Rick Renner - Study Guide - The Coming of The AntiChrist

Companion Study Guide 10 LESSONS
RICK RENNER
Many events have rocked the world, yet they pale in comparison to two global
events that are about to reshape history forever — the rapture of the Church and
the coming of the Antichrist. In this remarkable ten-part series, Rick Renner dives
deep into Scripture, providing solid, biblical answers to questions on the hearts and
minds of virtually every believer. Will the rapture take place before, during, or at the
end of the tribulation? What is the great falling away? What is restraining evil from
engulfing the earth and keeping the Antichrist from being revealed? And what will
the Antichrist do once he rises to power? Prepare yourself as Rick unpacks these
eye-opening teachings and helps you guard yourself from end-time apostasy.
Unless otherwise indicated, all scripture quotations are taken from the King
James Version of the Bible.
Scripture quotations marked (AMPC) are taken from the Amplified® Bible.
Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Founda-
tion. Used by permission. www.Lockman.org.
Scripture quotations marked (NIV) are taken from Holy Bible, New Inter-
national Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica,
Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
Scripture quotations marked (MSG) are taken from The Message, copyright ©
1993, 2002, 2018 by Eugene H. Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress.
All rights reserved. Represented by Tyndale House Publishers, Inc.
Scripture quotations marked (NKJV) are taken from the New King James
Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All
rights reserved.
Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Liv-
ing Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation.
Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois
60188. All rights reserved.
The Coming of the Antichrist
Copyright © 2020 by Rick Renner

8316 E. 73rd St.
Tulsa, Oklahoma 74133
Published by Rick Renner Ministries

www.renner.org
Printed in the United States of America. All rights reserved. No portion of

this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means —
electronic, mechanical, photocopy, recording, scanning, or other — except
for brief quotations in critical reviews or articles, without the prior written
permission of the Publisher.
2 | STUDY GUIDE
A Note From
Rick Renner
I am on a personal quest to see a “revival of
the Bible” so people can establish their lives on
a firm foundation that will stand strong and
endure the test when the end-time storm winds
begin to intensify.
In order to experience a revival of the Bible in
your personal life, it is important to take time
each day to read, receive, and apply its truths to your life. James tells us
that if we will continue in the perfect law of liberty — refusing to be
forgetful hearers but determined to be doers — we will be blessed in
our ways. As you watch or listen to the programs in this series and work
through this corresponding study guide, I trust that you will search the
Scriptures and allow the Holy Spirit to help you hear something new
from God’s Word that applies specifically to your life. I encourage you to
be a doer of the Word that He reveals to you. Whatever the cost, I assure
you — it will be worth it.
Thy words were found, and I did eat them;
and thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart:
for I am called by thy name, O Lord God of hosts.
— Jeremiah 15:16
Your brother and friend in Jesus Christ,
Rick Renner
The Coming of the Antichrist | 3

How To Use This
Study Guide
This ten-lesson study guide corresponds to “The Coming of the Antichrist”
With Rick Renner (Renner TV). Each lesson in this study guide covers
a topic that is addressed during the program series, with questions and
references supplied to draw you deeper into your own private study of the
Scriptures on this subject.
To derive the most benefit from this study guide, consider the following:
First, watch or listen to the program prior to working through the corre-
sponding lesson in this guide. (Programs can also be viewed at renner.org
by clicking on the Media/Archives links.)
Second, take the time to look up the scriptures included in each lesson.
Prayerfully consider their application to your own life.
Third, use a journal or notebook to make note of your answers to each
lesson’s Study Questions and Practical Application challenges.
Fourth, invest specific time in prayer and in the Word of God to consult
with the Holy Spirit. Write down the scriptures or insights He reveals to
you.
Finally, take action! Whatever the Lord tells you to do according to His
Word, do it.
For added insights on this subject, it is recommended that you obtain
Rick Renner’s book Last Days Survival Guide: A Scriptural Handbook
To Prepare You for These Perilous Times. You may also select from Rick’s
other available resources by placing your order at renner.org or by calling
1-800-742-5593.
4 | STUDY GUIDE
LESSON 1
TOPIC
The Rapture of the Church
SCRIPTURES
1. 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17 — For this we say unto you by the word of
the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the
Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. For the Lord himself
shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archan-
gel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first.
Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with
them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever
be with the Lord.
2. Luke 18:8 — …When the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on
the earth?
GREEK WORDS
1. “are alive” — οἱ ζῶντες (hoi zontes): the living ones; the vibrant ones;
not lifeless and dead
2. “remain” — οἱ περιλειπόμενοι (hoi perileipomenoi): the remaining
ones; surviving ones; those who are left, indicating possibly “not
many”; coincides with 2 Thessalonians 2:3
3. “(to) find” — εὑρίσκω (heurisko): to find or discover; pictures a
discovery made as a result of careful observance; a moment when one
makes a conclusive discovery; usually points to a discovery made due
to intense investigation, scientific study, or scholarly research
4. “faith” — τὴν πίστιν (ten pistin): in context, with a definite article;
“the faith”
5. “unto” — εἰς (eis): unto; right unto
6. “coming” — παρουσία (parousia): a technical expression for the royal
visit of a king or emperor; the arrival of one who alone can deal with
a situation
7. “them which are asleep” — τοὺς κοιμηθέντας (tous koimethentas):
from κοιμάω (koimao); to sleep; to sleep deeply; the sleep of death;
where we get the words “coma” and “catacomb”

8. “descend” — καταβαίνω (katabaino): compound of κατά (kata) and
βαίνω (baino); the word κατά (kata) means down, and βαίνω (baino)
means to step; to come down; to move downward from a higher place
to a lower place; to descend; pictures downward movement with a
dominating force
9. “from heaven” — ἀπ’ οὐρανοῦ (ap’ ouranou): directly from the heaven
10. “shout” — κέλευσμα (keleusma): a direct order or command; used to
arouse horses, charioteers, hounds, hunters, rowers, masters of ships,
etc.; a signal given like a trumpet call to muster troops to action
11. “voice” — φωνή (phone): voice; sound; noise; to whirl; depicts the
sound of wind, wings, water; may depict the sound of a massive multi-
tude; an overwhelming sound
12. “trump of God” — σάλπιγγι Θεοῦ (salpingi Theou): the root word
σάλπιγξ (salpingx) depicts a war trumpet that calls to war; a war
trumpet that announces battle and, predictively, ultimate victory and
the vanquishing of enemies at the very outset of a military campaign;
used in the Old Testament for when God summons His people to war
13. “the dead in Christ” — οἱ νεκροὶ ἐν Χριστῷ (hoi nekroi en Christos):
from root word νεκρός (nekros), a lifeless corpse
14. “shall rise” — ἀναστήσονται (anastesontai): from ἀνίστημι (anistemi),
to stand again; to rise; to be resurrected; used to depict a rising of
kings and rulers
15. “first — πρῶτον (proton): first in order; in first place; to begin with
16. “then” — ἔπειτα (epeita): upon that moment; exactly at that moment;
exactly then
17. “we which are alive” — οἱ ζῶντες (hoi zontes): the living ones; to be
alive, not lifeless and dead
18. “remain” — οἱ περιλειπόμενοι (hoi perileipomenoi): remaining ones;
surviving ones; those who are left, indicating possibly not many
19. “caught up together” — ἁρπαγησόμεθα (harpagesometha): a form of
ἁρπάζω (harpadzo); to catch, seize, take away; to snatch suddenly; to
snatch just in time
20. “meet” — ἀπάντησις (apantesis): to the meeting; to the reception;
to the encounter; a technical word used for the reception of a newly
arrived official or royalty
21. “air” — ἀέρα (aera): air; the lower regions of the heavens; the lower
atmosphere
6 | STUDY GUIDE
22. “ever be” — πάντοτε (pantote): at all times; all the time; always; con-
tinually; perpetually
SYNOPSIS
The ten lessons in this study on The Coming of the Antichrist will focus on
the following topics:
• The Rapture of the Church
• In the Twinkling of an Eye
• Inaccurate Prophecy Teachers
• A Worldwide Mutiny Against God
• The Coming of the Antichrist
• Who Hinders These Developments Now?
• When the Restrainer Is Removed
• Jesus Will Destroy the Antichrist
• Recap — The Coming of the Antichrist
• Guarding Against Apostasy
The emphasis of this lesson:

The rapture of the Church is an undeniable doctrine of Scripture. It is
the soon-coming return of Jesus, which will supernaturally raise the
dead in Christ and gather together the remnant of believers who are
alive on the earth, snatching them out of harm’s way just in the nick of
time.
The times in which we are living are bizarre to say the least. Things are
rapidly taking place around us that are absolutely unprecedented. The last
of the last days have come. Lawlessness is on the rise and increasing with
each passing day. This can only mean the coming of the Lawless One —
the Antichrist — is just ahead. But before his debut, another event will
take place. It is called the rapture of the Church.
If you have ever wondered if there was going to be a rapture of the
Church, wonder no more. It is one of the clearest doctrines in the entire
New Testament. Paul writes about this cataclysmic event in several of his
New Testament epistles — including his letter to the believers in Thessa-
lonica. Here, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, Paul wrote:

“For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we
which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord, shall
not prevent them, which are asleep.
“For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout,
with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and
the dead in Christ shall rise first:
“Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up
together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air:
and so shall we ever be with the Lord.
“Wherefore comfort one another with these words.”
1 Thessalonians 4:15-18
Let’s take a closer look at the meanings of the key words in these verses,
beginning with verse 15.
which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord, shall
not prevent them, which are asleep.”
1 Thessalonians 4:15
There is something quite amazing about reading this passage in the Greek
that we cannot receive when reading an English Bible translation. For
example, Paul said, “We which are alive and remain.” The words “are alive”
in Greek are hoi zontes, and they describe the living ones; the vibrant ones.
This phrase refers to those who are not lifeless and dead. The word “remain”
is hoi perileipomenoi in Greek, and it means the remaining ones; surviving
ones; those who are left, indicating possibly “not many.” The word “remain”
refers to a remnant. This coincides with what is written in Second Thes-
salonians 2:3, which states that there will be a mass defection from the
Christian faith just before the moment of Jesus’ return to the earth.
Jesus Himself said, “…When the Son of man cometh, shall he find
faith on the earth?” (Luke 18:8) The word “find” here is the Greek word
heurisko, meaning to find or discover. It pictures a discovery made as a result
of careful observance; a moment when one makes a conclusive discovery. This
word usually points to a discovery made due to intense investigation, scientific
study, or scholarly research. Thus, when Jesus makes His return to gather
those who are His own, He will thoroughly investigate and search for
people of faith.
8 | STUDY GUIDE
Interestingly, the word “faith” in Greek is ten pistin. In context, it includes
a definite article, which means it actually says “the faith.” When Jesus
begins to carefully observe and intensely investigate the people on the
earth at His return, He will find people attending church and observing
religious rituals, but finding people who are avidly pursuing “the faith” will
be difficult for Him. In other words, there will be such an apostasy in the
Church at the time of the rapture that not many will still be spiritually
vibrant and alive. Only a remnant will be left.
Looking back at First Thessalonians 4:15, it says, “…We which are alive
and remain unto the coming of the Lord, shall not prevent them, which
are asleep.” The word “unto” is the Greek word eis, which means right up
to the very moment of the coming of Christ. The word “coming” is parousia,
which is a technical expression for the royal visit of a king or emperor; the
arrival of one who alone has the power to deal with a situation. When Jesus
returns, it will be a parousia — He’s going to come with power to begin
putting everything that is in chaos back in order.
Moreover, those who are alive at Christ’s coming will “…not prevent
them, which are asleep.” The words “not prevent” means will not precede or
go before. The phrase “them which are asleep” in Greek is tous koimethentas,
which is from the word koimao, meaning to sleep; to sleep deeply; the sleep
of death. It is where we get the words “coma” and “catacomb.” Here it
describes those who have died having faith in Christ. In God’s eyes, they
are simply taking a spiritual nap.
Taking into account the original Greek meanings of these words, here is
the Renner Interpretive Version (RIV) of First Thessalonians 4:15:
For we declare this to you by the word of the Lord, those who are
physically alive and who have survived everything — I’m talking
about the remaining remnant that will still be left around at
the time of the coming of the Lord — that living and surviving
remnant will not precede those who have already died.
The apostle Paul goes on to say:
For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout,
with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and
the dead in Christ shall rise first.

Notice it says, “For the Lord himself shall descend….” The word “descend”
is the Greek word katabaino. It is a compound of kata, which means down,
and the word baino, which means to step; to come down; to move downward
from a higher place to a lower place; to descend. It pictures downward move-
ment with a dominating force. The words “from heaven” in Greek means
directly from the heaven. Hence, this tells us Christ will swiftly move from
His high position in Heaven down toward the earth with a dominating
force to begin putting things in order.
A Shout From Jesus: Scripture says when Jesus comes for His Church,
He Himself will “shout” as He descends. The word “shout” is the Greek
word keleusma, and it describes a direct order or command; a command used to
arouse horses, charioteers, hounds, hunters, rowers, masters of ships, etc. This was
a signal given like a trumpet call to muster troops to action. Here we see
Christ, the ultimate Commander-in-Chief, calling out and rousing all of
Heaven’s armies for the gathering of His faithful ones and the final battle
of the ages.
The Voice of the Archangel: Accompanied by the mighty shout from
Jesus, the Bible also says the Rapture will take place with the “voice of
the archangel.” The word “voice” is the Greek word phone, and it not only
describes a voice, sound, or noise, but also means to whirl and depicts the
sound of wind, wings, or water. It can also depict the sound of a massive
multitude; an overwhelming sound.
The Trump of God: Along with the archangel’s voice and Jesus’ shout will
be the “trump of God.” In Greek, it is salpingi Theou, from the root word
salpingx, and it depicts a war trumpet that calls to war; a war trumpet that
announces battle and, predictively, ultimate victory and the vanquishing of
enemies at the very outset of a military campaign. This word was used in the
Old Testament for moments when God summoned His people to war.
The combination of the overwhelming voice of the archangel, Jesus’
shout, and the trump of God will cause “the dead in Christ” to rise again.
The phrase “the dead in Christ” in Greek is hoi nekroi en Christos, which
is from the root word nekros, and it describes a lifeless corpse. This refers
to all believers who have died and are buried in the earth or in the sea.
These saints “shall rise first.” The phrase “shall rise” is anastesontai in
Greek, which is from the word anistemi, meaning to stand again; to rise;
to be resurrected. Interestingly this word was also used to depict a rising of
kings and rulers. Thus, when the dead in Christ are resurrected, they will
10 | STUDY GUIDE
be raised to rule as royalty with Him in His Kingdom. And they will be
“first” to experience this. The word “first” is the Greek word proton, which
means first in order; in first place; to begin with.
Taking into account the original Greek meanings of all these words, here
is the Renner Interpretive Version (RIV) of First Thessalonians 4:16:
For the Lord Himself will descend from Heaven to take charge
with a mighty military command that will arouse the saints
and galvanize God’s troops to action. And along with that
command, precisely at that time will also be heard the immense
voice of an archangel, along with the blast of God’s war trumpet
to signal that the final battle, ultimate victory, and vanquishing
of all God’s enemies is about to occur. That war-trumpet
blast will be the indication that God’s enemies have lost their
longstanding battle with Him and that He reigns victorious
and supreme over everyone, over every situation, and over
every realm — total victory! And exactly when that war-trum-
pet sound goes forth, the dead in Christ will immediately stand
upright on their feet as they are resurrected to a brand-new,
resurrected, royal status. This resurrection will take place as a
first priority before the next sequence of events takes place.
To all this, Paul added:
Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together
with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so
shall we ever be with the Lord.
Immediately after the resurrection of the dead in Christ, the rapture of

those alive in Christ will occur. The word “then” in verse 17 is the Greek
word epeita, which means upon that moment; exactly at that moment; exactly
then. To this Paul added the same exact phrase he used in verse 15: “we
which are alive and remain.” This phrase in Greek is hoi zontes, and it
means the living ones; to be alive, not lifeless and dead. These are the believers
who have survived everything that has taken place up until that point and
have not fallen away into apostasy. The Bible says they “remain,” which
in Greek means the remaining ones; surviving ones; those who are left, and
it indicates possibly not many. What Paul is telling us here is that when
Christ returns for the Church, there may only be a small remnant of
spiritually vibrant Christians left.

Nevertheless, this remnant of rapture-ready believers will be “caught up
together” with the dead in Christ who have been resurrected. The phrase
“caught up together” is the Greek word harpagesometha, which is a form
of the word harpadzo, and it means to catch, seize, or take away; to snatch
suddenly. It carries the idea of snatching someone out of danger just in time.
This tells us that the rapture of the Church will occur in a dangerous
moment. When things seem to look ominously perilous for believers,
Christ is going to come suddenly and snatch us out of danger just in the
nick of time.
The Bible says we will “meet the Lord in the air.” The word “meet” is apan-
tesis in Greek, and it means to the meeting; to the reception; to the encounter.
It is a technical word used for the reception of a newly arrived official or
royalty. In other words, when we meet Jesus in the air, He is going to roll
out the red carpet for us! He is going to give us a VIP reception, and it’s
going to be grand!
The word “air” is a Greek word that describes the lower regions of the
heavens; the lower atmosphere. So as Christ gives a shout and the archangel
voices His arrival, the Lord will descend from Heaven into the lower
regions of the atmosphere. His shout will galvanize the angelic troops and
resurrect the dead in Christ, and the Lord Himself will seize and snatch
us away from imminent danger. It will be a VIP reception, and from then
on, we will “ever be with the Lord.” In Greek, the phrase “ever be” is pan-
tote, and it indicates at all times; all the time; always; continually; perpetually.
Putting together the original Greek meanings of all these words in all
three verses, here is the Renner Interpretive Version (RIV) of First Thessalo-
nians 4:15-17:
For we declare this to you by the word of the Lord, those who
are physically alive and who have survived everything — I’m
talking about the remaining remnant that will still be left
around at the time of the coming of the Lord — that living and
surviving remnant will not precede those who have already
died.
12 | STUDY GUIDE
Then at that exact synchronized moment, those who are still
physically alive and who have survived everything — I’m
talking about the remnant that will still be around and left
remaining at this time — they will suddenly and supernaturally
be snatched away out of imminent danger just in the nick
of time as the Lord instigates a divine rescue operation to
transport them into the clouds to join those who have been
resurrected. There in the air’s lower atmosphere where the Lord
has descended to meet them, those who were raised from the
dead and the remnant who were supernaturally snatched out
of danger, will encounter the Lord. And at that encounter, the
Lord will roll out the red carpet to give the new arrivals a royal
reception to match the VIP status He knows they deserve! Then
and after that, we will always — at all times and forevermore —
be with the Lord.
Isn’t that amazing! In our next lesson, we will take a close look at First
Corinthians 15:51 and 52 to see what the Bible says about the changes
our physical bodies will undergo at the time of the rapture.
STUDY QUESTIONS
Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth
not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
— 2 Timothy 2:15
1. Prior to this teaching, what did you know and understand about the
rapture of the Church?

