2 Thessalonians 2:10-12

The Power of the Lawless One Over the Lost

Paul foresaw that the lawless one would especially deceive those who were already in a perishing condition because they did not love God's will enough to obey it (John 14:15; 1 John 5:3). Those who refused to do as God directed could only look forward to His wrath (Romans 2:8; Romans 1:18). This was especially true because they would do evil against God's law by living in a manner totally opposed to God. Paul said He would deceive those unbelievers lest they should see the truth and be saved (Matthew 13:13-15).

Some would rather hear a lie than the truth. God tests man's desires by allowing lies to be presented as well as truth. One can know what he hears is true when it is from God's word (Deuteronomy 13:1-5; 1 Peter 4:11). Those who will perish delight in acts that are repulsive to God. Because of their attitude, God will permit them to find opportunity to show their true allegiance (Isaiah 66:3-4). Those who love ways contrary to God's will certainly would not love the truth. In its place, they would readily accept some lie that was more palatable to them. Because of such acceptance of error, Paul said they would be eternally condemned (2 Thessalonians 2:10-12).