#The Epistle of Second Thessalonians

[mybeautifulchristianjourney]

A Powerful Delusion

11 And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie, 12 that they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness. — 2 Thessalonians 2:11-12 | Third Millennium Bible (TMB) Third Millennium Bible, New Authorized Version, Copyright 1998 by Deuel Enterprises, Inc. All rights reserved. Cross References: 1 Kings 22:22; Isaiah 44:20; Jeremiah 4:10; Romans 1:28; Romans 1:32; Romans 2:8; 1 Corinthians 13:6; 1 Thessalonians 2:3; 2 Thessalonians 2:10; 2 Timothy 4:4

[anumberofhobbies]

THE RAPTURE--ACCORDING TO JESUS

Feb 2, 2024 Jesus taught such a comforting, hope-filled message of His return to rescue His Church before the Tribulation, that His disciples went everywhere teaching this same truth.

When Paul had only a month in a pagan city where he planted a church, the Rapture was central to their doctrine.

The Rapture was First Taught by Jesus

The Rapture is a doctrine started and taught by Jesus, continued and spread by His disciples, and believed and passionately lived out by His Church.

The early church heard and understood this doctrine of Christ’s any-moment return, and radiantly lived, looking for ways to please Him when He came to rescue them.

James in the first NT letter said that Christ was standing at the door (5:7).

The second NT book was I Thessalonians and every chapter shines with Rapture-induced hope-filled expectancy (1:9-10; 2:19-20; 3:13; 4:13-18; 5:23).

Paul’s epistles start to finish, are seasoned with the flavor of a focused life awaiting Christ as in Philippians 3:20 where we as citizens of Heaven await Jesus eagerly, as Paul confesses in his last words of II Timothy 4 where he talks about His crown “at that day” when Jesus comes.

Peter says the same, going so far as asking what kind of lives should we live because we know the future (II Peter 3:11 ).

John’s Epistles are the same, in I John 3:2-3 he says that this “hope” causes us to purify our daily life looking for Christ’s coming.

In Revelation 3:7, Jesus Christ identifies Himself to the Church at Philadelphia as the One who is True, Holy, and has the unstoppable Messianic Key of David. When Jesus speaks He tells the Truth. When we listen to Him and hear what He says we can have confident assurance that He knows what He is talking about.

Jesus Christ taught repeatedly (Matthew 24, Mark 13, Luke 21) that His 2nd Coming is to Judge the ungodly.

That was the content of every sermon on the future that He ever preached.

Each sermon was taught in the context of Israel, was focused upon the Jews, and involved the city of Jerusalem and the nation of Israel.

The Rapture is Not The 2nd Coming

But, when Jesus spoke to believers His emphasis was different.

Jesus taught His own born-again children of the faith, three bedrock truths about the Rapture or His coming for His Church.

These truths are that: the Rapture will be a source of comfort; the Rapture will be similar to the Ascension; and that the Rapture will be an intentional rescue.

Those truths, taught by Jesus Christ Himself, constitute the Biblical, doctrinal basis for all that the early church was later taught by the Apostles and which extends to us throughout all the centuries since Christ’s ministry.

[bagelswithtoast]

“Church history from the first to the twentieth century shows that the history of the expectation of an early end is one of constantly repeated disappointments—even or more particularly in what are called ‘apocalyptic’ times. But even conceptions like those of the second epistle to the Thessalonians (presumably not composed by Paul), of a final accumulation of evil, a great apostasy before the end and the embodiment of anti-God and anti-Christian forces in an eschatological ‘lawless adversary,’ or—according to the Johannine letters—of one or several ‘Antichrists’ (individual or collective) are not, as is often assumed, special divine revelations about the end time. They are images from Jewish apocalyptic, making use partly of ancient mythological motifs and partly of historical experiences (King Antiochus IV Epiphanes who had to be worshipped as a visible god; Emperor Caligula, Nero redivivus). The ‘apocalyptic’ (revelatory) images cannot be harmonized with each other and—despite their name—today at any rate cannot be understood as disclosures or information about the chronological sequence of the ‘last things’ at the end of world history. They do not form a kind of script for the last act of the human tragedy. Despite the amazingly widespread curiosity even today, man does not learn here what will befall him and what will then happen. The picture of a great public gathering of all mankind—of billions and billions of people—for judgement is no more than a picture.

