2 Thessalonians 2

-8 1 3 2 -9 1 0 0 0 0 13 96 -9 2 0 0 2 0 1 RVStyle2 � StyleNameNormal textFontNameArialUnicode Size Standard StyleNameDefaultFontNameTahomaUnicode Size Standard StyleNameJumpFontNameTahomaStylefsUnderlineColorclBlue HoverColorclMaroonHoverEffects rvheUnderlineUnicode Jump Size Standard StyleNameHeading - Module name SizeDoubleFontNameTahomaColorclMaroonUnicode SizeStandard StyleName"Heading small - Module descriptionFontNameTahomaColorclMaroonUnicode Size Standard StyleNameHeading - LinkFontNameTahomaColorclNavy HoverColorclPurpleUnicode Jump Size StandardCharsetANSI_CHARSET SizeDoubleFontNameTimes New RomanUnicode SizeStandardCharsetANSI_CHARSET SizeDoubleFontNameTimes New RomanStylefsItalicUnicode SizeStandardCharsetANSI_CHARSET SizeDoubleFontNameTimes New RomanStylefsBoldUnicode SizeStandardCharsetANSI_CHARSET SizeDoubleFontNameTimes New RomanStylefsUnderlineColorclBlueSubSuperScriptTypervsssSuperScriptUnicode Jump SizeStandardCharsetANSI_CHARSET SizeDoubleFontNameTimes New RomanStylefsUnderlineColorclBlueUnicode Jump SizeStandardCharsetANSI_CHARSET SizeDoubleFontNameTimes New RomanStylefsBoldfsItalicUnicode SizeStandardCharsetANSI_CHARSET SizeDoubleFontNameTimes New RomanColorclBlue HoverColorclMaroonNextStyleNoUnicode Jump SizeStandardCharsetANSI_CHARSET SizeDoubleFontNameTimes New RomanStylefsItalicfsUnderlineColorclBlueUnicode Jump SizeStandardCharsetANSI_CHARSET SizeDoubleFontNameTimes New RomanStylefsItalicColorclBlue HoverColorclMaroonNextStyleNoUnicode Jump Size-9 2 0 0 2 0 2 RVStyle2 �BiDiModervbdLeftToRightTabs StyleNameCentered Alignment rvaCenterTabsStandardTabsStandardSpaceBefore SpaceAfterTabs-9 2 0 0 2 0 4 RVStyle2 -9 0 0 0 0 0 7 6 1 3 8 0 0 CHAPTER II ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.0|AUTODETECT|” Outline of ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.0|AUTODETECT|” II Thessalonians 2) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 Theme: ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 The Revelation of the Lord Jesus from Heaven) 6 1 3 12 0 0 will be preceded by the falling away and by the revelation of the man of lawlessness: ) 6 10 3 8 0 0 2:1 3a The two events that will precede Christ s return: the falling away and the revelation of the lawless one. Groundless alarm condemned. ) 2:3b 12 The lawless one s: ) verse 3b perverse character ) verse 4 God-defying activity ) verses 6 8a present concealment and future revelation ) verse 8b decisive defeat ) verses 9, 10a relation to Satan and to Satan s power to deceive ) verses 10b 12 sin-hardened, hell-bound followers. ) 2:13 16 Contrast between the destiny of the lawless one and his followers, on the one hand, and that of the readers, on the other. ) 2:1 12 ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 2 ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 1 Now concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our gathering together to (meet) him, 2 we request you, brothers, not to be easily shaken from your (normal state of) mind or disturbed, either by spirit or by word or by letter as from us, to the effect that the day of the Lord has arrived. 3 Let no one deceive you in any way; for (that day will not arrive) unless there comes the apostasy first of all and there be revealed the man of lawlessness, the son of perdition, 4 the one who opposes and exalts himself against everything (that is) called God or worshiped, so that he seats himself in the sanctuary of God, proclaiming himself to be God. 5 Do you not remember that, while still with you, I used to tell you these things? ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 6 And what is now holding (him) back you know, in order that he may be revealed in his appropriate season. 7 For the mystery of lawlessness is already at work, 7 1 -1 9 0 0 as mystery) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) only until he who now holds (him) back, be taken out of the way.��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref1 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn1” 118) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 �� 8 And then shall be revealed the lawless one, whom the Lord Jesus will slay with the breath of his mouth, and will utterly defeat by the manifestation of his coming; 9 (that one) whose coming is according to the energy of Satan, attended by all power and signs and wonders of falsehood 10 and by all deceit that originates in unrighteousness for those who are perishing because they did not accept the love for the truth that they might be saved. 11 And for this reason God sends them a deluding energy that they should believe in the falsehood; 12 in order that all may be condemned who did not believe the truth but delighted in unrighteousness. ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 2:1, 2. Now concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our gathering together to (meet) him, we request you, brothers, not to be easily shaken from your (normal state of) mind or disturbed.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 Paul had written about the sudden character of Christ s (second) ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 coming) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.2.19|AUTODETECT|” 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.2.19|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 2:19) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.1-52.5.11|AUTODETECT|” ) and about the necessity of being prepared for it 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.1-52.5.11|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 5:1 11) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Apparently this message had been misinterpreted, as if sudden coming meant immediate coming. Paul had also made known to the Thessalonians what the Lord had revealed to him ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 regarding) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.11|AUTODETECT|” 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.11|AUTODETECT|” John 10:11) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.13-52.4.18|AUTODETECT|” ) the gathering together to (meet) him 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.13-52.4.18|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 4:13 18) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). He had stressed the impartial character of this great future event: survivors would have no advantage over departed ones. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Together) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 the two groups (now united) would ascend to meet the Lord in the air to be with him forever. But though this teaching must have comforted the readers, the comfort had to some extent been offset by the excitement about the imminent coming. Believers were behaving like ships that have become the victim of waves and winds and are being blown hither and thither. It seems that in the case of some the Parousia had become the main subject of conversation, the one important and ever-recurring theme for discussion. People were losing their heads over it, sothat some decided to stop working altogether. They were perturbed because of it, terribly shaken up; yes, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 shaken) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.21.25|AUTODETECT|” 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.21.25|AUTODETECT|” Luke 21:25) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) from their (normal state of) mind. ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.4|AUTODETECT|” Hence, soothingly Paul addresses the readers as brothers 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.4|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 1:4) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ), and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 requests) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.1|AUTODETECT|” them 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.1|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 4:1) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.12|AUTODETECT|” 5:12) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) not ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 to be suddenly shaken) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 (aor. infinitive) or, as a result, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 continually disturbed) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.6|AUTODETECT|” 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.6|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 24:6) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.13.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.13.7|AUTODETECT|” Mark 13:7) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.24.37|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.24.37|AUTODETECT|” Luke 24:37) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ); specifically, not to be alarmed ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 so easily,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 that is, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 either by spirit or by word or by letter as from us.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref2 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn2” 119) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 �� It seems that after I Thessalonians had been read to the assembled congregation, there was no dearth of interpreters. One individual would be telling everybody about an inspired message or prophetic voice which he had received (or so he thought); another would draw attention to himself by asserting, Paul must mean this, for I heard the ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 word) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 from his own lips while he was here with us, and a third would circulate the news that someone had received ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 a letter) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 from Paul, in which the latter expressed his views in such or such a manner. In view of 3:17 the idea that someone had even sent a forged letter (a letter purporting to be from Paul) though open to certain objections cannot be lightly dismissed. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 The substance of all these would-be interpretations (whether by spirit or by word or by letter as from us) is expressed in the words: ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 to the effect that the day of the Lord has arrived.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 These excited people were convinced that the day of the Lord 7 1 -1 9 0 0 immediately) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 precede that arrival) was here already. A few more days, weeks, or months at the most, and Jesus ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 himself) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 would make his appearance upon the clouds of heaven. His day had arrived. ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 3a:) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 Says Paul, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 Let no one deceive you in any way.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 The cause of the agitation which menaced the hearts and minds of the Thessalonians was doctrinal error. They were being ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 deceived, led astray, deluded) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.11|AUTODETECT|” 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.11|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 7:11) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.18|AUTODETECT|” 16:18) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.3.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.3.18|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 3:18) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.11.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.11.3|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 11:3) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.2.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.2.14|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 2:14) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.1.26|AUTODETECT|” , though the form without the strengthening prefix � occurs also in ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.1.26|AUTODETECT|” James 1:26) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Hence, they are warned that they should not allow themselves to be misled ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 in any way,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 whether by spirit, word, letter or anything else whatever. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 The reason why the readers should not allow themselves to be deceived and alarmed is stated in the words: ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 for (that day will not arrive) unless there comes the apostasy first of all.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 The words included between parentheses are not found in the original, but can easily be derived from the preceding context. We have here another instance of abbreviated expression. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 The fact that the day of the Lord would be preceded by ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 the) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.10-40.24.13|AUTODETECT|” apostasy (falling away, rebellion) an apostasy about which the readers had received previous instruction (see on verse 5) had been clearly predicted by the Lord while he was still on earth 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.10-40.24.13|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 24:10 13) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). During the old dispensation the predicted final apostasy had been foreshadowed again and again by defection of Israel from the living God. A most striking instance of apostasy occurred during the reign of that cruel and wicked forerunner of the Antichrist, namely, Antiochus Epiphanes (who ruled from 175 164 b.c.). He was determined to wipe out the religion of Israel root and branch: ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 In those days there came forth out of Israel transgressors of the law, who persuaded many, saying, Let us go and make a covenant with the Gentiles that are round about us.& And they made themselves uncircumcised, and forsook the holy covenant, and joined themselves to the Gentiles, and sold themselves to do evil.& And many of Israel consented to his worship, and sacrificed to the idols, and profaned the sabbath.& And the king s officers, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 that were enforcing the apostasy,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 came into the city of Modein to sacrifice (I Macc. 1:11, 15, 43; 2:15). ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 Here at Modein, not far from Jerusalem, there lived at that time an aged priest, Mattathias. When the commissioner of Antiochus requested that he take the lead in offering a pagan sacrifice, he not only refused to do this but slew both the commissioner and an apostate Jew who was about to comply with the request. That deed of courage marked the beginning of the splendid era of Maccabean revolt. ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.3|AUTODETECT|” What the apostle Paul is now saying, here in ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.3|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 2:3) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 , amount to this: Just like the first coming of Christ was preceded by a period of apostasy, so also the second coming will not occur until a similar apostasy has taken place. In this case, however, the apostasy will be a falling away from (yes, and open rebellion against) the God who climaxed his love by a deed of infinite sacrifice in the interest of sinners, namely, the giving of his only-begotten Son. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 The passage with reference to the coming apostasy by no means teaches that those who are God s genuine children will fall away from grace. There is no such falling away. The Good Shepherd knows his own sheep, and no one shall ever snatch them out of his hands -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref3 10 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn3” N.T.C.) