2 Thessalonians 2:9
Verse
Context
The Man of Lawlessness
8And then the lawless one will be revealed, whom the Lord Jesus will slay with the breath of His mouth and annihilate by the majesty of His arrival.9The coming of the lawless one will be accompanied by the working of Satan, with every kind of power, sign, and false wonder,10and with every wicked deception directed against those who are perishing, because they refused the love of the truth that would have saved them.
Sermons





Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Whose coming is after the working of Satan - The operation of God's Spirit sends his messengers; the operation of Satan's spirit sends his emissaries. The one comes κατ' ενεργειαν του Θεου, after or according to the energy or inward powerful working of God; the other comes κατ' ενεργειαν του Σατανα, according to the energy or inward working of Satan. With all power - Πασῃ δυναμει· All kinds of miracles, like the Egyptian magicians; and signs and lying wonders: the word lying may be applied to the whole of these; they were lying miracles, lying signs, and lying wonders; only appearances of what was real, and done to give credit to his presumption and imposture. Whereas God sent his messengers with real miracles, real signs, and real wonders; such Satan cannot produce.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
whose coming--The same Greek as was used for the Lord's coming (Th2 2:8) or personal "presence." is--in its essential character. after--according to the working ("energy") of Satan, as opposed to the energy or working of the Holy Spirit in the Church (see on Eph 1:19). As Christ is related to God, so is Antichrist to Satan, his visible embodiment and manifestation: Satan works through him. Rev 13:2, "The dragon gave him (the beast) his power . . . seat . . . great authority." lying wonders--literally, "wonders" or "prodigies of falsehood." His "power, signs, and wonders," all have falsehood for their base, essence, and aim (Joh 8:44), [ALFORD]. In Mat 24:24 Jesus implies that the miracles shall be real, though demoniac, such mysterious effects of the powers of darkness as we read of in the case of the Egyptian sorcerers, not such as Jesus performed in their character, power, or aim; for they are against the revealed Word, and therefore not to be accepted as evidences of truth; nay, on the authority of that sure Word of prophecy (here, and Mat 24:24), to be known and rejected as wrought in support of falsehood (Deu 13:1-3, Deu 13:5; Gal 1:8-9; Rev 13:11-15; Rev 19:20). The same three Greek words occur for miracles of Jesus (Act 2:22; Heb 2:4); showing that as the Egyptian magicians imitated Moses (Ti2 3:1-8), so Antichrist will try to imitate Christ's works as a "sign," or proof of divinity.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Even him whose coming is after the working of Satan,.... That is, as a deceiver, a liar, and a murderer; for such was the working of Satan with our first parents; he seduced Eve, not only by subtlety, but by lying; he abode not in the truth, is the father of lies, and a murderer from the beginning: and such is the working of antichrist his firstborn; he comes in a deceitful way, under a profession of Christ, and a pretension of faith in him, and love to him; but speaks lies in hypocrisy, for such are his doctrines and tenets; and is not only a murderer of the bodies of the saints, but of the souls of men; which are the wares the whore of Babylon deals in: with all power; not omnipotence, for that is peculiar to God, and is not in Satan nor in antichrist, though the latter assumes to himself all power in heaven and in earth, and claims a jurisdiction both temporal and spiritual over men; but rather this means great power, or all kind of power of doing miracles, as follows: and signs, and lying wonders; that is, such signs and miracles as are not real, but reigned, only in appearance, not in truth, like those that were done by the magicians of Egypt; and these were done to countenance lies, and to induce persons to believe them; and how many miracles and lying wonders the church of Rome pretends to, everybody knows.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:9 As Christ will appear in royal and divine power (his parousia; 2:1, 8; 1 Thes 2:19; 3:13; 4:15; 5:23), this figure similarly will come (parousia) with a royal entrance.
