What Is the Mystery of Iniquity in the Bible?
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Christianity is full of mystery because Jesus came to Earth to save while revealing there is another, unseen world, the Kingdom of Heaven. His Gospel was centered around the mystery of this other, unseen reality—repent for the Kingdom of God is at hand (Matthew 4:17). Through parables and teaching, Jesus and the whole of Scripture is an exploration of the mystery of the unseen and a promise of more to discover.
There are several official mysteries spoken of in the New Testament—including the intriguing mystery of iniquity. How is iniquity a mystery? And what does God reveal to us about iniquity?
What Is the Biblical Context for the Mystery of Iniquity?
The concept of the mystery of iniquity is primarily discussed in the writings of the Apostle Paul. In 2 Thessalonians 2:7, he writes, “For the mystery of iniquity is already at work; only he who now restrains will do so until he is taken out of the way.”
Here, Paul speaks of a hidden or veiled power of lawlessness already active in the world. It opposes God’s righteousness and seeks to undermine His purposes.
2 Thessalonians is the second letter to the church in Thessalonica, which Paul planted. Since Paul’s first letter to this church, the beginnings of false doctrine have begun to influence the Thessalonians, causing them to waver in their faith. Throughout this letter, Paul affirms the church and reminds them of the truths he taught, challenging the false doctrines. To add to the context, the church had been dealing with persecution. Amid this oppression, Paul refers them to the ultimate reward of heaven for believers and justice for the oppressors when Jesus comes back.
Therefore, in the context of 2 Thessalonians chapter 2, Paul is writing about the coming Day of the Lord. This generally means the return of Christ, a future event when Jesus returns in judgment and ultimate restoration. One of the false ideas the church dealt with was teachers who tried to tell them this Day of the Lord would never come. Without this future reward, the disciples would lose heart and hope and fall away.
The Apostle Paul mentions how he taught persecution must come before Jesus returns, and a specific man would bring evil and falling away. Paul calls him the man of lawlessness or sin, likely referencing the future idea of the Antichrist.
Despite scholars debating who this Antichrist is, Paul connects this evil leader with a spiritual force behind him. This man of lawlessness (sin) is or will be empowered by a satanic force, which Paul calls the mystery of iniquity (lawlessness, sin).
Paul explains God is restraining this mystery of iniquity, the evil force of sin, until the appropriate time. This mystery of iniquity, therefore, is part of an epic spiritual struggle and story between God and Satan. However, Paul comforts the believers in Thessalonica. God is still in control. He restrains. He allows, and he will judge and restore.
Why is Iniquity a Mystery?
Iniquity and sin are spoken of as a mystery for several reasons.
Firstly, iniquity is a mystery because it involves a spiritual battle. Ephesians 6:12 states, “For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.” The struggle against iniquity is not merely a physical conflict but a spiritual one. It involves unseen forces and powers at work behind the scenes, opposing God’s righteousness and seeking to deceive humanity.
Secondly, iniquity operates through deception and falsehood. In John 8:44, Jesus refers to Satan as “a liar and the father of lies.” Iniquity works through falsehoods, distortions of truth, and cunning schemes to lead people astray. It often presents itself attractively, disguising its true nature and intent. This veiled nature of iniquity makes it difficult for people to recognize and discern its workings without spiritual discernment.
Thirdly, iniquity is a mystery because it is deeply rooted in the human heart. Jeremiah 17:9 states, “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; who can know it?” This verse highlights the inherent sinful nature of humanity. Iniquity finds fertile ground in the human heart, exploiting our sinful inclinations and desires. The mystery lies in the complexity and depth of human sinfulness, which often operates in ways that elude our understanding and self-awareness.
Another powerful passage about the human heart is Romans 7:7-25. Paul writes to the believers in Rome his experience with the Law and his own heart. The Law showed him what was good and evil, but he couldn’t choose good, even though he wanted to. He didn’t want to choose evil, but he would. This is part of the mystery: how we, in our own strength, cannot do the good we wish to do and instead, choose to do the evil we know will destroy ourselves and others.
Paul clearly shows the need for a deeper work in our hearts, a new spirit and new heart only available in the New Covenant through Christ.
Furthermore, iniquity opposes God’s righteousness while masquerading as something good. 2 Corinthians 11:14-15 warns, “For Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. It is not surprising, then, if his servants also masquerade as servants of righteousness.” Iniquity often presents itself as morally acceptable or virtuous, leading people astray by distorting God’s truth.