2. How has this lesson expanded your grasp on the subject? What new
things have you learned regarding…
• The sequence of the rapture events?
• The shout from Jesus, the voice of the archangel, and the trump of
God?
• The meaning of “caught up together” with them “to meet the Lord
in the air”?
PRACTICAL APPLICATION
But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only,
deceiving your own selves.
— James 1:22
1. What are you most excited about and looking forward to regarding
the rapture?
2. The Bible tells us that when Christ returns for the Church, there may
only be a small remnant of spiritually vibrant Christians left. What
does this say to you personally about being ready?
3. Is there anything specific you feel you need to deal with right now
to prepare yourself for His coming? Are there any attitudes, actions,
or ways of thinking you need to repent of and ask God to help you
change?
LESSON 2
TOPIC
In the Twinkling of an Eye
SCRIPTURES
1. 1 Corinthians 15:51,52 — Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall
not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, in a moment, in the twin-
kling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the
dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.
14 | STUDY GUIDE
GREEK WORDS
1. “behold” — ἰδού (idou): bewilderment, shock, amazement, and wonder
2. “I shew” — λέγω (lego): “I say,” not show; mysteries are revealed by
speech
3. “mystery” — μυστήριον (musterion): a mystery; a secret; a secret once
hidden, but now revealed
4. “sleep” — κοιμηθησόμεθα (koimethesometha): from κοιμάω (koimao);
to sleep; to sleep deeply; the sleep of death; death; where we get the
words “coma” and “catacomb”
5. “shall… be changed” — ἀλλαγησόμεθα (allagesometha): to change; to
exchange one thing for another; to transform
6. “moment” — ἄτομος (atomos): an indivisible moment; a split second;
an instant; where we get the word “atom”; something tiny or micro-
scopic
7. “twinkling” — ῥιπή (rhipe): twinkling; twitch; so fast it is almost
undetectable
8. “trump” — σάλπιγξ (salpingx): depicts a war trumpet; a war trumpet
that boldly announces victory and the vanquishing of His enemies at
the outset of a military campaign; prophetically depicts that moment
when a trumpet was blasted to instigate war and to declare intended
triumph and victory even at the outset of a war campaign; used in the
Old Testament for moments when God summoned His people to war
9. “dead” — νεκρός (nekros): a lifeless corpse; a cadaver with no life left
in it; plural, “corpses”
10. “incorruptible” — ἄφθαρτος (aphthartos): something that is incapable
of decay; that which is incapable of suffering the effects of wear, tear,
and age; timeless, immortal, indestructible
11. “shall be changed” — ἀλλαγησόμεθα (allagesometha): to change; to
exchange one thing for another; to transform
SYNOPSIS
When Jesus talked about His return, He said, “But about that day or hour
no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the
Father. Be on guard! Be alert! You do not know when that time will come”
(Mark 13:32,33 NIV). Just as Jesus really came to the earth in the past,
He has promised to come again in the future. The rapture of the Church

is real! It will happen fast and without warning. The question is, are you
ready for it?

All the events of the rapture of the Church will take place in the twin-
kling of an eye. The dead in Christ will be raised to incorruptible,
everlasting life, and the remnant of believers alive on the earth will be
caught up into the air and transformed into immortal, indestructible
beings.
A Review of First Thessalonians 4:15-17

Before we dive into our second lesson, let’s briefly review what we’ve
learned so far about the rapture of the Church. Taking into account the
original Greek meanings of the words found in this passage, here is the
Renner Interpretive Version (RIV) of First Thessalonians 4:15:
died.
In First Thessalonians 4:16, the apostle Paul went on to say, “For the
Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of
the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall
rise first.” We saw that the word “shout” in Greek is keleusma, a specific
word used to describe a commander who gave a shout to muster together
and galvanize all the troops for battle. This shout was always a declaration
that war was commencing and it was the guarantee that in the end, this
commander would be the supreme victor.
Taking into account the original Greek meanings of all the words found
in this passage, here is the Renner Interpretive Version (RIV) of First
Thessalonians 4:16:
16 | STUDY GUIDE
What will happen next? First Thessalonians 4:17 says, “Then we which
are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds,
to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.” We
learned in Lesson 1 that the word “then” is the Greek word epeita, which
means upon that moment; exactly at that moment; exactly then. So as soon
as the dead in Christ are raised to life, the next immediate rapture-related
event in the sequence is for those who “are alive and remain” to be caught
up together with them in the clouds. In Greek, the words “are alive”
describe the living ones — those who are still spiritually vibrant. The
implication is that many who were once alive will be spiritually asleep
when Christ returns.
The Bible describes these living ones that are spiritually awake as those
who “remain.” In Greek, the word for “remain” describes the remnant of
a garment. This word could be translated as remaining ones or surviving
ones, indicating possibly not many. Because of a massive defection from
the Christian faith — or a great “falling away” as Second Thessalonians
2:3 describes it — there will only be a small remnant of spiritually alive
people. Nonetheless, these vibrant ones will be “caught up together” in the
air with the resurrected saints.
“Caught up together” is a compound of the words apo, meaning away,
and harpadzo, which means to seize or to snatch out of danger just in the nick
of time. The use of this word indicates that believers who are alive on the
earth will be surrounded by extreme difficulty just before Christ returns.
In that moment, He will descend from Heaven with a commanding,
dominating force and grab us out of the natural realm and pull us into the
supernatural realm. And we will meet the Lord in the air.

“Meet” in Greek is apantesis, which is a technical word used for the
reception of newly arrived officials, dignitaries, or royalty. The Holy Spirit
prompted Paul to use this word to let us know that when Jesus snatches
us out of danger, He is going to roll out the red carpet and give us a grand,
VIP reception! And this will all take place in the “air,” which is a Greek
word describing the lower regions of the atmosphere. Once we are together
with Jesus, we will “ever be” with Him. The phrase “ever be” is the Greek
word pantote, which means at all times; all the time; always; continually; or
perpetually.
Taking into account the original Greek meanings of all the words found
in this passage, here is the Renner Interpretive Version (RIV) of First
Thessalonians 4:17:
resurrected. There in the air’s lower atmosphere where the Lord
has descended to meet them, those who were raised from the
and after that, we will always — at all times and forevermore —
be with the Lord
‘Behold, I shew you a mystery’

Through the apostle Paul, the Holy Spirit wrote First Corinthians 15:51
and 52, giving us more details of what we can expect to take place at the
time of the rapture. It says:
“Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we
shall all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at
the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall
be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.”
18 | STUDY GUIDE
Notice the word “behold,” which Paul chose to begin verse 51. It is the
Greek word idou, and it describes bewilderment, shock, amazement, and
wonder. What Paul was about to say was so magnificent and so dumb-
founding, he was left speechless. He paused in awe and said, “Wow!”
Think about it. Paul was about to describe the resurrection of the dead and
the rapture of the Church — something the Lord Himself had revealed to
him.
Next Paul said, “I shew you a mystery.” The phrase “I shew” is the Greek
word lego, which means “I say.” Mysteries are revealed by speech, not
by showing something. As Paul spoke in his letter, he was unveiling
a “mystery.” The word “mystery” is the Greek word musterion, and it
describes a mystery; a secret; a secret that was once hidden, but now is revealed.
What is this mystery that was hidden? It is the mystery of the rapture of
the Church!
‘We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed’

Paul wrote, “…We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed” (1 Cor-
inthians 15:51). The word “sleep” here is similar to the word “asleep” in First
Thessalonians 4:15. It is the Greek word koimethesometha, which is from the
word koimao, meaning to sleep or to sleep deeply. It is the word for death or
the sleep of death, and it is where we get the words “coma” and “catacomb.”
Paul was telling believers — both then and now — that not every believer
is going to die. There will be one generation of loyal Christ followers in the
last of the last days that will not see death.
He said that generation “shall all be changed,” which in Greek means to
change or to exchange one thing for another. It is the same word that means
to transform. The use of this word tells us that the remnant of believers
who are alive when Jesus returns are going to be snatched up suddenly
into the lower atmosphere, and they will exchange their physical earthly
bodies for a new kind of body. This exchange will be a miraculous, super-
natural transformation.
is the Renner Interpretive Version (RIV) of First Corinthians 15:51:
What I am about to say will totally flabbergast you, but
listen carefully, for I am going to tell you something that was
previously an unknown mystery, but has now been revealed to
us. Here it is: All will not die, but all — the dead and even the

living — will be altered, changed, miraculously modified, and
transformed.
‘In the twinkling of an eye’

In First Corinthians 15:52, Paul went on to tell us how that transforma-
tion will take place. He said, “In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at
the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised
incorruptible, and we shall be changed.” Let’s unpack the meaning of the
key words in this verse, starting with the word “moment.”
In Greek, the word “moment” is atomos, and it describes an indivisible
moment; a split second; an instant. This is where we get the word “atom.” It
indicates something tiny or microscopic. The use of the word atomos tells us
the transformation is going to happen so fast, it will be virtually impossi-
ble to detect with the human eye.
To this, Paul added the phrase “twinkling of an eye.” The word “twinkling”
is the Greek word rhipe, which describes a twinkling or a twitch. It is some-
thing so fast it is almost undetectable. One of the best examples to illustrate
this word is the twitching of one’s eye. If you have ever experienced an eye
twitch, you have an idea of the velocity of “twinkling.” It comes and goes
so fast, an outside observer can barely see it. That’s how fast the remnant
of believers and the dead in Christ will be raptured and their bodies
transformed.
‘At the last trump’

When will our rapid transformation take place? Paul said, “at the last
trump.” The Greek word for “trump” here happens to be the exact same
word for “trump” that appears in First Thessalonians 4:16. It is the word
salpingx, and it depicts a war trumpet that boldly announces victory and the
vanquishing of one’s enemies at the outset of a military campaign. Prophet-
ically, this word indicates that moment when a trumpet was blasted to
instigate war and to declare intended triumph and victory even at the
outset of a war campaign. It was used in the Old Testament for moments
when God summoned His people to war.
Friends, what Paul was talking about here is the moment when Jesus
descends from Heaven into the air’s lower atmosphere and He gives a
shout to announce that the last battle is about to begin. His shout will
muster together the angelic troops and galvanize all the saints in the earth.
20 | STUDY GUIDE
In this atomos moment of time, the Church will be raptured and the sev-
en-year timer for the great tribulation will be started. This final battle will
be massive, but the sounding of this last trump is a declarative guarantee
of Jesus’ victory! When the seven years of utter turmoil are complete, He
will return to the earth once more as the King of kings and the Lord of
lords! This is the Second Coming of Christ.
‘The dead shall be raised incorruptible,

and we shall be changed’
First Corinthians 15:52 goes on to say, “…for the trumpet shall sound,
and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.” Here
again we see a similar description of what Paul stated in First Thessa-
lonians 4:16 and 17. The word “dead” is the Greek word nekros, which
describes a lifeless corpse; a cadaver with no life left in it. In this case, it is
plural, “corpses.” In light of First Thessalonians 4:16, we know this refers
to “the dead in Christ.”
Scripture says the believers who have already died will be raised “incor-
ruptible,” which is the Greek word aphthartos, and it describes something
that is incapable of decay; that which is incapable of suffering the effects of wear,
tear, and age. The word “incorruptible” actually defines how our physical
bodies “shall be changed.” We will exchange our temporary, mortal bodies
for timeless, immortal, and indestructible ones. And all this will take place
in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye at the time of the rapture.
is the Renner Interpretive Version (RIV) of First Corinthians 15:52:
In a moment — a split second, an indivisible atom of time — as
fast as the twitch of an eye, at the very last trump, that war
trumpet will loudly sound to signal that the final battle, ulti-
mate victory, and vanquishing of all God’s enemies is about to
finally happen. That blast will be God’s way of letting everyone
know that His enemies have lost their footing and longstanding
battle with Him and that He reigns victorious and supreme in
total victory!
In that flash, the dead will stand upright on their feet and will
be resurrected to a brand-new, resurrected, royal status. And at
that exact moment, they will miraculously receive new bodies

that are incapable of decay and that will never again show the
effects of wear, tear, and age — timeless, immortal, indestruc-
tible bodies. We who are still alive when all this happens will
be supernaturally transformed as our old bodies are exchanged
for new ones that also are incapable of decay and that will
never again show the effects of wear, tear, and age. Our bodies
will literally be altered, changed, miraculously modified, and
transformed into timeless, immortal, indestructible bodies.
Friend, that is what is ahead in your future! It is the blessed hope of life
eternal with Jesus. In our next lesson, we will pull back the curtains of
time and catch a glimpse of the very end of the age just before the Anti-
christ makes his debut.
STUDY QUESTIONS
— 2 Timothy 2:15
1. What new details about the rapture did you learn from First Corin-
thians 15:51 and 52?
2. What connections is the Holy Spirit showing you between Paul’s
words in First Thessalonians 4:15-17 and First Corinthians 15:51 and
52?
3. It appears that when Jesus returns to rapture the Church, many will
be spiritually asleep. According to these verses, what can you do to
stay spiritually awake and vibrant?
• Matthew 26:41; Mark 14:38
• Luke 12:35-40; Revelation 16:15
• Romans 13:11-14
— James 1:22
22 | STUDY GUIDE
1. How does the thought of exchanging your physical earthly body for a
new kind of heavenly body encourage you?
2. Have you ever looked at the rapture as a “divine rescue operation” led
by the Lord? How does this perspective influence your thinking?
3. Is there anything you are involved in that is causing you to be spiritu-
ally drowsy? If so, what is it, and what steps can you take to disengage
from this activity?
LESSON 3
TOPIC
Beware of Inaccurate Prophecy
Teachers
SCRIPTURES
2. 2 Thessalonians 2:1,2 — Now we beseech you, brethren, by the
coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and by our gathering together unto
him, that ye be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by
spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is
at hand.
GREEK WORDS
1. “moment” — ἄτομος (atomos): an indivisible moment; a split second;
an instant; where we get the word “atom”; something tiny or micro-
scopic
2. “twinkling” — ῥιπή (rhipe): twinkling; twitch; so fast it is almost
undetectable
3. “trump” — σάλπιγξ (salpingx): depicts a war trumpet; a war trumpet
that boldly announces victory and the vanquishing of His enemies at
the outset of a military campaign; prophetically depicts that moment
when a trumpet was blasted to instigate war and to declare intended

triumph and victory even at the outset of a war campaign; used in the
Old Testament for moments when God summoned His people to war
4. “beseech” — ἐρωτάω (erotao): an earnest request by someone with
a preferred position; to request with the expectation that the request
will be heard, honored, obeyed, or satisfied
5. “coming” — παρουσία (parousia): indicates that moment when Christ
comes to collect His people at the end of the age
6. “gathering together” — ἐπισυναγωγή (episunagoge): a gathering
together
7. “soon” — ταχέως (tacheos): swift; fast; to do something as swiftly as
possible
8. “shaken” — σαλεύω (saleuo): to shake, to waver, to totter; or to be
moved; the tense points to events that cause shock or alarm; refers to
an event or repeated events so unexpected that it results in shock or
distress; worry and inward anxiety resulting from outward events that
keep occurring repeatedly, as if there is no pause between shocking,
debilitating, and nerve-racking happenings; one scholar translates it as
jumpiness or nervousness
9. “mind” — νοῦς (nous): mind, will, emotions
10. “troubled” — θροέω (throeo): inward fright that causes one to be filled
with worry, anxiety, or fear; tense points to an ongoing state of worry
and inward anxiety resulting from outward events that keep occurring
repeatedly, as if there is no pause between these shocking, debilitating,
and nerve-racking happenings; hence, jumpiness or nervousness
11. “by spirit” — διὰ πνεύματος (dia pneumatos): from πνεῦμα (pneuma),
which means “spirit” in this verse; as used here, refers to a spiritual
experience or spiritual utterance that is out of sync with the revealed
Word of God; some translate it as ecstatic utterances; here, it refers to
strange utterances, weird revelations, or euphoric proclamations that
have no root in sound doctrine and eventually produce the negative
effect of spiritually upsetting the Church
12. “by word” — διὰ λόγου (dia logou): by word; by rumor; by verbal
claim
13. “letter” — ἐπιστολή (epistole): letter; epistle
24 | STUDY GUIDE
SYNOPSIS
In our last lesson, we took a close look at what the Bible says is going to
happen to our physical bodies at the time of the rapture. The apostle Paul
talked about this in First Corinthians 1:51 and 52, which says, “Behold, I
shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, in
a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet
shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be
changed.”
We saw that the word “moment” in Greek is atomos, and it describes an
indivisible moment; a split second; an instant. It is where we get the word
“atom,” and it depicts something tiny or microscopic. The word “twinkling” in
Greek is rhipe, which denotes a twinkling or a twitch; something so fast it is
almost undetectable. If you have ever experienced an eye twitch, you know
how fast a twinkling takes place.
The Bible goes on to say these things will occur “at the last trump.” The
Greek word for “trump” in First Corinthians 15:52 is the same one used in
First Thessalonians 4:16. It is the word salpingx, and it depicts a war trum-
pet that boldly announces victory and the vanquishing of one’s enemies at the
outset of a military campaign. Prophetically, it denotes the moment when a
trumpet was blasted to instigate war and to declare intended triumph and
victory even at the outset of a war campaign. Thus, when Jesus comes and
the last trumpet is sounded, He will be declaring war against the rebellious
residents of the world and the demonic spirits working through them.
Taking into account the original Greek meanings of all the key words in
these verses, here is the Renner Interpretive Version (RIV) of First Corin-
thians 15:51 and 52:
transformed.

total victory!

There are many outrageous and unnerving events that are going to
happen in rapid succession just before the rapture of the Church. God
wants us to keep our eyes focused on Jesus, our hearts and minds filled
with His Word, and our ears closed to inaccurate teachers who are out
of sync with Scripture.
Don’t Listen to Inaccurate Prophecy Teachers

In addition to the apostle Paul talking about the rapture of the Church in
First Thessalonians 4:15-17, he also discussed it in Second Thessalonians
2:1 and 2. He said:
“Now we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord
Jesus Christ, and by our gathering together unto him, that ye be
not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor
by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is at
hand.”
It is important to note that Paul wrote these verses to the Thessalonian
believers because they had begun to listen to inaccurate prophecy teachers
who were claiming that the rapture had already taken place. These believ-
ers were young in their faith, and when they heard that Christ had already
26 | STUDY GUIDE
returned, they were afraid they had been left behind. ( Just imagine how
fearful you would be if you thought you had missed the Rapture.)
Paul said, “Now we beseech you, brethren” The word “beseech” is the
Greek word erotao, which describes an earnest request by someone with
a preferred position. Such a request came with the expectation that the
request would be heard, honored, obeyed, or satisfied. Basically, this is a
picture of Paul pulling rank on the new believers. He was telling them to
listen carefully and obey fully what he was about to say.
The Rapture and Christ’s Second Coming

Are Two Different Events
He then mentioned “the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” In Greek, the
word “coming” is parousia, which indicates that moment when Christ comes
to collect His people at the end of the age. What’s interesting about the word
parousia is that it is most often used to describe the second coming of
Christ — not the rapture of the Church. These are actually two different
events that take place separately.
The rapture occurs at the end of the Church age — the period in which
we are now living. The second coming of Christ will take place at the
end of the seven-year tribulation. Jude, one of Jesus’ brothers, referred to
this in his book, saying, “…Behold, the Lord cometh with ten thousands
of his saints, to execute judgement upon all…” ( Jude 1:14,15). After the
seven-year tribulation, Christ will come and deal with all of His enemies
and put things in order. We will be among the multitude of saints when
He returns to set up His millennial reign.
Although Paul used the word parousia interchangeably in his writings to
describe the second coming of Christ and the rapture of the Church, in
Second Thessalonians 2:1, he was referring to the Rapture. The reason we
know this to be the case is because of the words that immediately follow
it. He said, “Now we beseech you, brethren, by the coming (parousia) of
our Lord Jesus Christ, and by our gathering together unto him.”
Notice the words “gathering together.” This is a clear reference to the
Rapture. It is the Greek term episunagoge, which describes a moment
in the future when the Lord will quickly gather together His people to
Himself at the end of the age.

