Looking Ahead

Let no one deceive you by any means; for that Day will not come unless the falling away comes first, and the man of sin is revealed, the son of perdition

2 Thessalonians 2:3

When Paul wrote 2 Thessalonians he addressed a considerable rumor that was floating around in the church. Apparently someone had claimed that Christ had already returned. Paul responds to this erroneous message by identifying two things that must come first. Namely, Paul wrote that there would be a “falling away” and the revealing of “the man of sin” before Christ’s return. While I believe Paul’s first priority was to combat the false teaching, I believe he wanted to provide a valuable lesson about preparing for the future.

How do I prepare for the future? Paul’s message paints a contrast between truth and deception. The appearance of “the man of sin” is described as a “revelation”.  It’s a powerful word that should remind us to beware of revelation that is contrary to God. If I desire to be prepared for the future, I must be able to distinguish between what is anti-Christ and what is Christ. This ability does not just pertain to the revealing of the man of sin at some date in the future. I need to recognize that deception is prevalent here and now. The only adequate antidote for deception is truth. Awareness is needed today. Late in the first century, John, the old apostle, warned the early church about “the Antichrist” but quickly added that many antichrists were at work. His writing reinforced what Paul taught. If I want to prepare for the future, I must know and love the Truth. Jesus identified Himself as the Way, the Truth and the Life. Our preparation for the future must never stray from our love and a deepening relationship for Christ.  It is in Christ that we find protection and hope. Remember, “The Lord is faithful, who will establish you and guard you from the evil one.” (2 Thessalonians 3:3).