STAND FIRM AND HOLD ON

PROCLAMATION

“Whereunto He called you … Therefore, brethren, stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word, or by epistle.  Now our Lord Jesus Christ Himself, and God, even our Father, who loved us … Comfort your hearts, and establish you in ever good word and work.”  2 Thessalonians 2:14-17 (KJV)

 

EXPLANATION

These words were written by the Apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, to the believers in the church at Thessalonica.  He began this the second chapter of his second letter to them by discussing the antichrist and he reminded them that he had told them about these things when he was with them. (2 Thessalonians 2:1-5)  The coming of the antichrist will be in accordance with how Satan works, using displays of power through signs and wonders to support his lies and deceptions. (2 Thessalonians 2:7-10)  The false prophets were spreading the word that the Day of The Lord had already come, whereas Paul was telling the believers that it had not come yet. (2 Thessalonians 2:2-3)  Then Paul encourages them to stand firm and hold on to the teachings which they had received. (2 Thessalonians 2:15)  He ends by praying that God will encourage and strengthen them. (2 Thessalonians 2:16-17)

 

APPLICATION

After the rapture, the day of The Lord will begin.  The Day of The Lord is a technical phrase which refers to the period of time beginning with the Great Tribulation. (Read Matthew 24:3-28)  The antichrist will reveal himself during this period and deceive the people presenting himself as God. (2 Thessalonians 2:4)  He will have power and he will perform signs and wonders to support his deception. (2 Thessalonians 2:8-10)  As bad as things are in the world today, they will get worse because the day of The Lord has not yet come.  When it does come, believers will not be here to see it because it will occur after the rapture.  So, don’t be left behind, that will be a bad time to be a believer.  Keep the faith and keep spreading The Word of God by mouth and by actions.  Put on the whole armor of God so that we will be able to stand against the attacks of the devil. (Ephesians 6:11)  Then we can rest assured that we are safely within God’s hands. (John 10:29)