by melindasbaker

II Thessalonians 2

II Thessalonians 2

The purpose of this chapter is to give reassurance to Christians concerning the return of Christ to this earth. There was something or someone who had caused the Christians at Thessalonica to be confused or concerned regarding this important event. Therefore, Paul writes to clear up the confusion and to bring encouragement to them.

  • The concern of the people (II Thessalonians 2:1)
    • They were concerned the day of the Lord had already occurred and they had been bypassed.
    • Why would they be concerned?
      • They had the promise of I Thessalonians 4:16-17
      • Had God changed His plans?
    • Why they should not be fearful
      • The things told them had not yet come to pass
      • Believers had not been raised from the dead
      • Saints had not ascended to meet the Lor
    • What caused the concern?
      • False teachings
  • The confidence Paul gives (II Thessalonians 2:3-12)
    • There are certain events that will take place before the Lord returns
      • Apostasy (II Thessalonians 2:4-7)          
        • A falling away, to forsake, a departing, or a defection
        • The man of sin is a man of eminent wickedness
          • Anti-Christ is someone or something that is against or in place of
          • Could be an individual or a series of individuals who have the same general character and plans
            • The characteristics of the Anti-Christ
              • Opposes and exalts himself above all that is called God
              • Is worshipped, or as to appear as God, sitting in the temple of God
            • The design
              • To carry out the activity of Satan
              • Create false wonders
              • Deceive
            • The result
              • Many will perish for lack of the truth
        • God’s dealing with the Anti-Christ
          • Being restrained at that time, though he one day would be released (II Thessalonians 2:7-8)
          • He will be destroyed by the coming of Jesus Christ (II Thessalonians 2:8b)
          • His activity is in keeping with Satan’s work (II Thessalonians 2:9-12)
  • The cheer Paul offers (II Thessalonians 2:13-17)
    • We are chosen for salvation
      • Came by the message of the Gospel
    • We can stand firm by holding to true teaching
      • We are encouraged to know the truth
    • We are strengthened for the battle

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