Taking into account the original Greek meanings of the words in this
verse, here is the Renner Interpretive Version (RIV) of Second Thessalo-
nians 2:1:
Brothers, listen carefully, for I am asking you in the strongest
of terms to hear what I am about to say and to do exactly what
I’m asking you to do. The appearance of the Lord Jesus Christ
is very near. The moment we have all longed and waited for is
almost upon us! I’m talking about that moment when Jesus will
finally gather us together for Himself.
‘Be Not Soon Shaken’

To this Paul added, “That ye be not soon shaken…” (2 Thessalonians 2:2).
Again, he wrote this to the believers in Thessalonica because they were
listening to prophecy teachers that were teaching error. Specifically, they
claimed that Jesus had already returned to rapture His Church, and the
Thessalonians had missed it.
In order to dispel the lie and calm their fears, Paul said, “…Be not soon
shaken….” The word “soon” is the Greek word tacheos, which means swift
or fast; to do something as swiftly as possible. And the word “shaken” is the
Greek word saleuo, meaning to shake; to waver, to totter; or to be moved. By
using this word, Paul was saying, “Don’t be shaken! Don’t totter or waver
or be quickly moved by what you’re hearing from others.”
Equally important here is the tense of the word saleuo — translated
here as “shaken.” It points to events that cause shock or alarm. Moreover, it
refers to an event or repeated events so unexpected that it results in shock or
distress, worry, and inward anxiety. These outward events keep occurring
repeatedly, as if there is no pause between the shocking, debilitating,
and nerve-racking happenings. One scholar translates the word saleuo
(“shaken”) as jumpiness or nervousness.
By using this word, the apostle Paul was informing us that as we get
closer and closer to the end of the age, it’s going to be as if there’s no
pause between all the unbelievable happenings in society and in the world
around us. This is confirmed by Jesus’ teaching on the end of the age in
Matthew 24:8 (NIV), which says, “All these are the beginning of birth
pains.”
28 | STUDY GUIDE
Think about it. A woman who is in labor and about to give birth begins to
have contractions. The closer she gets to the delivery, the closer and closer
the contractions become — and the more intense they are — until finally
it’s nearly one contraction on top of another. That is exactly what the tense
in this verse describes. Paul urged the Thessalonian believers — and us —
not to be shaken by outward events that keep happening repeatedly, over
and over, almost without pause between them.
Don’t Believe Everything You See and Hear

Interestingly, Paul specifically said, “…Be not soon shaken in mind…”
(2 Thessalonians 2:2). The word “mind” here is the Greek word nous, which
is essentially a person’s mind, will, and emotions. Paul was warning them not
to be perpetually jumpy or nervous in their soul.
He went on to say, “…or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor
by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is at hand” (2 Thessalonians
2:2). The word “troubled” in Greek is the word throeo, and it describes an
inward fright that causes one to be filled with worry, anxiety, or fear. Again,
just as with the word saleuo (“shaken”), the tense of the word throeo (“trou-
bled”) points to an ongoing state of worry and inward anxiety resulting from
outward events that keep occurring repeatedly, as if there is no pause between
these shocking, debilitating, and nerve-racking happenings.
When Paul said the words “neither by spirit,” he used the Greek phrase
dia pneumatos, which is from the word pneuma, meaning “spirit.” In this
verse, the phrase dia pneumatos refers to a spiritual experience or spiritual
utterance that is out of sync with the revealed Word of God. Some scholars
translate it as ecstatic utterances, but here it refers to strange utterances, weird
revelations, or euphoric proclamations that have no root in sound doctrine
and eventually produce the negative effect of spiritually upsetting the
Church. In context, Paul was saying, “Don’t become perpetually anxious
and worried by something that appears to be prophecy, but it really isn’t.”
In other words, “Don’t believe every prophecy you hear.”
Paul also cautioned them not to be troubled “by word.” In Greek, this is
the word dia logou, and it means by word; by rumor; by verbal claim. This
would best be described as the latest rumor. Basically, Paul was saying,
“Don’t believe every conspiracy theory or rumor that comes your way.” If
you believe everything you read or hear on the Internet and on the news,
you will be frantically upset from daylight till dark. Speaking through

Paul, the Holy Spirit is telling all believers everywhere to shut our ears to
this nonsense.
Lastly, Paul warned the Thessalonian believers not to be shaken in mind
or troubled “…by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is at hand”
(2 Thessalonians 2:2). The word “letter” in Greek is epistole, and it literally
means letter or epistle. Apparently, there were fraudulent people moving
about in Paul’s day who were writing letters to believers that were similar
in style and verse to his, but they were written with wrong motives. Some
of these individuals even claimed to have Paul’s endorsement, while others
went so far as to say the letter was written by Paul himself, but it wasn’t.
In Second Thessalonians 2:2, we see that someone had written a letter to
the new believers at Thessalonica claiming that the rapture of the Church
had already taken place. If true, it meant the Thessalonian believers had
missed it. To calm their fears, Paul basically said, “Don’t be shaken or
troubled by such nonsense.
Taking into account the original Greek meanings of the words in this
verse, here is the Renner Interpretive Version (RIV) of Second Thessalo-
nians 2:2:
Some things will be happening right before His coming that
could shake you up quite a bit. I’m referring to events that
will be so dramatic that they could leave your head spinning
— occurrences of such a serious nature that many people will
end up feeling alarmed, panicked, intimidated, and unnerved.
Naturally speaking, these events could put your nerves on edge
and make you feel apprehensive and insecure. How I wish I
could tell you these incidents were going to be just a one-shot
deal, but when they finally get rolling, they’re going to keep
coming and coming, one after another. That’s why you have to
determine not to be shaken or moved by anything you see or
hear. You need to get a grip on your mind and refuse to allow
yourselves to be traumatized by these events. If you let these
things get to you, it won’t be too long until you’re a nervous
wreck! That’s why you have to decide beforehand that you are
not going to give in and allow fright to penetrate its way into
your mind and emotions until it runs your whole life. I also
want to tell you not to be too surprised if people start making
weird spiritual proclamations and off-the-wall utterances
30 | STUDY GUIDE
during the time just before the Lord comes. All kinds of strange
things are going to happen during those days! It’s going to get
so bizarre that you might even receive a letter from some person
who claims that the day of the Lord has already come! Who
knows — he might even attach our name to it, alleging to have
our endorsement. Or he might even send it as if it were written
and sent from us
In our next lesson, we will focus our attention on what the Bible says
about the Antichrist in Second Thessalonians 2:3 and how he will step
onto the world’s stage in the near future.
STUDY QUESTIONS
— 2 Timothy 2:15
1. In your own words, explain the difference between the rapture of the
Church and the second coming of Christ.
2. God doesn’t want you to blindly believe everything you see and hear.
Carefully read First John 4:1-6 and First Thessalonians 5:21 and 22,
and identify what He wants you to do.
3. If a word of prophecy or wisdom is truly from God, what kind of
effects will it produce in your life and the lives of others? (Consider
Galatians 5:22,23; James 3:17.)
— James 1:22
1. The believers in Thessalonica were young in the faith, and when they
heard that Christ had already returned, they were afraid they had been
left behind. How do you think you would respond if you had just heard
that the rapture had taken place and you missed it?
2. If you knew for a fact that Jesus Christ was returning to rapture the
Church at some point within the next six months, how would you

live differently? What would you stop doing, and what would you start
doing? What is keeping you from making these adjustments now?
3. In Second Thessalonians 2:2, Paul informed us that as we get closer
and closer to the end of the age, it’s going to be as if there’s no pause
between all the unbelievable happenings in the world around us. In
what specific ways would you say this verse is already taking place
today?
LESSON 4
TOPIC
A Worldwide Mutiny Against God’s
Standards
SCRIPTURES
1. 2 Thessalonians 2:1-3 — Now we beseech you, brethren, by the
spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is
at hand. Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not
come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be
revealed, the son of perdition.
GREEK WORDS
1. “beseech” — ἐρωτάω (erotao): an earnest request by someone with
a preferred position; to request with the expectation that the request
will be heard, honored, obeyed, or satisfied
2. “coming” — παρουσία (parousia): indicates that moment when Christ
comes to collect His people at the end of the age
3. “gathering together” — ἐπισυναγωγή (episunagoge): a gathering
together
4. “soon” — ταχέως (tacheos): swift; fast; to do something as swiftly as
possible
5. “shaken” — σαλεύω (saleuo): to shake, to waver, to totter; or to be
moved; the tense points to events that cause shock or alarm; refers to
32 | STUDY GUIDE
an event or repeated events so unexpected that it results in shock or
distress; worry and inward anxiety resulting from outward events that
keep occurring repeatedly, as if there is no pause between shocking,
debilitating, and nerve-racking happenings; one scholar translates it as
jumpiness or nervousness
6. “mind” — νοῦς (nous): mind, will, emotions
7. “troubled” — θροέω (throeo): inward fright that causes one to be filled
with worry, anxiety, or fear; tense points to an ongoing state of worry
and inward anxiety resulting from outward events that keep occurring
repeatedly, as if there is no pause between these shocking, debilitating,
and nerve-racking happenings; hence, jumpiness or nervousness
8. “by spirit” — διὰ πνεύματος (dia pneumatos): from πνεῦμα (pneuma),
which means “spirit” in this verse; as used here, refers to a spiritual
experience or spiritual utterance that is out of sync with the revealed
Word of God; some translate it as ecstatic utterances; here, it refers to
strange utterances, weird revelations, or euphoric proclamations that
have no root in sound doctrine and eventually produce the negative
effect of spiritually upsetting the Church
9. “by word” — διὰ λόγου (dia logou): by word; by rumor; by verbal
claim
10. “by letter” — ἐπιστολή (epistole): letter; epistle
11. “no man” — μή τις (me tis): denotes a strong prohibition, sternly and
strongly ordering the reader to reject some type of activity
12. “deceive” — ἐξαπατάω (exapatao): cheat; seduce; to take advantage
of by trickery; to deceive by giving distorted impressions; to lure one
into deception; using any means to promote delusional thinking and
believing
13. “by any means” — κατὰ μηδένα τρόπον (kata medena tropon): in no
way at all; in no fashion; “don’t give them an inch”; refuse to let them
dominate you with their manipulations
14. “falling away” — ἀποστασία (apostasia): a falling away or revolt;
describes political revolt; a mutiny
15. “first” — πρῶτον (proton): first in order; in first place; to begin with
16. “sin” — ἀνομία (anomia): lawlessness; without law; a law-less attitude
17. “revealed” — ἀποκάλυψις (apokalupsis): to uncover, reveal, or unveil;
something that has been veiled or hidden, but suddenly it becomes
clear and visible to see; a sudden revealing; when the veil is removed,

what was hidden comes into plain view; what is behind the veil is no
longer concealed or hidden from private or public view
18. “perdition” — ἀπώλεια (apoleia): doomed, rotten, ruinous, or decaying
SYNOPSIS
Paul’s second letter to the believers in Thessalonica — what we’ve come to
know as the book of Second Thessalonians — was written approximately
51 to 52 A.D., shortly after his first letter. As we saw in our previous
lesson, Paul wrote these epistles to set the record straight regarding the
rapture of the Church.
The believers in Thessalonica were new in the faith and not strongly
rooted in the truth of Scripture. And in this vulnerable state, it seems that
someone notable falsely informed them that the rapture had already taken
place, and they had missed it. Thinking they were now Tribulation saints,
the Thessalonians believers became fearful. To quell their fears, Paul wrote
and said: “Now we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord
Jesus Christ, and by our gathering together unto him, that ye be not soon
shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter
as from us, as that the day of Christ is at hand” (2 Thessalonians 2:1,2).

Before Christ returns to rapture the Church, a great falling away will
take place. To avoid being a part of this apostasy and mutinous rebellion
against God, we must make every effort to guard ourselves from being
deceived by delusional, distorted doctrine.
A SUMMARY OF SECOND THESSALONIANS 2:1,2

The Meaning of ‘the Coming of Our Lord’
As we noted in our previous lesson, the word “beseech” in Second Thes-
salonians 2:1 is the Greek word erotao, and it describes an earnest request
by someone with a preferred position who gives a command he expects to be
heard, honored, and obeyed. Basically, Paul was stepping in and exercising
his authority. He was the one who started the church in Thessalonica, and
now from his preferred position, he was making a request that he expected
them to hear and obey.
34 | STUDY GUIDE
He said, “Now we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord Jesus
Christ…” (2 Thessalonians 2:1). We saw that the word “coming” is the
Greek word parousia, which technically, describes the second coming of
Christ at the end of the seven-year tribulation. However, Paul used this
word interchangeably from time to time to describe both the Second
Coming of Christ and the Rapture of the Church. Therefore, in order to
know how the word parousia is being used, we always need to translate it
in the context of the surrounding verses and chapter.
In this case, we know for certain that Paul was not talking about the sec-
ond coming of Christ at the end of the Tribulation because of the words
he included at the end of the verse. Immediately after mentioning the
coming of the Lord — the parousia — Paul clarified which event it was by
saying “our gathering together unto Him.” The phrase “gathering together”
is the Greek word episunagoge, which depicts that particular moment in the
future when Jesus will gather His people to Himself at the end of the age. This is
the rapture of the Church.
There is one more interesting note about the word parousia, and that is it
indicates a strong presence of God will be felt by true believers just before
Jesus returns to gather the Church to Himself. That is, there will be a
heightened awareness of God’s presence alerting us to the fact that the
rapture is imminent. Like metal is attracted to a magnet, the Holy Spirit
living in us will feel a strong attraction or pull toward Jesus as He begins
to descend into the lower atmosphere. This will alert us to the fact that the
rapture is about to take place. Jesus never takes His people by surprise. The
Bible confirms this saying, “Surely the Lord God does nothing, unless He
reveals His secret to His servants…” (Amos 3:7 NKJV).
Yes, the Bible does say that Christ will come like “a thief in the night” (see
1 Thessalonians 5:2). But His coming will be like a thief for those who are
living in darkness. As believers, we are children of the light, and as such,
Christ’s coming will not catch us by surprise (see 1 Thessalonians 5:4-6).
Putting the meanings of these words together, here is the Renner Interpre-
tive Version (RIV) of Second Thessalonians 2:1:

Don’t Be Shaken or Troubled

By What You See and Hear
In Second Thessalonians 2:2, Paul went on to say, “…Be not soon shaken
in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as
from us, as that the day of Christ is at hand.” The word “soon” here is the
Greek word tacheos, and it means to do something as swiftly as possible. Thus,
the first part of this verse could be translated, “Don’t be quickly or swiftly
shaken.”
This brings us to the word “shaken,” which in Greek is the word saleuo,
and it means to shake; to waver, to totter; or to be moved. To more fully
understand this word’s meaning, we must understand its tense. Here it
points to events that cause shock or alarm; it refers to an event or repeated
events so unexpected that it results in shock or distress. The word saleuo
— translated here as “shaken” — can also signify worry and inward anxiety
resulting from outward events that keep occurring repeatedly, as if there is
no pause between shocking, debilitating, and nerve-racking happenings.
One scholar translates it as jumpiness or nervousness.
Does this describe how you or those you know have been feeling? Are
you jumpy, anxious, worried, or overwhelmed by the ongoing sequence of
perplexing events that have been occurring? Indeed, it seems as though
our society and the world itself is in a free fall. Jesus said that is what we
can expect to happen at the very end of the age. In Matthew 24:8, He
described the condition of the world as a pregnant woman who enters into
labor. Just before delivering her child, her painful contractions get closer
and closer and become harder and more intense until they are virtually
on top of one another. In the same way, just before God’s children are
delivered from this world, the world will experience painful contractions
that will become closer and closer and more intense right up until the
time of the rapture of the Church. This is a clear sign that the Church
age is ending and the seven-year tribulation is about to begin. Positioned
between these two eras will be the rapture of the Church.
So Paul told the Thessalonian believers — and us — not to be soon
shaken in mind or be troubled. The Greek word for “mind” here is the
word nous, and it describes the mind, will, and emotions. Paul is saying,
36 | STUDY GUIDE
“Get a grip on your thinking, and don’t be troubled.” The word “troubled”
is the Greek word throeo, and it denotes an inward fright that causes one to
be filled with worry, anxiety, or fear. Again, the tense of this word points
to an ongoing state of worry and inward anxiety resulting from outward
events that keep occurring repeatedly, as if there is no pause between these
shocking, debilitating, and nerve-racking happenings.
Reject Rumors and Spiritual Revelations

That Are Out of Sync With Scripture
To this, Paul added, “…Neither by spirit, nor by word…” (2 Thessalonians
2:2). We learned that the words “by spirit” refer to a spiritual experience
or spiritual utterance that is out of sync with the revealed Word of God. Some
translate this as ecstatic utterances. Here, it refers to strange utterances, weird
revelations, or euphoric proclamations that have no root in sound doctrine and
eventually produce the negative effect of spiritually upsetting the Church.
What Paul described in this verse is what we see happening now. There
are some individuals who are teaching prophecy in such a way it is scaring
people. Through Paul, the Holy Spirit is instructing us to turn a deaf ear
to bizarre revelations that are not founded in God’s Word. He also said
not to be shaken or troubled “by word,” which is a translation of the Greek
phrase dia logou, and it means by rumor, nor by “letter,” depicting letters
written with wrong motives.
More than likely, you’ve heard people say things like, “Have you heard
what so-and-so said?” “Did you see the latest video posted about the mark
of the beast?” “Did you hear about where they believe this disease came
from?” The fact is, there are so many conspiracy theories roaming around,
it is hard to keep track of them all. If you believe everything you hear and
see on the Internet or from news outlets, you’ll soon become riddled with
panic and terror. Instead, keep your eyes on Jesus and your ears open to
what the Holy Spirit is saying. Dig deep into His Word and know what it
says about the times in which we are living.

knows — he might even attach our name to it, alleging to have
our endorsement. Or he might even send it as if it were written
and sent from us.
That is the essence of what Paul said to the First-Century believers in
Thessalonica. How fitting and relevant his words are to us living in these
last of the last days.
Let No One Deceive You by Any Means

In Second Thessalonians 2:3, Paul added some very important information
regarding the timing of the rapture. He said, “Let no man deceive you by
any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away
first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition.” This verse is
packed with revelation, so let’s take a look at some of the meanings of the
key words and phrases it contains.
First, notice the phrase “no man.” In Greek, it is the word me tis, and it
denotes a strong prohibition, sternly and strongly ordering the reader to reject
some type of activity. It is as if Paul was saying, “Let no man — absolutely
no one whatsoever — deceive you by any means.”
38 | STUDY GUIDE
The Greek word for “deceive” here is not planao as it is in so many other
places in Scripture. In this verse, it is the word exapatao, which means
cheat; seduce; or take advantage of by trickery. Moreover, it means to deceive
by giving distorted impressions; to lure one into deception; using any means
to promote delusional thinking and believing. The individuals Paul was
referring to here may be sincere in their desire to teach end-time prophecy,
but they don’t have the solid, biblical foundation from which to teach.
Consequently, they are deluded and end up teaching distorted, delusional
information that deceives people and steals their joy and peace.
Paul strongly and sternly warned not to let anyone like this lead us astray.
To add emphasis, he included the phrase “by any means,” which in Greek
means in no way at all; in no fashion and it instructs us “don’t give them an
inch.” In other words, we are to refuse to let anyone dominate us with their
manipulations — especially in regard to “that day.”
A ‘Falling Away’ Must Come Before the Rapture

