Summary:
2 Thessalonians 2:1–12
Paul describes the bold act of the “man of lawlessness” that will precede the return of Christ. That he will exalt himself and place himself in God’s temple, claiming to be God. And, he reinforces to them that work has already begin. Paul does this to reassure the Thessalonians against false teaching and to not lose sight of Christ’s triumph.
Revelation 13:6–13
The time that the beast is given authority over the earth. A time when there is no more agnostics, everyone takes a side – either God or the beast. Then the second beast, the dragon comes out of the earth and performs great and miraculous signs. All preceding the Day of the Lord.
Questions:
6. That day will not come until the rebellion occurs and the man of lawlessness is revealed, the man doomed to destruction
7. He is a deceiver. His authority is only that allowed to him, not anything he has of his own power.
8. a. Their refusal to love the truth and be saved. A delusion, they believe the lie and delight in wickedness, bringing condemnation
b. Entering the gate of righteousness is a choice that is revealed to us to choose. Other choices are abundant, there are thousands of other things we can serve and fall into depravity, but only one gate (Jesus) leads to God
c. A favorite hymn:
Turn your eyes upon Jesus,
Look full in His wonderful face,
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim,
In the light of His glory and grace.
Conclusions:
The revelation of the gospel is not just for our curiosity or enjoyment, like an action movie, but it is there so that we are not deceived as we stand with Christ at the narrow gate, bringing the called into the house of God. Paul’s emphasis is well noted, though. It is important to understand the events that will occur, but the important place to focus your eyes is not on the activities but on the outcome – Christ rules forever.
The Notes are Good 