There is neither a clear scientific extrapolation nor an exact prophetical prognosis of the definitive future of mankind. In the history of freedom we must continually allow for the emergence of something utterly new, which could never have been deduced from the old. The end is not determined from the outset. Man should not simply await this end, but should take up his role creatively in world and history. In the interlacing of freedom giving and freedom given, man is the irreplaceable partner who should give a meaning to the irresistible evolution of the cosmos and set his stamp upon it. The coming of God’s kingdom does not condemn man to passivity, but demands his fearless activity inspired by faith on behalf of his fellow men. There must be no flight into the future, but—resisting all rising skepticism and fatalism—action here and now inspired by hope. In view of the coming kingdom of justice, freedom and peace, there must be a tireless struggle for justice, freedom and peace: against all powers of evil, bondage, desolation, lovelessness, death.”

-Hans Küng, On Being a Christian.

[syantiss]

2 Thessalonians 1:5 This morning we continue our study of Paul's second epistle to the Thessalonians. What is Paul saying in verse 5? What is the evidence of God's Righteous Judgment?

[bibleversegarden]

A Truly Liberated and Fruitful Life Brings Glory to God

The one, true and living God, the everlasting King, made the heavens and the earth and everything in them, by His great wisdom and power. Not the gods that are a lie and shall perish.

All God's works are done in truth; He is the truth. In Him, there is no falsehood or margins of error.

Being enticed by the devil, the first man and woman sinned and sin led to death, physically and spiritually. Grace and truth came by Jesus Christ, the second Adam from above, to reconcile us to God.

Jesus declares in John 14 verse 6: "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me."

To follow Christ, is to walk in truth and be set free. For whom the Son sets free is free indeed. (See John 8:31-59)

If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you. By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples." (John 15:7 & 8)

For when you were slaves of sin, you were free in regards to righteousness. What fruit did you have then in the things of which you are now ashamed? For the end of those things is death. But now having been set free from sin, and having become slaves of God, you have your fruit to holiness, and the end, everlasting life. For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Romans 6:20-23)

For I rejoiced greatly when brethren came and testified of the truth that is in you, just as you walk in the truth. I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth. (The Third Epistle of John, Chapter 1:3 & 4)

A truly liberated and fruitful life, brings glory to God. Abide in Him and eat His words.

- A Walk In The Garden Devotions

Related Bible Readings:

John 1:14 & 17; John 4:23 & 24; John 7:14-29; John 8:31-59; John 14:6 and John 14:15-17; John Chapter 15 in its entirety; John 16:12-15; John 17:3 & 17; John 18:37; First Epistle of  John in its entirety; 1 Corinthians 13:6; 1 Corinthians 5:8; Galatians Chapter 5; Ephesians 6:10-24; 1 Thessalonians Chapter 2; 1 Timothy Chapter 4; 1 Timothy 6:3-6; 2 Timothy 2:15-19; Hebrews 10:26 & 27; James 5:19 & 20; Second Epistle of Peter in its entirety; Epistle of Jude; Genesis Chapter 3; Psalm 25:4, 5, 10; Psalm 33:4; Psalm 43:3; Psalm 85:10-13; Psalm 86:11; Psalm 89:14-18; Proverbs 3:3 & 4; Proverbs 23:23; Isaiah 42:8; Isaiah Chapter 44; Isaiah Chapter 61; Jeremiah 10:1-16

[sweet-suzume]

Second Epistle to the Thessalonians

checks out! lmao XD

What if when we were born we were each assigned a Wikipedia page like a social security number would that be fucked up or what

[freebiblestudyhub]

Who Are the Thessalonians in the Bible?

The Thessalonians, prominently featured in the New Testament, were the inhabitants of Thessalonica, a significant city in Macedonia (modern-day Greece). They hold a unique place in biblical history as recipients of two of Paul’s epistles: 1 Thessalonians and 2 Thessalonians. These letters are among the earliest writings of the New Testament and provide a window into the early Christian church’s challenges, faith, and hope.

This article will explore who the Thessalonians were, the historical and cultural context of their city, the founding of the church in Thessalonica, the themes and messages in Paul’s letters to them, and the lessons that modern Christians can draw from their story.

Historical and Cultural Context of Thessalonica

The City of Thessalonica

Thessalonica was founded in 316 BC by Cassander, a general of Alexander the Great, who named the city after his wife, Thessalonike, the half-sister of Alexander. It became a prominent urban center due to its strategic location on the Via Egnatia, a major Roman road connecting the Adriatic Sea to Byzantium (later Constantinople). Thessalonica was also a key port city on the Aegean Sea, facilitating trade and cultural exchange.

By the time of Paul’s ministry in the 1st century AD, Thessalonica was the capital of the Roman province of Macedonia. It had a diverse population, including Greeks, Romans, and a significant Jewish community. The city’s cosmopolitan nature made it a fertile ground for the spread of Christianity but also posed challenges due to cultural and religious pluralism.

The Founding of the Church in Thessalonica

Paul’s Second Missionary Journey

The church in Thessalonica was founded by the Apostle Paul during his second missionary journey, as recorded in Acts 17:1-9. Paul, along with Silas and Timothy, arrived in Thessalonica after being released from prison in Philippi.