What “day” was Paul referring to? It is the same day he mentioned in
verses 1 and 2 — the day Jesus will gather all believers to Himself. It is the
day of the rapture of the Church. Paul said before the rapture takes place
and the Man of Sin is revealed, there must first come a falling away. The
word “first” is the Greek word proton, which means first in order; in first
place; or to begin with. The first in the sequence of events that must occur
before the rapture is a falling away.
The words “falling away” are extremely important. In Greek, it is word
apostasia and it always describes a falling away or revolt; a political revolt
or a mutiny. It can also be translated as a mutinous attitude of rebellion or
a general turning away from God. Unfortunately, there have been some
who have erroneously declared that this “falling away” is the rapture of the
Church, but that is a wrong interpretation. This apostasy is going to take
place not only in the Church, but also in the world. Hence, we could say
the rapture of the Church will not take place until a worldwide rebellion
against God comes first.
If we were to go back in time about 50 years ago, we would find a very dif-
ferent world than the one in which we now live. If the Antichrist had tried
to be introduced at that time, it wouldn’t have worked, because the world
would have recognized him. Back then, society was more Bible-based, and
the people’s general knowledge of Scripture would have exposed him. But

as time has passed, people’s knowledge of the Word has diminished, and
the secret plan of the Antichrist has been in operation preparing the world
for his arrival.
The fact is, there is a mutinous, rebellious attitude toward God permeating
the world today, and it is growing. We are eye-witnesses to the apostasia
— or falling away — Paul prophesied would take place in the last of the
last days. By and large, the world has said, “We’re not going to live with
the old, outdated morals anymore. Nor are we going to live like the old
fuddy-duddies of the past. We’re going to frame a new world order with
new morals and progressive standards. It’s time we embrace a new way
of thinking.” These are the prime conditions needed for the Antichrist to
come on the scene. A lawless world will willingly embrace a lawless leader.
The Antichrist Is the Man of ‘Lawlessness’

Once the falling away has fully manifested, the Bible says, “…That man
of sin [will] be revealed, the son of perdition” (2 Thessalonians 2:3). The
word for “sin” in this verse is not harmartia, which is normally the word
you would find in Scripture for “sin.” Here, “sin” is the Greek word anomia,
which is taken from the word nomos, the word for law. When an “a” is
attached to the front, it means to shuck off laws or standards; to throw off old
trends, old traditions, old ways, or old modes. Thus, the word anomia describes
lawlessness; without law; or a law-less attitude.
So the man of “sin” is actually the Man of Lawlessness, and he will be
“revealed” sooner than we think. This word “revealed” is the Greek word
apokalupsis, which means to uncover, reveal, or unveil. It speaks of something
that has been veiled or hidden, but suddenly it becomes clear and visible to see.
It can also be translated as a sudden revealing. When the veil is removed,
longer concealed or hidden from private or public view.
Right now the Man of Sin, or the Man of Lawlessness, is hidden. His
identity and whereabouts are concealed. But the day is coming when he
will be unveiled for all to see. The apostle Paul also refers to him as “the
son of perdition” (2 Thessalonians 2:3). The word “perdition” is the Greek
word apoleia, and it describes something that is doomed, rotten, ruinous,
or decaying. It is from the exact same Greek word used to describe rotten
meat that is filled with maggots. The stench is so terrible it would take one’s
breath away.
40 | STUDY GUIDE
This is how the Bible depicts the Antichrist — the Man of Lawlessness
who will portray himself as the leader of the New World Order. Yet
everything he touches is ultimately doomed to decay. Spiritually speaking,
he is filled with rottenness like maggot-infested meat.
In light of these things, I urge you to refuse to allow anyone to
take advantage of you. For example, you won’t need a letter to
tell you when the day of the Lord has come. You ought to know
by now that this day can’t come until first a worldwide insur-
gency, rebellion, riot, and mutiny against God has come about
in society. Once that occurs, the world will be primed, prepared,
and ready to embrace the Man of Lawlessness, the one who
hates law and has rebellion running in his blood. This is the
long-awaited and predicted Son of Doom and Destruction, the
one who brings rot and ruin to everything he touches. When
the time is just right, he will finally come out of hiding and go
public.
What will happen once the Antichrist is revealed to the public? And who
or what is stopping him from taking center stage right now? That will be
our focus in Lesson 5.
STUDY QUESTIONS
— 2 Timothy 2:15
1. Carefully read Philippians 4:5; Hebrews 10:37; James 5:8; and Reve-
lation 3:11 and 22:20. What recurring theme do all these verses have
in common? What does this say to you personally?
2. Jesus said just before He returns to deliver God’s children from this
world, the world will experience painful contractions like a woman in
labor (see Matthew 24:8). Unnerving and debilitating events will occur
closer and closer together and become more intense right up until
the time of the rapture. What connections can you draw between this
truth and what Paul said in Romans 8:19-23?

3. What new insights did you learn about the “Man of Sin” — also
known as the “Son of Perdition”?
— James 1:22
1. Taking what you’ve learned so far in these first four lessons, name
three important things about the rapture of the Church that you
would share with close friends to encourage them in their faith.
2. Are you jumpy, anxious, worried, or overwhelmed by the ongoing
sequence of perplexing events that have been occurring? What seems
to be upsetting and frightening you most? How is this lesson helping
you to see things from a better perspective?
3. In Isaiah’s day, just as in ours, many people were getting caught up in
listening to and looking for the latest conspiracy theories — including
Isaiah (see Isaiah 8:11,12). But the Lord spoke to him and told him
not to be afraid of what everyone else feared. Instead, God said:
“The Lord of hosts — regard Him as holy and honor His holy
name [by regarding Him as your only hope of safety], and let
Him be your fear and let Him be your dread [lest you offend
Him by your fear of man and distrust of Him]. And He shall be
a sanctuary [a sacred and indestructible asylum to those who
reverently fear and trust in Him]….”
Isaiah 8:13,14 (AMPC)
Given the uncertain times in which we live, what is God speaking to you
in this passage?
42 | STUDY GUIDE
LESSON 5
TOPIC
The Coming of the Antichrist
SCRIPTURES
1. 2 Thessalonians 2:3-6 — Let no man deceive you by any means: for
that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and
that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; Who opposeth and
exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so
that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he
is God. Remember ye not, that, when I was yet with you, I told you
these things? And now ye know what withholdeth that he might be
revealed in his time.
GREEK WORDS
believing
5. “first” — πρῶτον (proton): first in order; in first place; to begin with
6. “sin” — ἀνομία (anomia): lawlessness; without law; a lawless attitude

9. “opposeth” — ἀντίκειμαι (antikeimai): opposed to or against every-
thing that is established; a clear reference to the Antichrist
10. “exalteth” — ὑπεραίρω (huperairo): to exalt oneself; to exceedingly
exalt oneself; to be exalted highly; the idea of one being too highly
exalted
11. “above” — ἐπί (epi): above; over; implies a position of superiority
12. “all” — πάντα (panta): all, nothing excluded
13. “called” — λεγόμενον (legomenon): so-called; being called; referred to as
14. “God” — θεός (Theos): proper name for God
15. “worshipped” — σέβασμα (sebasma): divine; anything that can be
worshiped and includes the worship of God
16. “sitteth” — καθίζω (kathidzo): to sit down; to be seated
17. “temple” — ναός (naos): a temple or a highly decorated shrine; the
image of vaulted ceilings, marble, granite, gold, silver, and highly dec-
orated ornamentation; the most sacred, innermost part of a temple;
the holy of holies
18. “shewing” — ἀποδείκνυμι (apodeiknumi): refers to something out-
wardly observable or done visibly to authenticate, prove, or guarantee
a claim to onlookers; to make a vivid presentation; to demonstrate
19. “now” — νῦν (nun): now, at this very moment in time
20. “withholdeth” — κατέχω (katecho): to hold fast; to hold down; to hold
back; to suppress; to restrain; to hinder
21. “in his time” — ἐν τῷ ἑαυτοῦ καιρῷ (en to heautou kairo): a specific
season or an opportunity
SYNOPSIS
The New Testament clearly tells us that at some point in the future, an
evil ruler is going to arise on the world scene and take total control of
the world system for a brief amount of time. The apostle Paul calls this
mutinous monarch the Antichrist and says that before he is revealed, some
specific things need to take place. In Second Thessalonians 2:3, he said:
“Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not
come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin
be revealed, the son of perdition.”
We have seen that this “falling away” Paul spoke of will occur just before
the rapture of the Church. Once Christ gathers His people together, the
44 | STUDY GUIDE
“Son of Perdition” will be revealed. Let’s briefly review the key words and
phrases in verse 3 and then take a closer look at what the Antichrist will
do once he has gone public.

The Antichrist is the Son of Perdition who is destined to bring doom
and destruction to all the earth. Once the supernatural restrainer is
removed and the Lawless One’s identity is revealed, he will seek to exalt
himself above God and take a permanent seat in God’s temple.
A REVIEW OF SECOND THESSALONIANS 2:3

“No man” in Greek is the word me tis. It denotes a strong prohibition,
sternly and strongly ordering the reader to reject some type of activity. In this
case, Paul strongly warned, “Let no man — absolutely no one whatsoever
— deceive you by any means.”
“Deceive” is the Greek word exapatao, which means to cheat; seduce; or
to take advantage of by trickery; to deceive by giving distorted impressions; to
lure one into deception; using any means to promote delusional thinking and
believing. The Thessalonian believers were listening to teachers who were
trying to teach prophecy but who didn’t have a solid, biblical foundation.
Consequently, they were teaching distorted, delusional information. They
actually told the Thessalonians that the Rapture had come, and they had
missed it.
“By any means” in Greek means in no way at all; in no fashion and it
instructs us “don’t give them an inch.” Paul added these words to emphasize
his stern prohibition. In other words, we are to refuse to let anyone
dominate us with his or her manipulations — especially in regard to “that
day.”
“That day” refers to the same day Paul mentioned in verses 1 and 2. It is
the rapture of the Church — the day Jesus will come and gather all believ-
ers to Himself. Prophetically, Paul pointed from the First Century, where
he was, all the way to the very end of the age, just before the Antichrist
would be revealed, and he said there would be a falling away.
“Falling away” is the Greek word apostasia, and it always describes a
falling away, a revolt, or a mutiny. Plutarch used this same word to describe
a political revolt. It can also be translated as a mutinous attitude of rebellion

or a general turning away from God. The word apostasia also occurs in the
Septuagint version of Joshua 22:22, where it conveys the idea of rebellion
against God. It is an attitude that says, “We don’t need You anymore, and we’re
not going to follow You.” This attitude will be widespread in the Church and
the world just before Christ returns. Indeed, we see it all around us today.
“First.” Writing under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, Paul said that
this falling away must happen “first.” In Greek, this is the word proton,
which means first in order; in first place; or to begin with. The first in the
sequence of events that must occur before the rapture is a falling away. A
worldwide, mutinous rebellion against God has to happen first in order to
prepare society to willingly embrace the Antichrist.
If we were to go back in time 50 years, we would find that the world
was a very different place. Back then, society was more Bible-based, and
because of the people’s general knowledge of Scripture, they would have
recognized and rejected the Antichrist. But as time has passed, people’s
knowledge of the Word has diminished, and the world has become a
lawless place. The spirit of antichrist has been at work since the days of the
Early Church (see 1 John 4:3), secretly preparing the world for his eventual
arrival. Today, we have an entire generation that doesn’t know the Bible
and has thrown off the past standards and morals we once lived by. Like
the Old Testament days of the judges, everyone is doing what seems right
in his or her own eyes (see Judges 21:25). Our lawless world is primed and
prepared to receive a lawless leader.
“Man of Sin” is one of the names the Bible gives for the Antichrist.
Once the falling away has fully manifested, the Bible says, “…That man
of sin [will] be revealed, the son of perdition” (2 Thessalonians 2:3). The
word for “sin” here is the Greek word anomia, which is taken from the
word nomos, meaning law. When an “a” is attached to its front, it means
lawlessness; without law; or a law-less attitude. Thus, the man of “sin” is the
Man of Lawlessness. He will probably claim to be a progressive thinker,
advocating a new, more contemporary way of living. But in reality, he will
lead the people of the world into a lawless society that is free from God’s
commandments — absent of His peace, protection, and goodness.
“Revealed” is the Greek word apokalupsis, which is a compound of the
word apo, meaning away, and the word kalupsis, which describes something
that is veiled, covered, concealed, or hidden. When these two words are
compounded to form the word apokalupsis, it depicts the pulling back of a
46 | STUDY GUIDE
curtain or veil, exposing something that was formerly concealed or hidden from
view. In this case, when the curtain is pulled back, the Antichrist — who
will have been there all along — will appear center-stage on the world
scene, claiming to have the answers to the world’s needs.
“Son of Perdition” is another name given to the Antichrist by the apostle
Paul in Second Thessalonians 2:3. The word “perdition” is the Greek
word apoleia, and it describes something that is doomed, rotten, ruinous,
or decaying. It is the same Greek word used to describe rotten meat that is
filled with maggots. This is the word the Holy Spirit prompted Paul to use
to describe the Antichrist. Although he will boast of leading the world
to a higher and better day, he will bring it to a place of total decay and
destruction.
public.
The Antichrist Will Exalt Himself

‘Above All That Is Called God’
Once the Church has been raptured and the Antichrist has been revealed,
the Man of Lawlessness will swiftly move in to action. Paul tells us more
about him in Second Thessalonians 2:4:
“Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called
God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the
temple of God, shewing himself that he is God.

Notice that the Antichrist “opposeth…all that is called God, or that is
worshipped….” The Greek word for “opposeth” is antikeimai, which means
opposed to or against everything that is established. This is a clear reference
to the Antichrist. The name “Antichrist” means against Christ. Clearly,
he is against anything that resembles Christ and His established ways of
righteousness in His Word.
Along with opposing everything of God, the Antichrist will “…exalteth
himself above all that is called God….” The word “exalteth” is the Greek
word huperairo, and it means to exalt oneself; to exceedingly exalt oneself; to be
exalted highly. It is the idea of one being too highly exalted. The Antichrist will
exceedingly exalt himself “above all that is called God.”
The word “above” in Greek is epi, which means above or over; and implies
a position of superiority and domination. The word “all” is panta in Greek,
which means all, nothing excluded. And the word “worshipped” is the
Greek word sebasma, which describes anything that can be worshiped,
including the worship of God. The fact that the Antichrist will exalt himself
as superior to all that is called God or that is worshiped means he will
elevate himself above all forms of religion in the world, not just Christian-
ity. He will subdue and crush all that is worshiped and esteemed as divine.
He Will Seat Himself

In the Temple of God
Paul went on to say the Antichrist will present himself as God and will
“…sitteth in the temple of God…” (2 Thessalonians 2:4). The word
“sitteth” is the Greek word kathidzo, which means to sit down or to be
seated, and it carries the idea of being permanently seated. The Antichrist
will attempt to permanently seat himself in the “temple of God.” The
Greek word for “temple” here is naos, which describes a temple or a highly
decorated shrine. It depicts the image of vaulted ceilings, marble, granite, gold,
silver, and highly decorated ornamentation.
What’s interesting is the word naos is the exact same word used in
the Septuagint version of the Old Testament to describe the Holy of
Holies — the most sacred, innermost part of a temple. Because this word was
used, many scholars believe it is a reference to a future, rebuilt temple in
Jerusalem where the Antichrist will enter and attempt to set himself up as
God incarnate.
48 | STUDY GUIDE
He Will Demonstrate
Lying Signs and Wonders
Moreover, the Bible says he will be “…shewing himself that he is God”
(2 Thessalonians 2:4). The word “shewing” in Greek is apodeiknumi, and it
refers to something outwardly observable or done visibly to authenticate, prove,
or guarantee a claim to onlookers. It means to make a vivid presentation or to
demonstrate something. This is the same word used throughout the New
Testament to describe the signs and wonders the apostles did that proved
the authenticity of the Gospel.
There is really nothing original about Satan. He cannot create anything.
He can only corrupt or make a counterfeit of what God has created. Like
Satan, the Antichrist will act as a copycat and bring forth supernatural
activity to deceive people into believing that he is God, and many will
swallow it hook, line, and sinker.
Do you understand who I am talking about? I’m describing that
person who will be so against God and everything connected
with the worship of God that, if you can imagine it, he will even
try to put himself on a pedestal above God Himself — sitting
in God’s rightful place in the temple and publicly proclaiming
himself to be God!
The Great Restrainer

In Second Thessalonians 2:5, the apostle Paul asked the believers,
“Remember ye not, that, when I was yet with you, I told you these things?”
Then in verse 6, he began to remind them of what he told them. “And
now ye know what withholdeth that he might be revealed in his time.” So
something has been holding back Satan from introducing the Antichrist
to the world. The question is, who or what is it?
The word “now” is the Greek word nun, which means now, at this very
moment in time. Basically Paul said, “In this very moment, you should
already know what withholdeth the Antichrist.” The word “withholdeth”
in Greek is katecho, and it means to hold fast; to hold down; to hold back;
to suppress; to restrain, or to hinder. What is this force that is restraining,

suppressing, and holding back the floodgates of evil from pouring into the
world and taking it over?
When Paul wrote this letter to the believers in Thessalonica during the
First Century, they believed the restrainer was one of five possibilities.
The Roman Senate was one potential candidate. The Early Church
believed that if the Roman Senate wasn’t in power, Nero would have
totally unleashed evil throughout the entire Roman Empire. But since the
Roman Senate has come and gone and the Antichrist hasn’t been revealed,
it can’t be the restrainer.
God Almighty Himself has also been viewed as the one who “withholdeth,”
and the Holy Spirit is a third option people have gravitated toward. However,
because the Holy Spirit is always going to be on the earth — and scripture
says the restrainer will be taken out of the way (2 Thessalonians 2:7) — He
cannot be the great restrainer.
The Church is possibly number four, and Michael the archangel is
number five. The reason Michael has been considered the great restrainer
is because Scripture speaks in several places of how he stood against Satan.
In the book of Daniel, we see Michael holding back evil forces, and in the
book of Jude, he stood against Satan who was arguing with him over the
body of Moses (see Jude 1:9).
Of these five possibilities, one is confirmed in the context of Scripture
as being the great restrainer who is holding back the coming of the
Antichrist. It is the Church. As long as the Church is on the earth, it is
holding back the onslaught of evil. Imagine what would happen if God’s
people were abruptly removed — let’s say in the twinkling of an eye. That’s
the rapture! In a moment — an atomos of time — the dead in Christ
will be raised to life, and the believers who are alive on the earth will be
instantaneously caught up into the air. When the Church is evacuated
from the earth, the restrainer will be removed and the Antichrist will be
revealed.
Paul said, “Now ye know what withholdeth that he might be revealed
in his time” (2 Thessalonians 2:6). The word “revealed” is once again the
Greek word apokalupsis, which depicts the pulling back of a curtain or veil,
exposing something that was formerly concealed, veiled, or hidden from view.
When the Church — which is full of the Holy Spirit and God’s presence
and power — is raptured from the earth, the Antichrist will be revealed,
50 | STUDY GUIDE
and it will take place “in his time.” This phrase is from the root word
kairos, which refers to a specific season or an opportunity. At the appointed
time, when conditions are most favorable, the Antichrist will arise and
seize the opportunity to unleash the full force of evil in the world.
Now in light of everything I’ve told you before, you ought to
be well aware by now that there is a supernatural force at work
that is preventing the materialization of this person and the
disclosure of his identity. This restraining force I’m referring
to is so strong that it is currently putting on the brakes and
holding back the unveiling of this wicked person, stalling and
postponing his manifestation. But when the right moment
comes, this evil one will no longer be withheld, and he will
emerge on the world scene! The screen that has been hiding his
true identity and guarding him from world view will suddenly
be pulled back and evaporate — and he will step out on center
stage to let everyone know who he is.
So if anyone tries to tell you that the Antichrist is going to show up at any
moment, you can know with certainty that he will not be revealed until
the Church is out of here. We are the great restrainer!
STUDY QUESTIONS
— 2 Timothy 2:15
1. The Bible says the Antichrist will enter the temple of God and
attempt to set himself up as God and receive the worship and praise
that is due God. Who does this remind you of in Scripture, and what
happened to him as a result? (See Isaiah 14:12-16.)
2. Did you know that the Antichrist is going to “oppose and exalt him-
self above all that is called God or that is worshiped” (see 2 Thessa-
lonians 2:4)? How does the meaning of the words in this verse open
your eyes to things you never saw before about the Antichrist and the
condition of the world during the Tribulation?