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.28|AUTODETECT|” on ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.28|AUTODETECT|” John 10:28) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.4|AUTODETECT|” ; see also on ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.4|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 1:4) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). But it does mean that the faith of the fathers a faith to which the children adhere for a while in a merely formal way will finally be abandoned altogether by many of the children. In that sense the apostasy will be very real, indeed. ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.4.17|AUTODETECT|” It will be a defection on the part of those who have been reached by the gospel 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.4.17|AUTODETECT|” I Peter 4:17) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.9.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.9.6|AUTODETECT|” Ezek. 9:6) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ), and it will be on a large scale: ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 many) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 shall stumble & ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 many) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 false prophets shall arise and shall lead ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 many) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 astray & the love of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 many) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.10-40.24.13|AUTODETECT|” shall wax cold 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.10-40.24.13|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 24:10 13) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ).��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref4 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn4” 120) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 �� The use of the term ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 apostasy) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.3|AUTODETECT|” here in ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.3|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 2:3) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 without an accompanying adjective) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 points to the fact that, by and large, the visible Church will forsake the true faith. ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 3b, 4.& And there be revealed the man of lawlessness,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 the son of perdition,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 the one who opposes and exalts himself against everything) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 (that is) called God or worshiped,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 sothat he seats himself in the sanctuary of God,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 proclaiming himself to be God.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.3.4|AUTODETECT|” The movement of apostasy will soon have a leader, namely, the man of lawlessness (A ������� ��� ������). This is probably the best reading, though there is also rather strong support for the reading the man of sin (������� ��� �������). In view of the fact that sin is lawlessness 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.3.4|AUTODETECT|” I John 3:4) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ), this makes no essential difference. It is important to note, in this connection, that just like the apostasy will not be merely passive but active (not merely a falling away from but also a rebellion against God and his Christ), so also the man of lawlessness will be an active and aggressive transgressor. He is not called lawless because he never heard God s law, but because he openly defies it! ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 A few misconceptions with reference to this man of sin must be removed first of all. ) 7 1 3 8 0 0

1. He is not to be identified with Satan) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 The very fact that his coming is according to the energy of Satan (verse 9) shows that he is not himself Satan. To call him the devil incarnate is wrong. ) 7 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=66.13.0|AUTODETECT|”
2. He must not be identified with the beast out of the sea of ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.13.0|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 13) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 and 17) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 There is, indeed, a close connection between these two: ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.9|AUTODETECT|” a. The man of lawlessness stands in close connection with Satan, and so does the beast out of the sea 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.9|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 2:9) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.13.4|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.13.4|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 13:4) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.4|AUTODETECT|” b. The man of lawlessness opposes God and exalts himself, proclaiming himself to be God; similarly the beast out of the sea opens his mouth for blasphemies against God, and welcomes the honor of being worshiped by a sinful world 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.4|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 2:4) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.13.5-66.13.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.13.5-66.13.8|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 13:5 8) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.8|AUTODETECT|” c. The man of lawlessness is a son of perdition and suffers total defeat when Christ appears upon the clouds of heaven; so also the beast out of the sea goes into perdition 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.8|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 2:8) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.17.8|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.17.8|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 17:8) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.19.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=66.19.20|AUTODETECT|” 19:20) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 It is not surprising, therefore, that many authors simply identify the two. Yet this identification is wholly without foundation. ��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref5 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn5”

121. 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.7.0|AUTODETECT|” �� In Revelation the four beasts of Daniel s prophecy 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.7.0|AUTODETECT|” Dan. 7) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) are combined into one composite beast. Now it should be evident that if even the separate beasts of Daniel s prophecy certainly indicate ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 kingdoms,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 not only) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 individuals 7 1 -1 9 0 0 entirely) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 absent), the ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 composite) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 beast of Revelation cannot refer to only one person. On the contrary it must refer to antichristian government whenever and wherever it manifests itself.��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref6 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn6”
122. 6 1 -1 9 0 0 �� ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.0|AUTODETECT|” To get the complete picture we must therefore combine ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.0|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 2) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.13.0|AUTODETECT|” and ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.13.0|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 13) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.0|AUTODETECT|” and 17. It then becomes clear that in all ages antichristian power manifests itself, and it is our duty to resist it with might and main. Again and again this dominion of antichrist suffers defeat. It will suffer its greatest defeat at the end of this present age when, symbolized under the beast out of the sea under its eighth head, it will be under the control of a terrible blasphemer, namely, the man of lawlessness, the personal antagonist mentioned and described in ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.0|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 2) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . Revelation (chapters 13 and 17) and II Thess. (chapter 2) supplement each other. The one pictures a movement, the other its final leader. This brings us to the more general proposition: ) 7 1 3 8 0 0

3. He is not an abstract power or a collective concept, but definitely an eschatological person) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.0|AUTODETECT|” The principle of lawlessness, always present, will finally become embodied in the man of lawlessness. But this does not mean that the two the principle and the man are one and the same. It is true that the real and final man of lawlessness has his precursors; but what is pictured here in ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.0|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 2) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 is not a precursor but the man of sin himself. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 We base this view not so much on the terms ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 man) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 of sin or ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 son) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 of perdition which expressions because of their Semitic character and meaning may not be conclusive for the thesis that the man of lawlessness here in II Thess. is a ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 person,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 but on the fact that the entire description which is here given is of a personal character. The man of lawlessness opposes, exalts himself, seats himself in the temple of God, proclaims himself to be God, and will be slain. Also, there is every reason to believe that the man of lawlessness described by Paul is the same person as the antichrist mentioned by John. Now Christ is a person. Hence, in all probability, the antichrist is also a person. Therefore, the man of lawlessness, being the antichrist, is also very likely a person. Like Christ himself, the man of lawlessness performs signs and wonders, has his Parousia and his revelation. It would be strange, therefore, if the man of sin were not a person. But ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 is) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 the man of lawlessness to be identified with the antichrist? Our reasons for identifying the two are as follows: ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 a. The man of lawlessness will be revealed immediately before the coming of Christ. The antichrist ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 concerning whom the readers have received previous information) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.8|AUTODETECT|” will come at the last hour 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.8|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 2:8) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.2.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.2.18|AUTODETECT|” I John 2:18) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.7|AUTODETECT|” b. The mystery of lawlessness is already at work. Even now there are many antichrists 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.7|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 2:7) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.2.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.2.18|AUTODETECT|” I John 2:18) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). In both cases the thought is as follows: though believers are correct in expecting one definite individual at the end of the age, an individual in whom wicked opposition to Christ will become crystallized, they should rather fix their attention upon the many antichrists already present in their own day and age, upon the fact that the mystery of lawlessness is in operation even now. ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.9|AUTODETECT|” c. The coming of the man of lawlessness is according to Satan s energy, with great signs and miracles, all of them false. Similarly, antichrist is called the liar and deceiver 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.9|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 2:9) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.2.22|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.2.22|AUTODETECT|” I John 2:22) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=63.1.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=63.1.7|AUTODETECT|” II John 7) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 However, not only is the man of lawlessness a person; he is a person who belongs to the ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 end) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 -time; hence, he is an ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 eschatological) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 person. This is clear from verses 3 and 8. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 To be sure, by speaking about a whole ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 line) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.2.18|AUTODETECT|” of antichrists one is doing justice to a Scriptural idea 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.2.18|AUTODETECT|” I John 2:18) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.7|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.7|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 2:7) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Moreover, this idea has a practical advantage over that of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 the one, final) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 antichrist. The ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 line) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 -idea antichrists in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 every) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 age against which the church must ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ever) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.3|AUTODETECT|” be on its guard, furnishes a very useful and proper theme for sermonizing. But a careful reading of ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.3|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 2:3) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.4|AUTODETECT|” , ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.4|AUTODETECT|”

4. 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.8|AUTODETECT|” , ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.8|AUTODETECT|”
5. 6 1 -1 9 0 0 , and 9 should suffice to convince anyone that we are here dealing with a precise prediction of a certain, definite person who will receive his doom when Christ returns. Other explanations may be philosophical; they are not exegetical. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 This naturally leads to the next proposition: ) 7 1 3 8 0 0

4. He is not to be identified with the line of Roman emperors) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 Here for once I cannot agree with Dr. B. B. Warfield, staunch defender of the faith, whose views on matters theological generally command the utmost respect. It was his opinion that the man of lawlessness is to be identified with the line of such Roman emperors as Caligula, Nero, Vespasian, Titus, and Domitian 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Biblical and Theological Studies) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.0|AUTODETECT|” , edited by S. C. Craig, Philadelphia, 1952, p. 472). But, as has been indicated, the entire context here in ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.0|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 2) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 is eschatological. It has to do with the end of the present dispensation. The man of lawlessness is the one who will immediately precede Christ s second coming (verse 3), and will be slain by the breath of Christ s mouth when the Lord returns gloriously (verse 8). This fact is an insurmountable obstacle in the path of the Roman emperor theory. It also annihilates the theories discussed below, namely, that the man of lawlessness is Nero Redivivus, the pope, or some vague mythological figure. ) 7 1 3 8 0 0
5. ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 He is not Nero Redivivus) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 (Nero brought back to life)) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 2 3 8 0 0 Neither the entire line of Roman emperors nor any one particular Roman emperor is meant here. Thus, for example, Antichrist is not Nero. ) It was Kern 7 1 -1 9 0 0 T�binger Zeitschrift f�r Theologie) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 , 2 [1839], p. 145 ff.) who revived the ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 old) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 theory Augustine was acquainted with it! : the man of lawlessness is Nero Redivivus. He thought that the origin of the idea was the widespread and superstitious fear in the early church that the monster of cruelty was about to reappear upon the scene. The Nero Saga seems to have manifested itself in two forms. According to the first, the emperor did not really ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 die) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 in 68 a.d., but merely ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 hid) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 himself; according to the second (which became prevalent especially after 88 a.d.), he was really dead, but would rise again. ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.0|AUTODETECT|” But in addition to the cogent argument already presented (see under (4) above), the most decisive answer is this, that the theory, according to which whoever wrote ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.0|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 2) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 actually meant to say that Nero would return and that he was being held in check temporarily by Vespasian and his son Titus, must be considered impossible of acceptance by anyone who believes in an infallible Bible, for Nero never returned! This is the answer which we give to Kern, Baur, Weiz�cker, Holtzmann, Schmiedel, and all their followers. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 But if the man of sin is not the Roman ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 emperor,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 could he be the Roman ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 pope?) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 This introduces the next proposition: ) 7 1 3 8 0 0
6. He is not the pope) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 The notion according to which the antichrist is the pope can be traced to & the pope himself! It was Gregory I ( the Great, 550 604) who said that whoever arrogates to himself the title of universal priest is a forerunner of antichrist. He made this statement in an epistle in which he denounced the claims of the contemporary patriarch of the East. The idea was kept alive throughout the middle ages, and was uttered in whispers here and there whenever any occupant of the papal See manifested his arrogance or lust for power. Wyclif even wrote a treatise ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Concerning Christ and his Adversary, Antichrist) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . He defended the proposition, The pope is the antichrist, giving twelve reasons. ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.13.18|AUTODETECT|” Naturally, the idea was eagerly seized upon by many of the leaders of the Reformation. Thus, on October 11, 1520, Luther wrote that he felt much more at ease since he had become thoroughly convinced that the pope is the antichrist. The marginal explanations of the Dutch authorized or official version (Staten-Bijbel) of 1637 are very interesting in this respect. (We happen to own one of these heavy, antique Bibles with covers of wood and hinges of brass; ours was published in 1643 at Amstersdam = Amsterdam.) At times the comments become almost amusing, so consistently is everything that pertains to the man of sin, the antichrist, the beast out of the sea, the beast out of the earth (Revelation, chapter 13) applied to the pope and his entire machinery. Thus, the fire which the beast causes to come down out of heaven is said to represent the pope s excommunication-edict. The miracles of which the Roman Catholic boasts, its sacraments, and especially (among these) the mass, are all read back into the pages of Holy Writ. And the number 666 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.13.18|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 13:18) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) is interpreted to mean Lateinos, for the pope is the head of the Latin church! ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 But if one should find this a bit amusing, it certainly is not any more so than is the statement in the ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Preface) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 to our own ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref7 10 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn7” A.V.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 in which the most high and mighty prince, James, by the grace of God, king of Great Britain, France, and Ireland, Defender of the Faith, etc. is given credit for having by means of a tract dealt such a blow to that Man of Sin [meaning the pope] as will not be healed. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 The Westminster Confession speaks very positively, There is no other head of the Church but the Lord Jesus Christ: nor can the Pope of Rome, in any sense be the head thereof; but is that Antichrist, that man of sin and son of perdition, that exalteth himself in the Church against Christ, and all that is called God (XXV. vi). ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.0|AUTODETECT|” But though the proposition the pope is the antichrist is still being defended, it finds no support on ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.0|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 2) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . It stands to reason that if the man of sin is a definitely eschatological person, he cannot be the first pope, nor the second, nor the third, etc., neither can he be the collective concept the papacy. It is true, of course, that any man (be he a religious or a political dictator) who arrogates to himself attributes and prerogatives which pertain to deity possesses ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 anti-christian traits) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . He may be called an antichrist, one among many of the final antichrist s precursors. In such a man the mystery of lawlessness is already at work. But to call the pope ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 the) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 antichrist is contrary to all sound exegesis. Though we Protestants justly deplore whatever idolatry, Maryolatry, superstition, and worship of tradition is found in the Roman Catholic Church, evils against which we must warn with increasing vigor and earnestness, we have no right to condemn ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 everything) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 that is found in that church. We should strive to be fair and just, lest while condemning the evils of Rome we close our eyes to the many and very serious evils that are creeping into all sections of the Protestant Church. The proposition, The pope is ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 the) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.0|AUTODETECT|” antichrist, while inexcusable though understandable! even during the days of intense struggle which marked the birth of Protestantism, is no less inexcusable today. And the verdict of some, namely, that those who are not ready to identify the man of sin of ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.0|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 2) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 with the pope have never experienced in their hearts and lives the truth of justification by faith impresses us as a rather unkind judgment. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 In liberal circles the tendency to interpret Biblical concepts in the light of uncanonical and even pagan origins has asserted itself also with respect to the term now under discussion. This brings us to the final proposition: ) 7 1 3 8 0 0
7. He is not the Chaos-dragon of the Babylonians nor is he to be identified with the apocryphal and pseudepigraphical perversion of the term Belial. ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 To begin with the first, this refers to the Babylonian creation-epic with its story of the struggle between the Chaos-dragon, Tiamat, on the one hand, and the god of light, Marduk, on the other. It has been pointed out again and again, however, that the legendary elements which characterize this wholly mythical and impossible tale contrast most strongly with the sober description that is found in the Bible with reference to God s great opponents, Satan and antichrist. In this connection, moreover, one should ever distinguish between ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 form) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 contents,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 between a ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 term) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 and the ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 use) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 which is made of it. To be sure, inspired authors make use at times of the terminology of ancient and current superstition. Thus, the author of the book of Revelation introduces a ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 dragon) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.74.13|AUTODETECT|” . But this dragon is not Tiamat, whom Marduk cleaves asunder like a fish, after he has with a javelin cut her heart in pieces. 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.74.13|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 74:13) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.89.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.89.10|AUTODETECT|” 89:10) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=18.41.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=18.41.1|AUTODETECT|” Job 41:1) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 , but each passage should be interpreted in the light of its own specific context and background.) ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 Moreover, of late the entire attempt to derive Biblical teachings from ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Babylonian) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 sources, an attempt which was never very successful and has been refuted more than once, has received another jolt in the discovery of the ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Ras Shamra) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 tablets. These were found in 1929 at the ancient Phoenician city of Ugarit on the coast of Syria. These tablets present a wealth of information with respect to the ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Canaanite) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 background of the Old Testament. They contain several variations on the theme of the slaying of a dragon. Hence, now the critics are beginning to revise their views once more, and are saying that, after all, the religion of Israel may have been influenced more directly by that of Canaan than by that of Babylon. One wonders what theory will be advanced next? ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.2.12|AUTODETECT|” There is also the closely related one which attempts to derive the man-of-sin concept from apocryphical and pseudepigraphical perversions of the Old Testament term Belial or Beliar 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.2.12|AUTODETECT|” I Sam. 2:12) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.13.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.13.7|AUTODETECT|” II Chron. 13:7) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.6.15|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.6.15|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 6:15) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). After a thorough study G. Vos comments as follows: ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 This recurrence upon the apocalyptic and pseudepigraphical literature to discover the antecedants of the antichrist figure does not carry much convincing force. Of course, it cannot ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 a priori) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 be denied that an amount of superstitious folklore was current in Jewish circles before the Pauline epistles were written. Only that these current beliefs of such gross and rudimentary form were the source from which the N.T. antichrist doctrine was drawn and from which it can be satisfactorily explained is hard to believe.& ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 No clearly traceable and safe road leads back into the past to discover the man-of-sin concept except that via the prophecy of Daniel. ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref8 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn8”

123. 6 1 -1 9 0 0 �� ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 Having reviewed the various misconceptions regarding the nature of the man of sin and the origin of the idea, it can now be positively stated that the apostle s use of the concept is capable of being traced to a canonical book. It is, indeed, true, as conservatives have always maintained, that many of the features in Paul s description of the great and final prince of wickedness are derived from the book of Daniel: ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.7.25|AUTODETECT|” (1) The man of lawlessness, cf. ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.7.25|AUTODETECT|” Dan. 7:25) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.8.25|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.8.25|AUTODETECT|” 8:25) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.8.26|AUTODETECT|” (2) the son of perdition, cf. ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.8.26|AUTODETECT|” Dan. 8:26) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.7.25|AUTODETECT|” (3) the one who opposes, cf. ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.7.25|AUTODETECT|” Dan. 7:25) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.7.8|AUTODETECT|” (4) and exalts himself against everything (that is) called God or worshiped, cf. ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.7.8|AUTODETECT|” Dan. 7:8) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.7.20|AUTODETECT|” , ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.7.20|AUTODETECT|”
124. 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.7.25|AUTODETECT|” , ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.7.25|AUTODETECT|”
125. 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.8.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.8.4|AUTODETECT|” 8:4) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.8.10|AUTODETECT|” , ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.8.10|AUTODETECT|”
126. 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.8.11|AUTODETECT|” , ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.8.11|AUTODETECT|”