2 Thessalonians 2:9
The Man of Lawlessness
8And then the lawless one will be revealed, whom the Lord Jesus will slay with the breath of His mouth and annihilate by the majesty of His arrival.9The coming of the lawless one will be accompanied by the working of Satan, with every kind of power, sign, and false wonder,10and with every wicked deception directed against those who are perishing, because they refused the love of the truth that would have saved them.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Honest People Will Not Go to Hell
By Rolfe Barnard77648:25HonestyMAT 6:33LUK 2:2LUK 14:24LUK 19:412TH 2:72TH 2:9The sermon transcript discusses a man in Detroit, Michigan who had a near-death experience but was saved by God. The preacher emphasizes the importance of not deceiving oneself and the need for God's mercy. He urges the congregation to turn to the light of truth before it's too late. The sermon also references a verse from the book of Luke, where Jesus speaks about those who make excuses and will not taste of his supper. The transcript also mentions the consequences of not seeking truth and the revelation of the mystery of iniquity.
Worship and the End Times
By Mike Bickle0MAT 6:10MAT 19:28MAT 24:6MAT 24:242TH 2:9REV 13:4REV 20:4REV 22:17Mike Bickle preaches about the great conflict between two opposing global worship movements at the end of the age, where Jesus and Satan's powers will be openly displayed. He emphasizes the importance of worship as a form of warfare that aligns the earth with God's will and prepares for the second coming of Jesus and the millennial kingdom. Bickle warns about the rise of a counterfeit worship movement led by the Antichrist that will deceive billions, contrasting it with the Holy Spirit's powerful end-time worship movement that will usher in God's kingdom.
Popish Miracles
By Ian Paisley0MAT 24:241CO 13:22CO 11:132TH 2:91JN 4:1Ian Paisley delivers a sermon warning about the dangers of the kingdom of Antichrist, emphasizing the use of miracles, signs, and lying wonders to deceive people. He criticizes Popery for claiming to have worked miracles in favor of the Catholic Church, pointing out the lack of evidence and credibility in these claims. Paisley questions the authenticity of supposed miracles performed by figures like St. Francis Xavier, highlighting the absurdity and lack of proof in these stories. He challenges the Church of Rome's reliance on miraculous power to validate its religion, suggesting that these supposed miracles have transitioned from true to false over time, aligning with prophecies of apostasy.
Israel's Inviolability - Truth or Myth?
By Reggie Kelly0JER 17:5MAT 24:241TH 5:32TH 2:9REV 13:7Reggie Kelly addresses the confusion surrounding the present state of Israel, highlighting the mistaken order of the modern return and the unbiblical optimism concerning Israel's future. He points out the dangerous belief in Israel's 'inviolability' held by key leaders in the Land, leading to a false sense of supernatural divine protection. Despite scriptural evidence indicating Israel will face Antichrist's fury, there is a widespread belief that obediently returning to the Land will provide safety, creating an astonishing deception fueled by emotional presuppositions and end-time complexities.
Deception Through False Signs and Wonders
By Zac Poonen0True Gospel vs. False TeachingsDeception in the ChurchDEU 13:1MAT 1:21MAT 5:6MAT 23:15MAT 24:24ACT 8:182CO 11:1PHP 2:52TH 2:9JAS 5:14Zac Poonen warns about the prevalent deception in Christendom through false signs and wonders, echoing the warnings of Jesus and Paul regarding 'another Jesus,' 'another spirit,' and 'another gospel' that cater to earthly desires rather than leading to true repentance and holiness. He emphasizes the need for believers to discern the true nature of ministry by comparing preachers to Jesus, focusing on their objectives, attitudes, and approaches to healing. Poonen highlights that many modern preachers prioritize miracles and entertainment over the essential message of freedom from sin, which is the core of Jesus' mission. He explains that God allows deceivers to test the faith of His people, revealing the idols of money and entertainment that have infiltrated the church. Ultimately, Poonen calls for a return to the true gospel that leads to genuine holiness and a relationship with Christ.
Part 6: Amillennialism as a System of Theology
By John F. Walvoord0MAT 25:31JHN 3:16ACT 5:3ROM 3:24ROM 8:381CO 7:51CO 12:271CO 15:522CO 4:32CO 11:142CO 12:7GAL 3:28EPH 1:7EPH 2:191TH 2:181TH 4:162TH 2:91TI 1:201PE 5:81JN 3:81JN 3:10REV 20:1REV 20:4John F. Walvoord preaches on 'The Growing Importance of Millennialism,' highlighting how millennialism now plays a crucial role in shaping theology as a whole, influencing systems like premillennialism, amillennialism, and postmillennialism. The controversy between amillennialism and premillennialism has intensified, revealing significant theological implications. Amillennialism's impact on bibliology is explored, showcasing its figurative interpretation of Scripture and its potential dangers in undermining the inspiration of the Bible. The sermon delves into amillennial theology's influence on soteriology, ecclesiology, and eschatology, emphasizing the differences between amillennial and premillennial views in these areas.
