This is a hastily-scribbled note dealing with issues that had not been clarified in the first letter. It is important to note that written communication can be misinterpreted. Recognising this, Paul sent the second letter. In it, he gave further instructions concerning the second coming of Jesus. He begins the letter with his trademark- a personal greeting and a statement of thanksgiving for their faith.
This letter adds more details about the return of Jesus, describing an enigmatic ‘man of lawlessness’ who will rebel against the Lord, perform satanic signs and wonders and deceive people. The Lord will not return until this happens and then he will destroy this evil figure. Later tradition calls this man ‘the antichrist’ and many early Christians believed that this was Emperor Nero because of his cruelty and persecution of the church.
Paul ends his letter with personal greetings and a benediction.
To clear up the confusion about the second coming of Christ.
Paul
To the church at Thessalonica, and all believers everywhere.
The date is believed to have been around AD 51 or 52, a few months after he wrote 1 Thessalonians.
Many in the church were confused about the second return of Jesus. When was it going to happen? They interpreted Paul’s first letter to say that Jesus was coming at any moment and this gave many the excuse to be idle and disorderly and wait for his return.
“May the Lord direct your hearts into God’s love and Christ’s perseverance.” (3:5)
“So then, brothers and sisters, stand firm and hold to the teachings we passed on to you.” (2:15)
“We pray this so that the name of our Lord Jesus may be glorified in you, and you in him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.” (1:12)
How are we to live our lives as we wait for the return of our Lord?