who will pay the penalty: eternal destruction from the face of the Lord and from the glory of his might,
from the presence of the Lord: The word "presence" (ProsoPon) means "countenance, look" (Thayer 551-2-4383). This phrase serves to define further the meaning of eternal destruction. It is frightening to think God will separate the sinner from where the Lord will be. When the truth of these verses and phrases are properly understood, it should cause every Christian to prepare for the battle against Satan, sin and the forces of evil. If we lose the battle against Satan, we will be cast down to hell, separated forever and ever from the presence of the Lord.