Rev., literally and correctly, a working of error. See on working 2Th 2:9. The phrase is unique in N.T. It means an active power of misleading. For πλάνη error which shows itself in action, see on 1Th 2:3.
A lie (τῷ ψεύδει)
Properly, the lie. The article gives the generic sense, falsehood in all its forms. Comp. Joh 8:44; Rom 1:25; Eph 4:25. Comp. the contrast of truth and unrighteousness in 2Th 2:12. All wrongdoing has an element of falsity.