— James 1:22
1. More than likely, you have unsaved family members and friends
who need to receive Christ before Jesus raptures the Church and the
Antichrist unleashes his sinister schemes on the earth. Take the time
right now to write down the names of your loved ones and begin to
regularly and passionately pray for them.
2. Can you remember who prayed for you to be saved? Have you ever
taken the time to thank that person and express your gratefulness for
his or her investment of time and energy in your salvation? Why not
do so today by making a phone call or sending a personal note.
3. According to First Timothy 2:4, God wants “…all men to be saved,
and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.” This includes your
family members and friends. In addition to praying for their salvation,
pray and ask the Holy Spirit to give you an opportunity to share the
message of the Gospel with them. If you feel they’re closed to you,
pray for God to send people across their path that they admire and are
open to who will share the truth with them.
LESSON 6
TOPIC
Who Hinders These Developments
Now?
SCRIPTURES
52 | STUDY GUIDE
revealed in his time. For the mystery of iniquity doth already work:
only he who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way. And
then shall that Wicked be revealed….
GREEK WORDS
believing
5. “first” — πρῶτον (proton): first in order; in first place; first in order; to
begin with
thing that is established
exalted
13. “called” — λεγόμενον (legomenon): so-called; being called; referred to as
14. “God” — θεός (Theos): proper name for God

15. “worshipped” — σέβασμα (sebasma): divine; anything that can be
worshiped and includes the worship of God
image of vaulted ceilings, marble, granite, gold, silver, and highly
decorated ornamentation; the most sacred, innermost part of a temple;
the Holy of Holies
18. “shewing” — ἀποδείκνυμι (apodeiknumi): indisputably refers to some-
thing outwardly observable or done visibly to authenticate, prove, or
guarantee a claim to onlookers; to prove by showing; to make a vivid
presentation; to demonstrate
19. “now” — νῦν (nun): now, at this present moment, at this very moment
in time
21. “in his time” — ἐν τῷ ἑαυτοῦ καιρῷ (en to heautou kairo): denotes a
specific season or an opportunity
22. “mystery” — μυστήριον (musterion): a mystery; secret; once hidden,
but now revealed
23. “iniquity” — ἀνομία (anomia): lawlessness; without law; a lawless
attitude
24. “already” — ἤδη (ede): no new development, but something that has
been at work for quite some time
25. “work” — ἐνεργέω (energeo): energized to fulfillment; a force pro-
pelling something forward or an energy that ignites a process and
facilitates it all the way to its conclusion
26. “only” — μόνον (monon): alone; only; no one else
27. “now” — ἄρτι (arti): now; just now; at this moment; in the immediate
present
28. “letteth” — κατέχω (katecho): to hold fast; to hold down; to hold back;
to suppress; to restrain; to hinder
29. “will let” — κατέχω (katecho): to hold fast; to hold down; to hold
30. “until” — ἕως (heos): until that moment
31. “be taken” — γένηται (genetai): from γίνομαι (ginomai), a surprising
event
54 | STUDY GUIDE
32. “out of the way” — ἐκ μέσου (ek mesou): out of the middle; out of the
midst; out of the middle of things
SYNOPSIS
So far in our study, we have learned that the church in Thessalonica was
started by the apostle Paul, and the believers there were young in the faith.
It seems that they were listening to inaccurate prophecy teachers who told
them that the rapture of the Church had already taken place and that they
had been left behind. Thinking that they were living in the tribulation,
these believers became greatly distressed. Paul wrote to them and set the
record straight, informing them that the Rapture had not taken place yet.
To this he added, “Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day
shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin
be revealed, the son of perdition.”

Satan and his minions have been busily working their secret plan of
lawlessness since the founding days of the Church. There is only one
thing that is holding back the Antichrist from being revealed and re-
leasing the full force of evil on the earth — the Church.
A SUMMARY OF SECOND THESSALONIANS 2:3

Don’t Be Deceived by Inaccurate Prophecy Teachers
When Paul said, “Let no man deceive you,” the phrase “no man” in Greek
is the word me tis. It is an emphatic and strong order to the hearer not to
let anyone whatsoever deceive you. The word “deceive” is the Greek word
exapatao, and it means to cheat; seduce; or to take advantage of by trickery. It
carries the idea of being deceived by giving distorted impressions; to lure one
into deception; using any means to promote delusional thinking and believing.
These inaccurate teachers may have been very sincere in their desire to
teach Bible prophecy, but they were sincerely wrong because they didn’t
have a solid grasp of Scripture.
Urgently, Paul warned, “Let no man deceive you by any means…”
(2 Thessalonians 2:3). The phrase “by no means” in Greek means in no
way at all; in no fashion; “don’t give them an inch.” This was the equivalent
of Paul saying, “Don’t give delusional teachers or delusional teaching

an inch in your life. Know that what you are hearing is biblically sound
information.” In other words, we are to refuse to let anyone dominate us
with their manipulations — especially in regards to “that day.”
A ‘Falling Away’ Must Precede the ‘Catching Away’

Paul continued in verse 3, “…For that day shall not come, except there
come a falling away first…” “That day” speaks of the rapture of the Church
— it’s the same day Paul talked about in verses 1 and 2. The phrase
“falling away” is the Greek word apostasia, and it always describes a revolt,
a mutiny, a political revolt, or a mutinous attitude of rebellion. Generally
speaking, the apostasia is a turning away from God. It is an attitude that
says, “We don’t need You anymore, God, and we’re not going to follow
You.” This attitude has become prevalent not only in the world, but also
in the Church and will continue to increase right up to the time of the
rapture.
The environment of the world is going to become so mutinous and hostile
to God in the last of the last days it will help trigger the return of Christ.
We see this in Paul’s description of the Rapture in First Thessalonians
4:17, which says, “Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up
together with them in the clouds….” The word for “caught up” is a form
of the Greek word harpadzó, which means to snatch out of imminent danger,
just in the nick of time. In other words, those who are spiritually vibrant
and alive at the end of the age will very likely feel as though they are in
extreme grave danger. But Jesus is going to descend from Heaven with a
mighty shout, the voice of the archangel, and the last trump and rescue us
from the wrath that is to come (see 1 Thessalonians 4:16).
The Bible states that after the falling away (a mutinous rebellion) and the
catching away (the rapture of the Church), “…That man of sin [will] be
revealed, the son of perdition” (2 Thessalonians 2:3). The word “sin” here
is the Greek word anomia, which is taken from the word nomos, meaning
law. When it is preceded by an “a”, it means lawlessness; without law; or a
law-less attitude. Although the Antichrist will likely claim to be a progres-
sive thinker that will move the world forward in to a bold new future, he
will actually be the Man of Lawlessness, the Son of Perdition.
The Greek word for “perdition” is apoleia, and it describes anything that
is doomed, rotten, ruinous, or decaying. It is the same Greek word used to
describe rotten meat that is filled with maggots. This is the word the Holy
56 | STUDY GUIDE
Spirit prompted Paul to use to describe the Antichrist. Everything he
touches will be doomed and turn to ruin.
public.
What Will The Antichrist Be Like

When He Finally Goes Public?
After Jesus has returned and raptured the Church, the Antichrist will
swiftly step out of the shadows and take center stage. This Man of
Lawlessness, the Son of Perdition, will be the epitome of evil, achieving
an intensity of blasphemy never displayed before by anyone on the earth.
Second Thessalonians 2:4 says he will “…opposeth and exalteth himself
above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God
sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God.”
The word “opposeth” in Greek is antikeimai, which means opposed to or
against everything that is established. This tells us the Antichrist will be
against every moral, every standard, and every previous societal norm that
was once set in stone. The name “Antichrist” means against Christ. Clearly,
he will be against anything that resembles Christ and His established ways
of righteousness.
Along with opposing everything of God, he will “…exalteth himself above
all that is called God….” The word “exalteth” is the Greek word huperairo,
and it means to exceedingly exalt oneself; to be exalted highly. It carries the

idea of one being too highly exalted. The Antichrist will exceedingly exalt
himself “above all that is called God.”
The word “above” is a translation of the Greek word epi, which implies
a position of superiority and domination. The word “all” is the Greek word
panta, which indicates all, nothing excluded. And the word “worshipped”
is the Greek word sebasma, which denotes anything that can be worshiped,
including the worship of God. Although the Antichrist will be particularly
against Christianity, he will also be against all world religions and
so-called gods, elevating himself as superior to all that is worshiped and
esteemed as divine.
Paul went on to say the Antichrist will “…sitteth in the temple of God…”
(2 Thessalonians 2:4), which means he will attempt to permanently seat
himself in the “temple of God.” The Greek word for “temple” here is naos,
which describes a temple or a highly decorated shrine. It is the same Greek
word used in the Septuagint version of the Old Testament to describe the
Holy of Holies — the most sacred, innermost part of a temple. The use of the
word naos suggests that the Antichrist is going to enter a third temple yet
to be built in the city of Jerusalem and take his seat in the position that
belongs solely to God, “…shewing himself that he is God” (2 Thessalo-
nians 2:4).
In Greek, the word “shewing” is apodeiknumi, and it describes something
outwardly observable or done visibly to authenticate, prove, or guarantee a
claim to onlookers. It is the same word used throughout the New Testament
to describe the signs and wonders the apostles did to make a vivid presen-
tation that proved the authenticity of the Gospel. Thus, the Antichrist will
conjure up supernatural manifestations as evidence that he is God in the
flesh, and the people of the earth will be awestruck by it.
himself to be God!
58 | STUDY GUIDE
Who Is the Restrainer Preventing
the Antichrist from Being Unmasked?
Next, the apostle Paul turned to the Thessalonian believers and asked,
“Remember ye not, that, when I was yet with you, I told you these things?”
(2 Thessalonians 2:5). Then in verse 6, he proceeded to say, “And now ye
know what withholdeth that he might be revealed in his time.”
The word “now” is the Greek word nun, which means now, at this very
moment in time. A better translation of the first part of this verse would
be, “Now, since I have already told you all these things, you ought to already
know….” what withholdeth the Antichrist. In Greek, the word “with-
holdeth” is katecho, which means to hold fast; to hold down; to hold back; to
suppress; to restrain, or to hinder. What is the supernatural force present in
the world right now that is restraining, suppressing, and holding back the
floodgates of evil from pouring in? What is stalling and postponing the
manifestation of the Antichrist in this very moment? The answer to this
question has been the subject of great theological debate for two thousand
years and has produced five prime possibilities.
Possibility #1: The Roman Senate

Many in the Early Church believed Second Thessalonians 2:6 described
the Roman Senate and that God was using the senate to hold back Nero
from totally unleashing evil throughout the Roman Empire. But since the
Roman Senate has come and gone and the Antichrist hasn’t been revealed,
they can’t be the restrainer.
Possibility #2: God Almighty Himself

Some have believed the restrainer is God Almighty Himself.
Possibility #3: The Holy Spirit

Others have viewed that the one who “withholdeth” is the Holy Spirit. But
the Holy Spirit will never be removed from the earth. He will be here
even during the tribulation, working to bring about salvation in the lives
of anyone whose heart is open to Him. Thus, the Holy Spirit cannot be
the restrainer.

Possibility #4: The Church
There are also those who believe the Church is the supernatural restrainer
on the earth.
Possibility #5: Michael the Archangel
The reason Michael has been considered the one holding back the
Antichrist is because Scripture talks about how he stood against evil prin-
cipalities in the book of Daniel, and in the book of Jude he stood against
Satan who was arguing with him over the body of Moses (see Jude 1:9).
Out of these five possibilities, the Church of the Lord Jesus Christ is the one
that best fits the description in Scripture as being the great restrainer. As
long as the Church is on the earth, it is holding back the onslaught of
evil. Once all of God’s people are abruptly removed in the rapture, the
Antichrist will “…be revealed in his time” (2 Thessalonians 2:6).
We saw that the word “revealed” is a translation of the Greek word
apokalupsis. It is a compound of the word apo, meaning away, and the
word kalupsis, which describes something that is veiled, covered, concealed,
or hidden. When these two words come together to form the word apoka-
lupsis, it depicts the pulling back of a curtain or veil, exposing something that
was formerly concealed or hidden from view. When the Church is raptured
from the earth, the Antichrist will be revealed, and it will take place “in
his time.” The word “time” here is the Greek word kairos, which signifies
a specific season or an opportunity. The Antichrist is an opportunist. When
the conditions in the world are just right, he will seize the opportunity and
suddenly appear on the world’s stage.
60 | STUDY GUIDE
The ‘Mystery of Iniquity’ Is Already at Work

In Second Thessalonians 2:7, the apostle Paul goes on to say, “For the
mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth will let,
until he be taken out of the way.” The word “mystery” is the Greek word
musterion, and it describes a mystery or secret; something once hidden, but
now revealed. This word carries the idea of a secret plan that has been
hidden from the masses and only a select few are aware of it.
Paul said this is the mystery of “iniquity.” In Greek, the word “iniquity” is
anomia — the same word translated as “sin” in Second Thessalonians 2:3.
It means lawlessness; without law; or a lawless attitude. The Bible says there
is a hidden plan of lawlessness that is already at work. The word “already”
is the Greek word ede, which indicates something that is not a new devel-
opment, but that has been at work for quite some time. And the word “work”
in verse 7 is a translation of the Greek word energeo, meaning energized to
fulfillment. It describes a force propelling something forward or an energy that
ignites a process and facilitates it all the way to its conclusion. This lets us know
the devil has been working a long time to modify the world to get it ready
for the Antichrist. He and his demonic forces have conspired together and
have been stealthily working their plan since the days of the Early Church
to prepare the world for the Man of Lawlessness.
What Is Stopping Satan from Fully

Manifesting His Evil Scheme?
Looking again at Second Thessalonians 2:7, Paul said, “…Only he who
now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way.” The word “only” is
the Greek word monon, which means alone; only; no one else. And the word
“now” is the Greek word arti, which means now; just now; at this moment;
in the immediate present. The meaning of these two words explicitly tell
us that there is only one restraining force at this very moment holding back
the mystery of iniquity from being fully activated on the earth — only
one thing that is stopping the Antichrist from being revealed and taking
control of everything.
Notice the words “letteth” and “let.” They are the same Greek word
repeated twice — the word katecho, which means to hold fast; to hold down;

to hold back; to suppress; to restrain; to hinder. It is the exact same word that
appears in verse 6 and is translated as “withholdeth.” So from the First
Century all the way to the end of the age, there has been and will be a
supernatural restrainer holding back the forces of evil from fully taking
control. Who has been on the earth since that time and will be through
the end of the age? It is the Church. Jesus declared, “…I will build my
church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it” (Matthew 16:18).
This tells us how powerful the Church is. It is the restraining force in the
earth.
Paul said that the Antichrist will remain hidden “…until he [the
restrainer] be taken out of the way” (2 Thessalonians 2:7). The word “until”
is the Greek word heos, and it means until that precise moment. The phrase
“be taken” in Greek is genetai, which is from the word ginomai, and it
describes a surprising event — something that happens suddenly or unexpect-
edly and totally takes one off guard. Here again, we have a description of the
rapture of the Church, which will take place in a moment, in the twinkling
of an eye. Suddenly, in a split second, the remnant of believers alive on the
earth — the restrainer — will be snatched up. The Bible says we will be
taken “out of the way,” which is a translation of the Greek words ek mesou.
It means out of the middle; out of the midst; out of the middle of things.
If you think about it, the Church is intermingled everywhere throughout the
earth. There are believers in government, in the medical field, in the arts, in
sports, in the business world — everywhere. We are the temple of the living
God (see 2 Corinthians 6:16), and everywhere we go we take God’s presence.
Our very existence on the earth in this present moment is what is restraining
the Antichrist from being revealed and rising to power. Once we are rap-
tured, “…then shall that Wicked be revealed…. (2 Thessalonians 2:8).
These events have been covertly in the making for a long time,
but the world doesn’t realize that a secret plan is being executed
right under their own noses. The only thing that has kept this
plan from already being consummated is the supernatural
force that has been holding it all back until now. But one day
this force will be removed from the picture — and when that
happens, these events will quickly transpire.
62 | STUDY GUIDE
What will happen when the Church is evacuated? How will the Anti-
christ and the energized satanic forces fill the vacuum left behind? That
will be our focus in the next lesson.
STUDY QUESTIONS
— 2 Timothy 2:15
1. Rick mentioned that since the days of the Early Church, Christians
have considered five different possibilities for the one that restrains
the Antichrist (see 2 Thessalonians 2:6,7). Of these five entities, which
one(s) had you not heard of ? Did you even know there was a great
restrainer? If so, what have you always understood the restrainer to be?
2. In your own words, describe what the Antichrist will be like when he
goes public. In what ways does he remind you of past world leaders
that were tyrants? How does he stand in a class all his own?
— James 1:22
1. Before the great catching away (the Rapture) of the Church, there
must first come a great falling away. In Greek, this is the word apos-
tasia, and it describes a mutinous, rebellious attitude toward God. What
are some of the specific things that you have seen in your lifetime that
demonstrate this falling away — both in the world and in the Church?
2. As a part of the Church, you are helping to restrain evil and the com-
ing of the Antichrist. How does this knowledge motivate you to pray
and to live? Is there anything you feel compelled to do differently? Is
there something you feel encouraged to start or stop doing?

