I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men;
Therefore - resuming the general subject (2 Timothy 2:1). 'What I have therefore to say by way of a charge (1 Timothy 1:3; 1 Timothy 1:18), is,' etc.
That, first of all ... be made. "First of all," connect with "I exhort." What I begin with as of primary importance is, etc. As the destruction of Jerusalem drew near, the Jews (including those at Ephesus) dreamed of freedom from every yoke; so virtually "blasphemed" (cf. 1 Timothy 1:20 1 Timothy 1:20) God's name by 'speaking evil of dignities (1 Timothy 6:1; 2 Peter 2:10; Jude 1:8). Hence, Paul gives prominence to prayer for all men, especially for magistrates and kings (Titus 3:1-3) (Olshausen). Some looked down on all not Christians as doomed to perdition; but Paul says all men are to be prayed for, as Christ died for all (1 Timothy 1:4-6).
Supplications, х deeeseis (G1162)] - implying sense of need, and the suppliant's own insufficiency.
Prayers, х proseuchas (G4335)] - implying devotion.
Intercessions, х enteuxeis (G1783)] - the coming near to God with child-like confidence, seeking an audience in person, generally in behalf of another. The accumulation of terms implies prayer in its every form, according to all relations.
Thanks - always to accompany prayer (Philippians 4:6).