127. 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.8.9-27.8.14|AUTODETECT|” (5) sothat he seats himself in the temple of God, proclaiming himself to be God, cf. ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.8.9-27.8.14|AUTODETECT|” Dan. 8:9 14) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 This is not surprising, for the little horn of) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.7.0|AUTODETECT|” ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.7.0|AUTODETECT|” Dan. 7) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 , the one which came up after the ten horns, is the antichrist, and the little horn of) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.8.0|AUTODETECT|” ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.8.0|AUTODETECT|” Dan. 8) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 , the one which came up out of one of the four notable horns, is Antiochus Epiphanes, antichrist s most notorious forerunner, the one who desecrated Jerusalem s temple by erecting a pagan altar over the altar of burnt-offering, and by sacrificing upon it (which was an appalling horror in the estimation of every true believer). ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.15|AUTODETECT|” Moreover, in ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.15|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 24:15) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.13.14|AUTODETECT|” 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.13.14|AUTODETECT|” Mark 13:14) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.11.31|AUTODETECT|” ) the desolating abomination of which Jesus speaks is derived from ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.11.31|AUTODETECT|” Dan. 11:31) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.12.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.12.11|AUTODETECT|” 12:11) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.8.9-27.8.14|AUTODETECT|” (probably not directly from 9:27). History, in a sense, repeats itself. Better: prophecy attains multiple fulfilment. The underlying thought is ever the same. God s city and sanctuary are desecrated, whether by Antiochus Epiphanes and his sacrilegious offerings 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.8.9-27.8.14|AUTODETECT|” Dan. 8:9 14) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.21.20|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. Gog in Ezek. 38, 39), by Roman armies with their idolatrous standards 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.21.20|AUTODETECT|” Luke 21:20) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.13.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.13.14|AUTODETECT|” Mark 13:14) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ); or finally by the antichrist himself. ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.3|AUTODETECT|” Now with respect to the final antichrist as pictured by Paul, our present passage 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.3|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 2:3) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.4|AUTODETECT|” b, ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.4|AUTODETECT|”
128. 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) states the following: ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 He is the man of lawlessness (a Semitism), that is, the man in whom opposition to God s law will as it were be embodied, the very personification of rebellion against God s ordinances. ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.12|AUTODETECT|” He is also the son of perdition (another Semitism), the final Judas, see N.T.C. on ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.12|AUTODETECT|” John 17:12) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . Cf. David s remark to Nathan, The man who has done this is ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 a son of death ) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.23.15|AUTODETECT|” (i.e., must certainly die); and cf. also ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.23.15|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 23:15) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.5|AUTODETECT|” : a son of hell. The man of lawlessness is pictured here as the utterly lost one, designated unto perdition. Contrast sons of light in ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.5|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 5:5) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.13.17|AUTODETECT|” Furthermore, he is described as the one who opposes. This word (���������, here A �����������) is found eight times in the New Testament 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.13.17|AUTODETECT|” Luke 13:17) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.21.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.21.15|AUTODETECT|” 21:15) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.16.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.16.9|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 16:9) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.17|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 5:17) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.28|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.28|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 1:28) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.4|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 2:4) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.1.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.1.10|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 1:10) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.5.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.5.14|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 5:14) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). It is used both as a verb (finite) and as a participial substantive (so here). The man of sin is ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 the adversary) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 of God, of God s law, of God s people, etc. As such he immediately reminds one of his master, Satan, who is the great adversary. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 In very close connection with this opposing activity stands the fact that this adversary who will appear in the end-time exalts himself against everything (that is) called God or worshiped. In his reckless audacity and ferocious insolence he ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 uplifts) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 himself (Q������������) not only against the only true God who has revealed himself in Jesus Christ and against all so-called gods, but also against all sacred objects, against whatever stands in connection with religious cults. The reference is probably to such objects as temples, places set aside for divine worship, altars, religious statues. He rages against them all. He recognizes only one god 7 1 -1 9 0 0 he) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 would spell it with a capital: ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 G) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 od), namely, himself! Hence, he seats himself in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 the sanctuary) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 (the term ���� in its primary sense, in distinction from 1����, generally refers to the shrine itself rather than to the entire building-complex) of God, that is, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 in the church) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.3.16|AUTODETECT|” 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.3.16|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 3:16) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.6.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.6.19|AUTODETECT|” 6:19) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.6.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.6.16|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 6:16) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.21|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 2:21) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.15|AUTODETECT|” ; and see N.T.C. on 2:19 22), for the term ���� is here clearly used metaphorically. He arrogates to himself authority over God s true people. Of course, they will not recognize this violent usurper, and will refuse to render homage to him. The result will be great tribulation for them 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.15|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 24:15) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.21|AUTODETECT|” , ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.21|AUTODETECT|”
129. 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.22|AUTODETECT|” , ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.22|AUTODETECT|”
130. 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.29|AUTODETECT|” , ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.29|AUTODETECT|”
131. 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Standing where he ought not he ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 proclaims) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 or ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 publicly declares) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 himself to be God. In the Greek of that day and age the verb (����������) is used of proclaiming an appointment to public office. Thus we are told, The expectation and hope of the world, Nero!, has been ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 declared) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 (�����������) Emperor -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref9 10 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn9” M.M.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 , p. 60), a quotation which also illustrates emperor-worship. But even Antiochus Epiphanes, that is, Antiochus (the) Illustrious (God) or Antiochus (the) God who reveals himself, demanding divine homage but not altogether ignoring Zeus, was not as blasphemous as the final man of lawlessness will be, for the latter will recognize only ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 one) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 deity, namely, himself, will seat ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 himself) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 7 1 -1 9 0 0 not merely) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 deposit ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 his image) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) in God s shrine, and will demand divine adoration for himself alone. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 It is instructive to note that the explanation which I have given with respect to the man of sin passage is in line with that which was favored by the earliest ecclesiastical writers. These understood it as being a prophecy with reference to a definite person who would live on earth at the close of history and would be utterly discomfited by Christ at his return. The church should never have departed from this interpretation. Here are a few quotations: ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 The ) 11 1 -1 9 0 0 Didache) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 & As lawlessness increases they shall hate each other and shall persecute and betray, and then shall appear the deceiver of the world as a Son of God, and shall do signs and wonders.& And then shall appear the signs & first, the sign spread out in heaven, then the sign of the sound of the trumpet, and thirdly the resurrection of the dead (XVI. iv vi). ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 Justin Martyr, ) 11 1 -1 9 0 0 Dialogue with Trypho) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 What brainless men! For they have failed to understand what has been proved by all these passages, namely, that two advents of Christ have been announced, the first, in which he is shown as suffering, without glory, without honor, subject to crucifixion, and the second, in which he shall come from the heavens in glory, when the man of apostasy who utters arrogant things against the Most High, will boldly attempt to perpetrate unlawless deeds against us Christians (CX). ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 Augustine, ) 11 1 -1 9 0 0 De Civitate Dei) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.1-53.2.11|AUTODETECT|” Commenting on ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.1-53.2.11|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 2:1 11) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 he says: There can be no doubt that what is here said refers to Antichrist and the day of judgment, or as Paul calls it, the day of the Lord.& (XX. xix). ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 In the same chapter he points out that even in his day the interpretation which points away from ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 the one, final) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 antichrist to a whole multitude of antichrists was beginning to become popular; also, that he regards the Nero Redivivus theory, in both forms, to be farfetched. ) 6 2 3 8 0 0 Having now discussed the nature of the man of sin at some length, we may summarize the idea expressed in verses 3 and 4 as follows: ) The day of Christ s glorious coming will not arrive until the apostasy has become a fact and the man characterized by utter disrespect for law, the man who is most certainly doomed, is revealed, sothat both he himself and his program of activities are there for all to see, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 the veil) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 which now hides him from view (for as yet he is only an idea in the mind of Satan) ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 having been removed) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 5.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 Hence, the Thessalonians must not be deceived into thinking that the day of the Lord is here. In fact, they have no excuse for so thinking. Says Paul, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 Do you not remember that, while still with you, I used to tell you these things?) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 This is a kind of mild rebuke. It is as if Paul is saying, If you had only reflected more often and more earnestly on what I repeatedly told you while still with you, you would not have been so confused with reference to this point, and you would not have become so excited and unsettled. Note: ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 I used to tell ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . Evidently the doctrine concerning such matters as the apostasy, the man of sin, the coming of Christ, and the rapture had received more than scant attention in the preaching of Paul at Thessalonica. The singular pronoun implied in the verb 7 1 -1 9 0 0 I) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 used to tell and not ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 We) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 used to tell ) shows that although Silas and Timothy are intimately associated with Paul in writing this letter, as they had also been in bringing the gospel to Thessalonica, it is nevertheless, Paul who in both of these activities is to be regarded as the leading spirit. ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 6, 7.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 Paul continues: ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 And what is now holding (him) back you know, in order that he may be revealed in his appropriate season. For the mystery of lawlessness is already at work, 11 1 -1 9 0 0 mystery) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 ) only until he who now holds (him) back be taken out of the way.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 Grammatically it is also possible to translate: And now you know what is holding him back. So the question is, Does ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 now) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 modify the participle (holding back) or the verb (you know)? The logic of the entire passage (cf. verse 7 with verse 6) seems to point in the direction of connecting it with the participle. The contrast seems to be between the two concepts ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 now) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 held back or restrained and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 then) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 revealed. