Power of Lawlessness

2 Thessalonians 2:7-8

“For the secret power of lawlessness is already at work; but the one who now holds it back will continue to do so till he is taken out of the way. 8 And then the lawless one will be revealed, whom the Lord Jesus will overthrow with the breath of his mouth and destroy by the splendor of his coming.”

Jesus told us that before His return wickedness would increase (see July 24). In our scripture today, Paul says “the secret power of lawlessness is already at work”. This secret power of lawlessness has been steadily increasing for 2,000 years.

The advance of evil, wickedness and lawlessness can only go so far while “the one who now holds it back” is operating in the earth. Most believe Paul is referring here to the Holy Spirit. Until the Father is ready to send Jesus back for His Bride – the elect remnant – lawlessness cannot have free reign on the earth.

We should remember that Jesus, through the Cross and Resurrection, has been given all authority in Heaven and on earth (see Matthew 28:18). He has given us His authority to make Disciples in the midst of whatever the enemy still tries to do in the earth.

For a time, God’s restraint on the enemy will be removed, but the Lord Jesus will have the final say at His Second Coming! Let’s keep working while it is day, because night is coming when no man can work (see John 9:4).

TODAY’S CHALLENGE:

Tell the Father you want to be utilized by the Holy Spirit to exercise the authority of Jesus to keep building the Body of Christ. Rededicate your life, and recommit your heart, to Him today.

Dive Deeper: Study 2 Thessalonians 2; Matthew 28:18-20; John 9:4.