The Man Doomed to Destruction

Don't let anyone deceive you in any way, for that day will not come until the rebellion occurs and the man of lawlessness is revealed, the man doomed to destruction. 2 Thessalonians 2:3, NIV

There is a whole section of scripture that deals with the time just before the Rapture. Second Thessalonians chapter two, verses 1 through 9 gives a very good outline. It proves that we are not there yet. He tells us of a time of rebellion and of the revelation of the man of lawlessness. This is a very specific time.

It is commonly taught that the Rapture can occur at any time, yet Paul gives two signs that must occur first. There is a big difference between not knowing when, and that Jesus can come at any time. This is not a popular idea.

Anyone seeking sensationalism will quote Matthew 24, which reveals the signs preceding the coming of Jesus returning as king to the earth. At the time when Matthew was written, the church was still a mystery. The disciples asked about the rebuilding of the temple and the restoration of the Kingdom of David. These are not church questions.

Paul, however, reveals a new group--the Bride, who will be caught up in the air prior to this time. Another way to look at it is that Jesus will come for us first, then return with his bride to the earth. There are two returns of Jesus--one in the air, the Rapture, and then the second, 7 years later, to the earth as King.

Daniel chapter 9 gives the details of the time before His return to the earth. Acts chapter 15, adds the church and shows that she is formed before the restoration of the"tabernacle of David" (which is fallen down).

If a person (let's just say) wanted to be dramatic and win over a lot of people who spend their time working, driving, and watching TV, he will stick with Matthew 24. But was 2 Thessalonians written in vain? Does it have a purpose in addition to Matthew?

Yes, Paul has messages for you and me. Would you wish to remain in Matthew (a very precious prophecy) or move on to revelations about the church and our catching away to be with Jesus?