Welcome to another Bible Study of the book of 2 Thessalonians, Chapter 2:

Let’s explore “2 Thessalonians 2:1-17” verse by verse. This passage addresses important themes about the coming of CHRIST, the end times, and the encouragement that the Apostle Paul provides to the Thessalonian believers.

Verse 1: “Now we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and by our gathering together unto him,”

In this verse, Paul begins with an earnest request (or beseeching) directed to the believers. The “coming” of CHRIST emphasizes the hope of His return and the gathering of believers, a message that encourages faithfulness.

Verse 2: “That ye be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of CHRIST is at hand.”

Paul advises the Thessalonians not to be disturbed or anxious about the Second Coming. Their minds were likely troubled by false teachings or misunderstandings regarding the timing of CHRIST’S return.

Verse 3: “Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition;”

This verse warns against deception. Paul describes a falling away (apostasy) and the revealing of a ‘man of sin’ or ‘lawlessness,’ who is often interpreted as the Antichrist. It emphasizes the need for discernment amid confusion.

Verse 4: “Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called GOD, or that is worshipped; so that he as GOD sitteth in the temple of GOD, shewing himself as GOD.”

Here, Paul describes the character of the ‘man of sin’ as one who seeks to usurp the position of GOD. This highlights the ultimate rebellion against GOD’S divine authority.

Verse 5: “Remember ye not, that, when I was yet with you, I told you these things?”

Paul reminds them of previous teachings. This emphasizes the importance of sound doctrine and the need for believers to hold firmly to what they’ve learned.

Verse 6: “And now ye know what withholdeth that he might be revealed in his time.”

Paul indicates that there is a divine withholding, preventing the full revelation of this lawless one until the proper time, which is a reminder of GOD’S sovereignty over history.

Verse 7: “For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way.”

Paul acknowledges that lawlessness is already at work in the world. ‘He who now letteth’ is often interpreted as the Holy Spirit, or the restraining force, suggesting that until He is removed, certain events will not unfold.

Verse 8: “And then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the LORD shall consume with the spirit of is mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming:”

This verse provides hope; the ‘Wicked’ will ultimately be vanquished by CHRIST at His glorious return. It emphasizes the greater power of GOD over any evil.

Verse 9: “Even him, whose coming is after the working of satan with all power and signs and lying wonders,”

Paul contrasts the ‘Wicked’ with CHRIST, noting the deceptive signs and wonders that will accompany the lawless one, warning the Thessalonians of the danger of being misled by such phenomena.

Verse 10: “And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved.”

Deception is a theme here, stressing the importance of accepting the truth of GOD. Salvation comes from embracing the infinite love of GOD’S fulfilling truth.

Verse 11: “And for this cause GOD shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie:”

This verse highlights a sobering reality GOD allows those who reject Him to be led into deception. It serves as a warning to remain steadfast in faith.

Verse 12: “That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.”

Paul emphasizes the fate of those who choose unrighteousness over the truth of GOD. It underscores the seriousness of our choices in response to the marvelous, righteous Word of GOD.

Verse 13: “But we are bound to give thanks alway to GOD for you, brethren beloved of the LORD, because GOD hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth:”

Paul shifts to a note of thanksgiving, affirming their beloved status before GOD. The passage emphasizes GOD’S choosing and the process of sanctification through the truth fulfilling Holy Spirit.

Verse 14: “Whereunto he called you by our gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our LORD JESUS CHRIST.”

This illustrates the call of GOD through the Gospel, culminating in the glorious hope believers have through JESUS CHRIST. It highlights the purpose of GOD’S call for salvation and glory.

Verse 15: “Therefore, brethren, stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word, or our epistle.”

Paul encourages steadfastness in the faith and adherence to the teachings received. This calls for diligence and unity among believers in truth.

Verse 16: “Now our Lord JESUS CHRIST himself, and GOD, even our FATHER, which hath loved us, and hath given us everlasting consolation and good hope through grace,”

This verse reassures the believers of GOD’S infinite love and the hope they possess. It emphasizes the lasting comfort that grace provides, especially amid trials.

Verse 17: “Comfort your hearts, and stablish you in every good word and work.

Paul concludes with an exhortation to find comfort in GOD and to be established in good works. This encourages active faith that reflects GOD’S infinite love to the world.

Let us Pray:

Dear LORD, almighty HEAVENLY FATHER, We come before You with gratitude for the truths found in Your marvelous, righteous Word. Thank You for the hope of JESUS CHRIST’S coming and for the great assurance that You are in control of all things. Help us to not be shaken by the confusion and deception that often surrounds us, but to hold fast to the truth of Your marvelous righteous Word. Dear LORD, almighty HEAVENLY FATHER, strengthen our hearts and establish us in every good work. May Your Holy Spirit guide us, and may we continually seek to live out our faith in a way that brings glory to You. Help us to be steadfast in love, truth, and unity as we navigate this world, trusting wholly in Your truth fulfilling promises. We pray this throughout the mighty, glorious fulfilling name of JESUS CHRIST. Amen!

Much LoVe, JoY, Peace and Blessings to You, through JESUS CHRIST, our almighty dear LORD, SAVIOUR and REDEEMER!