Having addressed in chapter one threats to the very foundation of Christianity (Christian truth), Paul then in chapter two instructs Timothy about the church’s public worship, which evidently were affected by wrong teaching.

Church services must involve public prayer (vv. 1-7) led by godly men at peace with one another (v. 8) and with godly women properly dressed (vv. 9-10). Godliness of life and appearance are essential so that everyone’s attention is on the Lord, not one another. In public worship women are not to have a leadership or teaching role (vv. 11-12). This not merely a cultural practice, it is based in the beginning of humanity (vv. 13-14).

Verse 15 does not mean that women gain eternal life if they bear children! Rather, the point is that Christian women are to fulfill the roles and responsibilities that God has established for them. When Christian women trust Christ and demonstrate that trust by fulfilling their God-given role they will persevere in the faith and experience God’s salvation.

Truths to Nail Down and Meditate On

1. The church’s public worship must have proper order and seriousness. God is the one the church gathers to worship. The purpose is not to “have a great worship experience,” that makes human beings the object of the service! Scriptural praying, modest apparel, and biblical order do not gratify the flesh, but such are essential for truly worshiping the one true God through Jesus Christ. Such is “good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior” (v. 3).
2. Christian man, live a holy life and love one another. “Holy hands” (v. 8) refers to a holy life. Instead of flying off the handle or being mad at someone, you must love them. Be committed to Christ and settled in the faith (“without doubting”). Praying to God while actively sinning, not loving a brother, or doubting truth is hypocrisy. Christian man, God intends you to lead in your marriage, home, and church, so you must set the example!
3. Christian woman, you too must live a holy life! Focus your life on doing good for Christ rather than on “looking hot” (vv. 9-10). This moderation is exactly how you should live as a godly woman (“proper”). The world doesn’t care about doing good for Christ, it only cares about looking good. This doesn’t mean you’re more Christian if you look dowdy! The key words are “modest, propriety, moderation.” The standard is “women professing godliness.” Are you known more for your looks or your life?