Session 11 2 Thessalonians 2:1-12
Direct the group to read 2 Thessalonians 2:9-12, !~locating what Paul says about those who are deceived and reject Jesus.
9 The coming of the lawless one is based on Satan’s working, with every kind of miracle, both signs and wonders serving the lie, 10 and with every wicked deception among those who are perishing. They perish because they did not accept the love of the truth and so be saved.
11 For this reason God sends them a strong delusion so that they will believe the lie, 12 so that all will be condemned — those who did not believe the truth but delighted in unrighteousness.
Lead the group to complete the Bible Skill activity together (p. 95). Compare Paul’s comments about false teachings in both of his letters to the Thessalonian believers. Form two groups, and instruct each to review 1 Thessalonians 4:13—5:11 and 2 Thessalonians 2:1-12. Guide the groups to identify common themes, words and phrases, and concepts found in both passages. Designate a representative from each group to share their observations. Discuss: What does the comparison of the two passages tell us about the false teachings being presented in Thessalonica? (Bible Skill, p. 95)
Create two columns on a board, labeling one Satan and the Man of Lawlessness and the other The Wicked. Lead the group to review 1 Thessalonians 2:9-12 and locate characteristics of each. As responses are called out, record them on the board. Ask: Why might a person willfully accept a lie when the truth is available? (p. 95) How should the coming of Christ and the coming of the lawless one influence our approach to sharing the gospel today?
Remind the group of the opening illustration (being distracted by chatter during the shell game). Lead them to discuss truths from this session that will help them ignore chatter and stay focused on God’s truth and promises.
Call attention to the three summary statements under Apply the Text (p. 96). Challenge the group to select one statement they most need to be reminded of. Direct them to record in the margin of their book their reasons for selecting that statement, assuring them they will not be asked to share. Encourage them to reflect on that statement each day this week.
Call attention to the first question set under Apply the Text (p. 96). Identify the things that are bringing stress into your life. How do the things you listed relate to a failure to trust in God? Ask God to help you trust Him more in these areas. Encourage the group to address these in a time of private reflection this week.
Conclude the group time with prayer, thanking God for His promises and for the assurance that He is in control. Pray that the group will live in light of God’s promises, even when the world seems out of control.
Reinforce the session by encouraging the group to share through a group text, reply all to an email, or on an app, identifying practical ways the group can show trust in God.