Unveiling the Antichrist | 1 John 2:18-25 | Pastor Schwanke | Sunday, March 23, 2025
Theme: Confronting fear, depression, & spiritual darkness through the power of Christ Title: Unveiling the Antichrist Scripture Passage: 1 John 2:18-25 ___________________________________ Introduction Since the church's inception at Pentecost nearly 1,900 years ago, the notion of a future Antichrist has intrigued many. Scripture speaks of a forthcoming period known as the Tribulation—a seven-year span characterized by divine judgment, terror, and upheaval. This era serves multiple purposes: to punish global rebellion, prepare Israel for the Messiah's return, and allow Satan to execute his plans through the Antichrist, a figure he will personally empower. The Antichrist is depicted as a unique individual, indwelt by Satan himself. He is prophesied to restore the ancient Roman Empire, rebuild Babylon as a center of power, and deceive nations into believing he is divine. His ultimate aim is to thwart Christ's earthly kingdom by opposing Israel and Christ's reign from David's throne. However, Scripture assures us that the Antichrist will be defeated, and Christ will emerge victorious. Throughout history, various figures—such as Nero, Napoleon, Hitler, and more recently, political leaders—have been speculated to be the Antichrist. Yet, the Apostle John, who introduced the term "antichrist," provides believers with essential insights. In his first epistle, chapter 2:18, he offers both caution and comfort to the church. Unveiling the Antichrist John presents several truths about the Antichrist in 1 John 2:18: Truth 1: The Antichrist is a Specific Individual John acknowledges that believers have heard of an Antichrist who is to come—a distinct person embodying opposition to Christ. This figure is often referred to as the "man of lawlessness" or "son of perdition" in other scriptural passages, indicating a person characterized by utter rebellion against God. Truth 2: The Term 'Antichrist' Applies Broadly to All Who Reject the Son of God John warns of "many antichrists" already present, confirming the last days through rampant deception. The term "antichrist" combines "anti" (against or instead of) and "Christos" (Christ), denoting those who oppose Jesus, His gospel, and His church—or who pose as substitutes for Him. John lists four traits of these antichrists: Anti-Christs Have Existed Since the Church's Inception From the start, foes of Christ emerged. Paul warned the Galatians of a perverted gospel (Galatians 1:9), the Philippians of cross-hating pretenders (Philippians 3:18-19), and the Colossians of legalistic heresies (Colossians 2:8,16). To Timothy, he spoke of faith deserters, hypocrites with false godliness, and Demas, who forsook him for the world. This spirit of antichrist spans centuries. Anti-Christs Infiltrate Church Membership Many false movements trace back to churchgoers who later diverged. These weren’t obvious villains but participants—singing, giving, joining—yet never truly His. They professed to be Christians for a time but eventually revealed their true nature by departing from the faith community. Anti-Christs Ultimately Forsake the Church’s Fellowship Antichrists may linger briefly, but a Christ-exalting church drives them away. They’re like tourists—visiting, sampling, leaving unchanged—versus residents committed to the family of God. Their exit reveals their unbelief, sparing the flock their influence. Anti-Christs Deny the Core Truths About Jesus Denying that Jesus is the Christ or rejecting His relationship with the Father defines antichrists. False faiths often reject Jesus’ deity, yet John insists that one can’t claim God while discarding Jesus. LIVING WISELY IN THE LAST DAYS Recognizing that we are in the last days, how should we live wisely? Cultivate Spiritual Discernment—Beware of Antichrists Believers have an anointing from the Holy One, equipping them to discern truth from deception. The Holy Spirit and Scriptures guard us against false teachings. Live with Spiritual Anticipation—Be Ready for Christ Antichrists oppose Him; are we devoted to Him? Antichrists shun His church; do we cherish it? Antichrists discredit His return; do we proclaim it? CONCLUSION: Like a family awaiting a soldier’s homecoming—ready daily, joyfully surprised—so we should await our King. May we be found faithful, discerning, and eager for Jesus—our Prophet, Priest, and soon-returning King! _______________________________________ Join Us Live Every Sunday at 10 AM! Don't miss out on our weekly worship and inspiring messages. Subscribe to our channel and stay connected with our community. Support Our Media Ministry Help us spread God's word further by contributing to our Media Ministry. Your generosity allows us to continue streaming and reaching more people. Give today at https://faithway.churchcenter.com/giving Faithway Baptist Church https://FaithwayBaptistChurch.com Leesburg, VA #sermon #bible #church #Antichrist