The Antichrist is a figure that is prophesied about in the Bible, particularly in the New Testament books of 1 and 2 John, as well as the Book of Revelation. The term “antichrist” is only used a few times in Scripture, but the concept is developed throughout. Here is an overview of what the Bible teaches about the Antichrist:
The Spirit of Antichrist
The apostle John writes in his first epistle that there is a “spirit of antichrist” which was already at work in the world (1 John 4:3). This spirit is characterized by deception and denial of the incarnation and deity of Jesus Christ. It is the driving force behind the coming final Antichrist. So there is a sense in which antichrist is not just a future individual, but a present spirit opposing Christ.
Many Antichrists
John also writes that “many antichrists” have come into the world, indicating that there are many forerunners of the final Antichrist (1 John 2:18). These help pave the way for the final personification of antichrist in the end times. Examples may include figures like Antiochus Epiphanes who desecrated the Jewish temple, the various Roman emperors who persecuted the early church, and other tyrants and false teachers throughout history who have opposed Christ.
The Man of Lawlessness
The Antichrist is also referred to as the “man of lawlessness” in 2 Thessalonians 2:3. This passage describes a “rebellion” and the revelation of the “man of lawlessness” before Christ’s return. He will exalt himself above all gods and establish himself in the temple of God. This indicates that the Antichrist will be a definite person who does specific things at a future time.
The Beasts of Revelation
Revelation chapter 13 describes two beasts or Antichrists. The first rises out of the sea and derives satanic power and authority (Rev 13:1-10). The second rises out of the earth and promotes the worship of the first beast (Rev 13:11-18). These beastly images portray the Antichrist as an arrogant, blasphemous ruler who persecutes the saints and wields worldwide influence.
The Son of Destruction
The Antichrist is called the “son of destruction” in 2 Thessalonians 2:3, indicating he is destined for judgment. Revelation 19:20 says the beast was captured and thrown into the lake of fire. So despite his temporary power, the Antichrist will ultimately be defeated and destroyed when Christ returns.
Opposes and Exalts Himself
A key identifying trait of the Antichrist is that he will oppose God and exalt himself above all that is called god (2 Thessalonians 2:4). He will display himself as God and demand worship. This pride, self-exaltation and covetousness for divine honors is the essence of the spirit of antichrist.
Persecutes the Saints
The Antichrist will speak blasphemies against God and war against the saints (Revelation 13:7). He will attempt to change set times and laws (Daniel 7:25). He will show no regard for the gods of his fathers or for the one desired by women (i.e. the Messiah) (Daniel 11:37). The spirit of antichrist is marked by hatred and persecution of those who follow Jesus.
Deceptive Signs and Wonders
The coming of the Antichrist will be accompanied by deceptive signs and wonders (2 Thessalonians 2:9). He may have a deadly head wound that is miraculously healed (Revelation 13:3). His appearance will be marked by counterfeit miracles, signs, and deceptions to lure people away from the truth of the Gospel.
A World Ruler
The Antichrist will exert influence over the whole earth. All who dwell on the earth will worship him (Revelation 13:8). He will control global commerce by regulating who can buy or sell (Revelation 13:17). His arrogance, boasting, and blasphemy will know no limits as he asserts dominion and authority over every tribe, people, nation and language (Revelation 13:5-6).
Partner with the False Prophet
The Antichrist will work hand-in-hand with another end times figure known as the False Prophet. While the Antichrist rules politically, the False Prophet will be the religious leader who promotes worship of the Antichrist and deceives people with counterfeit miracles and signs (Rev 13:12-14).
Receives Worship
Ultimately, the Antichrist will demand and receive the worship of the world. People will praise the beast and ask “Who is like the beast?” (Revelation 13:4). Standing in the temple, the Antichrist will declare himself to be God and present himself as an object of worship (2 Thessalonians 2:4).
Will Deceive Many
God will allow the Antichrist to have power and success for a season as a test for those who dwell on the earth. Many people will be deceived by his signs and wonders. But the true elect will not fall for the Antichrist’s ploys (Matthew 24:24). Those with spiritual discernment will recognize the spirit of antichrist and stand firm in their faith.
Identity Unknown
The Bible does not reveal the Antichrist’s precise identity. Attempts to predict who the Antichrist will turn out to be have consistently proven wrong. Some theories point to various world leaders, but we cannot know for certain until key events unfold according to God’s timetable.
Will Be Defeated
In the end, Jesus will destroy the Antichrist at His second coming (2 Thessalonians 2:8). Christ will conquer the beast, casting him into the lake of fire (Revelation 19:20). Though the Antichrist may wield temporary worldly dominion, he is ultimately under divine judgment and will face everlasting defeat.
In summary, the Antichrist is the embodiment of satanic opposition to God’s plan and people. He will rise to power, persecute the saints, blaspheme God, and deceive multitudes. But believers need not fear because his defeat is certain when Christ returns. We must be watchful, clinging to Jesus so we are not led astray.
Though an ominous figure, the Antichrist serves God’s purposes to test the hearts of men and demonstrate Christ’s ultimate supremacy over all evil powers. Jesus is the undefeated King before whom every knee will one day bow.