Upon reaching the city, Paul followed his customary practice of preaching in the synagogue, reasoning from the Scriptures about Jesus as the Messiah. He stayed in Thessalonica for at least three Sabbaths, during which time he persuaded some Jews, many God-fearing Greeks, and a number of prominent women to believe in Christ.

Opposition and Departure

Paul’s success, however, provoked jealousy among some of the Jewish leaders. They incited a mob, accusing Paul and his companions of defying Caesar by proclaiming Jesus as king. This resulted in an uproar that forced Paul and Silas to leave the city abruptly under the cover of night. Despite their brief stay, the church they established endured and thrived, becoming a model of faith for other Christian communities (1 Thessalonians 1:7-8).

The Thessalonian Epistles

Paul’s letters to the Thessalonians are among the earliest Christian writings, dated around AD 50-51. These epistles provide insight into the faith and struggles of the Thessalonian believers and reveal Paul’s pastoral heart.

Themes in 1 Thessalonians

1. Thanksgiving for Their Faith

Paul begins the letter with gratitude for the Thessalonians’ faith, love, and hope, which were evident despite their persecution. He commends them for becoming a model to other believers in Macedonia and Achaia (1 Thessalonians 1:2-10).

2. Encouragement Amid Persecution

The Thessalonians faced significant opposition for their faith, likely from both Jews and Gentiles. Paul encourages them to remain steadfast, reminding them that suffering is part of the Christian experience and that their perseverance will be rewarded (1 Thessalonians 2:13-16).

3. Instructions on Holy Living

Paul urges the Thessalonians to live in a way that pleases God. He emphasizes sexual purity, brotherly love, and a quiet, industrious lifestyle (1 Thessalonians 4:1-12).

4. Hope in the Second Coming

A significant portion of 1 Thessalonians addresses questions about the parousia (second coming of Christ). Paul assures the Thessalonians that believers who have died will be resurrected and that all Christians will be united with the Lord when He returns (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18). This message of hope provided comfort amid their trials.

Themes in 2 Thessalonians

1. Reassurance of God’s Justice

Paul addresses concerns about the timing of Christ’s return. Some Thessalonians feared they had missed it, while others misinterpreted its imminence. Paul reassures them that the day of the Lord will come after specific events, including the revelation of the “man of lawlessness” (2 Thessalonians 2:1-12).

2. Encouragement to Persevere

Paul encourages the Thessalonians to stand firm in their faith and to hold on to the teachings they received. He prays for God to strengthen them and protect them from evil (2 Thessalonians 2:13-17; 3:3-5).

3. Admonition Against Idleness

Some Thessalonians, believing Christ’s return was imminent, had stopped working and were relying on others for support. Paul admonishes them to work diligently and not to be a burden to others, emphasizing that “if anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat” (2 Thessalonians 3:6-12).

The Thessalonians’ Faith and Legacy

A Model Church

The Thessalonians were praised for their faith, love, and hope, even in the face of persecution. Their commitment to Christ and their willingness to spread the gospel made them a model for other churches. Paul’s letters to them highlight their importance in the early Christian movement.

Challenges and Growth

The Thessalonian church faced challenges typical of a new Christian community, including persecution, doctrinal confusion, and ethical issues. However, they grew in their faith, becoming a beacon of hope and endurance.

Lessons from the Thessalonians for Today

Faith in Adversity

The Thessalonians’ unwavering faith despite persecution is an inspiration for modern Christians facing trials. Their example reminds believers to trust in God’s sovereignty and to remain steadfast in their commitment to Christ.

Hope in Christ’s Return

Paul’s teachings about the second coming of Christ provided hope to the Thessalonians and continue to comfort Christians today. The promise of resurrection and eternal life with Christ is a source of encouragement amid life’s challenges.

The Importance of Holy Living

Paul’s emphasis on living a life that pleases God is a timeless lesson. Christians are called to reflect Christ’s character in their relationships, work, and community involvement.

The Value of Hard Work

Paul’s admonition against idleness underscores the importance of diligence and responsibility. This principle applies not only to work but also to spiritual growth and service to others.

Conclusion

The Thessalonians hold a significant place in biblical history as recipients of Paul’s pastoral care and teaching. Their faith, challenges, and growth provide a rich tapestry of lessons for Christians across generations. Through their story, believers are reminded of the importance of steadfast faith, hope in Christ’s return, holy living, and diligence in their daily lives.

Paul’s letters to the Thessalonians, written nearly two millennia ago, remain relevant today, offering guidance and encouragement to those seeking to live faithfully in a complex and often hostile world. Their story is a testament to the transformative power of the gospel and God’s faithfulness to His people.

