2 Thessalonians 2:9

[Even him], whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders,

Even him, whose {G3739} coming {G3952} is {G2076} after {G2596} the working {G1753} of Satan {G4567} with {G1722} all {G3956} power {G1411} and {G2532} signs {G4592} and {G2532} lying {G5579} wonders {G5059},

When this man who avoids Torah comes, the Adversary will give him the power to work all kinds of false miracles, signs and wonders.

The coming of the lawless one will be accompanied by the working of Satan, with every kind of power, sign, and false wonder,

even he, whose coming is according to the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders,

2 Thessalonians 2:9 (KJV) unveils the sinister power behind the "man of sin" or Antichrist, whose arrival will be accompanied by supernatural displays orchestrated directly by Satan. This verse is a critical warning about the nature of end-times deception and the need for spiritual discernment.

Context

This verse is part of a larger explanation by the Apostle Paul to the Thessalonian believers, who were concerned about false teachings regarding the timing of the Lord's return. Paul clarifies that the Day of the Lord would not come until a great "falling away" (apostasy) had occurred and "that man of sin, the son of perdition," was revealed. Verse 9 specifically describes the source and character of this wicked figure's influence, emphasizing that his power is not divine but demonic, designed to mislead those who reject God's truth.

Key Themes

  • Satanic Empowerment: The phrase "whose coming is after the working of Satan" clearly indicates that the Antichrist's authority and ability to perform astonishing feats are not inherent or from God, but are directly granted and energized by the devil. This highlights the intense spiritual battle and the enemy's strategic efforts to deceive humanity and counter God's plan.
  • Deceptive Miracles: The mention of "all power and signs and lying wonders" signifies that this figure will perform seemingly miraculous acts. However, these are not genuine manifestations of divine power, but "lying wonders"—deceptive displays intended to fool and validate a false message. This serves as a strong warning to believers to discern the source and purpose of supernatural occurrences, as not all powerful displays are from God. Jesus Himself warned of similar deceptive signs in Matthew 24:24.
  • The Gravity of Deception: The verse underscores the extensive nature of the deception that will lead many astray, particularly those who have not received the love of the truth (2 Thessalonians 2:10). These "lying wonders" are potent tools in Satan's arsenal to solidify the apostasy and draw people away from true faith.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word translated "working" is energeia (ἐνέργεια), from which we derive "energy." It denotes active, effective power or operation. Here, it is specifically the "working of Satan," emphasizing the dynamic and forceful nature of his influence. The phrase "lying wonders" (pseudos teras, ψεῦδος τέρας) combines "falsehood" (pseudos) with "a wonder, a portent" (teras), clearly indicating that these miraculous signs, though awe-inspiring, are inherently deceitful in their origin and purpose, serving to validate a lie rather than God's truth.

Practical Application and Reflection

For believers today, 2 Thessalonians 2:9 serves as a vital call to spiritual vigilance and discernment. In a world increasingly exposed to various spiritual and supernatural phenomena, it is crucial to test the spirits and messages against the unchanging truth of God's Word (1 John 4:1). This verse reminds us that true power comes from God, and genuine miracles always glorify Him and confirm His truth, never a lie. We are encouraged to cultivate a deep love for the truth, as this is our primary safeguard against the powerful deceptions that will arise. Understanding the nature of the Antichrist's power helps us to recognize and resist the subtle and overt schemes of the enemy, standing firm in faith as we await the Lord's glorious return.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Matthew 24:24

    For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if [it were] possible, they shall deceive the very elect.

  • Revelation 19:20

    And the beast was taken, and with him the false prophet that wrought miracles before him, with which he deceived them that had received the mark of the beast, and them that worshipped his image. These both were cast alive into a lake of fire burning with brimstone.

  • Ephesians 2:2

    Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience:

  • 2 Corinthians 11:3

    But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ.

  • John 4:48

    Then said Jesus unto him, Except ye see signs and wonders, ye will not believe.

  • Mark 13:22

    For false Christs and false prophets shall rise, and shall shew signs and wonders, to seduce, if [it were] possible, even the elect.

  • Deuteronomy 13:1

    ¶ If there arise among you a prophet, or a dreamer of dreams, and giveth thee a sign or a wonder,

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