THESSALONIANS 2, BOOK OF

Paul's second letter to the saints in Thessalonica was written not long after the first one, while the apostle was still at Corinth (Acts 18:11). This epistle seeks to correct an erroneous impression, entertained by some at Thessalonica, that the Lord's return was imminent. Paul cautions that the Second Coming will not occur until a major apostasy has been manifested -- which already was in its beginning phase. The "man of sin" is to be revealed, but Christ will destroy this movement when he returns. The letter exhorts discipline for idle Christians who refuse to stay in step with the instructions of New Testament doctrine.