[yhwhrulz]

Charles Spurgeon's "Morning & Evening" Devotional for November 5

Morning

“In Him we live, and move, and have our being.”

Acts 17:16-34

Acts 17:16

Was it not well that the troublesome Jews drove the apostle to Athens before his companions, that he might, by surveying that idolatrous city alone, find a fresh stimulus for his zeal?

Acts 17:17

In the market he met with idle loungers ready to listen to anything and everything new; and even upon such soil, like the sower in the parable, he scattered his seed.

Acts 17:18-21

Nothing could have pleased Paul better than to address so large and important an assembly as that which gathered on Mars Hill. With a considerable amount of courtesy the philosophers invited him to speak, curiosity to hear his novel teaching being their leading motive. The doctrine of the resurrection seemed most to startle them. The immortality of the soul they had already known, but the resurrection of the body was a new idea. Paul addressed them both faithfully and prudently. Few could have coped with these educated men as he did. His beautiful address is somewhat spoiled in our version, and therefore we will a little revise it.

Acts 17:24-31

What could be more courteous, more cogent, more adroit? He points to their own altars, he quotes their own poets, he appeals to their common sense. He knew the way of putting the truth so as to attract and not repel; and though but few of the Areopagites were saved, yet a noble testimony was borne among men of intelligence, who would talk of what they heard in many a company where else the gospel would have been unknown.

Acts 17:34

Not many wise men after the flesh are called, but a few are, and if only one be saved the preacher is well rewarded for his pains. Paul spake not in vain in Athens, a church was formed and flourished even in that ungenial soil.

Evening

“I have much people in this city.”

Acts 18:1-17

Acts 18:1-3

Probably at first they accepted Paul as a companion because of their common trade, and through his instrumentality were led to receive the common faith. It is well to turn association in business into a means for winning souls.

Acts 18:4 , Acts 18:5

He felt more earnest than ever, and with greater vehemence pressed upon the Jews the duty of believing in Jesus.

Acts 18:7

If he could not go inside the synagogue, he yet remained as near to it as possible, that those who wished to hear might know where to find him.

Acts 18:9 , Acts 18:10

Good news for the apostle. He was to preach fearlessly because the Lord intended to bless abundantly. Some have said, “If the Lord has an elect people, why need we preach to them?” but the answer is, if the Lord had not determined to save some, preaching would certainly be in vain.

Acts 18:11

This was quite a long stay for him. During this time he probably wrote both the first and second epistles to the Thessalonians. His time was also well occupied in building up the Corinthian church, which became large and important. As the Christians worshipped next door to the Jewish synagogue, their growing numbers soon aroused the Jews, and they proceeded to prosecute Paul before the Roman proconsul.

Acts 18:14-16

He would not interfere in religious matters, but kept to his proper sphere, therein proving himself to be a far more enlightened ruler than many in modern times.

Acts 18:17

The Jews gained nothing by their attempt, but drew down upon themselves the indignation of the Gentiles. Gallio failed in his duty in not protecting Sosthenes from violence; though he was right in refusing to oppress the conscience of Paul, he was wrong in not securing the civil rights of his opponent. Happy will that day be when civil rulers neither overstep their sphere nor neglect their office. May God bless the Queen and all in authority over us.

What though earth and hell united

Should oppose the Saviour’s plan?

Plead his cause, nor be affrighted,

Fear ye not the face of man;

Vain their tumult,

Hurt his work they never can.

Copyright Statement This resource was produced before 1923 and therefore is considered in the "Public Domain".

[livingwellnessblog]

Against Heresies (Book IV, Chapter 29) 

Refutation of the arguments of the Marcionites, who attempted to show that God was the author of sin, because He blinded Pharaoh and his servants. 

1. But, say they, God hardened the heart of Pharaoh and of his servants. Exodus 9:35 Those, then, who allege such difficulties, do not read in the Gospel that passage where the Lord replied to the disciples, when they asked Him, Why do You speak unto them in parables?— Because it is given unto you to know the mystery of the kingdom of heaven; but to them I speak in parables, that seeing they may not see, and hearing they may not hear, understanding they may not understand; in order that the prophecy of Isaiah regarding them may be fulfilled, saying, Make the heart of this people gross and make their ears dull, and blind their eyes.

But blessed are your eyes, which see the things that you see; and your ears, which hear what you hear. Matthew 13:11-16; Isaiah 6:10

For one and the same God [that blesses others] inflicts blindness upon those who do not believe, but who set Him at naught; just as the sun, which is a creature of His, [acts with regard] to those who, by reason of any weakness of the eyes cannot behold his light; but to those who believe in Him and follow Him, He grants a fuller and greater illumination of mind.

