1 Timothy 2:1 in the King James Version states, "I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men." This verse is found within the New Testament and is part of the pastoral letters written by the apostle Paul to Timothy, a young leader in the early Christian church. The verse is a call to prayer and intercession for all people, emphasizing the importance of lifting up others in prayer.

The context of this verse is important for understanding its meaning and significance. In the preceding verses of 1 Timothy 2, Paul urges Timothy and the church to pray for all people, including those in authority, so that they may lead peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This instruction reflects Paul's desire for the church to be actively engaged in the welfare of the broader community, seeking the well-being of all people through prayer and intercession.

The themes present in this verse are interconnected with the broader message of the pastoral letters, which emphasize the importance of sound doctrine, godly living, and the ministry of the church. The call to prayer for all people aligns with these themes, as it reflects the Christian responsibility to love and care for others, seeking their spiritual and physical welfare through prayer.

The specific elements of prayer mentioned in 1 Timothy 2:1—supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks—highlight the comprehensive nature of prayer. Supplications refer to earnest petitions or requests made to God, while prayers encompass general communication with God. Intercessions involve pleading on behalf of others, and giving of thanks acknowledges God's goodness and provision. Together, these elements form a rich tapestry of prayer that reflects the diversity of ways in which believers can engage with God.

The symbolism in this verse is rooted in the act of prayer itself. Prayer is depicted as a powerful and transformative practice that has the capacity to impact the lives of individuals and communities. By exhorting believers to engage in various forms of prayer for all people, Paul underscores the inclusive nature of God's redemptive work and the universal need for divine intervention. Moreover, the act of praying for others fosters empathy, compassion, and solidarity, as it encourages believers to consider the needs and well-being of those around them.

The significance of 1 Timothy 2:1 extends beyond its immediate context and speaks to the timeless value of intercessory prayer in the Christian faith. It serves as a reminder of the privilege and responsibility that believers have to lift up others in prayer, advocating for their welfare and seeking God's intervention on their behalf. This verse challenges believers to cultivate a spirit of selflessness and empathy, recognizing the interconnectedness of all humanity and the need for communal support and care.

In conclusion, 1 Timothy 2:1 from the King James Version carries a profound and enduring message about the power and significance of prayer for all people. It reflects the apostle Paul's exhortation to the early Christian church to engage in intercessory prayer, seeking the well-being of others and embodying the love and compassion of Christ. This verse continues to resonate with believers today, inspiring them to pray earnestly, compassionately, and inclusively for the needs of all people.