1 Timothy 2:5

Authorized King James Version

For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus;

Word-by-Word Analysis

εἷς

G1520

one

γὰρ

G1063

For

properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)

θεοῦ

G2316

God

a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)

εἷς

G1520

one

καὶ

G2532

and

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

μεσίτης

G3316

mediator

a go-between, i.e., (simply) an internunciator, or (by implication) a reconciler (intercessor)

θεοῦ

G2316

God

a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)

καὶ

G2532

and

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

ἄνθρωπος

G444

men

man-faced, i.e., a human being

#10

ἄνθρωπος

G444

men

man-faced, i.e., a human being

#11

Χριστὸς

G5547

Christ

anointed, i.e., the messiah, an epithet of jesus

#12

Ἰησοῦς

G2424

Jesus

jesus (i.e., jehoshua), the name of our lord and two (three) other israelites

Cross References

Related verses that illuminate this passage (hover to preview):

¹ John 14:6 John 14:6
Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
— No man cometh unto Father but by me
² Acts 4:12 Acts 4:12
Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.
— None other name

Analysis

Within the broader context of 1 Timothy, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of 1 Timothy.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of 1 Timothy Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine sovereignty address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
How does this verse's literary context within 1 Timothy chapter 2 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?