In accordance with this word, therefore, does the apostle say, in the Second [Epistle] to the Corinthians: In whom the this world has blinded the minds of them that believe not, lest the light of the glorious Gospel of Christ should shine [unto them]. 

2 Corinthians 4:4 And again, in that to the Romans: And as they did not think fit to have God in their knowledge, God gave them up to a reprobate mind, to do those things that are not convenient.

Romans 1:28 Speaking of antichrist, too, he says clearly in the Second to the Thessalonians: And for this cause God shall send them the working of error, that they should believe a lie; that they all might be judged who believed not the truth, but consented to iniquity. 2 Thessalonians 2:11 2. If, therefore, in the present time also, God, knowing the number of those who will not believe, since He foreknows all things, has given them over to unbelief, and turned away His face from men of this stamp, leaving them in the darkness which they have themselves chosen for themselves, what is there wonderful if He did also at that time give over to their unbelief, Pharaoh, who never would have believed, along with those who were with him?

As the Word spoke to Moses from the bush: And I am sure that the king of Egypt will not let you go, unless by a mighty hand. Exodus 3:19

And for the reason that the Lord spoke in parables, and brought blindness upon Israel, that seeing they might not see, since He knew the [spirit of] unbelief in them, for the same reason did He harden Pharaoh's heart; in order that, while seeing that it was the finger of God which led forth the people, he might not believe, but be precipitated into a sea of unbelief, resting in the notion that the exit of these [Israelites] was accomplished by magical power, and that it was not by the operation of God that the Red Sea afforded a passage to the people, but that this occurred by merely natural causes (sed naturaliter sic se habere).

[thelladavidedison]

Lawless one

In the context of biblical prophecy, the term “Lawless One” refers to a figure described in the New Testament. Let’s explore this concept: Scriptural Basis: The concept of the Lawless One is primarily found in the Second Epistle to the Thessalonians (2 Thessalonians 2). The apostle Paul writes about the coming of our Lord Jesus, the Messiah, and the events associated with the end…

[mybeautifulchristianjourney]

They Shall Believe a Lie

And because of this God sends to them an operation of error that they might believe the lie, So that all who have not believed the truth but have taken pleasure in unrighteousness might be judged. — 2 Thessalonians 2:11-12 | Recovery Version (REC) The Recovery Version of the Holy Bible © 2009 Living Stream Ministry. All rights reserved. Cross References: 1 Kings 22:22; Isaiah 44:20; Jeremiah 4:10; Romans 1:28; Romans 1:32; Romans 2:8; 1 Corinthians 13:6; 1 Thessalonians 2:3; 2 Thessalonians 2:10; 2 Timothy 4:4

Read full chapter

Difficult Bible Passages: 2 Thessalonians 2:11

[eli-kittim]

The Gospel of Kittim

Eli Kittim’s Prophetic Gospel

1. The Gospels are nonhistorical theological documents. Only the Epistles——which are the more explicit and didactic portions of the New Testament——give us the “Real” Jesus! It appears, then, that the theological purpose of the Gospels is to provide a fitting introduction to the messianic story beforehand so that it can be passed down from generation to generation until the time of its fulfillment. It’s as though New Testament history is written in advance (Isaiah 46.10)!

2. The New Testament Epistles comprise revelations and “prophetic writings” (Romans 16.25-26; 2 Peter 1.19-21; Revelation 22.18-19). They give us the actual timeline of Christ’s only visitation at the end of the age (Hebrews 1.2; 9.26b; 1 Peter 1.20; Revelation 12.5)!

3. Second Peter 1.16-19 demonstrates that the so-called “eyewitness accounts” of the gospels were actually based on visions & prophecies that were then written down as if they had already happened proleptically. Similarly, Acts 10.40—41 says that Jesus’ resurrection was a vision because it was only visible “to witnesses who were chosen beforehand by God.” Revelation 19.10 also declares that “the testimony to Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.”

4. There is only one coming of Jesus in the end-times (1 Peter 1.10-11; emphasized especially in 1 Peter 1.20)!

5. The birth of Jesus occurs at the consummation of the ages (Galatians 4.4; Ephesians 1.10; Revelation 12:5). Acts 3.19-21 implies that the Messiah will not be sent to earth “until the time of universal restoration.”

6. Jesus’ death and resurrection occur “once in the end of the world” (Hebrews 9.26-28; see Zephaniah 1.7-18 in which the sacrifice or death of the Lord takes place during the day of the Lord)!

7. The resurrection of Jesus occurs during the consummation of the ages (Daniel 12.1; Isaiah 2.19, 21; 1 Corinthians 15.22-23; & he conquers death at the end of the world in 1 Corinthians 15.54, 57).

