2 Thessalonians 2:6 (KJV)

What does 2 Thessalonians 2:6 mean?

2 Thessalonians 2:6 says that the readers now know what is holding back or restraining someone or something, so that this figure will only be revealed at the right time. The verse points to a force or influence that is currently preventing a certain event or person from appearing before the appointed moment.

Paul is writing to the church in Thessalonica, explaining why the "man of sin" or "lawless one" (mentioned in the surrounding verses) has not yet appeared. Paul refers to something the Thessalonians already understand, which is actively holding back this revealing. The verse is part of a larger explanation about future events and reassures the church that certain things must happen in a specific order.

The Greek behind 2 Thessalonians 2:6

• "withholdeth" (κατέχον, katechon): This Greek word means "to hold back," "restrain," or "prevent." The use of this word highlights that there is an active restraint in place, not just a passive delay.
• "revealed" (ἀποκαλυφθῆναι, apokalyphthēnai): This word means "to be uncovered" or "to be made known." It emphasizes that the appearance of the "he" in question is something hidden that will only become visible when the restraint is removed.
• "in his time" (ἐν τῷ ἑαυτοῦ καιρῷ, en tō heautou kairō): The phrase means "in his own appointed time." The Greek word for "time" (καιρός, kairos) often refers to a specific, decisive moment rather than just any time.

Why 2 Thessalonians 2:6 matters

• This verse clarifies that the appearance of the "man of sin" or "lawless one" is not random, but is being deliberately held back until the right moment, countering fears that these end-time events could happen at any time.
• The verse connects closely with the rest of the chapter, where Paul explains the sequence of future events and reassures the Thessalonians that they have not missed the coming of the Lord.
• The mention of a restraining force has led to much discussion about what or who this might be, showing that Paul expected his readers to already know what he meant, likely from his earlier teaching.