayer Essential to God
... when this is the case, evil results always follow ... fully serve the divine ends of
peace, gratitude, and ... Daniel's praying was an essential factor in defeating the ...
/.../bounds/the weapon of prayer/i prayer essential to god.htm

Hebrews xiii. 17
... be restored to you the sooner." His thus praying was [the act ... For the one results,
when we mind heavenly things; the ... and do them in security, and in much peace. ...
/.../homilies on the gospel of st john and hebrews/homily xxxiv hebrews xiii 17.htm

Knox in England: the Black Rubric: Exile: 1549-1554
... by her husband and his family; the results will presently ... thirst for the Queen's
death, and praying for a ... ground of his Christmas sermon of peace and goodwill. ...
/.../lang/john knox and the reformation/chapter iv knox in england .htm

Philippians i. 1, 2
... Ver.2. "Grace to you and peace from God our Father and ... Always," [527] not only while
I am praying. ... be quenched, and fail, but it points to [535] great results. ...
/.../homily i philippians i 1.htm

The Riot at Philippi
... in the name of order, and break the peace in their ... The quiet praying-place by the
riverside, and the ... Wonderful results follow from the judicious use of that ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture the acts/the riot at philippi.htm

Second Sunday after Epiphany
... The diligent, in praying and fasting, would be better ... happy and righteous and to
obtain peace of conscience ... circumstances, to hope for good results is useless ...
/.../luther/epistle sermons vol ii/second sunday after epiphany.htm

The Foundation of the Church among the Jews
... their converts, during that brief interval of undisturbed peace which preceded ... Section
9. Results of St. ... Peter praying at the same time that he might no longer ...
/.../blunt/a key to the knowledge of church history/chapter i the foundation of.htm

1 John i. 1-ii. 11
... the apostle saith to the congregation, "Praying withal for ... they do not tolerate for
the peace of Christ ... Among the results of this Divine-human fellowship, the ...
/.../ten homilies on the epistle of john to the parthians/homily i 1 john i.htm