Expert: Elder Greg Madden - 7/30/2008

Question
I am aware of the multiple meanings of "Antichrist" and the numerous people who "should be given the title Antichrist", but what does the Bible describe the actual "seven-headed, horned and crowned" Antichrist as being? What, if any, signs does the bible give as warning to the coming of the Antichrist?

Answer
Carter,

Thank you for your question. I will do my best to help.

The Bible teaches us that the before the tribulation (a period of 7 years, the "70th week" of Daniel [Daniel 9:27]) that the Rapture of the living saints is to happen first. This is when, for the Christians who truly love Jesus (have recieved Christ as Lord and Savior), that the sudden appearance of Christ and the "catching away" of all His saints takes place. This event is the blessed hope Paul mentions in Titus 2:13. At this time, Christ comes and snatches away His church without actually setting foot on the earth. The rapture of the saints is best described in 1 Thessalonians 4:16,17, and 1 Corinthians 15:51,52.

After the rapture of the church the tribulation begins. The Bible indicates that first half of the 7 years of tribulation will probably be a time of prosperity and acceptance of the Antichrist as the great deliverer from economic chaos. But the last half of the period will witness the plagues described in Revelation 15:1-16:21.

The Antichrist is called a beast, but he will be a real person and will fulfill plain statements given in other prophecies, such as 2 Thessalonians 2:3–12.

There has been much speculation on the identity of the Antichrist, with many world leaders being named as the antichrist. The church world has often experienced embarrassment when predicted antichrists have died or otherwise passed from the world scene. That is why I think it wise not to participate in speculating as to who the Antichrist might be, or even forecasting the possibility that he is already alive.

As to "...signs does the bible give as warning to the coming of the Antichrist?", the Bible teaches us that when the church is raptured the antichrist will be reviled. It also teaches us that the rapture is immanent (could happen at anytime). Therefore everyone is wise to be ready to meet the Lord Jesus at anytime.

Carter, please let me know if this helps or if you have any further questions.

Elder Greg Madden
http://www.forministry.com/USOKPENTEMMM1