Lying Signs and Wonders: Deceptions of the Last Days
By Art Katz0DiscernmentHolinessEXO 20:26EXO 30:32ISA 52:11JER 29:13MAT 24:242CO 7:11TH 5:212TH 2:91PE 4:71JN 4:1Art Katz addresses the phenomenon of 'lying signs and wonders' in the last days, expressing concern over the division it creates among believers. He emphasizes the need for discernment, cautioning against equating experiences with the authenticity of God's work, as some manifestations may be deceptive. Katz reflects on the historical context of revivals, contrasting them with current movements that may lack the holiness and reverence expected in God's presence. He warns that the pursuit of experiences can lead to spiritual jeopardy and urges believers to seek genuine encounters with God rather than superficial blessings. Ultimately, he calls for a return to holiness and discernment in the face of potential deception.
The Death of John the Baptist
By C.I. Scofield0PSA 34:18MAT 11:28MAT 14:12JHN 14:6ACT 26:92TH 2:9C.I. Scofield delves into the analysis of Matthew 14:1-12, highlighting the consequences of rejecting God's truth and the mystery of a perverted conscience in the story of Herod and John the Baptist. The sermon emphasizes the importance of turning to Jesus as the ultimate resource in times of trouble and grief, showcasing how going to Jesus brings consolation, renewal of strength, and a reminder of His eternal presence and promises.
Only Scripture - 3
By Anton Bosch0DEU 4:2MAT 15:6ACT 20:271CO 4:6GAL 1:81TH 5:202TH 2:9REV 22:18Anton Bosch emphasizes the importance of not adding to the Scriptures, highlighting the severe curses pronounced by God, Moses, Jesus, and Paul on those who do so. He warns against the trend of adding traditions, church council decisions, and other extra-biblical teachings that distort the truth. The sermon underscores the need to test all teachings against the Word of God, rejecting anything that cannot be supported by clear and unequivocal Scripture, regardless of how appealing it may sound.
Empty Words
By A.W. Tozer0PSA 5:6JHN 8:44EPH 4:252TH 2:9REV 21:27The preacher delves into the concept of falsehood, emphasizing that it describes intentional lies or deceptions, which are contrary to the truth. The sermon highlights how lies are the antithesis of God's unchanging truth and how speaking falsehoods aligns one with the deceitful nature of Satan. The importance of speaking truth, as members of one another, is underscored, reflecting the sanctity of truth in biblical teaching and the serious consequences of lying.
Cautionary Thoughts on the Revival Phenomena
By Art Katz0DiscernmentHolinessEXO 20:26ISA 52:11JER 29:13MAT 24:242CO 7:1EPH 4:151TH 5:212TH 2:91PE 4:71JN 4:1Art Katz addresses the complexities surrounding the current revival phenomena, expressing concern over the mixed reports of its authenticity and the potential for deception. He contrasts the present revival with historical movements like the Welsh Revival, emphasizing the need for discernment and caution against manifestations that may lack holiness. Katz warns that the Church's focus on experiences and benefits could lead to spiritual jeopardy, urging believers to seek genuine encounters with God rather than superficial sensations. He calls for a return to holiness and accountability within the Body of Christ, highlighting the dangers of being swayed by emotional and sensational experiences. Ultimately, Katz emphasizes the importance of testing all spirits and maintaining a reverent approach to God's presence.
Does God Do Miracles Today? - Sign Gifts
By Denis Lyle0PSA 139:23HOS 10:1MAT 7:15MAT 7:22LUK 13:6JHN 15:1ACT 15:14ROM 11:162TH 2:9HEB 13:8REV 13:1Denis Lyle preaches on the importance of producing spiritual fruit in our lives, emphasizing that just as trees are known by their fruit, Christians are recognized by the fruit they bear. He highlights the significance of spiritual fruit over mere signs and wonders, as it is the true evidence of the Holy Spirit's work in our lives. Lyle delves into the symbolism of the vine, branches, and vine-dresser, illustrating the intimate union believers have with Christ and the Father's care for their growth and development.
