Understanding 2 Thessalonians 2:6

Verse: "And now ye know what withholdeth that he might be revealed in his time." - 2 Thessalonians 2:6

Verse Meaning and Context

2 Thessalonians 2:6 is an important verse within the context of Paul's teachings about the end times, specifically addressing concerns of the Thessalonian church regarding the timing of the Lord's return and the revelation of the "man of sin" or the Antichrist. In this verse, Paul reassures the believers that there are certain restraints in place that prevent the full revelation of this figure until the appointed time.

Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry: This verse highlights that there are divine decrees and providential withholding in place to delay the revelation of the Antichrist. Henry emphasizes the sovereignty of God in controlling the timeline of prophetic events.
• Albert Barnes: Barnes interprets the phrase "what withholdeth" as referring to a moral or spiritual restraint, which could be linked to the presence of the Holy Spirit in the world serving as a counter to evil until God's timing is fulfilled.
• Adam Clarke: Clarke suggests that this "withholding" could be the governance of the Romans, or more generally human authority, which stands as a barrier against the total emergence of lawlessness.

Thematic Connections and Cross-References

This verse can be linked to various themes in Scripture that explore the nature of restraint, revelation, and divine timing. Below are related Bible verses that offer further insight:

• 2 Thessalonians 2:3: "Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first..." - This verse indicates the necessity of a notable apostasy before the Antichrist is revealed.
• Revelation 20:1-3: Discusses the binding of Satan, which parallels the idea of restraint in the revelation of evil.
• Matthew 24:14: "...and this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come." - Points to the chronological order of God's plan leading to the end times.
• 1 John 2:18: "Little children, it is the last time: and as ye have heard that antichrist shall come..." - Directly references the coming of the Antichrist and brings attention to the presence of many deceivers even before his full manifestation.
• Romans 13:1: "...For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God." - This ties into the understanding that earthly authorities play a role in the divine order God has established, relating to the holding back of ultimate evil.
• Daniel 8:25: "And through his policy also he shall cause craft to prosper in his hand; and he shall magnify himself in his heart, and by peace shall destroy many..." - A prophecy that may echo the traits of the Antichrist.
• 1 Thessalonians 5:3: "For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them..." - Offers a glimpse into the deceptive peace that may arise in association with the Antichrist's arrival.

Application and Reflection

For believers, understanding 2 Thessalonians 2:6 is crucial in grasping the broader narrative of Scripture concerning eschatology. It emphasizes the importance of being watchful and discerning regarding the times we live in, grasping the significance of God’s timing and His sovereign control over history.

Conclusion

In summary, 2 Thessalonians 2:6 draws attention to divine restraint in the midst of chaos, pointing to the unfailing sovereignty of God in maintaining control over the final events of human history. By examining cross-references in the Bible, believers can deepen their understanding of how interconnected the Scriptures are regarding themes of prophecy, revelation, and restraint.

Further Study Options

• Using a Bible concordance to explore more about the Antichrist and end times.
• Engaging in cross-reference Bible study to identify additional relevant verses.
• Considering thematic Bible verse connections and how they illuminate New Testament teachings in light of Old Testament prophecies.
• Consulting comprehensive Bible cross-reference materials for deeper insights.
• Employing tools for Bible cross-referencing to study the links between various scriptures effectively.