The Bible makes a clear distinction between true and false religion. Jesus calls Himself “the truth” and calls the devil “the father of lies.” This chapter looks forward to the climax of all false beliefs in the form of “Mystery Babylon.”
We are about to witness the pouring out of the Seven Bowls, the final set of judgments. In Chapter 6, the martyred saints asked “How long?” before God would avenge their blood. In today’s chapters the final answer to their question is given.
The Thessalonian church was born in an environment of persecution. Moreover the faith of the Thessalonian believers was strong, despite having little early instruction. Many of the key passages in 1 & 2 Thessalonians deal with end times events and prophecies such as the Rapture and the Day of the Lord. Paul wanted them to stay focused on the return of Jesus Christ.
Central Reflections 