2Th 2:7 | PNT | STEP | For the mystery of iniquity . This revelation of the man of sin. It was a mystery, that is, something yet hidden. Doth already work . Causes are beginning to work which will lead to it. Only he who now letteth [will let], until he be taken out of the way . He that hindereth must first be taken out of the way. There was no room for an arrogant spiritual power in Rome as long as imperial Rome continued to persecute the church. A persecuted church cannot be a haughty church. Two things were needful before the papal power could be developed; viz., the overthrow of paganism, and the removal of the capital of the Empire from Rome. When these things were done, it was free to seize the old Roman scepter.

2 Thessalonians 2:7

For the mystery of iniquity. This revelation of the man of sin. It was a mystery, that is, something yet hidden.

Doth already work. Causes are beginning to work which will lead to it.

Only he who now letteth [will let], until he be taken out of the way. He that hindereth must first be taken out of the way. There was no room for an arrogant spiritual power in Rome as long as imperial Rome continued to persecute the church. A persecuted church cannot be a haughty church. Two things were needful before the papal power could be developed; viz., the overthrow of paganism, and the removal of the capital of the Empire from Rome. When these things were done, it was free to seize the old Roman scepter.