“(The Antichrist) will put an end to sacrifice and offering. And at the temple he will set up an abomination that causes desolation, until the end that is decreed is poured out on him.” Daniel 9:27b
WHAT ABOUT THE ANTICHRIST?
From horror films to descriptions of evil world leaders, the term “Antichrist” is often tossed around in culture. But what does it really mean? “Antichrist” means “counterfeit Christ” – the opposite of Jesus. According to the Bible, the Antichrist will be an incredibly gifted leader that captivates the masses on a worldwide scale. He will come as a charismatic political savior promising hope and peace in a broken and chaotic world. At first glance he will appear to be for good, only to be a well-disguised embodiment of evil.
So what’s his significance? The arrival of the true Antichrist will be the most telling sign that the end times are coming to a close. He will signify that all hell is about to break loose and that the world as we know it is coming to an end. The arrival of the Antichrist will be a sign that Jesus’ return is close.
This is why we pay attention to the signs of the End Times. This is why we keep our eyes open for the Antichrist rising up on the world stage, because followers of Jesus have the promise of ultimate victory in Jesus versus the Antichrist. Even as wars wage, natural disasters wreak havoc, and pain and brokenness run free, Jesus promises that one day He will return. And on that day, there will be no more death, crying or pain (My paraphrase of Rev. 21:4).
Have more questions about the End Times and recognizing the signs of which Jesus spoke? Key insights to these questions and more are available in Bryant’s latest book, The Stage is Set, available in paperback, Kindle, and CD at www.amazon.com or anywhere books or e-books are sold.
