Thessalonica's Thickening Theology

The theology is getting thick in Thessalonica.

Paul warns the Thessalonians (in 2:3-5) once again that they must not be deceived by false teachers. The Day of the Lord will not occur until after "the falling away" and "the man of sin" is revealed.

The "man of sin" or "son of perdition" is also referred to as "the prince who is to come" (Daniel 9:26), "the little horn" (Daniel 7:8), the beast (Revelation 13:2-10, 18), and the Antichrist.

The "falling away" takes place at the midpoint of the Tribulation. It is referred to as the abomination of desolation. See Daniel 9:27; 11:3; Matthew 24:15. The antichrist exalts himself and moves into the temple in Jerusalem. He declares himself to be God and demands to be worshipped. For the first 3 1/2 years of the Tribulation, he maintains peace with Israel. For the last 3 1/2 years is the Great Tribulation, a time of great suffering, which culminates with the Day of the Lord.

Again, while the Rapture could occur at any moment, the Day of the Lord must be preceded by this "falling away" and the appearance of "the man of sin."

And now for some lighter fare . . .

I just got off the phone with our son. He is trying out for Army's sprint football team. He says that the practices have been grueling, but that he is continuing to give it his all until the final cuts are made. He is in great shape, but he has never played football. It was baseball, soccer, and basketball here at home. But he decided to give it the old army try.

School went well today. It's only the third day, but we seem to be developing somewhat of a routine. I napped for about an hour when I got home. The pain in my hips was not too intense. I still have pain, but it is bearable.

Our younger son starts K5 tomorrow. He is so excited. It will be early to bed tonight. For all of us, I think.

My beautiful, smiling wife just walked in the room. I've got to go.