𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗠𝗬𝗦𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗬 𝗢𝗙 𝗜𝗡𝗜𝗤𝗨𝗜𝗧𝗬

THE MYSTERY OF INIQUITY

INTRODUCTION

The Bible speaks of a mystery already at work—an unseen, subtle system of rebellion operating beneath the surface of history. Paul calls it “the mystery of iniquity” (2 Thessalonians 2:7). This mystery is not merely future; it is present, progressing, and preparing the world for the revelation of the Man of Sin after the removal of the Church.

To understand this mystery, we must rightly divide the Word of Truth (2 Timothy 2:15), recognizing what is for today, what is being restrained, and what is yet to come.

THE MYSTERY MENTIONED

Explanation:
The Spirit of God first identifies iniquity as a mystery, meaning hidden but active.

A. Scripturally Named – Called a “mystery” (2 Thess. 2:7)

B. Secretly Moving – Works behind the scenes (Eph. 6:12)

C. Satanically Motivated – Energized by Satan (2 Cor. 4:4)

Key Verse: 2 Thessalonians 2:7

THE MEANING MANIFESTED

Explanation:
Iniquity is lawlessness—rebellion against God’s authority.

A. Rebellion Defined – Lawlessness described (1 John 3:4)

B. Rejection Displayed – Truth suppressed (Romans 1:18)

C. Replacement Desired – Man exalts self (2 Thess. 2:4)

Key Verse: 1 John 3:4

THE MOVEMENT MEASURING

Explanation:
The mystery grows stronger as truth is rejected.

A. Deception Deepening – Strong delusion increases (2 Thess. 2:11)

B. Apostasy Developing – Falling away foretold (1 Tim. 4:1)

C. Darkness Dominating – Evil men waxing worse (2 Tim. 3:13)

Key Verse: 2 Timothy 3:13

THE MINISTER OF INIQUITY

Explanation:
This mystery culminates in a person—the Man of Sin.

A. Prophetically Revealed – Son of perdition (2 Thess. 2:3)

B. Powerfully Energized – Satanic signs and wonders (2 Thess. 2:9)

C. Personally Opposed – Exalts himself as god (2 Thess. 2:4)

Key Verse: 2 Thessalonians 2:3–4

THE MAINTAINER RESTRAINING

Explanation:
Someone is currently restraining the full outbreak of iniquity.

A. Restrainer Present – “He who now letteth” (2 Thess. 2:7)

B. Spirit-Enabled – Holy Spirit in the Body of Christ (1 Cor. 3:16)

C. Church-Related – Restrainer removed at the Rapture (1 Thess. 4:16–17)

Key Verse: 2 Thessalonians 2:7

THE MOMENT OF REMOVAL

Explanation:
The mystery explodes after the Church is taken out.

A. Rapture Removes – The Body of Christ caught up (1 Thess. 4:17)

B. Restraint Removed – Iniquity unleashed (2 Thess. 2:8)

C. Revelation Revealed – Antichrist appears (Rev. 13:1)

Key Verse: 1 Thessalonians 4:17

THE MULTITUDE MISLED

Explanation:
Those who reject truth will embrace deception.

A. Truth Refused – Love of truth rejected (2 Thess. 2:10)

B. Lie Received – Believe the lie (2 Thess. 2:11)

C. Judgment Resulting – Condemnation follows (2 Thess. 2:12)

Key Verse: 2 Thessalonians 2:10–12

THE MISSION OF THE BELIEVER

Explanation:
Believers today are called to resist iniquity with truth.

A. Standing Firm – Hold fast to doctrine (2 Thess. 2:15)

B. Speaking Faithfully – Proclaim the Gospel of Grace (Acts 20:24)

C. Shining Brightly – Light in a dark world (Phil. 2:15)

Key Verse: 2 Thessalonians 2:15

THE MEANS OF VICTORY

Explanation:
Victory is found in Christ and His finished work.

A. Grace Grounded – Saved and sealed (Eph. 1:13)

B. Truth Taught – Rightly divided Word (2 Tim. 2:15)

C. Hope Held – Blessed hope ahead (Titus 2:13)

Key Verse: Titus 2:13

CONCLUSION

The mystery of iniquity is already working, but it is not yet finished. Its full power will be revealed only after the Church is removed. Until then, God’s people are to stand in truth, walk in grace, and proclaim the Gospel while there is still time.

CALL TO ACTION

Believe the Gospel (1 Corinthians 15:1–4)

Study the Word rightly divided

Stand against deception

Preach grace boldly before the night comes

FINAL THOUGHTS

A Hidden Mystery
A Growing Rebellion
A Coming Antichrist
A Present Restrainer
A Promised Rapture
A Powerful Delusion
A Clear Warning
A Faithful Witness
A Certain Victory in Christ

> “For the mystery of iniquity doth already work…”
2 Thessalonians 2:7 (KJV)