Pray For All

First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people,2 for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way.

All of these are different ways to worship and pray. He uses all these terms I think to stress the importance of prayer in general. Another interesting point is that he says "for all people," even for our enemies/those who sin against us. We need to be lifting those in authority over us up, whether it be our government officials, pastor's, parents, or bosses. It is sometimes hard for us to do this, because of our pride we are tempted not to pray for these individuals, because we like to be in control. Living a "peaceful and quiet life, godly, and dignified" life is a sharp contrast to how the false prophets live. It is a life that commends and reflects the gospel that has changed us. It is a humble life, that brings more glory to God than self.

3 This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, 4 who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.

If something is good and pleasing to God, than it is definitely something we should abide by. We have been called out of darkness into His marvelous light, lets live like that! Verse 4 is call to evangelism. This passage is often misinterpreted as meaning that everyone will be saved (universalism).

"It cannot be read as suggesting that everyone will be saved (universalism) because the rest of the letter makes it clear that some will not be saved (4:1; 5:24; 6:10; cf. Matt. 25:30, 41, 46; Rev. 14:9–11). Does that mean God desires something (all people being saved) that he cannot fulfill? Both Arminian and Calvinist theologians respond that God “desires” something more than universal salvation. Arminians hold that God's greater desire is to preserve genuine human freedom (which is necessary for genuine love) and therefore he must allow that some may choose to reject his offer of salvation. Calvinists hold that God's greater desire is to display the full range of his glory (Rom. 9:22–23), which results in election depending upon the freedom of his mercy and not upon human choice (Rom. 9:15–18). However one understands the extent of the atonement, this passage clearly teaches the free and universal offer of the gospel to every single human being; “desires” shows that this offer is a bona fide expression of God's good will." - ESV Study Bible

We as believers need to be faithful and share the gospel, knowing that God is going before us. He gives us the words to say and desires that people be saved.

5 For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, 6 who gave himself as a ransom for all, which is the testimony given at the proper time.

Christ is the only way to God. He redeemed us from the bondage of sin! He freely ransomed us, when we repented and committed our lives to him, we gained access to the Father. I am thankful that my eyes were opened and He allowed me to respond to His call. A ransom is typically not a small amount, in this case it required death! I am AMAZED that Christ would lay down His perfect life for me! Do you reflect on this daily? Are awed by this fact? How does this make you live your life? Does it bring joy?!

8 I desire then that in every place the men should pray, lifting holy hands without anger or quarreling;

This verse is addressing specific concerns for the men. Anger and quarreling do not demonstrate a humble attitude. When I get angry or quarrel it is because I usually want something that I am not getting or getting quick enough. Anger distracts us from what we should be doing. Paul is encouraging us to pray in peace. When we are angry it hurts others and can lead to quarreling. The only thing I should be angry at is my sin, not when things are not going my way. How gracious of God to show me mercy and not bear His Holy wrath on me.

The following 7 verse are direct toward the women:

9 likewise also that women should adorn themselves in respectable apparel, with modesty and self-control, not with braided hair and gold or pearls or costly attire, 10 but with what is proper for women who profess godliness—with good works. 11 Let a woman learn quietly with all submissiveness. 12 I do not permit a woman to teach or to exercise authority over a man; rather, she is to remain quiet. 13 For Adam was formed first, then Eve; 14 and Adam was not deceived, but the woman was deceived and became a transgressor. 15 Yet she will be saved through childbearing—if they continue in faith and love and holiness, with self-control.

Candace did an excellent job explaining these verses, I will let you read her post. I know I speak for the guys in our churches that it is a blessing that the women in our churches dress modestly. It reflects a humble spirit one that shows godliness. What a blessing it is to have women who seek to honor God and bring attention to Him, rather than self.