1 Timothy 2:8

“I will therefore that men pray everywhere, etc.] In this declaration of the apostle's will concerning prayer, he only takes notice of “men”; not but that it is both the duty and privilege of women, as well as men, to pray in their houses and closets; but because he is speaking of public prayer in the church, which only belongs to men, he speaks only of them; and his will is, that prayer should be performed by them everywhere, or in any place, in any part of the world where they lived. Now was the prophecy in (<390111>Malachi 1:11) fulfilled, and now was the time come our Lord refers to, (<430421>John 4:21). This seems to be said in opposition to a Jewish notion, that the temple at Jerusalem…”

“I will--The active wish, or desire, is meant. that men--rather as Greek, "that the men," as distinguished from "the women," to whom he has something different to say from what he said to the men (Ti1 2:9-12; Co1 11:14-15; Co1 14:34-35). The emphasis, however, is not on this, but on the precept of praying, resumed from Ti1 2:1. everywhere--Greek, "in every place," namely, of public prayer. Fulfilling Mal 1:11, "In every place . . . from the rising of the sun even unto the going down of the same . . . incense shall be offered unto My name"; and Jesus' words, Mat 18:20; Joh 4:21, Joh 4:23. lifting up holy hands--The early Christians turned up their palms towards heaven, as those craving help…”

“I will therefore - The Greek word here (βοὺλομαι boulomai) is different from the word rendered “will” - θέλω thelō - in 1 Timothy 2:4. The distinction is, that the word there used - θέλω thelō - denotes an active volition or purpose; the word here used - βοὺλομαι boulomai - a mere passive desire, propensity, willingness. Robinson’s Lexicon The meaning here is, “it is my will” - expressing his wish in the case, or giving direction - though using a milder word than that which is commonly employed to denote an act of will. That men pray everywhere - Not merely in the temple, or in other sacred places, but in all places. The Jews supposed that there was special efficacy in prayers offered…”

“I will - A word strongly expressing his apostolical authority. Therefore - This particle connects Ti1 2:8 with Ti1 2:1. That men pray in every place - Public and private. Wherever men are, there prayer should be. Lifting up holy hands - Pure from all known sin. Without wrath - In any kind, against any creature. And every temper or motion of our soul that is not according to love is wrath. And doubting - Which is contrary to faith. And wrath, or unholy actions, or want of faith in him we call upon, are the three grand hinderances of God's hearing our petitions. Christianity consists of faith and love, embracing truth and grace: therefore the sum of our wishes should be, to pray, and live, and…”

“2:8 Genuine prayer had evidently deteriorated among the Ephesians due to the false teachers’ influence (see 1 Tim 6:4-5; 1:4; cp. 2 Tim 3:1-5; Titus 3:9-11). • holy hands lifted up: Cp. Isa 1:15-17. An ancient posture of praise and supplication (see Exod 9:29; 1 Kgs 8:22, 54; Neh 8:6; Ps 28:2; Luke 24:50). • free from anger and controversy: Cp. Jas 3:8-12.”

“I will: Ti1 5:14; Co1 7:7 \*Gr: Tit 3:8 pray: Ch2 33:11, Ch2 33:12; Psa 130:1, Psa 130:2; Lam 3:55, Lam 3:56; Jon 2:1, Jon 2:2; Mal 1:11; Luk 23:42, Luk 23:43; Joh 4:21, Joh 4:23, Joh 4:24; Act 21:5 lifting: Job 16:17; Psa 26:6, Psa 66:18, Psa 134:2; Pro 15:8, Pro 21:27; Isa 1:15, Isa 58:7-11; Jer 7:9, Jer 7:10; Mal 1:9, Mal 1:10; Act 10:2, Act 10:4, Act 10:31; Heb 10:22; Jam 4:8; Jo1 3:20-22 without: Kg1 3:11; Psa 35:13; Mat 5:22-24, Mat 5:44, Mat 6:12, Mat 6:14, Mat 6:15; Mar 11:25; Luk 23:34; Act 7:60; Pe1 3:7 and: Mat 21:21; Mar 11:23, Mar 11:24; Jam 1:6-8 1 Timothy 2:9”