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 That the mystery of lawlessness is already at work we understand readily. Even in Paul s day rebellion against God and his ordinances was present in the world. Yet, it was not evident that one day this spirit of lawlessness would become incarnate in the man of lawlessness. This was still a ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 mystery) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.11.25|AUTODETECT|” 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.11.25|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 11:25) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.51|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.51|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 15:51) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.22|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.22|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 5:22) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.4.3|AUTODETECT|” ); that is, a truth unknown apart from divine special revelation. In the wicked opposition to the gospel, shown by some of those who knew the way, Paul, as a result of divine special revelation and illumination, saw a clear sign of that sinister movement which one day would culminate in the reign of the antichrist. What the apostle writes may be compared with John s statement that the spirit of the antichrist is in the world already, and that even now there have arisen many antichrists 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.4.3|AUTODETECT|” I John 4:3) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.2.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.2.18|AUTODETECT|” 2:18) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 Far more difficult to answer is the question, What is meant by ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 that which) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 or ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 he who) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 is now holding (him) back from becoming revealed as the man of lawlessness ? ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 In order to approach this question properly, it is necessary first of all to determine the right translation. In the works of commentators the verb in question (������) has been translated in three different ways: a. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 to hold back) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 or ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 restrain,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 b. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 to hold) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 or ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 hold fast,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 and c. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 to hold sway) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 or ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 rule) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . ) 6 3 3 8 0 0 Beginning with the last, the meaning might then become: ) And what is now holding sway (namely, the mystery of lawlessness) you know, in order that he (Christ) may be revealed in his appropriate season. For the mystery of lawlessness is already at work, only until he who now holds sway (namely, Satan) be taken out of the way. ) We can dismiss this at once. Not only is it hard to fit this meaning into the present context, but also: although the verb is of rather frequent occurrence in the New Testament, not once (in any of the other New Testament passages) does it have this meaning 7 1 -1 9 0 0 to hold sway) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 The second meaning 7 1 -1 9 0 0 to hold fast) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) and the first 7 1 -1 9 0 0 to hold back, to restrain) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=18.7.12|AUTODETECT|” ) are closely related, and in the end probably yield the same resultant interpretation of the entire passage. With an appeal to such passages as ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=18.7.12|AUTODETECT|” Job 7:12) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.20.1-66.20.3|AUTODETECT|” (placing a guard over a sea-monster), ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.20.1-66.20.3|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 20:1 3) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.20.0|AUTODETECT|” (binding the dragon for a thousand years), and passages from the apocrypha, the view is defended that the man of lawlessness is here compared to a mythological being (a dragon or a sea-monster) which is being held fast for the time being. However, it should be borne in mind that the dragon in ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.20.0|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 20) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 is a symbol, and represents not Satan s ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 instrument) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 but Satan ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 himself) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . And even then the resultant meaning of the symbol is the ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 restraint) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.20.0|AUTODETECT|” upon Satan, sothat he can deceive the nations no more until the thousand years are finished. Hence, an appeal to ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.20.0|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 20) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 if) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 legitimate, would seem to support the translation ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 hold back, restrain) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 as readily as ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 hold, hold fast) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=18.7.12|AUTODETECT|” . Something similar can be said with reference to the ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=18.7.12|AUTODETECT|” Job 7:12) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 passage; while the apocryphal passages yield little that is of any value in this connection. Besides, if the man of sin is being ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 held fast,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 he is being held fast with a purpose, and in the present context (in view of what immediately follows in verses 8 and 9) that purpose is ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 to restrain) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 him for the present from being revealed. ) 6 2 3 8 0 0 In the New Testament the various meanings of the verb may be classified as follows (though with respect to a few there is some doubt): ) (1) ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 to possess, have, hold:) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.7.30|AUTODETECT|” ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.7.30|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 7:30) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.6.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.6.10|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 6:10) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 (2) ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 to take possession of:) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.14.9|AUTODETECT|” ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.14.9|AUTODETECT|” Luke 14:9) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 (3) ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 to hold fast or keep:) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.15|AUTODETECT|” ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.15|AUTODETECT|” Luke 8:15) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.6|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 7:6) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.11.2|AUTODETECT|” (but some would classify this under the fourth heading); ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.11.2|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 11:2) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.2|AUTODETECT|” 15:2) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.21|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 5:21) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.3.6|AUTODETECT|” (see on that passage); ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.3.6|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 3:6) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.3.14|AUTODETECT|” , ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.3.14|AUTODETECT|”
132. 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.10.23|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.10.23|AUTODETECT|” 10:23) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.27.40|AUTODETECT|” . It is possible that the sense of the word as used in ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.27.40|AUTODETECT|” Acts 27:40) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 is not far removed from this. They held for the beach. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 (4) ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 to hold back, restrain, detain:) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.42|AUTODETECT|” ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.42|AUTODETECT|” Luke 4:42) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 7 1 -1 9 0 0 would have held him back,) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.18|AUTODETECT|” to prevent him from leaving them); ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.18|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 1:18) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 7 1 -1 9 0 0 hold back) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 or ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 suppress) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=57.1.13|AUTODETECT|” the truth); ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=57.1.13|AUTODETECT|” Philemon 13) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 7 1 -1 9 0 0 to detain) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 Onesimus). In the present context this meaning makes excellent sense. It has abundant support in the papyri (see M.M., pp. 336, 337). ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 Adopting meaning (4) as the most natural in the present context, we are face to face with the problem of identifying the restrainer. On this point, however, the Thessalonians were ahead of us in their knowledge of eschatology. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 They) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 knew. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 We) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 do not. Augustine in his day frankly confessed that even with the best efforts he was not able to discover what the apostle meant 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Concerning the City of God.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 XX. xix). ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.2.14|AUTODETECT|” Some interpretations are wrong even on the surface . God or the Holy Spirit are not taken out of the way (which, in spite of objections that have been advanced, is probably a good English equivalent of the Greek idiom � ����� ��������); cf. also ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.2.14|AUTODETECT|” Col. 2:14) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 Of all the theories advanced so far the one which seems to have most in its favor is that according to which the restrainer is the power of well-ordered human rule, the principle of legality as opposed to that of lawlessness 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Commentary) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 on this passage). According to this view Paul intends to say that as long as law and order still obtain, the man of lawlessness is unable to appear upon the scene of history with his program of unprecedented unrighteousness, blasphemy, and persecution. In favor of this view note the following: ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 a. It has the context somewhat in its favor: the man of lawlessness is being held back by the reign of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 law) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 b. It explains how Paul can speak both of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 that which) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 restrains and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 he who) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 restrains. Think of the empire and the emperor, of justice and the judge, of law and the one who enforces it. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 c. It (or something on this order) is the most frequently expressed view of the church fathers. Tertullian, commenting on this passage, states: What obstacle is there but the Roman state? 7 1 -1 9 0 0 On The Resurrection of the Flesh) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 XXIV). ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.18.12-44.18.17|AUTODETECT|” d. It receives support from the fact that Paul was proud of his Roman citizenship, which helped him again and again, also right here in Corinth where the letter was written 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.18.12-44.18.17|AUTODETECT|” Acts 18:12 17) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.13.0|AUTODETECT|” ). Moreover, in a well-known chapter of another epistle he speaks of the power of the Roman state as a minister of God to thee for good, and of the rulers as a terror not to good but to evil conduct 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.13.0|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 13) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ).��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref10 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn10”
133. 6 1 -1 9 0 0 �� We may safely say, therefore, that the apostle viewed government and its administrators as a restraint upon evil. ) 6 2 3 8 0 0 e. It is a reasonable theory also in view of the fact that in a sense Roman law and order did not die when Rome fell. In the civilized world of today it is still in force. However, when the basic structure of justice disappears, and when fake-trials and fake-confessions become the order of the day, the stage is set for the revelation of the man of lawlessness. ) The theory according to which Michael��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref11 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn11”
134. 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.10.13|AUTODETECT|” �� or some other angel binds, restrains, or holds back the antichrist 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.10.13|AUTODETECT|” Dan. 10:13) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.20.1-66.20.3|AUTODETECT|” and ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.20.1-66.20.3|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 20:1 3) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.10.13|AUTODETECT|” ) does not explain how such an angel can be called both he who and that which restrains. Nevertheless, the two theories last mentioned namely, a. that the restrainer is law and order and those who enforce it, and b. that the restrainer is an angel may not be as far apart as they appear to be. Are not the dispositions of rulers influenced by angels? 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.10.13|AUTODETECT|” Dan. 10:13) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.10.20|AUTODETECT|” , ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.10.20|AUTODETECT|”
135. 6 1 -1 9 0 0 .) ) 6 2 3 8 0 0 We repeat, however, that the view which we have characterized as being in our opinion the best which has been offered so far may not be the right one. Certainty on this point is not available. ) Accordingly, the sense of the entire passage (verses 6 and 7) seems to be this: Satan, while perfectly aware of the fact that he cannot himself become incarnate, nevertheless would like to imitate the second person of the Trinity also in this respect as far as possible. He yearns for a man over whom he will have complete control, and who will perform his will as thoroughly as Jesus performed the will of the Father. It will have to be a man of outstanding talents. But as yet the devil is being frustrated in his attempt to put this plan into operation. Someone and something is always holding back the deceiver s man of lawlessness.

