1 Timothy 2:5-6 (NIV)

Here’s the passage in the NIV:

> 1 Timothy 2:5–6
“For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all people. This has now been witnessed to at the proper time.”

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🔎 What it really teaches

1. One God (Monotheism affirmed)
Paul reminds Timothy and the church that the Christian faith is rooted in the belief in the one true God. In a world of many gods and idols (like in Ephesus), this truth sets the foundation: salvation comes from the one God, not many.

2. One Mediator

A mediator is someone who stands between two parties to reconcile them.

Jesus is the only mediator between humanity (sinful, separated from God) and God (holy, righteous).

This shows that access to God is not through angels, saints, priests, or rituals—but only through Christ Jesus.

3. The Humanity of Jesus
Paul highlights “the man Christ Jesus.”

This stresses His incarnation—He became fully human to represent us.

As true man, He could stand in our place; as true God, His sacrifice is of infinite worth.

4. Ransom for All

Jesus’ death is described as a ransom—the price paid to free slaves or prisoners.

His sacrificial death freed humanity from the bondage of sin and death.

“For all people” shows the universal scope of His saving work. Salvation is available to everyone, not limited to one nation or group.

5. God’s Perfect Timing

“Witnessed to at the proper time” means God revealed this plan of salvation in history at the right moment (the coming of Christ, His death, and resurrection).

It shows that God’s redemptive plan is purposeful and perfectly timed.

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✨ Core Teaching

Paul is teaching that there is only one God, and only one way to Him—through Jesus Christ, who became fully human, died as the ransom for our sins, and offers salvation to all people at God’s appointed time.

It emphasizes exclusive mediation (Christ alone) and inclusive salvation (for all who believe).