In this section we begin to see the main reason for this letter (v1-2). It appears that some people have been teaching that Jesus has already returned and that the Thessalonians have missed out. These false teachers have been saying that this is what even Paul says. Jesus in Matthew 24 v23-27 warns of those who’ll say that He has already come.

Paul teaches here (v3-4) that before Jesus’ Second Coming happens, there will be a great falling away and an evil man of sin will appear. (Elsewhere he is called the anti-Christ, see 1 John 2 v18 & 22). He opposes God and seeks to take upon himself the worship and rights that are due to God alone.

Paul teaches us that there is something restraining him from being revealed (v6-7). It appears that what was restraining the man of lawlessness was very evident to the Thessalonians but it has greatly puzzled theologians since. Some think it could be the church as it will greatly lose its power with the falling away (v3). Others think that it is the influence of the Holy Spirit and still others think it is the rule of law and order.

This anti-God influence is already at work in this world (v7 & see 1 John 2 v18). We can see this so clearly all around us now but we are not to despair for it is only for a short time then victory by Christ will appear (v8).