This, of course, happens under God s direction. Hence, for the time being, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 the worst) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 Satan can do is to promote the spirit of lawlessness. But this does not satisfy him. It is as if he and his man of sin bide their time. At the divinely decreed moment when, as a punishment for man s willingness to cooperate with this spirit, the some one and something that now holds back is removed, Satan will begin to carry out his plans: ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 8. And then shall be revealed the lawless one.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 This then is in contrast with the now of verse 6: now the lawless one is being held back, but then he will be revealed. The lawless one is the same as the man of lawlessness introduced in verse 3, that is, the final antagonist, the one who openly defies all of God s ordinances, the antichrist. When the proper time arrives, Satan s scheme will become outwardly realized. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 The mystery) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 will be replaced by ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 the man) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . The lawless one will appear on earth and will become revealed in his words and actions. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 In order to encourage believers, who might otherwise be filled with unjustifiable alarm, Paul immediately adds: ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 whom the Lord Jesus will slay with the breath of his mouth, and will utterly defeat by the manifestation of his coming) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.1|AUTODETECT|” There will not be a long drawn-out conflict, with victory now apparently with the lawless one, then with the Christ, this round going to Satan, that to the Christ. The issue will be settled in a moment. The Lord Jesus 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.1|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 1:1) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) will very summarily and decisively put an end to antichrist and his program. The entire description is symbolical. The two clauses are parallel, though this does ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 not) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 necessarily mean that they are ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 completely identical) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.31|AUTODETECT|” in meaning. The first clause stresses what will happen to the lawless one himself: he will be slain (which in this connection has been interpreted to mean that he will be punished with everlasting death, but the idea that he will first be put to death physically must not be excluded). The Lord will merely blow upon him, so swift will be his destruction. The second clause also indicates what will happen to him, perhaps with the added idea: in relation to his program of activities. Also in this respect he will be abolished, utterly defeated, put out of commission, rendered useless, made inoperative or inactive (��������; a verb very frequently used by Paul and almost confined to him in the New Testament; for the particular shade of meaning in the present connection see especially such passages as ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.31|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 3:31) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.4.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.4.14|AUTODETECT|” 4:14) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.1.28|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.1.28|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 1:28) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.17|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 3:17) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.15|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 2:15) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.1.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.1.10|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 1:10) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). In parallel relationship to breath of his mouth stands manifestation of his coming. The very ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 appearance) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.6.14|AUTODETECT|” 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.6.14|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 6:14) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.1.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.1.10|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 1:10) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.1|AUTODETECT|” 4:1) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.8|AUTODETECT|” , ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.8|AUTODETECT|” 8) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.2.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.2.13|AUTODETECT|” Titus 2:13) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.2.19|AUTODETECT|” ) of Christ s coming 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.2.19|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 2:19) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ), the first gleam of the advent, will suffice to abolish the lawless one, to put him out of commission. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 The ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 thorough, swift,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 sudden) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 character of antichrist s defeat is here pictured in symbolic language. The decisive character of his downfall is the one, main thought. Merely by Christ s ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 breath and appearance) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.11.4|AUTODETECT|” the man of lawlessness will be discomfited. More should not be read into the passage. For example, one should not begin to embellish the interpretation by arguing that the breath of his (Christ s) mouth means the Word of God, that this Word is always effective, etc. If further commentary is needed, one should read ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.11.4|AUTODETECT|” Is. 11:4) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.1.16|AUTODETECT|” and ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.1.16|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 1:16) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 .��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref12 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn12” 126) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 �� ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 9, 10.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 Having comforted the readers with the thought of the decisive intervention of the Lord Jesus when he comes to judge, sothat the passage with reference to the final antagonist has been robbed of its terror for those who believe, Paul now gives a further description of the character of the lawless one and of his activity. One might say that the description already begun in verse 4 is here continued; however with this difference: while verse 4 pictured antichrist s relation to the realm divine, verses 8 and 9 set forth his relation to the kingdom of evil: ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 (that one) whose coming is according to the energy of Satan, attended by all power and signs and wonders of falsehood and by all deceit that originates in unrighteousness for those who are perishing because they did not accept the love for the truth that they might be saved.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.2.19|AUTODETECT|” The coming or parousia of the lawless one 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.2.19|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 2:19) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 is) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 (prophetic present: it will certainly be) in complete accordance with the powerful activity of Satan, his master. That energy of Satan will be its standard of comparison. Hence, this coming will be attended by (or: invested with) all power and signs and wonders; that is, there will be a mighty display of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 power) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 7 1 -1 9 0 0 dynamite) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ); there will be ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 signs) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.2.11|AUTODETECT|” (������), supernatural feats which point away from themselves to the one who performs them, namely, the devil-controlled antichrist 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.2.11|AUTODETECT|” John 2:11) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ); and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 wonders) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 or ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 marvels) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 (������), the same astonishing performances viewed now from the aspect of their unusual character and their effect upon those who behold them. But all of this display (power, signs, wonders) will spring from ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 falsehood,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 from the desire to deceive.��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref13 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn13” 127) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 �� Hence, there follows, and by all ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 deceit) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 that originates in unrighteousness. The noun ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 deceit) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.2.8|AUTODETECT|” is also used by Paul in ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.2.8|AUTODETECT|” Col. 2:8) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.3|AUTODETECT|” ( philosophy and vain deceit ; and see the compound verb, derived from the same stem, in ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.3|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 2:3) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). The deceit will be inspired by ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 unrighteousness) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.44|AUTODETECT|” . This is not surprising, for the antichrist is energized by the devil himself. See also N.T.C. on ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.44|AUTODETECT|” John 8:44) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 Now this coming of the final antagonist, with his lying power, signs, and wonders, though observed by both believers and unbelievers, has the effect of deceiving ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 those who are perishing) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.1.18|AUTODETECT|” (i.e., those who then will be perishing); cf. ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.1.18|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 1:18) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.2.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.2.15|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 2:15) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.4.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.4.3|AUTODETECT|” 4:3) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . The cause of their perishing lies not in God but in themselves. They are perishing ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 because) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref14 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn14” 128) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 �� they ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 did not accept) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 (past tense from the aspect of the days just before the final judgment) the love for the truth. ) 6 2 3 8 0 0 But what is meant by the expression the love for the truth ? We answer as follows: ) When the Gospel is proclaimed, the hearers are urged to accept ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Christ and all his benefits) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . These benefits are not only objective, such as heaven, the resurrection-body, etc., but also subjective, such as love and hope. Those hearers who perish do so because they have rejected what they have been urged to accept, in this case: the love ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 for the truth ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 (objective genitive) as it is in Christ (the Gospel-truth). The purpose of their accepting it would have been that they might be saved. It is true that in his own power no man can accept the love for the truth. That, however, is not the emphasis here. Here what is stressed is ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 man s guilt) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . When man is lost, it is ever his own fault, never God s. ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 11. And for this reason God sends them a deluding energy, that they should believe the falsehood.) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.36-43.12.43|AUTODETECT|” That is, the men of the end-time, who will harden themselves against the earnest exhortation to repent and to receive the love for the truth, will suffer the penalty of being hardened. God sends (i.e., will certainly send) them an energy of (i.e., unto) delusion. It will be a power working mightily within them, leading them even farther astray, sothat they will believe antichrist s lie. See N.T.C. on ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.36-43.12.43|AUTODETECT|” John 12:36b 43) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 God is love. He is not a cruel monster who deliberately and with inward delight prepares people for everlasting damnation. On the contrary, he earnestly warns, proclaims the gospel, and states what will happen if people believe, also what will happen if they do not believe. He even ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 urges) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 them to accept the love for the truth. But when people, of their own accord and after repeated threats and promises, reject him and spurn his messages, then and not until then he hardens them in order that those who were not willing to repent may not be able to repent but may believe the falsehood that the man of lawlessness is God, the only God, and that everyone should obey him. ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.7.14|AUTODETECT|” When Pharaoh hardens his heart 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.7.14|AUTODETECT|” Ex. 7:14) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.8.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.8.15|AUTODETECT|” 8:15) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.8.32|AUTODETECT|” , ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.8.32|AUTODETECT|” 32) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.9.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.9.7|AUTODETECT|” 9:7) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.9.12|AUTODETECT|” ), God hardens Pharaoh s heart 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.9.12|AUTODETECT|” Ex. 9:12) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.18.22|AUTODETECT|” ). When the king of Israel hates God s true prophets, then the Lord permits him to be deceived by placing a lying spirit in the mouth of other prophets 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.18.22|AUTODETECT|” II Chron. 18:22) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.24|AUTODETECT|” ). When men practice impurity, God gives them up in the lusts of their hearts to impurity 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.24|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 1:24) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.26|AUTODETECT|” , ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.26|AUTODETECT|” 26) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.28|AUTODETECT|” ). And when they stubbornly refuse to acknowledge God, he finally gives them up to a base mind and to unclean behavior 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.28|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 1:28) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 12.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 So it will also be in the end-time. God will send a deluding energy into the hearts of those who stubbornly refused to accept his redemptive truth; and this in order that they may be condemned: ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 in order that all may be condemned who did not believe the truth but delighted in unrighteousness.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 This refers to the final judgment. Then all the deluded ones ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 shall be judged,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 i.e., ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 condemned) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.17|AUTODETECT|” 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.17|AUTODETECT|” John 3:17) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). This sentence of condemnation will be just and fair, for those upon whom it is pronounced, far from consenting to the redemptive truth of God, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 have placed their delight) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 (�P���������� see on 3:1) in its very opposite, namely, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 unrighteousness) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 (see on verse 9 above). This very antithesis between ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 truth) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 unrighteousness) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.18|AUTODETECT|” 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.18|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 1:18) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.2.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.2.8|AUTODETECT|” 2:8) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.13.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.13.6|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 13:6) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) indicates that man s intellect cannot be separated from his will and his emotions. When a person really accepts God s truth, he will practice righteousness; when he does not but accepts the lie of antichrist (neutrality is impossible!), he will ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 delight in) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 unrighteousness. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 The true believer must never be afraid of belonging to the minority. It is the remnant that shall be saved. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 All) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 others will be condemned. ) 6 3 3 8 0 0 2:13 16 ) 13 But we are obliged to give thanks to God always for you, brothers beloved by the Lord, because God chose you from the beginning to salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and belief in the truth; 14 to which (salvation) he also called you through our gospel, with a view to obtaining the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. 15 So then, brothers, stand firm and cling to the traditions which you have been taught by us, whether orally or by letter. ) 16 Now may he, our Lord Jesus Christ and God our Father, who loved us and graciously gave (us) everlasting encouragement and good hope, encourage your hearts and strengthen (them) in every good work and word. ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 2:13, 14. But we are obliged to give thanks to God always for you, brothers beloved by the Lord, because God chose you from the beginning to salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and belief in the truth; to which (salvation) he also called you through our gospel, with a view to obtaining the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 Over against (note ��) ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 the damnation) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 which awaits Satan s followers stands ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 the salvation) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 which is in store for God s children. This thought is developed in the present passage, which is full of rich concepts. However, as all of these have been discussed before, and some at considerable length, a reference to the place where this material can be found should suffice: ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.3|AUTODETECT|” For we are obliged to give thanks to God always for you see on ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.3|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 1:3) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.4|AUTODETECT|” For brothers beloved by the Lord cf. on ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.4|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 1:4) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.4|AUTODETECT|” For because God chose you see on ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.4|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 1:4) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.8|AUTODETECT|” For salvation see on ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.8|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 5:8) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.9|AUTODETECT|” , ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.9|AUTODETECT|” 9) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.3|AUTODETECT|” For sanctification see on ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.3|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 4:3) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.7|AUTODETECT|” , ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.7|AUTODETECT|” 7) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.3|AUTODETECT|” For belief see on ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.3|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 1:3) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.4|AUTODETECT|” , ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.4|AUTODETECT|” 4) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.11|AUTODETECT|” , ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.11|AUTODETECT|” 11) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.3|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 1:3) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.10|AUTODETECT|” For truth see on ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.10|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 2:10) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.12|AUTODETECT|” 12) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.5|AUTODETECT|” For calling see on ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.5|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 1:5) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.2.