The term “antichrist” occurs only in the second and third letters of John, and he applies the plural noun to deceivers that are causing dissension in his congregations. Their very presence constitutes irrefutable evidence that the “last days” have commenced. These troublemakers are “antichrists” and forerunners of the “Antichrist” who is to come.
Continue reading “Beasts in the Church”
According to Paul, the “mystery of lawlessness” is active in the world preparing hearts for the “arrival” of the “Man of Lawlessness.” It will continue to do so until the appointed time when this figure “comes out of the midst” and appears in the “sanctuary of God.” And he will employ “lying signs and wonders” to cause many disciples to depart from the faith.
In the New Testament, the term “mystery of lawlessness” is unique to Paul’s second letter to the Thessalonians. The Greek term rendered “mystery” does not refer to something that is esoteric or mysterious, but to something that is hidden.
Continue reading “The Mystery of Lawlessness”
In popular interpretations, the Antichrist is a political tyrant intent on world domination. Whether this proves true, Jesus and his apostles expressed more concern about the deceivers who ply their trade in the church. And in passages that refer to the Antichrist, the issue is deceivers who infiltrate the church.
The only New Testament author to employ the term “antichrist” is John in his first two letters. In them, he warns that “it is the last hour; and just as you heard that antichrist is coming, even now many antichrists have come.”
Continue reading “The Antichrist Spirit”
The subject of the “Antichrist” raises many questions. Who is he? When will he appear? How will we recognize him? What is his “mark”? In popular preaching, he is a global political leader who uses military might to subjugate other nations and attack Israel. But if Satan is truly clever and cunning, why would he do the very things that we expect?
Over the centuries, the church has heard a multitude of predictions and theories about the “Antichrist.” He has been identified with the Roman emperor, the Pope, Napoleon, Hitler, Stalin, and numerous other political figures. And in many cases, excellent arguments were made to support the proposition. Nonetheless, not one of these candidates ever became the world-dominating “Beast from the Sea.”
Continue reading “The Beast is Rising!”
The Beast of Revelation is the embodiment of the ancient power that has been stalking the saints since the fall of Adam.
History repeats itself. It is littered with past efforts by tyrants and regimes to dominate the earth. Each may experience some success, but every empire that has appointed itself sovereign over humanity has floundered in the end. The kingdoms of Nebuchadnezzar and Caesar ceased to exist centuries ago.
Continue reading “THE EMPIRE”
Insights into Bible Prophecy 