“But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy,” 2 Timothy 3:1-2
THE ANTICHRIST: CAN ONE MAN RULE THE WORLD?
Many have tried but none have succeeded. Hitler made a failed attempt for European domination (and ultimately the world) during the 1930s and 40s. In recent years, the world has seen Abu Bakr Al-Baghdadi, the leader of ISIS, fighting for the same end goal. Yet, his Islamic utopian dream has failed. But the Bible speaks of a pivotal character who will precede the coming of Christ and be capable of assimilating the same type of worldly power that so many world leaders have sought to grasp. His name is the Antichrist. His supernatural abilities will seize political power and unify the world around himself, surpassing in power even history’s most powerful and charismatic leaders like Alexander the Great, the Caesars of Rome, Hitler, Mao, and Stalin. What will the world be like in those days? Well, 2 Timothy, chapter 3 provides some insight into humanity’s worldview in those days.
- People’s attitude will be “all about me.”
- Materialism and love of money will take precedent.
- Pride, arrogance, and conceit will consume hearts.
- A lack of self-control and heard hearted-ness will be directed towards others.
- Disrespecting one’s parents and feelings of entitlement will abound.
- Nothing will be sacred.
Does any of this sound like today? Ultimately, this can all be summed up as the pursuit of earthly pleasures rather than God. Many of these characteristics are already visible and growing in society today. So how do we respond? First of all, remember that Christ has the ultimate victory – even over the power and influence of the Antichrist. Secondly, ask God to identify and remove any of these characteristics that might be taking root in your heart. Finally, make sure that you know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior before the Antichrist arrives and deceives you as well.
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