LESSON 7
TOPIC
What Happens When the Restrainer
Is Removed?
SCRIPTURES
then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume
with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of
his coming.
GREEK WORDS
1. “deceive” — ἐξαπατάω (exapatao): cheat; seduce; to take advantage of
by trickery; to deceive by giving distorted impressions; to lure one into
deception; to promote delusional thinking and believing using any
means
2. “falling away” — ἀποστασία (apostasia): a falling away or a revolt;
describes political revolt
3. “first” — πρῶτον (proton): first in order; in first place
thing that is established; a clear reference to the Antichrist
exalted
64 | STUDY GUIDE
most sacred, innermost part of a temple; the holy of holies
12. “shewing” — ἀποδείκνυμι (apodeiknumi): refers to something out-
wardly observable or done visibly to authenticate, prove, or guarantee
a claim to onlookers; to prove by showing; to display; to show off;
used in the Gospels to depict supernatural proof to authenticate the
message being preached was true; to make a vivid presentation; to
demonstrate
13. “now” — νῦν (nun): now, at this very moment in time
16. “in his time” — ἐν τῷ ἑαυτοῦ καιρῷ (en to heautou kairo): the word
καιρός (kairos) denotes a specific season or an opportunity
17. “mystery” — μυστήριον (musterion): a mystery or secret; once hidden,
but now revealed; that which can only be known through revelation
18. “iniquity” — ἀνομία (anomia): lawlessness; without law; a lawless
attitude
19. “already” — ἤδη (ede): no new development, but something that has
been at work for quite some time
20. “work” — ἐνεργέω (energeo): energized to fulfillment; energized and
executed; depicts a force propelling something forward and facilitat-
ing it all the way to its conclusion
21. “only” — μόνον (monon): alone; only
22. “now” — ἄρτι (arti): now; just now; at this moment; in the immediate
present
23. “letteth” — κατέχω (katecho): to hold fast; to hold down; to hold back;
to suppress; to restrain; to hinder
24. “will let” — κατέχω (katecho): to hold fast; to hold down; to hold

25. “until” — ἕως (heos): until that moment
26. “be taken” — γένηται (genetai): from γίνομαι (ginomai); suddenly;
unexpectedly; by surprise
27. “out of the way” — ἐκ μέσου (ek mesou): out of the middle; out of the
midst; out of the middle of things
28. “then” — τότε (tote): then; exactly at that time
29. “Wicked” — ὁ ἄνομος (ho anomos): the Wicked One; the Lawless
One
30. “consume” — ἀναιρέω (anaireo): to kill; to murder; to slay; to slaugh-
ter; to do away with or abolish
31. “with the spirit” — τῷ πνεύματι (to pneumati): spirit; breath
32. “destroy” — καταργέω (katargeo): to bring to nothing; to reduce to
waste; to render inactive; to abolish; to put out of commission
33. “brightness” — ἐπιφάνεια (epiphaneia): a sudden appearance; where
we get the word “epiphany”
visit of a king or emperor; to be present; to arrive or to enter a situa-
tion; pictures the arrival of one who alone can deal with a situation
SYNOPSIS
The young believers in the church of Thessalonica were very distraught
by an inaccurate letter they had received — possibly from someone they
highly respected. They were told that the rapture of the Church had
already taken place and that they had been left behind. To calm their fears
and dispel the lies they were believing, the apostle Paul wrote to them and
said, “Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day [which referred
to the Rapture] shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and
that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition” (2 Thessalonians 2:3).

The Bible also refers to the Antichrist as the Wicked One. When Christ
returns in the fullness of His glory at the end of the tribulation, He will
utterly annihilate the Wicked One with one breath from His mouth.
The Greek word for “no man” in Second Thessalonians 2:3 is a strong
prohibition that means, “Don’t let anyone — regardless of who it is — deceive
you by teaching that which is not scripturally sound.” The word “deceive” is
66 | STUDY GUIDE
the Greek word exapatao, which means to cheat, seduce, to take advantage of
by trickery. It can also mean to deceive by giving distorted impressions, or to
lure one into deception. Whoever wrote the Thessalonian believers may have
been sincere in their efforts, but they were promoting delusional thinking
and believing. Consequently, their erroneous teaching instilled fear in the
hearers.
The rapture had not taken place, and Paul let the Thessalonians know this
by saying, “…That day shall not come, except there come a falling away
first…” (2 Thessalonians 2:3). Before the rapture takes place, there must
be a “falling away.” We have seen that this is the Greek word apostasia, and
it describes a falling away or a revolt. Plutarch used this word to describe
a political mutiny or revolt. It also appears in the Septuagint version of the
Old Testament in Joshua 22:22 where it describes a rebellion against the
Lord. In Second Thessalonians 2:3, Paul used this word to denote a world-
wide mutinous attitude that will reach an all-time high just before Christ
returns. The fact that Paul included the Greek word proton — translated
here as “first” — tells us that the apostasia will be first in order, first in the
sequence of events to take place.
What Will the Antichrist Be Like

Once He’s Revealed?
In Second Thessalonians 2:3, Paul assigned two names to the Antichrist.
The first is the “Man of Sin.” The word sin in Greek is anomia, which
describes lawlessness. It carries the idea of one who has thrown off the
past standards of society and no longer wants to live by God’s law. Paul also
described the Antichrist as the “Son of Perdition.” The word perdition is
the Greek word apoleia, which describes something doomed, rotten, or ruin-
ous. It is the same word used to describe decaying meat filled with maggots.
So while the Antichrist will portray himself as a progressive thinker and
framer of the new world order that is free from the standards of Scripture,
the fact is, everything he touches will be filled with rottenness and decay.
What else will the Antichrist do? The Bible says he will “…opposeth and
exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped…”
(2 Thessalonians 2:4). We’ve seen that the word “opposeth” is the Greek
word antikeimai, which means one that is opposed to or against everything
that was previously established. Thus, the Antichrist will try to wipe out
all past norms, and at the same time exalt himself above all that is called

God. The word “exalteth” means to exceedingly exalt oneself or to exalt oneself
too highly. The Greek word for “above” is the word epi, and it describes a
position of superiority. The Antichrist is going to elevate himself above “…
all that is called God, or that is worshipped…” (2 Thessalonians 2:4). The
word “all” is the Greek word panta, which literally means everything. This
means that while he is against Christianity in particular, he will also exalt
himself above all world religions.
But that’s not all. The Bible also says the Man of Sin will “…sitteth in the
temple of God, shewing himself that he is God” (2 Thessalonians 2:4).
The word “sitteth” is the Greek word kathizó, which means to sit down or
to be permanently seated. Where will he attempt to seat himself ? The Bible
says “in the temple of God.” The word “temple” in Greek is the word naon,
which is the same word used in the Old Testament Septuagint to describe
the most sacred, innermost part of a temple; the Holy of Holies. The use of this
word implies that the Antichrist will likely enter into a rebuilt temple in
Jerusalem and walk into the Holies of Holies and be seated in the place
that is God’s alone.
Once seated, the Bible says the Antichrist will be “…shewing himself
that he is God” (2 Thessalonians 2:4). In Greek, the word “shewing” is
apodeiknumi, and it depicts something outwardly observable or done visibly
to authenticate, prove, or guarantee a claim to onlookers. This word is used
particularly in the New Testament to describe signs and wonders or super-
natural activity. Its use here tells us that the Antichrist will be demonically
energized and perform lying signs and wonders to give supernatural proof
that authenticates he is God.
himself to be God!
68 | STUDY GUIDE
The Church Is Holding Back
the Antichrist from Coming
In Second Thessalonians 2:5, Paul began to remind the Thessalonian
believers of what he had told them previously, saying, “Remember ye not,
that, when I was yet with you, I told you these things?” Then in verse 6,
he said, “And now ye know what withholdeth that he might be revealed
in his time.” We’ve seen that the word “withholdeth” is the Greek word
katecho, which means to hold fast; to hold down; to hold back; to suppress; to
restrain; to hinder. Paul is letting us know that God has set a supernatural
force in the earth that is so strong it is holding back the manifestation of
the Antichrist.
This “great restrainer,” as some theologians have called it, has been at
work since the New Testament times until now. When the restrainer
is removed, the Antichrist will “…be revealed in his time.” The word
“revealed” is the Greek word apokalupsis, which means to uncover, reveal,
or unveil. It depicts something that has been veiled or hidden, but suddenly it
becomes clear and visible to see. The Church is the restrainer, and when Jesus
comes to rapture His people, the veil will be removed. Then the Antichrist
— the Man of Lawlessness who has been hidden — will suddenly come
into plain view for all to see.
The word “time” in verse 6 is the Greek word kairos, which denotes a spe-
cific season or an opportunity. Hence, a specific moment of time is coming
when the Antichrist, who has been cleverly concealed from everyone’s
view, will step out of the shadows and into the light. He will seize the
opportunity and begin to lead the world into rebellion against the One
True God during the great Tribulation.

Society Is Primed and Prepared To Receive

the Lawless One
The apostle Paul continued in Second Thessalonians 2:7, saying, “For the
mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth will let,
until he be taken out of the way.” The word “mystery” is the old Greek
word musterion, and it describes something that is hidden. It is a mystery or
secret plan; something that was held in the hands of a select few. In order to
have access to such information, a person had to be initiated into the inner
circle.
Paul called this the mystery of “iniquity.” Here again, we see the Greek
word anomia — the same word translated as “sin” in Second Thessalonians
2:3. It is derived from the word nomos, which means law. But when an
“a” is attached at the front, it becomes anomia, meaning without law or
lawlessness. To be clear, lawlessness doesn’t necessarily mean chaotic or
riotous. It simply depicts a society that has thrown off the high standards
and morals it once had — an abandonment of the voice of God and His
Word. Indeed, the last day’s society will construct a brave new world in
which there will be few — if any — hard and fast rules of what is right
and wrong.
The Bible says this hidden plan of lawlessness is already at work. The
word “already” is the Greek word ede, which means no new development;
something that has been at work for quite some time. And the word “work” is
the Greek word energeo, which means energized to fulfillment; something
that is energized and executed. It depicts a force propelling something forward
and facilitating it all the way to its conclusion. You don’t need to look long
or hard to see that the current trend of lawlessness in the world has been
around for a long time. Satan and his hellish hordes have been working
tirelessly for 2,000 years to prepare the world for the Antichrist. Today,
we are at a place in history where we have never been. Fear is a constant
companion, and society is in search for someone who has the answers
for our ailing condition. Indeed, the people are primed and prepared to
receive the Man of Lawlessness.
70 | STUDY GUIDE
The Mighty Force Insulating Humanity
From Evil Is the Church
If we go a little further in Second Thessalonians 2:7, we see that Paul
talked again about the supernatural restraining force in the earth. He said,
“…Only he who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way.”
The word “only” is the Greek word monon, which means alone; only; no
one else. And the word “now” is the Greek word arti, which means right
now; at this moment; in the immediate present. The combined meaning of
these two words lets us know that there is only one restraining force at this
very moment holding back the mystery of iniquity from being fully set in
motion and the Antichrist from being revealed.
Interestingly, the words “letteth” and “let” are the same Greek word
repeated twice. It is the word katecho, which means to hold fast; to hold
down; to hold back; to suppress; to restrain; to hinder. This same word appears
just one verse earlier and is translated as “withholdeth.” What is this
supernatural restrainer holding back the forces of evil from taking full
control? What is stalling, postponing, and continuing to delay Satan from
unveiling the Son of Perdition? Who has been on the earth at work since
the New Testament days until now insulating humanity from being totally
consumed by evil? It is the Church. The Spirit of God working through the
Church has been — and continues to be — a mighty force to be reckoned
with!
How long will the Antichrist remain hidden? Paul said, “…until he [the
restrainer] be taken out of the way” (2 Thessalonians 2:7). In Greek, the
word “until” is the Greek word heos, and it means until that precise moment.
The phrase “be taken” in Greek is genetai, which is a form of the word
ginomai, and it describes something that happens suddenly, unexpectedly, or
by surprise. Once more we see a description of the rapture of the Church,
which will take place in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye. The Bible
says that suddenly, the remnant of believers alive on the earth will be taken
“out of the way.” This phrase is a translation of the Greek words ek mesou,
which means out of the middle or out of the midst of everything.
These events have been covertly in the making for a long time,

Christ Will Consume the Wicked One

With One Breath from His Mouth
In Second Thessalonians 2:8, Paul went on to tell us, “And then shall that
Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his
mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming.” The word
“then” in this verse is the Greek word tote, which indicates then; exactly
at that time. At the exact moment when the Church is raptured, then “that
Wicked” will be revealed. In Greek, the word “Wicked” is ho anomos,
meaning the Wicked One; the Lawless One. The inclusion of this word
tells us that this is not just your average evil person; he is the epitome
of wickedness himself. And he will take center stage once the Church is
evacuated.
Paul goes on to say, “…The Lord shall consume [him] with the spirit of
his mouth…” (2 Thessalonians 2:8). The word “consume” here is anaireo
in Greek, which means to kill; to murder; to slay; to slaughter; to do away
with, or abolish. How will Jesus “consume” the Antichrist? The Bible says,
“with the spirit of his mouth.” In Greek, the phrase “with the spirit” is to
pneumatic, and it means spirit or breath. A better translation of this would
be “with one puff from His mouth.” That is how powerful the Word of
God is when it comes from the mouth of Jesus!
At the end of the seven-year tribulation, Christ will return to the earth
in the fullness of His glory with all believers and settle the score with the
Son of Perdition. With one puff of breath from His mouth, Scripture
says He will consume the Antichrist, “…and shall destroy [him] with the
brightness of his coming” (2 Thessalonians 2:8). The word “destroy” is the
Greek word katargeo, which means to bring to nothing; to reduce to waste; to
render inactive; to abolish; to put out of commission. The word “brightness” is a
translation of the Greek word epiphaneia, and it describes a sudden appear-
ance. It is where we get the word “epiphany.” This word suggests that when
Christ arrives on the scene and opens His mouth, it will be an epiphany
72 | STUDY GUIDE
moment for the Antichrist. Instantly, he will know his life and ruinous
rule have come to an end.
It will be the brightness of Jesus’ “coming” that will seal his fate. This word
“coming” is the same Greek word we saw in Second Thessalonians 2:1 —
the word parousia. Again, this is a technical expression for the royal visit of a
king or emperor who has come with all the power, might, and authority to
deal with a situation and put everything in order.
The removal of this restraining force will signal the moment
when the Lawless One will finally make his grand appearance
to the world — and not too long after that, the Lord will come.
His coming will be so grand, so glorious, so overwhelming
that He will totally obliterate the Lawless One by the mere
breath of His mouth. Just one puff from the Lord, and this evil
person will be incinerated! The very presence of the Lord will
cripple and immobilize him, permanently putting him out of
commission
In our next lesson, we will identify the energizing force behind the
Antichrist and uncover the methods he will use to successfully deceive the
masses into believing that he is God.
STUDY QUESTIONS
Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that
needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
— 2 Timothy 2:15
In Luke 17:26-30, Jesus painted a picture of what the world will be like
just before the rapture, comparing it to the “days of Noah” and the “days of
Lot.” Stop and think.
1. What were the people and the conditions of the world like in the days
of Noah? (Check out Genesis 6:1-13.)
2. How about the days of Lot? What were they like? (Check out Genesis
19:1-29; Ezekiel 16:49,50.) Why do you think Jesus said, “Remem-
ber Lot’s wife”? (Luke 17:32) How are her actions a picture of some
believers in the last days?

3. In what ways are our present days similar to the days of Noah and
Lot?
— James 1:22
1. A careful study of Scripture reveals that the great restrainer hold-

ing back the Antichrist and the onslaught of evil in the world is the
Church. Imagine, what do you think the world will be like after the
rapture? How difficult do you think it will be for people to serve the
Lord? How does this move you to reach out to the lost?
2. First Thessalonians 2:8 says that Jesus will consume the Antichrist
with one puff of breath from His mouth! How does this expand your
perception of Jesus’ power? How does this motivate you to run to
Him for help with your struggles with sin? (Consider Hebrews 2:18;
4:15,16.)
LESSON 8
TOPIC
Jesus Will Destroy the Antichrist
SCRIPTURES
1. 2 Thessalonians 2:8-12 — And then shall that Wicked be revealed,
whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall
destroy with the brightness of his coming: even him, whose coming is
after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying won-
ders, and with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that per-
ish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be
saved. And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that
they should believe a lie: That they all might be damned who believed
not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.
74 | STUDY GUIDE
GREEK WORDS
1. “then” — τότε (tote): then; exactly at that time
2. “Wicked” — ὁ ἄνομος (ho anomos): the Wicked One; the Lawless
One
4. “consume” — ἀναιρέω (anaireo): to kill; to murder; to slay; to slaugh-
ter; to do away with or abolish
5. “with the spirit” — τῷ πνεύματι (to pneumati): spirit; breath
6. “destroy” — καταργέω (katargeo): to bring to nothing; to reduce to
waste; to render inactive; to abolish; to put out of commission
visit of a king or emperor; to be present, to arrive, or to enter a situa-
tion in order to put everything in order
8. “brightness” — ἐπιφάνεια (epiphaneia): a sudden appearance; where
we get the word “epiphany”
visit of a king or emperor
10. “after” — κατ’ (kat’): dominated or subjugated
11. “working” — ἐνέργεια (energeia): being energized to fulfillment;
energized and executed; depicts a force propelling something forward
or an energy that ignites a process and facilitating it all the way to its
conclusion
12. “Satan” — Σατανᾶς (Satanas): one who conspires against
13. “with all” — ἐν πάσῃ (en pase): in all; with all kinds
14. “power” — δύναμις (dunamis): power; supernatural power; the full
force of an advancing army; where we get the word “dynamite”
15. “signs” — σημεῖον (semeion): plural, a sign, a mark, or a token to
authenticate a thing; an act that points the viewer in a certain direc-
tion or an action performed to prove a point; used in the New Testa-
ment to depict miracles and supernatural events
16. “and” — καί (kai): and; even

17. “lying” — ψεῦδος (pseudos): falsehood; picture one who projects a
false image of himself; one who deliberately walks in a pretense that is
untrue or intentionally misrepresents facts or truths; something bogus
18. “wonders” — τέρας (teras): plural; an event that leaves one baffled,
bewildered, astonished, at a loss of words; depicts shock, surprise,
or astonishment felt by bystanders who observed events that were
contrary to the course of nature; events so shocking that they left
spectators speechless, taken aback, stunned, awestruck, and in a state
of wonder
19. “with all” — ἐν πάσῃ (en pase): with all kinds
20. “deceivableness” — ἀπάτη (apate): a deliberate seduction or deception;
a meticulously planned deception intended to lead a person or entire
race into error; intentional trickery designed to deceive, seduce, and
mislead
21. “perish” — ἀπόλλυμι (apollumi): to undo; to destroy; to permanently
perish; pictures total devastation and complete ruin; destruction and
waste
22. “received” [not]: δέχομαι (dechomai): to take into one’s hands; to
receive with gladness
23. “saved” — σῴζω (sodzo): saved for eternal life; includes healing or
wholeness in every part of life; to protect or keep safe; to keep under
protection; being kept from evil or being saved; rescued from harm, or
delivered from danger
24. “and for this cause” — καὶ διὰ τοῦτο (kai dia touto): for this reason;
pictures God’s response to their choice
25. “strong delusion” — ἐνέργειαν πλάνης (energeian planes): the word
ἐνεργέω (energeo) and πλάνη (plane) the word ἐνεργέω (energeo)
depicts a force propelling something forward or an energy that ignites
a process and facilitates it all the way to its conclusion; the word
πλάνη (plane) pictures wandering or deviant behavior; to leave a solid
moral path; used to depict an animal that lost its way and could never
find its way back home
26. “damned” — κρίνω (krino): judgment or a sentence; the condemning
sentence of a court
76 | STUDY GUIDE
SYNOPSIS
In our previous lessons, we learned that the Church is the great restrainer
holding back the powers of darkness in the world and keeping the
Antichrist from being revealed. But there is coming a moment in the
near future when the restrainer will be removed. That is, the Church will
be raptured right out of the middle of everything. The moment we are
evacuated, the Antichrist will immediately rise to power, seizing his long-
awaited opportunity to lead the world into doom, decay, and destruction.

