Who is the Man of Lawlessness?

One thing is quite clear from 2 Thessalonians 2 -- the day of the Lord (Jesus' return, judgment of the world and establishment of the Kingdom) won't come until the man of lawlessness is revealed (2 Thess 2:3).

Who is this man?

First, he is a particular man. He will be killed by Jesus, when Jesus returns (2 Thess 2:8).

Second, he is not Satan. Although, he is empowered by Satan (2 Thess 2:9).

Third, he will be revealed when he takes his seat in the Jewish Temple in Jerusaelm, claiming to be God (2 Thess 2:4; cf. Dan 9:24-27; Rev 13:1-8)

Fourth, those who refuse to love and obey the truth about Jesus will be deceived by him (2 Thess 2:10)

Ultimately, we don't know who this man is until he appears. We do know that he has not been revealed yet.

We also know that we do not need to fear. We have not missed Jesus' return, when He will gather us to Himself (which was the issue that concerned the Thessalonians).

But, if you do live to see a world leader sitting in the Temple of God and claiming to be God -- repent and ask Jesus for forgiveness because He is coming soon.

In Christ
Pastor Mike