8. Jesus is the first horseman of the apocalypse (he’s the restrainer of 2 Thessalonians 2.7; cf. Revelation 6.2; 19.11).

9. Jesus represents the two witnesses of Revelation 11 (Jesus is the Witness in Revelation 1.5; 3.14; see also 1 John 5.7-9, & verse 11 where the anointed witnesses declare the testimony to Jesus). The 2 witnesses represent the 2 messiahs of Judaism (king/priest) which in the NT are conflated into one person: the Son of God (Hebrews 7.1-3).

10. The day of Christ (1 Corinthians 1.8; 3.13; Philippians 1.6; 2.16; 2 Thessalonians 2.2) or the Revelation of Christ (Luke 17.30; 1 Corinthians 1.7; Colossians 3.4; 1 Thessalonians 1.10; 2 Thessalonians 1.7; 1 Timothy 6.14; 2 Timothy 4.1; Titus 2.13; 1 Peter 1.13; 5.1; 1 John 2.28) occurs once in the end of the world!

11. Jesus is Greek (Isaiah 46.11; 61.9; Amos 9.12; Revelation 1.8-9; John 7.41-44, 52; 8.48-49; 4Q120; that’s why all the messianic types of the OT are depicted as Gentiles: e.g. Joseph/Moses/Cyrus).

12. Jesus is born in 1960. The key to solving this puzzle is found in Matthew 1.17. Notice that there is a constant repetition of 14 generations throughout the foregoing lineage. We also know from Scripture that a generation is equal to 70 years (Psalm 90.10). One final clue: the calculation does not begin from the time of Abraham but from the time of David who alone represents the Messiah! So, let’s work out the calculation. Matthew tells us that there were 14 generations from David to Babylon. Each generation is equal to 70 years. Thus, 14 x 70 = 980 years from David to Babylon. And there were 14 generations from the exile to the Messiah. Therefore, 14 x 70 = 980 years. So, from David to the exile are 980 years, and from the exile to the Messiah are another 980 years. Hence 980 (+) 980 = 1960, the year of the Messiah’s birth! The 70 weeks of Daniel are based on the birth of the Messiah, which is another way of saying the rebuilding of the heavenly Jerusalem (Daniel 9.25). That’s probably why Sister Lúcia Santos did not reveal the third secret of Fátima but sealed it in an envelope not to be opened until 1960, when “it will appear clearer."

13. Jesus is born in August. Luke 1.26-27 tells us the month of Jesus’ birth. In Luke 1.26, the angel was sent “in the sixth month.” That’s the clue! That’s the key. Simple and to the point. The sixth month (in the Jewish religious calendar) is called Elul. In the Gregorian calendar it falls on the month of August. Thus, that’s the month that the Messiah is born!

14. Jesus, who is the first horseman of the apocalypse, is revealed in 2025 or thereabouts (see Genesis 5.21; Dr. Chuck Missler agrees that something happened to Enoch, who is a type of Christ, when he was 65 years old). After that, Christ will be slain (Hebrews 9.26). Since the 70 weeks of Daniel are based on the birth of the Messiah——which is depicted in scripture as the building of the heavenly Jerusalem (Daniel 9.25)——then it follows that AFTER 62 years, “the Messiah will be cut off” (Daniel 9.26)! Don’t forget Irenaeus’ argument that Christ was a much older man, and that the promise to Abraham, a messianic type, was fulfilled in his old age! Theosophist Alice Bailey also predicted Christ’s appearance in 2025 (The Externalisation of the Hierarchy).

15. World War 3 begins in the latter half of the 2020 decade! Notice that there are 21 judgments in the Book of Revelation, and that the Messenger of God (in Daniel 10.13-14) was withstood for 21 days from coming to earth, with regard to the vision of the latter days. This would suggest that the Messiah——who is elsewhere depicted as Eli (which means “God”; Matthew 27.46)——will come to earth in the 21st century, just prior to “the great and terrible day of the Lord” (Malachi 4.5).

16. The general resurrection of the dead begins in the latter half of the 2020 decade, right after Jesus’ resurrection (Daniel 12.1-2; 1 Corinthians 15.22-23).

17. The Antichrist is here as well. He is Russian (Ezekiel 38). Daniel 8.25 calls him a “master of deception,” which is another way of saying “a spy.” Daniel’s 4th kingdom with 2 legs was Rome. The western Roman Empire was sacked in the 5th century AD. Then, in 1453, the Turks sacked Constantinople (the eastern part of the Roman Empire) and most of the Byzantine elites fled north to Moscow, where Moscow became the third Rome. Astonishingly, Putin came to power on the last day of the year 1999 (666), which marks the end of a thousand-year period. This important timeframe coincides with a Biblical prophecy in which the Antichrist will not appear “until the thousand years . . . [have] ended” (Revelation 20.3, 7-8)! The seer Nostradamus also predicted the coming of Antichrist in 1999 (Century 10, Quatrain 72).

