2 Thessalonians – Chapter 2

New Testament17 Verses

1And we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and of our gathering together unto him:

2That you be not easily moved from your sense nor be terrified, neither by spirit nor by word nor by epistle. as sent from us, as if the day of the Lord were at hand.

3Let no man deceive you by any means: for unless there come a revolt first, and the man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition

4Who opposeth and is lifted up above all that is called God or that is worshipped, so that he sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself as if he were God.

5Remember you not that, when I was yet with you, I told you these things?

6And now you know what withholdeth, that he may be revealed in his time.

7For the mystery of iniquity already worketh: only that he who now holdeth do hold, until he be taken out of the way.

8And then that wicked one shall be revealed: whom the Lord Jesus shall kill with the spirit of his mouth and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming: him

9Whose coming is according to the working of Satan, in all power and signs and lying wonders:

10And in all seduction of iniquity to them that perish: because they receive not the love of the truth, that they might be saved. Therefore God shall send them the operation of error, to believe lying:

11That all may be judged who have not believed the truth but have consented to iniquity.

12But we ought to give thanks to God always for you, brethren, beloved of God, for that God hath chosen you firstfruits unto salvation, in sanctification of the spirit and faith of the truth:

13Whereunto also he hath called you by our gospel, unto the purchasing of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.

14Therefore, brethren, stand fast: and hold the traditions, which you have learned, whether by word or by our epistle.

15Now our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God and our Father, who hath loved us and hath given us everlasting consolation and good hope in grace,

16Exhort your hearts and confirm you in every good work and word.

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Reflection for Today

As you read 2 Thessalonians Chapter 2, the Catholic Church invites you to encounter God's living Word through the lens of Sacred Tradition. The Catechism teaches that Scripture must be read "within the living Tradition of the whole Church" (CIC 113). The same Holy Spirit who inspired these words continues to guide the Church in understanding them today.

In Catholic theology, every passage of Scripture points ultimately to Christ and finds its fullest meaning in the Church's sacramental life. The Magisterium—the teaching authority of the Pope and bishops—guides the faithful in authentic interpretation. As you meditate on these verses, consider how the Church Fathers and saints have understood them.

Through lectio divina—the ancient Catholic practice of prayerful reading—allow these words to transform your mind and heart, drawing you deeper into communion with Christ and His Church. Ask the Holy Spirit to illuminate these verses and show you how they call you to deeper faith, hope, and love.

💡Catholic Reflection • Church Teachings

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