Paul: First the Antichrist — William Branham: First the Christ
How could a true prophet of God read through and discuss 2 Thessalonians 2 conclude with the opposite idea for which the chapter was written? Paul’s point is to ensure the saints understand, “First the Antichrist” (v.3) makes his public appearance at which time “he opposes and exalts himself..,” afterwards he is destroyed at the coming (parousia) of our Lord Jesus Christ (the day of the Lord) which is the time of our gathering together to him (2:2, 8 exactly 1 Thess. 4:16-17). There is no pre-tribulation, secret Rapture ahead of the working of Satan through the Man of lawlessness in the text of 1 Thessalonians 4, 5; 2 Thessalonians 1, 2. The opposite is set forth. William Branham’s message is “a message” Paul warned against in verse 2.