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.2.12|AUTODETECT|” 2:12) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.7|AUTODETECT|” 4:7) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.24|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.24|AUTODETECT|” 5:24) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.9|AUTODETECT|” For with a view to obtaining see on ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.9|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 5:9) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.2.12|AUTODETECT|” For glory see on ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.2.12|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 2:12) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.1|AUTODETECT|” For our Lord Jesus Christ see on ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.1|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 1:1) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.13|AUTODETECT|” On the basis of the explanation of these various concepts and of the context here in ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.13|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 2:13) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.14|AUTODETECT|” , ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.14|AUTODETECT|” 14) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 , we can now paraphrase the thought of the present passage as follows: ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 We Paul, Silas, and Timothy cannot do otherwise than ceaselessly thank God for you, brothers in the faith (who are the objects of God s special love), because in his sovereign, immutable election God from the beginning chose you to salvation which is negatively, rescue from the guilt, pollution, and punishment of sin; positively, the entrance into the inheritance reserved for God s children ; a salvation which becomes your possession through the work of the Holy Spirit, that is, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 through sanctification) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 a process of causing you to become increasingly detached from the world and attached to Christ until his image is completely formed in you ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 and through your active, vital consent) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 to the body of redemptive truth revealed in Christ; to which final and complete salvation God also called you, having effectively applied to your hearts the gospel which we preached to you and which we urged you to accept in order that you might one day share in the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 We accept the reading, God chose you ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 from the beginning ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 (�� ����) and not, God chose you ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 as first-fruits ) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.1.18|AUTODETECT|” (������). Both readings are well attested, and the conception of believers as first-fruits is entirely Biblical 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.1.18|AUTODETECT|” Jas. 1:18) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.14.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.14.4|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 14:4) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref15 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn15” 129) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.23|AUTODETECT|” ��) and even Pauline 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.23|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:23) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.11.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.11.16|AUTODETECT|” 11:16) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.5|AUTODETECT|” 16:5) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.20|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 15:20) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.23|AUTODETECT|” , ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.23|AUTODETECT|” 23) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.16.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.16.15|AUTODETECT|” 16:15) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). However, Paul never uses it in connection with the idea of election or choosing. On the other hand, the idea that God ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 chose) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 his own 7 1 -1 9 0 0 decreed) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.2.7|AUTODETECT|” something) before the ages 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.2.7|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 2:7) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.26|AUTODETECT|” ), from the ages 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.26|AUTODETECT|” Col. 1:26) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.4|AUTODETECT|” ), before the foundation of the world 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.4|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 1:4) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.14|AUTODETECT|” ) is definitely Pauline. To this would correspond the rendering chose you from the beginning (i.e., from eternity) here in ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.14|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 2:14) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . Also, the thought here expressed, namely, that God ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 called) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 men to a salvation to which ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 he had before chosen) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.30|AUTODETECT|” them is both logical and Pauline 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.30|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:30) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 15.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 Paul is now summing up and drawing a conclusion. ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 So then, brothers, stand firm and cling to the traditions which you have been taught by us, whether orally or by letter.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 In view of all that has been said , particularly with respect to dangers from the side of Satan and with respect to the blessed prospect of those who adhere to the faith, the Thessalonians are now urged to lay aside their doubts and fears and to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 stand firm) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.14.4|AUTODETECT|” 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.14.4|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 14:4) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.16.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.16.13|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 16:13) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.27|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.27|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 1:27) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.1|AUTODETECT|” 4:1) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 cling) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 that is, to remain standing firm and to keep on clinging (note present imperatives which here as often are undoubtedly continuative) to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 the traditions,) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.11.2|AUTODETECT|” that is, to the authoritative teachings that have been handed down 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.11.2|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 11:2) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.1.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.1.14|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 1:14) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.2.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.2.8|AUTODETECT|” Col. 2:8) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ; and see on 3:6), whether ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 orally,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 that is, by word of mouth while Paul, Silas, and Timothy were working among them and afterward while Timothy visited them, or ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 by letter) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 7 1 -1 9 0 0 us, ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 hence, not by any letter ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 purporting) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 to come from Paul; see on verse 2 above). ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 For the idea of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 standing firm) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.16.13|AUTODETECT|” see the beautiful passage ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.16.13|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 16:13) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.3.8|AUTODETECT|” ; also on ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.3.8|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 3:8) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.17|AUTODETECT|” . On the matter of transmitting traditions or teaching that has been received see also ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.17|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 6:17) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.17|AUTODETECT|” 16:17) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.1-46.15.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.1-46.15.11|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 15:1 11) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.9|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 4:9) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.2.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.2.14|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 2:14) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.2.15|AUTODETECT|” , ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.2.15|AUTODETECT|” 15) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 16, 17. Now may he, our Lord Jesus Christ and God our Father, who loved us and graciously gave (us) everlasting encouragement and good hope, encourage your hearts and strengthen (them) in every good work and word.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 Now 7 1 -1 9 0 0 now) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.3.11|AUTODETECT|” ) the Thessalonians will not be able to stand firm and to cling to the traditions unless God in Christ encourages and strengthens their hearts. It is for that reason that the command is here followed by the expression of a solemn and effective wish. For the combination our Lord Jesus Christ and God our Father with singular verb to stress the unity of essence and of purpose, see on ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.3.11|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 3:11) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.16|AUTODETECT|” . However, here in ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.16|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 2:16) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.17|AUTODETECT|” , ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.17|AUTODETECT|” 17) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 , our Lord Jesus Christ is mentioned first , perhaps because of the reference to Christ in the almost immediately preceding context (verse 14). ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 Although it is certainly true that the aorist participles comprehend all the blessings of redemption without exception beginning from eternity and never ending , nevertheless this does not mean that in the mind of Paul certain central facts did not stand out clearly; such as, he chose us, he gave his Son 7 1 -1 9 0 0 himself) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) for us, he gave us the Holy Spirit, etc. The main idea, however, is that, as a result of these gifts, the-Lord-Jesus-Christ-and-God-our-Father, conceived as One, has given everlasting (that is, never-ending) ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 encouragement) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 good hope) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.13-52.5.11|AUTODETECT|” to the readers. In view of their fears and doubts 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.13-52.5.11|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 4:13 5:11) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) this ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 help) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 was, indeed, needed. For the meaning of the word ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 encourage) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.2.3|AUTODETECT|” (���������) see on ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.2.3|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 2:3) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.16|AUTODETECT|” ; also N.T.C. on ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.16|AUTODETECT|” John 14:16) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . The encouragement is not only for the present life. It will also be imparted on the final day of judgment. In fact, although ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 comfort) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 or ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 consolation) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 amid sorrow will not be needed nor imparted in heaven the land of never-ending delight , nevertheless even there God in Christ will ever encourage the redeemed by giving them glory upon glory. The ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 good) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 hope of which Paul speaks is a hope that is well-founded, namely, upon God s promises, Christ s redemptive work, etc., is full of joy, never ends in disappointment, and has its object in God Triune. When, by God s sovereign grace, the words of II Thessalonians 7 1 -1 9 0 0 rest ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 in store for God s children, the ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 victory ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 of Christ over Satan, the divine ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 election ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 calling ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 of the readers) are taken to heart, the readers will experience everlasting encouragement and good hope. Objectively 7 1 -1 9 0 0 to a certain extent) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) they have it even now. Subjectively it will ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 then) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 be applied to their hearts ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 in full measure) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . Of course, such encouragement and good hope never ends in man. Here, too, the circle must be completed. Everlasting encouragement and good hope result in gratitude and a desire to please the Giver. Hence, Paul writes, Now may he & encourage your hearts (the central organ of your life) ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 in every good work and word. ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 Such works and words are those which redound to God s honor. Thus, the circle has again been completed. What came from God has, by way of thanksgiving, returned to him! ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 Synthesis of Chapter 2) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 See p. 166 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 The Revelation of the Lord Jesus From Heaven will be preceded by the falling away and by the revelation of the man of lawlessness. The latter s destiny and that of his followers contrasted with that of the readers.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 Verses 1 3a ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 The two events that will precede Christ s Return) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 2 3 8 0 0 In this chapter the apostle warns the readers against acting as if the end of the world had arrived, and against believing that he himself had said or written anything that could have lent color to this notion. He declares that two events will occur first, namely, a. the apostasy that is, the worldwide falling away from (and rebellion against) God s ordinances and b. the arrival of the lawless one. ) Verses 3b 12 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 The lawless one) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 3 3 8 0 0 a. His perverse character (verse 3b) ) He will be the hell-bound, personal embodiment of the spirit of antagonism to God s law. ) b. His God-defying activity (verse 4) ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.14.0|AUTODETECT|” He will strive to dethrone God and to enthrone himself. In his reckless audacity and ferocious insolence he will uplift himself not only against the true God and all so-called gods but also against all sacred objects. He will endeavor to wield dominion over God s people. He has his prototype in everyone who aspires to be God, for example, in the king of Babylon 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.14.0|AUTODETECT|” Is. 14) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.28.0|AUTODETECT|” ), the king of Tyre 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.28.0|AUTODETECT|” Ezek. 28) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ), and especially Antiochus Epiphanes. ) 6 3 3 8 0 0 c. His present concealment and future revelation (verses 6 8a) ) At present he is being held back. Though present in the mind of Satan, something and someone (perhaps law and order and those who enforce it) is for the time being preventing the antichrist from appearing on the scene of history. However, the spirit of lawlessness, interpreted in the light of God s revelation which clears up this mystery, holds in its womb the lawless one. It cannot but issue in his revelation when the proper time arrives. As soon as the restrainer is taken out of the way, the predicted final antagonist will be seen. When law and order, founded on justice, are removed, then the man of lawlessness will be made manifest. ) d. His decisive defeat (verse 8b) ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.11.4|AUTODETECT|” The Lord Jesus, returning on the clouds, will intervene decisively in the interest of his people. Messiah s very breath 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.11.4|AUTODETECT|” Is. 11:4) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ), the first gleam of his advent, will suffice to destroy the lawless one and to cut short the realization of the latter s program. (This indicates that the lawless one belongs to the end-time.) ) 6 5 3 8 0 0 e. His relation to Satan and to Satan s power to deceive (verses 9, 10a) ) The coming of the great opponent will be attended by astounding performances, aimed to delude the masses on their way to perdition. The energy of the devil will operate in and through the son of perdition. ) f. His sin-hardened, hell-bound followers (verses 10b 12) ) His followers will perish by their own fault, for they will have willfully rejected the love for the truth, and of their own accord will have taken delight in unrighteousness. God, accordingly, will punish them by sending them a deluding energy that they should believe antichrist s falsehood and should suffer everlasting damnation. ) Verses 13 16 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Contrast between the destiny of the lawless one and of his followers, on the one hand, and that of the readers, on the other) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 6 3 8 0 0 These verses are transitional in character. Inasfar as they draw a sharp contrast between the perdition of antichrist and his followers (see the preceding verses), on the one hand, and the everlasting salvation of the brothers beloved by the Lord, on the other, they belong to the present section. Nevertheless, the change in style (from didactic and revelatory to congratulatory and hortatory) shows that this paragraph may also be considered in connection with the contents of chapter 3. Note the similarities: ) a. Expression of thanks to God and (by implication) of confidence in the readers (2:13, 14; cf. 3:4) ) b. Exhortation (2:15; cf. the exhortations in 3:1, 6, 12 15) ) c.