Lastly, iniquity’s ultimate defeat is only fully revealed in God’s plan of redemption. The Bible teaches that the power of sin and iniquity has been overcome through Jesus Christ’s life, death, and resurrection. Colossians 2:15 states, “Having disarmed principalities and powers, He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them in it.” The mystery of iniquity finds its resolution in God’s redemptive work, culminating in the final judgment and the establishment of God’s eternal kingdom.
What are Other Mysteries from the Writers of the New Testament?
The New Testament contains various mysteries besides the mystery of iniquity, each offering profound insights into God’s unseen, divine plan work of salvation.
Jesus frequently spoke in parables, and one recurring theme was the mystery of the Kingdom of God (Mark 4:11; Luke 8:10). The Kingdom of God represents God’s reign and rule in the hearts of believers and His ultimate reign over all creation. It highlights the tension between the present age and the age to come.
Ephesians 3:4-6 speaks of the mystery of Christ, stating, “the mystery of Christ, which was not made known to men in other generations as it has now been revealed by the Spirit to God’s holy apostles and prophets.” This mystery refers to including both Jews and Gentiles in God’s redemptive plan through faith in Christ.
In 1 Corinthians 15:51-52, Paul describes the mystery of the resurrection: “Behold, I tell you a mystery: We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed—in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet.” This mystery refers to the future event when believers will experience the transformation of their mortal bodies into glorified bodies, signaling the ultimate victory over death and the fulfillment of God’s promises.
Ephesians 1:9 speaks about the mystery of God’s will: “having made known to us the mystery of His will, according to His good pleasure which He purposed in Himself.” This mystery pertains to God’s overarching plan and purpose for humanity and creation, reconciling all creation to himself through his Son, the Lord Jesus Christ.
Paul refers to the mystery of the Gospel in Ephesians 6:19: “that utterance may be given to me, that I may open my mouth boldly to make known the mystery of the gospel.” This mystery reveals God’s plan of redemption and reconciliation, whereby through Christ’s death and resurrection, humanity can be forgiven, reconciled to God, and receive eternal life.
Colossians 1:27 speaks of the mystery of Christ in you, which it calls “the hope of glory.” This mystery emphasizes the transformative power of Christ within individuals, enabling them to live in a manner that reflects His character and experience the hope of eternal glory.
God is a good Father, revealing the mysteries of the unseen reality so we can live and walk in love and truth.
What Are Some Important Lessons About the Mystery of Iniquity for Christians Today?
The mystery of iniquity holds important lessons for Christians today, offering guidance and insights as they navigate the challenges of living in a fallen world. Let us explore some key lessons derived from the mystery of iniquity.
1. Vigilance and Discernment. The enemy seeks to deceive and lead astray, often disguising himself as an angel of light. We are called to test every spirit and hold fast to the truth of God’s Word (1 John 4:1). By cultivating a close relationship with God, studying His Word, and relying on the Holy Spirit for discernment, we can recognize and resist the deceitful schemes of the enemy.
2. The Power of Truth. Jesus declared Himself “the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6). We are called to anchor ourselves in the truth of God’s Word, allowing it to guide our thoughts, actions, and beliefs. The truth exposes the enemy’s lies and provides a solid foundation for discernment and spiritual warfare.
3. Overcoming Evil with Good. The mystery of iniquity can be disheartening, as it reveals the presence of evil in the world. However, we are reminded that we are called to overcome evil with good (Romans 12:21). Rather than succumbing to the despair and hopelessness that iniquity may bring, we can resist it by living out the values of God’s kingdom—showing love, kindness, forgiveness, and extending grace to others.
4. Unity and Accountability. We are better equipped to resist the enemy’s wiles when we are united, standing firm in the truth, and supporting one another. Christians must encourage, exhort, and hold each other accountable, ensuring that none are led astray by the deceptive tactics of iniquity, as evidenced by Paul’s writing to encourage the church in Thessalonica.
5. The Ultimate Victory. While iniquity may seem pervasive and powerful, we are reminded of the ultimate victory over evil that the Lord Jesus Christ has secured. The cross and the resurrection demonstrate God’s triumph over sin and death. It assures us that iniquity’s defeat is certain. This knowledge instills hope, confidence, and perseverance, knowing that God’s plan of redemption will ultimately prevail.
The mystery of iniquity calls us to be vigilant, anchoring ourselves in God’s truth and ultimate victory. God helps us not be ignorant of our enemy and his plan. What a good Father!
Peace.
Photo Credit: © Getty Images/Vladislav Chorniy
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