During the tribulation, the Antichrist will be dominated and energized
by Satan himself and quickly rise to the level of emperor over the earth.
Through supernatural signs and lying wonders, he will successfully
deceive the masses into believing the lie that he is God. Those who
swallow his lie and reject the truth will forfeit their chance to be saved.
A Review of Second Thessalonians 2:8

When the Church has been removed from the earth, the Bible says,
“And then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume
with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his
coming” (2 Thessalonians 2:8). The word “then” here is the Greek word
tote, and it means then; exactly at that time. At the precise moment when the
Church is raptured, “…then shall that Wicked be revealed….”
“Revealed” is the Greek word apokalupsis, which means to uncover, reveal,
or unveil; a sudden revealing. It depicts something that has been veiled
or hidden suddenly becoming clear and visible to see. When the veil is
removed, what was hidden comes into plain view; what is behind the veil
is no longer concealed or hidden from private or public view. When the
Church is evacuated, the identity of the Antichrist will be visible for all to
see for the first time.
“That Wicked” in verse 8 is the Greek word ho anomos. What is inter-
esting is that Wicked is capitalized, indicating he is the Wicked One or
the Lawless One. This word is taken from the word anomia, the word for
lawlessness, and it depicts one who refuses to acknowledge and submit to the
law of God. Although the Antichrist will portray himself as a progressive
thinker who will turn the world into a paradise of peace, his efforts will
produce a rottenness in society that is beyond comprehension.

Writing under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, Paul then prophesied
the future of the Antichrist, saying, “…The Lord shall consume [him]
with the spirit of his mouth…” (2 Thessalonians 2:8). First, notice the
word “Lord.” It is the Greek word Kurios, and in this verse it is capitalized,
which means this is not just any lord. This is THE Lord of all lords — the
greatest of them all! When Jesus arrives on the scene, He will “consume”
the Antichrist.
“Consume” in Greek is the word anaireo, which means to kill; to murder;
to slay; to slaughter; to do away with or abolish. How will Christ accomplish
this annihilation? The Bible says, “with the spirit of his mouth.” In Greek,
the phrase “with the spirit” is to pneumatic, and it denotes spirit or breath.
A better translation of this part of the verse would be, “With one small
puff of breath from the mouth of Jesus, He will destroy the Antichrist.”
As the seven-year tribulation reaches its conclusion, Christ will come
again in all His glory “…and shall destroy [the Antichrist] with the
brightness of his coming” (2 Thessalonians 2:8). In Greek, the word
“destroy” is katargeo, which means to bring to nothing; to reduce to waste; to
render inactive; to abolish; or to put out of commission.
It will be the brightness of Jesus’ “coming” that will effectively defeat the
Antichrist. The Greek word for “coming” is parousia — the same word we
saw in Second Thessalonians 2:1. Once more, this is a technical expression
for the royal visit of a king or emperor who has come with all the power,
might, and authority to deal with a situation and put everything in order.
“Brightness” is also a significant word. It is the Greek term epiphaneia,
and it describes a sudden, unexpected appearance. It is where we get the
word “epiphany,” and its use here indicates that when Christ arrives on
the scene and speaks the Word, it will be an epiphany moment for the
Antichrist that permanently takes him out of commission.
78 | STUDY GUIDE
cripple and immobilize him, permanently putting him out of
commission
The Antichrist’s Coming Will Be

‘After the Working of Satan’
In Second Thessalonians 2:9, the apostle Paul described what the rule
of the Antichrist will be like during the tribulation: “Even him, whose
coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying
wonders.” Here again we see the word “coming” — the Greek word
parousia. Remember, it is a technical expression for the royal visit of a king
or emperor. Only in this verse it is referring to the Antichrist, not Jesus. The
fact that this word is included here tells us that during the tribulation, the
Antichrist will rise to the level of a worldwide king or emperor, literally
ruling the planet for seven years.
The Bible says his coming is “…after the working of Satan….” The word
“after” is the Greek word kat, which always carries the idea of being dom-
inated or subjugated. This tells us clearly that Satan himself will dominate
the Antichrist. Everything he does will be the “working” of Satan. In
Greek, the word “working” is energeia, which means being energized to
fulfillment. It depicts a force propelling something forward or to the front. This
lets us know that Satan will energize the Antichrist and propel him out in
front of everybody.
That brings us to the word “Satan” — the Greek word Satanas, which
always describes one who conspires against. We saw in our previous lesson
that there actually is a conspiracy at work in the world today. It has been
developing since the days of the Early Church. Paul called it the “mystery
of iniquity.” It is Satan’s secret plan to slowly but surely modify the world
into a state of lawlessness so that it is primed and prepared to embrace the
Man of Lawlessness with open arms. The fact that the Antichrist’s coming
will be “after the working of Satan” tells us that Satan will finally achieve
and bring to a conclusion what he has been striving for all along.
He Will Produce Supernatural

‘Signs and Lying Wonders’
What will be the result of the Antichrist being demonically energized?
Paul said he will come “…with all power and signs and lying wonders”

(2 Thessalonians 2:9). The phrase “with all” in Greek means with all kinds.
The word “power” is the Greek word dunamis, which is the same word
used to describe the “power” of the Holy Spirit (see Acts 1:8) and the
“power” of the Gospel (see Romans 1:16). The word dunamis describes
supernatural power and indicates the full force of an advancing army. It is
where we get the word “dynamite.” Normally, this is a wonderfully inspir-
ing word. However, in this verse it denotes demonic supernatural activity
that will flow through the Antichrist.
Specifically, Paul said he would produce “signs.” In Greek, the word for
“signs” is semeion, which describes a sign, a mark, or a token to authenticate
a thing; an act that points the viewer in a certain direction or an action
performed to prove a point. This word was used in the New Testament to
depict miracles and supernatural events that validated the message of the
Gospel.
Paul said the Antichrist would employ signs “and lying wonders.” What’s
interesting here is that the word “and” is also important. It is the Greek
word kai, which would better be translated as even. Thus, Paul said, “and
even lying wonders.” The word “lying” in Greek is pseudos, which means
falsehood. It is a picture of one who projects a false image of himself; one who
deliberately walks in a pretense that is untrue or intentionally misrepresents
facts or truths; something bogus.
The word “wonders” is a translation of the Greek word teras, which
describes an event that leaves one baffled, bewildered, astonished, or at a loss
of words. It can also depict shock, surprise, or astonishment felt by bystanders
who observed events that were contrary to the course of nature. In this case,
these events will be so shocking that they will leave spectators speechless,
taken aback, stunned, awestruck, and in a state of wonder. This confirms
what we learned in Second Thessalonians 2:4 — that the Antichrist will
seat himself in the Holy of Holies of God’s temple and show himself to
be God through a display of supernatural activity. But every sign and lying
wonder he performs will be energized by Satan and demonic forces.
This evil one will be energized by Satan himself as he makes his
arrival known to the world with all kinds of dynamic supernat-
ural powers that are truly extraordinary. These lying signs and
wonders and supernatural feats have only one purpose: they are
80 | STUDY GUIDE
designed to draw attention to the Lawless One and to make the
world stand in awe of him.
Those Who Reject the Truth

Forfeit Their Chance To Be Saved
Then in Second Thessalonians 2:10, Paul continues to describe the way
the Antichrist will work, saying, “And with all deceivableness of unrigh-
teousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the
truth, that they might be saved.” Once more we see the phrase “with all,”
which means with all kinds. This indicates the Antichrist will use all kinds
of methods to successfully seduce and deceive the people into believing he
is God.
The word “deceivableness” is the Greek word apate, and it describes a
deliberate seduction or deception; a meticulously planned deception intended to
lead a person or entire race into error. This trickery is intentionally designed
to deceive, seduce, and mislead. Energized by Satan, the Antichrist will
lead the inhabitants of the world into a web of seduction. And the Bible
specifically notes “…them that perish…” (2 Thessalonians 2:10). In Greek,
the word “perish” is apollumi, which means to undo; to destroy; to perma-
nently perish. It pictures total devastation and complete ruin; destruction and
waste.
The word apollumi — translated here as “perish” — is very important
because it describes what happens to an individual who rejects the truth.
Ultimately, they are not destroyed by God, but by their own choices. This
verse states that “…because they received not the love of the truth, that
they might be saved” (2 Thessalonians 2:10). In Greek, the word “received”
is dechomai, which means to take into one’s hands; to receive with gladness.
This indicates that the message of the Gospel was presented to these
individuals, and they had the opportunity to accept it. Instead, they chose
to reject it.
He will do anything to seduce people — exploiting them with
illusions, tricks, and all types of unrighteousness that are
designed to deceive and seduce the masses. But these supernat-
ural tricks will primarily be targeted to those who are perishing

— those who had the chance to embrace the love of the truth,
but who didn’t take the opportunity when it was presented to
them. They refused the truth and have therefore forfeited their
chance to be rescued, saved, and delivered.
Truth Rejectors Will Be Ensnared

by a ‘Strong Delusion’
What happens to these individuals who reject the love of the truth? Paul
tells us, “And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they
should believe a lie” (2 Thessalonians 2:11). In Greek, the phrase “and for
this cause” is kai dia touto, which means for this reason, and it pictures God’s
response to their choice. Please know that God is not in a rush, nor does He
want, to send delusion to anyone. The Bible says He “…is longsuffering
to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to
repentance” (2 Peter 3:9).
Nevertheless, God has given everyone a free will and will let us have what
we want. If people choose to believe a lie instead of the truth, He will let
them. He will even allow the lie to run its full course in their life if they so
desire. Why? Because He will not force His will on anyone.
The Bible says those who willfully choose to believe a lie will be sent
“strong delusion.” This phrase is a translation of the Greek words energeian
planes, which has a very unique meaning. It is derived from the words
energeo and plane. The word energeo depicts a force propelling something
forward or an energy that ignites a process and facilitates it all the way to its
conclusion. And the word plane pictures wandering or deviant behavior; it
means to leave a solid, moral path and was used to depict an animal that
lost its way and could never find its way back home. The use of the phrase
energeian planes means those who believe the lie of the Antichrist will be
demonically energized by deception. Specifically, they will be energized to
believe the lie they have embraced.
Because they chose to reject the truth, God will send delusion
and error into their midst, compelling them to believe the lie
that is being offered to them [by the Antichrist].
82 | STUDY GUIDE
And They Had Pleasure in Unrighteousness
The apostle Paul wrapped up his description of what is going to happen
to those who reject the truth in Second Thessalonians 2:12, saying, “That
they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in
unrighteousness.” The word “damned” here is actually not a good transla-
tion. It is the Greek word krino, which describes a judgment or a sentence;
it is the final verdict of a court. In this case, it is the condemning sentence of
the court of Heaven. After God has examined all the facts and viewed all
the evidence presented to Him in the case against sinful humanity, He will
issue a guilty verdict at the end of the age.
God will send a delusion among these truth-rejecters. They
could have accepted the truth and believed, but they made the
willful decision to participate in and fully enjoy their unrigh-
teous deeds. In the end, they will be thoroughly judged and
condemned by their own actions. Because they gave themselves
so entirely to the enjoyment of wrongdoing, there will be plenty
of evidence to use against them in God’s court of law on the day
they stand before Him to be judged.
In our next lesson, we will look back over all we have learned so far from
our study on The Coming of the Antichrist and see how things fit together
with the soon return of Jesus and the rapture of the Church.
STUDY QUESTIONS
— 2 Timothy 2:15
1. Although Jesus said no one would know the day or the hour of His
return (see Matthew 24:36), He did say there was something we could
and should know about His coming. Read Matthew 24:32-34 and
identify the “lesson from the fig tree” He wants us to learn.
2. Along with all that Paul spoke to the Thessalonian believers about the
rapture of the Church and the coming of the Antichrist, he also gave
them practical instructions for everyday living. What can you per-

sonally take away from his words in First Thessalonians 5:12-22 and
apply in your own life?
— James 1:22
1. Rejecting the truth is dangerous. Sometimes we do it unknowingly

due to past hurts or fear in our hearts. Be still and ask the Holy Spirit
to reveal any area in your life where you have unknowingly rejected
the truth and are deluded in your thinking. Repent of anything He
shows you, and ask Him for the strength to obey what He is telling
you to do.
2. We are living in critical times. The return of Christ is fast approach-
ing. As believers, it is exciting to think about what is ahead, but what
about your unsaved family members and friends — and those who’ve
walked away from their devotion to Jesus? Ask the Holy Spirit to give
you the opportunity and the right attitude to lovingly yet boldly share
the truth of the Gospel with words they can hear and receive.
And pray for them…
• That the Holy Spirit will draw them to Jesus (see John 6:44,65).
• To have their eyes open to the truth (see Psalm 119:18; Acts 9:18).
• To have a heart of repentance and escape the enemy’s snare (see 2
Timothy 2:25,26).
• To have the measure of faith needed to believe/receive Jesus as Lord
(see Romans 12:3).
84 | STUDY GUIDE
LESSON 9
TOPIC
Recap: The Coming of the Antichrist
SCRIPTURES
1. 1 Thessalonians 4:15-18 — For this we say unto you by the word of
the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the
Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. For the Lord himself
shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archan-
gel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:
Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with
them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever
be with the Lord. Wherefore comfort one another with these words.
3. 2 Thessalonians 2:1-12 — Now we beseech you, brethren, by the
spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ
is at hand. Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall
not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of
sin be revealed, the son of perdition. Who opposeth and exalteth
himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that
he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is
God. Remember ye not, that, when I was yet with you, I told you
then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume
with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of
his coming: Even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan
with all power and signs and lying wonders, and with all deceivable-
ness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received
not the love of the truth, that they might be saved. And for this cause

God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie:
That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had
pleasure in unrighteousness.
SYNOPSIS
In the previous eight lessons, we have covered a great deal of Bible
prophecy. We learned about the rapture of the Church — which explodes
into reality with a mighty shout from Jesus, the voice of the archangel, and
the sounding of the last trumpet. We examined the physical transforma-
tion we are going to experience when the rapture takes place. And we also
spent a great deal of time studying the events that are going to occur just
before the rapture and just after it, including the coming of the Antichrist
and how he will rule during the tribulation and then be utterly destroyed
by the brightness of Christ’s second coming.

In this lesson, we’re going to recap all that we have learned thus far,
using the Renner Interpretive Version (RIV) of each passage of Scripture.
This includes what the return of Christ will look like, the promise of a
brand new body, and a portrait of the man of perdition and his prophe-
sied extermination.
What the Return of Christ Will Look Like

In First Thessalonians 4:13-18, the apostle Paul wrote about the coming
of the Lord Jesus to encourage the believers who had lost loved ones that
had died in their faith. In this passage, which is a blueprint of the blessed
hope in Christ, Paul declared:
which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall
not prevent them which are asleep. For the Lord himself shall
descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the arch-
angel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall
rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up
together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air:
and so shall we ever be with the Lord. Wherefore comfort one
another with these words.”
86 | STUDY GUIDE
Verses like these concerning the rapture of the Church should comfort
and encourage you, not make you afraid. The greatest event in the history
of the Church since Christ’s resurrection from the dead and the Day of
Pentecost is just ahead, and God wants us to be ready for it. To remind us
of the deep meaning of this passage, let’s review the Renner Interpretive
Version (RIV) of First Thessalonians 4:15-18.
Verse 15
died.
Verse 16
For the Lord Himself will descend from Heaven to take
charge with a mighty military command that will arouse the
saints and galvanize God’s troops to action. And along with
that command, precisely at that time will also be heard the
immense voice of an Archangel, along with the blast of God’s
war trumpet to signal that the final battle, ultimate victory,
and vanquishing of all God’s enemies is about to occur. That
war-trumpet blast will be the indication that God’s enemies
have lost their longstanding battle with Him and that He reigns
victorious and supreme over everyone, over every situation,
and over every realm — total victory! And exactly when that
war-trumpet sound goes forth, the dead in Christ will imme-
diately stand upright on their feet as they are resurrected to a
brand-new, resurrected, royal status. This resurrection will take
place as a first priority before the next sequence of events takes
place.
Verse 17

resurrected. There in the air’s lower atmosphere where the
Lord has descended to meet them, those who were raised from
and after that, we will always — indivisible and forevermore —
be with the Lord.
Verse 18
So then, encourage, exhort, positively provoke, rouse, stir
up, and spur one another on with these words. Do your best
— make it your aim to help each other to stand tall, to throw
your shoulders back, to hold your head high, and to bravely
face whatever battle or circumstance presents itself to you. Yes,
make it your goal to encourage one another with the words that
I have written to you.
The rapture of the Church will be a sudden, supernatural snatching away
of the remnant of believers who are alive on the earth at the time of His
coming. The original Greek indicates this stealth rescue operation will be
led by Christ Himself. When it seems as though the world is caving in on
Christians, Christ will step into time — raising the dead who believed in
Him and making a way of escape for believers who are alive on the earth.
What a glorious day that will be! If there was ever a truth we should speak
to encourage a fellow believer, this is it.
The Promise of a Brand New Body

When we come to First Corinthians 15:51 and 52, the Holy Spirit speaks
through Paul and gives us a more detailed explanation of the physical
transformation believers are going to experience at the time of the rapture.
He said:
“Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we
shall all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at
the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall
be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.”
1 Corinthians 15:51,52
88 | STUDY GUIDE
Putting the meanings of the key words together, here is the Renner
Interpretive Version (RIV) of First Corinthians 15:51,52:
Verse 51
transformed.
Verse 52
total victory!
How amazing! When we combine Paul’s words in First Thessalonians
chapter 4 and First Corinthians chapter 15, we have a very vivid descrip-
tion of the rapture of the Church and what we expect to take place. These
verses are simply undeniable. If someone tells you that there’s no rapture,
they’re ignoring very important biblical passages like these.

