According to one position the words apply to the atheistic power in revolutionary France that attempted to abolish all religion in that country (see on v. 36). According to the other position the words are to be understood in a comparative sense; that is, the power here portrayed is not atheistic, but considers itself to be a spokesman for God and does not regard God as He should be regarded. It blasphemously seeks to put itself in His place (see 2 Thess. 2:4).
Desire of women.
Those who believe that France is the power here described see a fulfillment of this passage in the declaration of the revolutionists that marriage was a mere civil contract, that without further formality it could be broken at will by the parties concerned.
Those who believe that the papacy is here described see a possible reference to the regard paid to celibacy and virginity by that power.