Second Thessalonians 2-3

In the second chapter Paul directly addresses the error. The coming of the Lord Jesus Christ and our gathering together unto Him—not having yet taken place—is proof that the day of the Lord is still future (2 Thess. 2:1). Furthermore, that day will not come “except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition” (2 Thess. 2:3). This is the antichrist, “who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God” (2 Thess. 2:4). The chapter closes with a word of comfort and with the first mention of hope—having been restored to them—in this epistle.
In the final chapter, Paul requests their prayers. He had confidence in the Lord that they would do the things commanded of them (2 Thess. 3:4). As to one who was disorderly, they were to withdraw from such. Each was to work for their bread—we are to be occupied until He comes (2 Thess. 3:6-12). Paul closes the epistle, commending them to the Lord: “Now the Lord of peace himself give you peace always by all means. The Lord be with you all” (2 Thess. 3:16). He draws special attention to the salutation by his own hand, perhaps in reference to the forged letter.