The last days before Christ's return can often be controversial in one's interpretation of the Scripture but there are a few things that are very clear and we will attempt to bring those thoughts forward today.
Jesus, over and over again talked about His returning for the Church. It is clear that we do not know the time of this but we are informed for what to watch for. Chapter 2 assures the Thessalonians that the Day of the Lord has not yet come and they need to not be concerned but ready for the timing of God. Paul teaches about one of the first things to happen will be an all out rebellion of humanity against God. People will go deeper and deeper into depravity and sin. This will result in an all-out rebellion about God and then the Antichrist will appear. This individual will personify God and claim himself to be God and oppose and exalt himself against every so-called god or object of worship. Yet, the Antichrist destiny will be to be completely destroyed by the Lord in time.
Though the end times will be ruthless, yet for those who love the Lord it will be a time when Christ will return for His Church and as Jesus says in John 14:1-2, :Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. In my Father's house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go to prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also."
Paul encourages us in light of Christ's return to stand firm and to hold on to the "traditions" that we have been taught. Hold on to the firm Word of the Lord, don't waver from it!
"Now may our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God our Father, who loved us and gave us eternal comfort and good hope through grace, comfort your hearts and establish them in every good work and word."
Amen