The condition of the world as led by antichrist―man throwing off all recognition of God.
(vs. 1) The antichrist of the last day, in whom “the fool” will have the most extreme expression, will deny God, opposing, exalting himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped (2 Thess. 2:4). He will gather round him followers marked by corruption and abominable deeds. As ever, the folly of denying God lets loose the filthiness of fallen man. Infidelity and immorality are close companions; “No God” in the heart leads to “no good” in the life.
(vv. 2-3) Nevertheless, the God that men deny is patiently regarding man. God does not judge hastily. He looks upon men, and searches to find any that have understanding and seek after Him. As the result of God’s search there is not one that can be found that doeth good. Apart from the grace of God the whole human race is found to be corrupt.
(vv. 4-5) There are those, however, in whom God has wrought: those of whom God can speak as “my people.” The wicked who deny God, devour His people without any fear of God (cf. Jeremiah 10:25; Lam. 2:16).
Those in great fear would seem to indicate the ungodly nation of the Jews, associated with antichrist (Isa. 33:14). They fear as they see the armies encamped against Zion. There will be no ground for fear; for God will destroy the opposing enemy, putting to shame and despising those who had despised God.
(vs. 6) The longing of the godly that the salvation of Israel, which faith foresees, had already come. Then, when God reigns out of Zion as a center, Israel will be regathered with joy and gladness.