2:9

the lawless one’s presence: The Greek text could here be more literally rendered “whose presence.” The context makes it clear that this phrase refers, not to the presence of Christ, but to the presence of “the lawless one” mentioned in the preceding verse.

by the operation of Satan: The Greek word here rendered “operation” could be rendered “activity.” One reference work says that in the Christian Greek Scriptures, this term is “used only of superhuman power, whether of God or of the devil.” Paul thus indicates that Satan uses his superhuman might to empower “the man of lawlessness.” (2Th 2:3) Additionally, “Satan” is a Hebrew word meaning “resister,” and “the man of lawlessness” resists Jehovah by opposing His teachings and His people.​—See study note on Mt 4:10.

wonders: Or “portents.” The true apostles of Christ did perform powerful works, signs, and wonders because they had God’s holy spirit. (Ac 2:43; 5:12; 15:12; 2Co 12:12) However, any similar displays on the part of the rebellious “man of lawlessness” would actually be an indication of Satan’s powerful operation and activity. (2Th 2:3) The “wonders,” or “portents,” would be lying ones. Either they would be fraudulent or they would lead to false or misleading conclusions. (2Th 2:10, 11) They would divert people from the Source of life and the path to life everlasting.​—Compare Mt 7:22, 23; 2Co 11:3, 12-15; see study note on Ac 2:19.