Daily Devotional for Monday, May 13
The Lord’s Day and the Church
“Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition,” 2 Thessalonians 2:3.
One of the most intriguing topics to both believers and unbelievers is when the world will end and the series of events surrounding it. Think of the movies and books that have been produced speculating what it will be like. Studies of end-time prophecy are a steady market. Everyone is interested.
As believers, we can have peace when thinking about the day of the Lord. In all the events to come, the Lord is with us, guiding us and never taking His eyes from us. It is apparent the Thessalonians had many questions about the afterlife and their role and place in the end times. Paul and his missionary team spent much time and ink calming their fears and preparing them. Today, we benefit greatly from their words. We, too, can be prepared and assured.
Paul did not want the Thessalonians and all believers to be shaken or troubled by false information. Growing anxiety, false prophecies, lies and deceit, and even forged apostolic letters were alarming the believers.
Paul first explained the incredible glory awaiting those who trust Christ and the vengeance the Lord will exact upon their persecutors (2 Thessalonians 1:5-12). He then corrected false claims that Christ’s return had already taken place. The Thessalonians’ intense persecution resembled the woes of tribulation. False teachers tried to manipulate their situation and claim the tribulation and day of the Lord had begun. Paul assured them an evil rebellion must take place first that sets the man of lawlessness in place. Satan will make one final crusade before his doom, and that is the signal. Until then, their faith and patience needed to remain strong so they could persevere. They were safe with Christ.
THOUGHT
Even in the thickest battle, God sends encouragement. Ask the Lord if you can be that encouragement for someone today.
Kelli Reynolds