18. The 10 Kings of Daniel 7.20 & Revelation 17.12 are the 8 leaders of the USSR plus the 3 leaders of the succeeding Russian Federation since its formation on December 25, 1991, with Putin being the 11th horn (the 11th king) of Daniel 7.20, “to make room for which three [kings] . . . fell out” (emphasizing the last 3 leaders of the new federal republic that arose out of the former USSR)!

19. The Great Tribulation (Nuclear War/WW3) will begin in the latter half of the 2020 decade.

20. We are living in the prophesied end-times! Revelation 22.20: “He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus.”

[francoiskoch]

1689 London Baptist Confession

Chapter 1 - Of the Holy Scripture

The Holy Scripture is the only sufficient, certain, and infallible rule of all saving knowledge, faith, and obedience, although the light of nature, and the works of creation and providence do so far manifest the goodness, wisdom, and power of God, as to leave men inexcusable; yet are they not sufficient to give that knowledge of God and his will which is necessary unto salvation. Therefore it pleased the Lord at sundry times and in divers manners to reveal himself, and to declare that his will unto his church; and afterward for the better preserving and propagating of the truth, and for the more sure establishment and comfort of the church against the corruption of the flesh, and the malice of Satan, and of the world, to commit the same wholly unto writing; which maketh the Holy Scriptures to be most necessary, those former ways of God’s revealing his will unto his people being now ceased.

Psalm 19:1-3; Proverbs 22:19-21; Isaiah 8:20; Luke 16:29,31; Romans 1:19-21; Romans 2:14,15; Romans 15:4; Ephesians 2:20; 2 Timothy 3:15-17; Hebrews 1:1; 2 Peter 1:19,20.

Under the name of Holy Scripture, or the Word of God written, are now contained all the books of the Old and New Testaments, which are these:

Of the Old Testament:

Genesis. II Chronicles. Daniel.

Exodus. Ezra. Hosea.

Leviticus. Nehemiah. Joel.

Numbers. Esther. Amos.

Deuteronomy. Job. Obadiah.

Joshua. Psalms. Jonah.

Judges. Proverbs. Micah.

Ruth. Ecclesiastes. Nahum.

I Samuel. The Song of Solomon. Habakkuk.

II Samuel. Isaiah. Zephaniah.

I Kings. Jeremiah. Haggai.

II Kings. Lamentations. Zechariah.

I Chronicles. Ezekiel. Malachi.

Of the New Testament:

The Gospels according to Galatians. Philemon.

Matthew. Ephesians. The Epistle to the Hebrews.

Mark. Philippians. The Epistle of James.

Luke. Colossians. The first and second

John. Thessalonians I. Epistles of Peter

The Acts of the Apostles. Thessalonians II. The first, second, and third

Paul’s Epistles to the Timothy I. Epistles of John.

Romans. Timothy II. The Epistle of Jude.

Corinthians I. Titus. The Revelation to John.

Corinthians II.

All of which are given by the inspiration of God, to be the rule of faith and life.

2 Timothy 3:16.

The books commonly called Apocrypha, not being of divine inspiration, are no part of the canon or rule of the Scripture, and, therefore, are of no authority to the church of God, nor to be any otherwise approved or made use of than other human writings.

Luke 24:27,44; Romans 3:2.

The authority of the Holy Scripture, for which it ought to be believed, dependeth not upon the testimony of any man, or Church; but wholly upon God (who is truth itself) the author thereof: and therefore it is to be received because it is the Word of God.

1 Thessalonians 2:13; 2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:19-21; 1 John 5:9.

We may be moved and induced by the testimony of the church of God to an high and reverent esteem of the Holy Scriptures; and the heavenliness of the matter, the efficacy of the doctrine, and the majesty of the style, the consent of all the parts, the scope of the whole (which is to give all glory to God), the full discovery it makes of the only way of man’s salvation, and many other incomparable excellencies, and entire perfections thereof, are arguments whereby it doth abundantly evidence itself to be the Word of God; yet notwithstanding, our full persuasion and assurance of the infallible truth, and divine authority thereof, is from the inward work of the Holy Spirit bearing witness by and with the Word in our hearts.

John 16:13,14; 1 Corinthians 2:10-12; 1 John 2:20,27.

The whole counsel of God concerning all things necessary for his own glory, man’s salvation, faith and life, is either expressly set down or necessarily contained in the Holy Scripture: unto which nothing at any time is to be added, whether by new revelation of the Spirit, or traditions of men. Nevertheless, we acknowledge the inward illumination of the Spirit of God to be necessary for the saving understanding of such things as are revealed in the Word, and that there are some circumstances concerning the worship of God, and government of the church, common to human actions and societies, which are to be ordered by the light of nature and Christian prudence, according to the general rules of the Word, which are always to be observed.