Extreme Unction
By Ian Paisley0MRK 6:132CO 11:132TH 2:9JAS 5:141JN 4:1Ian Paisley delivers a sermon critiquing the sacrament of Extreme Unction in the Roman Catholic Church, highlighting its origins, practices, and contradictions with Apostolic teachings. He emphasizes the manipulation and exploitation of believers through this sacrament, pointing out the lack of true spiritual elements like repentance, faith, and the work of the Holy Spirit in the process. Paisley condemns the imposition of Extreme Unction as a cruel and deceptive practice that leads people away from the true message of salvation and Christ's grace.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Whose coming is after the working of Satan - The operation of God's Spirit sends his messengers; the operation of Satan's spirit sends his emissaries. The one comes κατ' ενεργειαν του Θεου, after or according to the energy or inward powerful working of God; the other comes κατ' ενεργειαν του Σατανα, according to the energy or inward working of Satan. With all power - Πασῃ δυναμει· All kinds of miracles, like the Egyptian magicians; and signs and lying wonders: the word lying may be applied to the whole of these; they were lying miracles, lying signs, and lying wonders; only appearances of what was real, and done to give credit to his presumption and imposture. Whereas God sent his messengers with real miracles, real signs, and real wonders; such Satan cannot produce.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
whose coming--The same Greek as was used for the Lord's coming (Th2 2:8) or personal "presence." is--in its essential character. after--according to the working ("energy") of Satan, as opposed to the energy or working of the Holy Spirit in the Church (see on Eph 1:19). As Christ is related to God, so is Antichrist to Satan, his visible embodiment and manifestation: Satan works through him. Rev 13:2, "The dragon gave him (the beast) his power . . . seat . . . great authority." lying wonders--literally, "wonders" or "prodigies of falsehood." His "power, signs, and wonders," all have falsehood for their base, essence, and aim (Joh 8:44), [ALFORD]. In Mat 24:24 Jesus implies that the miracles shall be real, though demoniac, such mysterious effects of the powers of darkness as we read of in the case of the Egyptian sorcerers, not such as Jesus performed in their character, power, or aim; for they are against the revealed Word, and therefore not to be accepted as evidences of truth; nay, on the authority of that sure Word of prophecy (here, and Mat 24:24), to be known and rejected as wrought in support of falsehood (Deu 13:1-3, Deu 13:5; Gal 1:8-9; Rev 13:11-15; Rev 19:20). The same three Greek words occur for miracles of Jesus (Act 2:22; Heb 2:4); showing that as the Egyptian magicians imitated Moses (Ti2 3:1-8), so Antichrist will try to imitate Christ's works as a "sign," or proof of divinity.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Even him whose coming is after the working of Satan,.... That is, as a deceiver, a liar, and a murderer; for such was the working of Satan with our first parents; he seduced Eve, not only by subtlety, but by lying; he abode not in the truth, is the father of lies, and a murderer from the beginning: and such is the working of antichrist his firstborn; he comes in a deceitful way, under a profession of Christ, and a pretension of faith in him, and love to him; but speaks lies in hypocrisy, for such are his doctrines and tenets; and is not only a murderer of the bodies of the saints, but of the souls of men; which are the wares the whore of Babylon deals in: with all power; not omnipotence, for that is peculiar to God, and is not in Satan nor in antichrist, though the latter assumes to himself all power in heaven and in earth, and claims a jurisdiction both temporal and spiritual over men; but rather this means great power, or all kind of power of doing miracles, as follows: and signs, and lying wonders; that is, such signs and miracles as are not real, but reigned, only in appearance, not in truth, like those that were done by the magicians of Egypt; and these were done to countenance lies, and to induce persons to believe them; and how many miracles and lying wonders the church of Rome pretends to, everybody knows.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:9 As Christ will appear in royal and divine power (his parousia; 2:1, 8; 1 Thes 2:19; 3:13; 4:15; 5:23), this figure similarly will come (parousia) with a royal entrance.