In our visit today we’ll see how Paul in 2nd Thessalonians built on what he said in 1st Thessalonians. Both books refer to the return of Christ. They emphasize the importance of being ready when that day comes.
In 2nd Thessalonians Paul points out how to oppose lawlessness, which actually is a misnomer. Laws operate whether we accept them or not. When we think we’ve overcome or evaded a given law, we merely discover another taking its place. Our universe operates according to law and order.
Pastor-author Ray Ortlund confides, “As a boy I once ran head-on into a barbed-wire fence. The fence wasn’t hurt, but I was! I still bear the scars of that experience. You can’t tangle with barbed-wire fences and get by with it.” You can’t disregard the law of God either without facing bitter consequences.
As you read 2nd Thessalonians, note the following instructions on this theme: be assured that in the end God will punish lawlessness; be aware that until the end God is permitting lawlessness within limits; be involved until the end in opposing any practice of lawlessness.
We should live in harmony with God’s established order, or it will order us to the hell of eternal destruction from the presence of God. I know that sounds harsh, but it’s true. Read chapter 1:5-10. Then remember what I believe is the key verse to the book, 2:15, “So then, brothers, stand firm and hold to the teachings we passed on to you, whether by word of mouth or by letter.”