John 6:45; 1 Corinthians 2:9-12; 1 Corinthians 11:13,14; 1 Corinthians 14:26,40; Galatians 1:8,9; 2 Timothy 3:15-17.

All things in Scripture are not alike plain in themselves, nor alike clear unto all; yet those things which are necessary to be known, believed and observed for salvation, are so clearly propounded and opened in some place of Scripture or other, that not only the learned, but the unlearned, in a due use of ordinary means, may attain to a sufficient understanding of them.

Psalm 19:7; Psalm 119:130; 2 Peter 3:16.

The Old Testament in Hebrew (which was the native language of the people of God of old), and the New Testament in Greek (which at the time of the writing of it was most generally known to the nations), being immediately inspired by God, and by his singular care and providence kept pure in all ages, are therefore authentic; so as in all controversies of religion, the church is finally to appeal to them. But because these original tongues are not known to all the people of God, who have a right unto, and interest in the Scriptures, and are commanded in the fear of God to read and search them, therefore they are to be translated into the vulgar language of every nation unto which they come, that the Word of God dwelling plentifully in all, they may worship him in an acceptable manner, and through patience and comfort of the Scriptures may have hope.

Isaiah 8:20; John 5:39; Acts 15:15; Romans 3:2; 1 Corinthians 14:6,9,11,12,24,28; Colossians 3:16.

The infallible rule of interpretation of Scripture is the Scripture itself; and therefore when there is a question about the true and full sense of any Scripture (which is not manifold, but one), it must be searched by other places that speak more clearly.

Acts 15:15,16; 2 Peter 1:20,21.

The supreme judge, by which all controversies of religion are to be determined, and all decrees of councils, opinions of ancient writers, doctrines of men, and private spirits, are to be examined, and in whose sentence we are to rest, can be no other but the Holy Scripture delivered by the Spirit, into which Scripture so delivered, our faith is finally resolved.

Matthew 22:29,31,32; Acts 28:23; Ephesians 2:20.

[bernardo1969]

The First Epistle to the Thessalonians is a writing that shows what the times of the early Church were like. The apostle Paul moved by the Holy Spirit had founded the Church of Thessalonica during his second missionary journey and this Christian community was placed in one of the most important Greek cities the apostle visited during that incredible trip. And Paul addressed this letter to this important Christian church with the objective of forming the believers spiritually, because he had to hastily leave the city at night accompanied by his friend Silas, due to the persecution and the enemies of the gospel. He probably wrote the letter while in the city of Corinth, where he remained for more than a year. And in the letter Paul began by explaining that he did not teach a worldly philosophy based on sophistry but on the truth of the gospel and the power of Jesus: "Our gospel came to you not simply with words but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and deep conviction" 1 Thessalonians 1:5. The spiritual gifts were a very obvious reality during the early days of the Church that Paul always kept in mind, that is why Paul mentioned them in his letter, and these gifts were what allowed a rapid spread of the gospel as Paul highlighted in his letter. This is why Paul taught that he did not preach the gospel subordinated to the weaknesses of the flesh but moved by the grace of God: "We had boldness in our God to declare to you the gospel of God in the midst of much conflict. For our appeal does not spring from error or impurity or any attempt to deceive, but just as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, so we speak, not to please man, but to please God" 1 Thessalonians 2:2-4.

[tdowning79]

Read: 2 Thessalonians 1:1-2 SOAP: 2 Thessalonians 1:2 Paul opens this second epistle to the church at Thessalonica by greeting the believers with God’s grace and peace. God’s grace gives undeserving sinners the opportunity to receive forgiveness, and His peace allows us to rest in His presence even in the midst of a problematic, fallen world. God has poured His grace and peace into Paul, and these treasures overflow from his heart to the church. Do your words and actions invite others to experience God’s grace and peace? We should not hoard the treasures God has gifted us. This week, ask God to show you what steps you can take to welcome others in to know Him more fully. Lord, thank You for your grace and peace. Help me to invite others to draw close to You through my welcoming words and actions this week. Amen. #morningdevotional #youversion https://www.instagram.com/p/CpkUPtbOBUO/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[biblebloodhound]

What’s the Point of All This Suffering? (2 Thessalonians 1:3-12)

Every book of the Bible addresses human suffering.

We ought always to thank God for you, brothers and sisters, and rightly so, because your faith is growing more and more, and the love all of you have for one another is increasing. Therefore, among God’s churches we boast about your perseverance and faith in all the persecutions and trials you are enduring. All this is evidence that God’s judgment is right, and as a result you will be counted…