2 Thessalonians 2:11
And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie:
Study Note
Study Note
God's sending of 'a strong delusion so that they might believe what is false' (the pseudei, 'the lie') represents one of the most theologically demanding statements in Paul's letters about divine judicial hardening. The logic follows from verse 10: those who refuse the love of truth are given over to believing the lie — a pattern with precedents in Exodus 9:12 (hardening of Pharaoh's heart), Isaiah 6:9–10, and Romans 1:24–28. The phrase 'God sends' (pempei) raises questions about divine causation and human responsibility: most interpreters read this as God's permissive rather than efficient causation, withdrawing the restraining gift of truth-love. The verse has been significant in Reformed theology for its illustration of reprobation and in broader discussions of natural consequence as divine judgment.
Other Translations
And for this cause God sendeth them a working of error, that they should believe a lie:
and because of this shall God send to them a working of delusion, for their believing the lie,
And for this cause, God will give them up to the power of deceit and they will put their faith in what is false:
Cross References
And the Lord said unto him, Wherewith? And he said, I will go forth, and I will be a lying …
And the king of Israel said unto Jehoshaphat, Did I not tell thee that he would prophesy no good concerning …
Now therefore, behold, the Lord hath put a lying spirit in the mouth of these thy prophets, and the Lord …
Again he said, Therefore hear the word of the Lord; I saw the Lord sitting upon his throne, and all …
I also will choose their delusions, and will bring their fears upon them; because when I called, none did answer; …
He feedeth on ashes: a deceived heart hath turned him aside, that he cannot deliver his soul, nor say, Is …
Therefore, behold, I will proceed to do a marvellous work among this people, even a marvellous work and a wonder: …
Stay yourselves, and wonder; cry ye out, and cry: they are drunken, but not with wine; they stagger, but not …
Make the heart of this people fat, and make their ears heavy, and shut their eyes; lest they see with …
And he said, Go, and tell this people, Hear ye indeed, but understand not; and see ye indeed, but perceive …