Abstract
Paul Metzger, in a revised version of a thesis of 2004 at the Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, seeks to solve the apparently intractable riddle of the neuter (or should it be masculine?) participle katechon in 2 Thess. 2: 6–7. His method is to concentrate on the historical context and exegesis of this chapter of the letter. He then discusses parallel motifs in 2 Peter 3:3–13; Rev. 5:1–5; 6:9–11; and 7:1–8; 4 Ezra 4:33–43; the Syriac Apocalypse of Baruch; and Liber Antiquitatum Biblicarum 51. 3–6 of Pseudo-Philo. He also draws comparisons with the Synoptic Apocalypse (Mark 13 and parallels) and with Qumran (1Qp Hab 7 and 1Q 27). His conclusion is that the most probable reference is to the Roman Empire or emperor, because they represent a power (both human and demonic) that is a present reality in world history, with a negative force that delays the parousia of the Messiah and does not protect the religious community in the present age, but is nonetheless a factor which has its appointed time within God's plan of ultimate salvation.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
