II Thessalonians 2: All About The Antichrist

The Thessalonian church was very interested in the end-times.  They wanted to know what to expect - and when.  In fact, some were concerned that they had already missed the return of Jesus!  Paul sets their mind at ease by explaining a few details that they (and all of us) should know about The End.

He says that Christ will not be returning until "the lawless one is revealed" (vs. 3).  Who is this lawless one?  (Wouldn't you like to know?!)  Paul's mention of the lawless one seems to be a reference to the Antichrist, mentioned in I John and Revelation (as the Beast.)  According to Paul, the Antichrist's appearance will precede the return of Christ.

When will the Antichrist appear?  No one knows, of course, but Paul says that someone is currently holding him back (vs. 6-7).  This "restrainer" will - at some point - be removed, and then the Antichrist will have free rein to exercise his power and authority...until the end.

How will we know who this Antichrist is?  We must look for the signs and deeds of what this Antichrist will do.  He will:

• Oppose and exalt himself above every so-called god or object of worship (vs. 4.
• Take a seat in the temple of God (vs. 4).
• Declare himself to be God (vs. 4).
• Use power, signs, lying wonders and every kind of wicked deception (vs. 9-10).

Something to think about and watch for...