by Pastor Rich Carlson

Confusion seemed to be reigning in Thessalonica, in Paul’s time like it is for some of us today, regarding the return of Jesus. Both its reality and its imminence were a concern. I must admit, I’ve had times when I’ve wondered if the whole thing is really true—Jesus coming back, in the clouds, every eye seeing Him, a resurrection, and an eternity with Him. I’ve never stopped hoping and believing, but I have had my moments. "Soon" is such a relative term. The apostles used it, and my Church has used it. I’ve used it, and here I am still waiting, and using it: Jesus is coming—"soon."

Here are some things I learned, or relearned, from the second chapter of 2 Thessalonians. 
Jesus will not return until:
a. There is a great rebellion against God, and
b. The man of lawlessness is revealed.

The man of lawlessness will be revealed when he exalts himself, defies every god there is, tears down every object of adoration and worship, positions himself in the temple of God, and claims that he himself is God. God is keeping this from happening for a time. This man of lawlessness is working secretly right now because God will not let him complete his work. Additionally, fake messiahs will counterfeit even signs and miracles.

The man of lawlessness will use every kind of wicked deception, but, the only way he can succeed is if I choose not to "believe the truth" (2:12). But, if I "enjoy evil" I will be deceived (2:12).

When God steps back and this man of lawlessness is revealed, God will consume him, the breath of His mouth and the splendor of His second coming will destroy him.

I will experience salvation, in God’s timing, if I allow the Spirit to make me holy, and if I believe His truth. This truth is the Good News—the gospel—the story of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection.
With that I can "share in the glory of my Lord Jesus Christ" (2:14). "With all these things in mind…(2:15):
1. Stand firm
2. Keep a strong grip on everything we taught you"
And then (which was as close to "soon" as I could discover)—"the Lord Jesus Christ and God our Father, who loved us and in His special favor gave us everlasting comfort and good hope, will comfort our hearts and give us strength in every good thing we do and say" (verse 16).

I still don’t know when Jesus is coming. But He has His timing and He has His plan. What I can know is that He has already won the ultimate battle with the devil, and if I "stand firm" and "keep a strong grip on everything I have been taught," the "soon" coming of Jesus will be a reality in my life, whenever it comes. Those facts will keep me faithful to the finish. I pray it will do the same for you.

Rich Carlson is campus chaplain at Union College in Lincoln, Nebraska. “God Is Faithful” is adapted from the email devotionals he writes regularly for the Union College family. Rich enjoys filling his life with God, his family, and especially his five grandchildren.