Expression of a wish which has the solemnity of a prayer (2:16; cf. 3:5, 16). ) In dividing the material of II Thessalonians into sections or thought-units it is therefore not an error either to consider 2:13 16 along with the preceding twelve verses of chapter 2, or along with the contents of chapter 3. There is overlapping here. ) Paul comforts the readers with the thought that the sentence of condemnation will not rest on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 them,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 for ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 they) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 have been chosen from eternity. In this sovereign election ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 not only the end) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 was foreordained but ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 also the means) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 through which it would be brought about. The end is salvation, and the means are sanctification by the Spirit and belief in the truth. In fact, the divine, inward calling may also be considered as one of the means, for the readers had been called with a view to obtaining the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. ) 6 2 3 8 0 0 Accordingly, the brothers are urged to stand firm and to cling to the traditions which they have been taught by the writers, whether orally or by letter. ) The pendulum swings back once more to emphasis upon the divine factor. The wish expressed in verse 16 (see the explanation) is very touching. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn1 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref1” 118 ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 Or: only (there is) one who now holds (him) back, until he be taken out of the way. Thus, either the rendering favored by the margin of the A.R.V., or the one found in the text of that version may be correct. Essentially, however, there is no difference: the resultant meaning is the same. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn2 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref2” 119 ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 It is impossible to determine whether as from us modifies the immediately preceding item only , the two preceding items, or all three. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 The preceding two) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 seems most natural, but certainty is lacking. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn3 10 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref3” N.T.C. ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 W. Hendriksen, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 New Testament Commentary) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn4 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref4” 120 ) 6 2 3 8 0 0 Both of these points are also stressed by Calvin: ) Apostasiam ergo vocat Paulus perfidam a Deo defectionem: nec eam unius hominis vel paucorum, sed quae longe lateque in maiore hominum multitudine grassetur. Nam quum apostasia sine adiectione nominatur, non potest restringi ad paucos. Iam non alii possunt intelligi apostatae, quam qui prius nomen Christo et evangelio dederunt. Praedicit ergo Paulus generalem quandam visibilis ecclesiae defectionem 7 1 -1 9 0 0 op. cit.,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 pp. 196, 197). ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn5 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref5” 121 ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 A. Pieters, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 The Lamb, the Woman, and the Dragon) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 , Grand Rapids, Mich., 1937, p. 205. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn6 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref6” 122 ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 See my Commentary on the book of Revelation, namely, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 More Than Conquerors) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 , Grand Rapids, Mich., seventh edition 1954, pp. 175 179, 199 206; also my article Is the Beast out of the Sea the Personal Antichrist? in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 The Banner) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 , April 7, 1950. Also J. E. H. Thomson Antichrist, article in I.S.B.E.; S. Greydanus, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Kommentaar op het Nieuwe Testament) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 , Vol. XIV, p. 406; K. Dijk, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Het Rijk der Duizend Jaren) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 , Kampen, 1933, p. 236. Contrast the view expressed by V. Hepp, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 De Antichrist) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 , 1919. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn7 10 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref7” A.V. ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 Authorized Version (King James) ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn8 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref8” 123 ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 G. Vos, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 The Pauline Eschatology) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 , Princeton, 1930, pp. 103 105. See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Sib. Or.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 , book III; IV ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Esdras) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 5:4, 6; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Apoc. Bar.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 , ch. 40; and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Asc. Isa.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 , ch. 4. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 For the Babylonian-derivation theory see F. Delitzsch, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Babel and Bible) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Babel und Bibel) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ), New York, 1903, especially pp. 47 49; then, E. K�nig, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Die moderne Babylonisierung der Bibel) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 , Stuttgart, 1922, especially pp. 22 26. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 And for information with respect to the ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Ras Shamra) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 texts see R. de Vaux, Les textes de Ras Shamra et l Ancient Testament, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 RB) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 46 (1937), 526 565; Ren� Dussaud, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Les d�couvertes de Ras Shamra et l Ancien Testament) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 , Paris, second edition, 1941, vol. I; A. Lods, Quelques remarques sur les po�mes mythologiques de Ras Shamra et leurs rapports avec l Ancien Testament, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 RHPR) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 16 (1936), 112 117; Julian Obermann, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Ugaritic Mythology) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 , New Haven, 1948; H. F. Hahn, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Old Testament in Modern Research) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 , Philadelphia, 1954, especially pp. 110 117. This author points out that the ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 distinctive) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 features of Old Testament religion were of greater significance than those which it had in common with other religions, and that even those elements which might be called derivative had been transformed into vehicles for ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 distinctive) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 beliefs. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn9 10 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref9” M.M. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 The Vocabulary of the Greek Testament Illustrated from the Papyri and Other Non-Literary Sources,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 by James Hope Moulton and George Milligan (edition Grand Rapids, 1952) ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn10 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref10” 124 ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 Some have even discovered a word-play in the fact that Claudius was the reigning emperor when this was written; so they connect Claudius with the verb ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 claudo,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 to close, stop, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 restrain,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 making Claudius the restrainer! This impresses us as being rather far-fetched. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn11 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref11” 125 ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 V. Hepp, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 De Antichrist) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 , p. 102, criticized by A. Pieters, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 op. cit.,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 p. 197. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 W. Neil 7 1 -1 9 0 0 The Moffatt New Testament Commentary) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) is of the opinion that the restrainer is perhaps Michael, perhaps Elijah, more probably someone or something somehow (The Epistle of Paul to the Thessalonians, New York, 1950, pp. 172, 173). ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn12 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref12” 126 ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 On the latter passage I have commented as follows: Do not destroy the unity of the symbol. For example, do not interpret the sharp two-edged sword that proceeds out of Christ s mouth as indicating the sweet and tender influences of the Gospel in its mission of conversion. Notice that in 2:16 we read: and I will do battle against them with the great-sword of my mouth. This is addressed to those who ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 refuse) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 to repent 7 1 -1 9 0 0 More Than Conquerors) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 , p. 71). ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn13 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref13” 127 ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 There is no good reason to restrict of falsehood to the noun which immediately precedes or to two of the three nouns. It is true that ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 power) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 is singular, and that ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 signs) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 wonders) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 are plural, but all three terms are co-ordinated by & and & and & They evidently constitute one group. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn14 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref14” 128 ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 Van Leeuwen states that ��� e� is of infrequent occurrence in the LXX 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Kommentaar op het Nieuwe Testament) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 , Vol. X, p. 435). It occurs about eighty times, however, and is the Greek equivalent of more than fifteen Hebrew words or phrases with meanings such as: on account of, because, according as, forasmuch as, after that, inasfar as, as a consequence of the fact that, in return for the fact that, in consequence of, as often as. The predominant meaning is ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 because,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 i.e., ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 in return for the fact that) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . One thing is given in the place of another. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn15 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref15” 129 ) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.14.4|AUTODETECT|” For the Old Testament background of the idea of the first-fruits and for its meaning in ) 12 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.14.4|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 14:4) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 see my ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 More Than Conquerors) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 , Grand Rapids, Mich., seventh edition, 1954, pp. 183 185. Naturally those who favor the idea that II Thessalonians was addressed to the Jewish community favor first-fruits here. See footnote 7.)