The Man of Lawlessness

Written By Betty Predmore

2 THESSALONIANS 2:1-17

(October 14)

Paul introduces a new character to us (and the Thessalonians) in this portion of his letter. He is warning them not to be fearful or fooled by those who proclaim that the day of the Lord has already begun. He wants them to be on guard to not be fooled by anything they say, because the Lord will not return until the man of lawlessness comes and brings destruction.

Who is this man? All through history we have seen evil people at work, going against Christianity. These "antichrists" have lived through all the generations, and the generations to come will be no different.

Just before Christ's return, Satan will use this evil man of lawlessness, giving him his own power, to be THE antichrist. We cannot predict who that will be or when that will be. Paul brings this up so that the Thessalonians will be ready for any faith challenge they might face. We, too, should be prepared for this.

For this lawlessness is already at work secretly, and it will remain secret until the one who is holding it back steps out of the way. (vs. 7)

So, the question arises ... WHO is holding him back? The Bible isn't clear on who is holding this man back. But it is clear that this restraint will not last forever. Do we need to fear this? Absolutely not! Our God has far more strength than this man of lawlessness. And we all know our God saves.

When he mentions the secret power of lawlessness already being at work, Paul is saying that the work this man will do is already happening. No one has discovered it yet, but God will reveal it. This "lawlessness" is the underlying force that is hidden, but which all sin comes from.

We think we know evil. We think that we have seen horrific things in this world. But none of these will compare to the man of lawlessness and what he stands for.

I know, I know ... not the most joyful topic to ponder. But it is a truth that we should all be aware of. Instead of feeling fear, we should feel gratitude because we know and are loved by the only one who can save us from this evil. We can stand firm in the faith and the gospel, knowing that God is our mighty fortress.

Betty Predmore

Betty Predmore is a writer, blogger, speaker and ministry leaders. She is the founder of Mom-Sense, Inc., a ministry designed for mentorship, connection and service to women of all life circumstances. Through this ministry, women are encouraged and supported with scripture and life application. Mom-Sense helps women overcome life struggles through small group classes with biblical curriculum, individual counseling, bible studies, and other areas of support.

Betty also directs the Imperial Valley Life Center, which is a non-profit faith-based pro life women’s resource center. She has a passion for saving the unborn and supporting mothers through pregnancy and motherhood.

Betty loves to speak at events, sharing the love of Jesus with other women. She does this through practical life application mingled with God’s word, and sprinkled with humor. Having experienced a broken home, divorce, abuse, grief, single motherhood, blended families, and adoption, she uses the broken places and movement of God in her own life to share His word in an inspiring way. She enjoys sharing her blogs on social media as a way of reaching out on a broader spectrum. Betty has many speaking topics which can be found on her website: www.bettypredmore.com

As an author, she has had the opportunity to impact women and reach deep into their hearts with her words of inspiration and encouragement. Through Pondering Virtue and Whispered Grace, she has created wonderful tools for the woman who is seeking direction in her spiritual walk.

Betty serves on the writing team of A Wife Like Me, and is also a contributor to Moms Encouraging Moms and Gift of Thorns. Her blogs have appeared in several magazine publications throughout the years including Southern Faith Magazine, Purposeful Life, and Aspiring Woman Magazine.

While Betty thrives on her ministry opportunities, her greatest blessings come from being a wife to Jim and a mama to their wonderful collection of children, who bring joy, laughter, and an occasional tear to her days.


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