Many Antichrists Have Come Already

"Such a man is the antichrist-he denies the Father and the Son" 1 John 2:18



These are very interesting times. The world economy is on a roller coaster ride, fueled be greed and panic. Terrorists motivated by selfish desires to attain power and wealth, kill innocent people in the name of their religion. We find ourselves in a world of mistrust and most live in fear and uncertainty. John's first letter written to the body of Gentile believers of the day is said by scholars to "give the believers assurance and confidence in God and in their faith." (Life Application Bible, Zondervan) Yet I believe that his letter too is prophetic especially as current events unfold.

"I am writing these things about those who are trying to lead you astray," John says in 1 John 2:25. The Lord spoke through John 2000 years ago so that now, in the midst of today's turmoil (war, financial distress, and political rhetoric) we would not be deceived by false idols ("antichrists") such as money, power, greed, etc.

John's words remind us, "...you have an anointing from the Holy One (all of us) and all of you know the truth." Prophetically, he warns that now is not the time to put our trust in a politician, a stock broker, a real estate agent, a radio talk-show host or televangelist. The Enemy is working overtime right now, pulling out every deception to lead us astray. We must resist and take to heart John's words, '...the anointing you received from him remains in you, you do not need anyone (Barack, Rush, or "crazy" Aunt Sue) to teach you." (1 John 2:22) Editorial mine!

These trying times, I believe, are brought by the Enemy through our own sinful nature, but allowed by God. If we truly have the truth of God's word in us, we can be strong during the turbulence and can show non-believers and believers who are not well-grounded in their faith the power of Christ through our quiet strength in Him. God is allowing world events to happen to bring people to him but we, who are already in Christ, must be strong and "walk as Jesus did, " (1 John 2:6) so those around us can see God through us even when circumstances are tough.

My prayer. Father thank you for letting us serve you during these trying times. How exciting it is to be a follower of Christ at such a time as you have ordained for the world to endure. Lord we ask you to strengthen our resolve and demonstrate the power of Christ through us so that you may usher thousands perhaps millions into the eternal life found through belief in your Son Jesus. Help us to resist the wiles of the Enemy and grant us all the quiet strength and confidence that Jesus demonstrated. May we live our lives as examples of the power of Christ in us. Thank you Father for trusting us to do your work in this difficult season! In Jesus name I pray, Amen!