Bible Strands
2 Thessalonians 2:7
For the mystery of lawlessness is already at work, but the one who now restrains it will continue until he is taken out of the way.
Berean Standard Bible
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Study note
Setting — Paul addresses the Thessalonian believers to clarify the timeline surrounding the lawless one’s appearance and the current spiritual climate. He writes to correct their confusion about when these end-time events will unfold.
The words — ἐνεργεῖται (energeitai) means is working, and ἀνομίας (anomias) means of lawlessness, describing a hidden but active rebellion. μυστήριον (mustērion) denotes mystery, indicating a divine secret currently operating.
The thread — The theme of hidden rebellion and divine mystery appears in 1 John 4:3 regarding the spirit of the antichrist, 2 Timothy 2:17 where false teaching spreads like gangrene, and Revelation 17:7 where an angel explains a mystery involving a beast.
Why it lands — The text demands recognition that a present restraining force will remain until removed, after which the lawless one will be revealed. It requires the reader to distinguish current hidden activity from the imminent, decisive judgment that follows.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Greek words
King James Version
For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way.
Cross-references
- 1 John 4:3 and every spirit that does not confess Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you have heard is coming and which is already in the world at this time.
- 2 Timothy 2:17 and the talk of such men will spread like gangrene. Among them are Hymenaeus and Philetus,
- Revelation 17:7 “Why are you so amazed?” said the angel. “I will tell you the mystery of the woman and of the beast that carries her, which has the seven heads and ten horns.
- Acts 20:29 I know that after my departure, savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock.
- 1 John 2:18 Children, it is the last hour; and just as you have heard that the antichrist is coming, so now many antichrists have appeared. This is how we know it is the last hour.
- Revelation 17:5 And on her forehead a mysterious name was written: BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF PROSTITUTES AND OF THE ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH.
- Colossians 2:18 Do not let anyone who delights in false humility and the worship of angels disqualify you with speculation about what he has seen. Such a person is puffed up without basis by his unspiritual mind.
- 1 Timothy 3:16 By common confession, the mystery of godliness is great: He appeared in the flesh, was vindicated by the Spirit, was seen by angels, was proclaimed among the nations, was believed in throughout the world, was taken up in glory.