A Portrait of the Man of Perdition
and His Prophesied Extermination
When we come to Second Thessalonians chapter 2, we see Paul writing
to the young believers in Thessalonica to assure them that the rapture of
the Church had not taken place as they had erroneously been told. After
reminding them of what needed to occur before the rapture, he gave them
— and us — a prophetic picture of the future regarding the unveiling of
the Antichrist and the characteristics of his short-lived reign. He said:
“Now we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord
Jesus Christ, and by our gathering together unto him, that ye
be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit,
nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ
is at hand. Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day
shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that
man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition. Who opposeth
and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is
worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God,
shewing himself that he is God. Remember ye not, that, when
I was yet with you, I told you these things? And now ye know
what withholdeth that he might be revealed in his time. For
the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now
letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way. And then shall
that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume with
the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness
of his coming: Even him, whose coming is after the working of
Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders, and with all
deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because
they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved.
And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that
they should believe a lie: That they all might be damned who
believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.”
Putting the meanings of the key words together, here is the Renner
Interpretive Version (RIV) of Second Thessalonians 2:1-12:
90 | STUDY GUIDE
Verse 1
Verse 2
knows — they might even attach our name to it, alleging to
have our endorsement. Or they might even send it as if it were
written and sent from us.
Verse 3

public.
Verse 4
himself to be God.
Verse 5
Don’t you remember that when I was there with you, I used to
regularly tell you these things?
Verse 6
Verse 7
These events have been covertly in the making for a long time
92 | STUDY GUIDE
Verse 8
cripple and immobilize him and permanently put him out of
commission.
Verse 9
This evil one will be energized by Satan himself as he makes his
arrival known to the world with all kinds of dynamic supernat-
ural powers that will be truly extraordinary. These lying signs
and wonders and supernatural feats have only one purpose:
they are designed to draw attention to the Lawless One and to
make the world stand in awe of him.
Verse 10
He will do anything to seduce people — exploiting them with
illusions, tricks, and all types of unrighteousness that are
designed to deceive and seduce the masses. But these supernat-
ural tricks will primarily be targeted to those who are perishing
— those who had the chance to embrace the love of the truth,
but who didn’t take the opportunity when it was presented to
them. They refused the truth and have therefore forfeited their
chance to be rescued, saved, and delivered.
Verse 11
Because they chose to reject the truth, God will send delusion
and error into their midst, compelling them to believe the lie
that is being offered to them [by the Antichrist].

Verse 12
God will send a delusion among these truth-rejecters. They
could have accepted the truth and believed, but they made the
willful decision to participate in and fully enjoy their unrigh-
teous deeds. In the end, they will be thoroughly judged and
condemned by their own actions. Because they gave themselves
so entirely to the enjoyment of wrongdoing, there will be plenty
of evidence to use against them in God’s court of law on the day
they stand before Him to be judged.
Friend, the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ is near! It’s closer today than
when Paul penned these words nearly 2,000 years ago. The Holy Spirit
believed it was important for us to know and understand what is coming
in the days ahead — not to scare us, but to prepare us to recognize the
sign of the times in which we live and “make the most of every opportu-
nity in these evil days” (Ephesians 5:16 NLT).
Clearly, the mutinous, rebellious attitude toward God and all established
authority Paul prophesied is already present in the world and rapidly
spreading. In our final lesson, we will focus on how we need to personally
respond to all the bizarre events taking place in these last of the last days
in order to avoid falling into the pitfall of apostasy.
STUDY QUESTIONS
— 2 Timothy 2:15
In Matthew 25:1-13, Jesus compared His sudden, unexpected return

— the rapture of the Church —with ten virgins who were waiting for
the return of the bridegroom. Take a few moments to carefully read this
passage.
1. Knowing that the ten virgins represent members of the Church, how
prepared will the Church be when He unexpectedly returns? How
prepared are you?
2. What actions did the five wise virgins take that Jesus praised?
3. What did the foolish virgins fail to do that the wise virgins could not
help them with?
94 | STUDY GUIDE
4. What wisdom can you take away from this parable and personally
apply in your own life?
— James 1:22
1. After reading through the detailed Renner Interpretive Version (RIV)

of each section of Scripture, what new insights is the Holy Spirit
showing you regarding:
• The rapture of the Church
• The rule of the Antichrist
• The annihilation of the Antichrist
2. To each church in the book of Revelation — and to the Church
throughout all generations — Jesus said, “He that hath an ear, let
him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches…” (Revelation 2:7).
What can you do on a daily basis to hear more clearly what the Holy
Spirit is speaking to you as a member of the Church? (Consider Psalm
51:10-12; Romans 12:1,2; Jude 1:20.) How are you encouraged to
know that God wants to speak to you and direct you in these last
days? (Consider John 16:12-15; Jeremiah 33:3.)
LESSON 10
TOPIC
Guarding Against Apostasy
SCRIPTURES
1. 1 Timothy 4:1 — Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter
times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits,
and doctrines of devils.

GREEK WORDS
1. “expressly” — ῥητῶς (rhetos): unmistakably; vividly; pictures some-
thing spoken clearly or something that is unquestionable, certain, and
sure
2. “latter” — ὕστερος (husteros): latter; pictures the ultimate end or the
very last of something
3. “depart” — ἀφίστημι (aphistemi): compound of ἀπό (apo) and ἵστημι
(histimi); the word ἀπό (apo) means away; the word ἵστημι (histimi)
means to stand; compounded, the word ἀφίστημι (aphistemi) means
to stand apart from; to distance one’s self from; to step away from;
to withdraw from; or to shrink away from; it is from this very Greek
word that we derive the word apostate or apostasy
4. “the faith” — πίστεως (pisteos): refers to doctrine or to the long-held,
time-tested teachings of Scripture
5. “giving heed” — προσέχω (prosecho): to turn in a new direction; to
embrace
6. “seducing” — πλανάω (planao): to wander; pictures deception, moral
wandering, deviant behavior; a person (or nation) that has veered from
a solid path; as a result of veering morally, this person is adrift; also
used to depict a lost animal that cannot find its path; to morally lose
one’s bearings; to wander off course
7. “doctrines” — διδασκαλία (didaskalia): well-packaged teaching that is
applicable to lifestyle
8. “devils” — δαιμόνιον (daimonion): in context, evil spirits, demons,
devils; the ancient world believed demons thickly populated the lower
regions of the air and that spirits were the primary cause of disasters,
suffering, and actions of insanity
SYNOPSIS
Can you feel it in your spirit? The signs are all around us. Christ is about
ready to rapture the Church right out of the middle of everything!
Although we can’t know the day or the hour, Jesus said we can — and
should — know the season of His return. As soon as the Church is
evacuated from the earth, the force that has been restraining evil will be
removed, and the Antichrist will be revealed and step on to the world’s
stage.
96 | STUDY GUIDE
The Holy Spirit wants us to be aware of and understand these world-
changing events that are rapidly approaching. He is not trying to scare us,
but to prepare us and ignite a passion in us to reach our unsaved family
members, friends, and coworkers with the truth. He also wants us to guard
ourselves from being contaminated by the mutinous, rebellious attitude
that is quickly spreading in society.

Just because the world and a portion of the Church are falling into
apostasy, it doesn’t mean we have to do the same. If we’ll listen to and
obey God’s Word, we can float on the waters of adversity and rise above
the destruction flooding our world — just as Noah did.
The Holy Spirit Emphatically Wants Us To Know

Something About the Last of the Last Days
Under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, the apostle Paul wrote, “Now
the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart
from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils”
(1 Timothy 4:1). Here we see Paul prophetically pointing His finger 2,000
years into the future to tell us what would take place at the end of the age.
First, notice the word “expressly.” It is the Greek word rhetos, and it means
unmistakably or vividly. It pictures something spoken clearly or something that
is unquestionable, certain, and sure. By using the word rhetos, the Holy Spirit
is telling us categorically and emphatically about something that is com-
ing. It’s almost as if He is reaching through the pages of Scripture to grab
us and say, “Do you hear what I’m saying? I’m speaking in the strongest
and clearest language because I want to make sure you understand what
I’m saying because it will most certainly come to pass.”
The period He notes for these events are the “latter times.” The word
“latter” is the Greek word husteros, which means latter and pictures the
ultimate end or the very last of something. And the word “times” is the Greek
word kairos, which describes a season. Together, husteros kairos — translated
here as “latter times” —describes the very last season or period of the Church
age. By using these words, the Holy Spirit gave us one of the major signs
that we are living in the very end of the age.

‘Some Shall Depart from the Faith’
What can we know without question will happen when there is no more
time remaining? Paul said, “…Some shall depart from the faith…” (1
Timothy 4:1). The word “depart” in this verse is vital. It is the Greek word
aphistemi, which is a compound of the words apo, meaning away, and the
word histimi, meaning to stand. When these words are compounded, they
form the word aphistemi, which means to stand apart from; to distance one’s
self from; to step away from; to withdraw from; or to shrink away from. It is
from this very Greek word that we derive the word apostate or apostasy.
As unbelievable as it may seem, the Holy Spirit is telling us that at the
very end of the Church Age, when no time remains, “…some shall depart
from the faith….” This is not an abrupt rejection of the faith. It is a very
gradual withdrawal that takes place steadily over a period of time. It is the
picture a person who slowly but surely changes the position of what he
or she once believed. Instead of holding firmly to the faith, they begin to
entertain other options and ideas that progressively lead them away from
what they once believed. This departure is so gradual that those who are in
the process of withdrawing may not even realize it is happening.
Thankfully not everyone will depart from the faith. The Bible says only
“some,” which in Greek signifies a very notable some. This suggests that a
number of these people may be individuals we once looked to, listened
to, and trusted. But for some reason, they will shrink away from the pure
truth they once believed and taught.
Specifically, they will depart from “the faith.” In Greek, this is the word
pisteos, and it refers to doctrine or to the long-held, time-tested teachings of
Scripture. What is interesting here is that it includes a definite article. In
other words, this is not talking about a departure from faith in miracles or
faith in healing per se. It is a slow drifting from “THE faith” — the clear,
timeless teaching of Scripture.
‘Giving Heed to Seducing Spirits’

This raises the question: Why will some depart from the faith? The
Bible says it will result from them “…giving heed to seducing spirits
and doctrines of devils” (1 Timothy 4:1). The phrase “giving heed” is the
Greek word prosecho. It is the compound of the word pros, which means to
lean toward, and the word echo, which means to hold or to embrace. When
98 | STUDY GUIDE
the words pros and echo are joined to form the word prosecho, it pictures
a person who has believed one thing for a very long time but is now leaning
in a new direction, believing something else. They have opened their mind
to possibilities other than Scripture, and slowly-but-surely, they have
withdrawn from what they once held precious and dear and have begun to
hold on to new ideas and new systems of belief.
Eventually, those who depart from the faith and fail to repent and turn
back to God, end up totally rejecting the faith. We see this happening in
the world today. Well-known Christian authors and ministers who were
once stalwarts of truth have recanted what they stood by and taught for
decades. Some have even begun to modify what they believe is right and
wrong about gender. As the world around us rapidly changes, many don’t
know how to fit into it. Consequently, rather than standing on biblical
truth that is absolute and unchanging, they begin to entertain the idea of
modifying the faith to fit into the new emerging world. And the end result
is disastrous apostasy.
What is influencing these individuals to change their position and leave
the clear teaching of Scripture? Through Paul, the Holy Spirit identified
“seducing spirits and doctrines of demons” as the culprit. The word “seduc-
ing” is a translation of the Greek word planao, which means to wander.
It pictures deception, moral wandering, or deviant behavior. Moreover, it
depicts a person (or nation) that has veered from a solid path, and as a result of
veering morally, this person (or nation) is adrift.
At the time of the New Testament, the majority of the world spoke
Greek. It was the international language used even by rabbis — especially
the Jewish rabbis who lived in Alexandria that did a great deal of writing.
They were very familiar with the word planao and understood its meaning.
Interestingly, the word planao was also used to depict a lost animal that had
veered so far from the path that it couldn’t find its way back home. The use of
this word tells us the activity of seducing spirits causes people to leave the
well-established path of God’s Word that they — and countless others —
have walked on for a long time. In fact, the implication here is that they
have walked on this well-worn path so long they could probably walk
it blindfolded. But when seducing spirits begin to operate, they deceive
people into leaving the path and veering into new territory. The ultimate
goal of seducing spirits is to push people off a spiritual cliff and destroy
them.

Doctrines of Demons
There is another force at work in these last of the last days, and the Bible
identifies it as “doctrines of devils.” The word “doctrines” in First Timothy
4:1 is the Greek word didaskalia, which describes a well-packaged teaching
that is applicable to a lifestyle. Thus, when it is presented, the error will
sound logical and appeal to one’s flesh. People will hear it and say, “Wow!
That’s a possibility I should consider.” In other words, when the devil
comes knocking on your door, he doesn’t show up with horns on his head,
a protruding tail, and a red pitchfork in his hand. On the contrary, he
comes with the slickest PR infomercial ever produced. He offers ideas
that are tantalizing and mesmerizing in an effort to get you to accept his
invitation and veer from the path of Scripture.
Make no mistake. Behind these well-packaged systems of thought that
are being promoted are “devils.” The word “devils” is the Greek word
daimonion, which in context, describes evil spirits, demons, devils. The
ancient world believed demons thickly populated the lower regions of
the air and that spirits were the primary cause of disasters, suffering, and
actions of insanity. At the time of the New Testament, if someone was
insane, thinking crazy, or acting like a lunatic, it was believed that person
had a demon.
Just stop and think about some of the people in society today who are
promoting their bold, new progressive policies. You’ve seen them in the
headlines and heard their multiple soundbites, spouting and touting their
outlandish philosophies. Taken at face-value, their ideas are sheer lunacy.
These bizarre leaders claim to have the answers to everything we’re facing,
when in fact they are campaigning for chaos and catastrophe. What’s
behind all this nonsense? The Bible says its “seducing spirits and doctrines
of devils.”
Again, the Holy Spirit makes this clear through the apostle Paul in First
Timothy 4:1: “Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times
some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and
doctrines of devils.” In the very strongest and clearest of terms that cannot
be misunderstood, the Holy Spirit urgently warned us that when we’ve
come to the very end of the Church age and no time remains, some people
— even those who are notable — shall begin to slowly but surely put
distance between themselves and the clear, sound teaching of Scripture.
100 | STUDY GUIDE

This will be the work of seducing spirits and doctrines of demons who
bring well-packaged alternative ideas and lifestyles to lead people astray.
Friend, stick with the truth. Make the decision to press into the timeless,
unchanging truth of God’s Word every day and get to know the Holy
Spirit of God who authored it. These two practices will go a long way to
help keep your head on straight in a world gone crazy!
STUDY QUESTIONS
— 2 Timothy 2:15
1. What does God say in His Word about sticking to His tried and true
path of old? Check out these passages of Scripture and identify what
He promises to those who don’t veer off track. (See Jeremiah 6:16;
Psalm 16:11; 119:35; Proverbs 4:18.)
2. The Bible says, “See to it that no one carries you off as spoil or makes
you yourselves captive by his so-called philosophy and intellectualism
and vain deceit (idle fancies and plain nonsense)…” (Colossians 2:8
AMPC). How can you guard yourself from swallowing deception and
departing from the faith? Consider Colossians 2:6,7; Romans 12:2;
and Second Timothy 3:14-17.
— James 1:22
1. The Holy Spirit emphatically stated that in latter times some would
depart from the faith. Who do you know that once held tightly
to Scripture but has gradually walked away from truth and is now
embracing practices that are totally against God’s Word? Can you see
how and where they began drifting away from the truth? What can
you learn from their example to protect yourself from experiencing
the same outcome?
2. Hebrews 2:1 (MSG) says, “It’s crucial that we keep a firm grip on
what we’ve heard so that we don’t drift off.” This “drifting off ” is

departing from the faith — it’s distancing one’s self from, stepping away
from, and slowly withdrawing from the timeless truth of Scripture. Take a
moment to pray and ask God these vital questions and listen for His
answers.
• “Father, have I drifted into this subtle, almost imperceptible pattern of
departure? Am I unknowingly being influenced by seducing spirits and
doctrines of demons?”
• “If I have, where am I adrift? In what ways have my beliefs deviated
from the truth?”
• “Father, please forgive me. Show me what I can do to stay anchored in
the truth of Your Word. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”
102 | STUDY GUIDE

Notes
___________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________

What You Need To Know
About the Antichrist
People talk often about the coming of Jesus, but once Christ has come
for His Church, the Bible says the Antichrist will be revealed to the
world. In one split second, this “man of lawlessness” will come out of
hiding and will go public. The reign of this individual will bring rot and
ruin into every sphere of society as a last-days mutiny is waged against
God.
In this ten-part series, Rick Renner delves into this end-times subject
like you’ve never heard it before. Basing his teaching mostly on First
Thessalonians, Rick explores verses that are difficult to understand and
makes them simple for you to comprehend.
Since we are living at the very end of the age, we need to know what is
coming. If you are interested in what the Bible says about it, this is one
series you need to digest!
In this series, Rick answers:
• Who is the Antichrist?
• What are his characteristics?
• What will he be like when he shows up?
• When will he be revealed to the world?
• What is stopping him from being revealed right now?
Rick Renner is the author of the bestsellers Dressed To

Kill and Sparkling Gems From the Greek 1 and 2, which
have sold millions of copies worldwide. His understanding
of the Greek language and biblical history opens up the
Scriptures in a unique way that enables readers to gain
wisdom and insight while learning something brand new
from the Word of God. Rick is the founder and president of RENNER
MINISTRIES based in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and host to his TV program
that is seen around the world in multiple languages.
RENNER MINISTRIES • P.O. Box 702040 • Tulsa, OK 74170

1-800-RICK-593 • renner.org ©2020 All Rights Reserved

Rick Renner - Study Guide - The Coming of The AntiChrist

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Rick Renner - Study Guide - The Coming of The AntiChrist

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Rick Renner - Study Guide - The Coming of The AntiChrist

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Companion Study Guide 10 LESSONS

The Coming of the Antichrist

Copyright © 2020 by Rick Renner

Published by Rick Renner Ministries

Printed in the United States of America. All rights reserved. No portion of

Your brother and friend in Jesus Christ,

The Coming of the Antichrist | 3

The Coming of the Antichrist | 5

The emphasis of this lesson:

The Coming of the Antichrist | 7

The Coming of the Antichrist | 9

Immediately after the resurrection of the dead in Christ, the rapture of

The Coming of the Antichrist | 11

The Coming of the Antichrist | 13

The Coming of the Antichrist | 15

The emphasis of this lesson:

A Review of First Thessalonians 4:15-17

The Coming of the Antichrist | 17

‘Behold, I shew you a mystery’

‘We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed’

The Coming of the Antichrist | 19

‘In the twinkling of an eye’

‘At the last trump’

‘The dead shall be raised incorruptible,

The Coming of the Antichrist | 21

The Coming of the Antichrist | 23

The Coming of the Antichrist | 25

The emphasis of this lesson:

Don’t Listen to Inaccurate Prophecy Teachers

The Rapture and Christ’s Second Coming

The Coming of the Antichrist | 27

‘Be Not Soon Shaken’

Don’t Believe Everything You See and Hear

The Coming of the Antichrist | 29

The Coming of the Antichrist | 31

The Coming of the Antichrist | 33

The emphasis of this lesson:

A SUMMARY OF SECOND THESSALONIANS 2:1,2

The Coming of the Antichrist | 35

Don’t Be Shaken or Troubled

Reject Rumors and Spiritual Revelations

The Coming of the Antichrist | 37

Let No One Deceive You by Any Means

A ‘Falling Away’ Must Come Before the Rapture

The Coming of the Antichrist | 39

The Antichrist Is the Man of ‘Lawlessness’

The Coming of the Antichrist | 41

The Coming of the Antichrist | 43

The emphasis of this lesson:

A REVIEW OF SECOND THESSALONIANS 2:3

The Coming of the Antichrist | 45

The Antichrist Will Exalt Himself

The Coming of the Antichrist | 47

He Will Seat Himself

The Great Restrainer

The Coming of the Antichrist | 49

The Coming of the Antichrist | 51

The Coming of the Antichrist | 53

The emphasis of this lesson: