5 Don’t you remember that when I was with you I used to tell you these things? 6 And now you know what is holding him back, so that he may be revealed at the proper time. 7 For the secret power of lawlessness is already at work; but the one who now holds it back will continue to do so till he is taken out of the way. 8 And then the lawless one will be revealed, whom the Lord Jesus will overthrow with the breath of his mouth and destroy by the splendor of his coming. 9 The coming of the lawless one will be in accordance with how Satan works. He will use all sorts of displays of power through signs and wonders that serve the lie,
Churches are attacked from within by false teachers and leaders. We are appalled at what is happening in the name of Christian religion. Not that long ago "Pulpit Helps" reported 51% of Methodists, 35% of Presbyterians, 30% of Episcopalians, and 33% of American Baptists did not believe in the physical resurrection of Jesus Christ. That doctrine is essential to Christians. A Syracuse University study concluded that there are 2,000 practicing gurus posing as Christ.
Community Churches, which are homosexual congregations, are building and being established in all the major cities of our country. The Perkins School of Theology, a Methodist seminary, invited a witch to lecture and lead a liturgy to an ancient deity. A strong feminist bend among some seminarians has led to the adoption of non-traditional references to God such as Mother God or Mother-Father God, thus encouraging a search for a goddess figure in the scriptures.
Now the influence of the culture, regarding gender identity, is reflected in Evangelical Lutheran denomination which elected a transgender bishop. The American churches have strayed from purity in devotion, doctrine, and morals.
man of lawlessness is being restrained now. I agree that it is probably a reference to the Holy Spirit, but most certainly it refers in a greater way to God, who in His plan and purpose, restrains and limits Satan's activity and this Anti-Christ.
God ultimately through whatever means and persons He wishes, is in control. Satan cannot do what he wants, but he will be allowed a time of being unleashed. When the right time comes God will permit it to occur and let Satan begin this last form of evil rebellion.
The powers of the anti-Christ are described as with all power and signs and lying wonders, and with all deceiving of unrighteousness. The Bible says he will be a supernatural person in the powers which he has and will counterfeit many miracles which the Lord did on earth. All miracles are not of God. Satan will substitute error for the truth, pleasure for purity, and indulgence for discipline.
Application: Don’t forget. God is ultimately in control. There are no surprises for Him. Look to His Word for teachings of His Sovereignty.
Prayer: Lord, have mercy on us and on the whole world. For Your Name's sake lead us in paths of righteousness. Reveal Your truth to those who are tempted to stray from it.
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