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There are two momentous events which characterize the last days. The first is the coming of one who is called, by the scripture, the antichrist. The second, the coming (the pariousia of the Lord Jesus). The deceiver, the antichrist must appear first in order for him to be eliminated, consumed by the spirit of the mouth of Jesus when He comes. A casual or a minimal understanding of the coming of the Lord Jesus is not sufficient. The great scam will be perpetrated on multitudes of Christians because they do not understand the plan of the Lord for the end of the age. The antichrist will be ushered into his position in a spectacular manner. So much so that Paul spoke of the antichrist having a parousia or coming. 2 Thess. 2:9 A dramatic entrance into the religious community which will be the deception of the ages. In a threefold manner he will delude the religions of man on the earth.
He will come convincing the inhabitants of the earth with the demonstration of all the powers of darkness. Note, Paul said; all power (dunamis). He will demonstrate with mighty miracles. Jesus had made a much broader statement by saying that there would come those who were forerunners of the antichrist. He called them, false Christ’s. These all precede the coming of the antichrist, thus preparing the hearts of the people for the great one to come. They demonstrate with great (megas) signs and wonders. Spectacular displays of the powers of darkness. Every aspect of occultism will have reached the apex of its power by this time. Mt. 24:24 So convincing will these demonstrations be that even the very elect, the chosen of the Lord, stand the possibility of being taken in by the manipulations of these who have a false anointing, and who are utilizing the full force of the powers of darkness.
Scary? Yes, of course it is. Does the Lord have an antidote for it? Most definitely, “Ye shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free.” A knowledge of the truth is liberating from all fear and bondage’s. John 8:32 That is why we study the Word rather than just taking the words of men and believe them. Study the Word that the approval of the Lord Jesus might be upon you and yours. 2 Tim. 2:15 Peter spoke of the past and the future in relationship to these fake prophets and teachers. Our generation will see a flood tide of individuals who fit into this category. His assessment was that many would follow their exceedingly dangerous example and be misled into a lie. A sure sign is that they make merchandise of the people of the Lord. Leading them, not to benefit them, but for monetary gain which they milk out of them. 2 Peter 2:1-3.