⁵ Don’t you remember that when I was with you I used to tell you these things?^{(A) 6} And now you know what is holding him back,^(B) so that he may be revealed at the proper time. ⁷ For the secret power of lawlessness is already at work; but the one who now holds it back^(C) will continue to do so till he is taken out of the way.

Request for Prayer

3 As for other matters, brothers and sisters,^(A) pray for us^(B) that the message of the Lord^(C) may spread rapidly and be honored, just as it was with you.^{(D) 2} And pray that we may be delivered from wicked and evil people,^(E) for not everyone has faith. ³ But the Lord is faithful,^(F) and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one.^{(G) 4} We have confidence^(H) in the Lord that you are doing and will continue to do the things we command. ⁵ May the Lord direct your hearts^(I) into God’s love and Christ’s perseverance.