Is He the Antichrist? Essay

Well, on to my more serious articles. This one discusses whether or not all those accusations of Barack Obama (and others) being the Antichrist hold up - what will the Antichrist be like, anyway? And is he really alive today?

 

Who’s the Antichrist?

Essay by Carrie Ott

 

            I’m sure that most of us have heard it, at one time or another. Some new figure suddenly shows up, acts a little different, and that makes him the Antichrist. It’s been said of former president George Bush, our new president Mr. Barack Obama, and others like Henry Kissinger and even Barney the dinosaur (honestly). But really, is any one of these men truly the Antichrist? Is the Antichrist even alive today? Well, let’s look at some facts.

            First, we need to be sure what we’re talking about, right? So, let’s look at what the term ‘Antichrist’ actually means. I’m sure most people know of the Antichrist portrayed as a demonic man who will raze the world to the ground, a man who is fearsome and terrible and never likeable. That is, for the most part, what the majority believes about the Antichrist. Using that definition, I would call it about 25% true, perhaps less. I don’t think most people know what to look for in the real Antichrist!

            Of course, one unexpected definition of ‘antichrist’ can be found in

1 John 2 : 22 - 23, which says, "Who is the liar but the one who denies that Jesus is the Christ? This is the antichrist, the one who denies the Father and the Son. Whoever denies the Son does not have the Father; the one who confesses the Son has the Father also." From this verse, we clearly see a very different definition. Many people are antichrists! But of course, we’re talking about the Antichrist, right? Well, he’s worse than the others of the same name – let’s start looking at him by checking out his names.

            Of course, his most recognizable name is Antichrist. If you take the word apart, you very clearly have its meaning. Anti = against, Christ = Son of God. So, anti+Christ = one who is against the Son of God. But did you know that he is never called ‘Antichrist’ in the book that talks the most about him, Revelation? Most often, he is called the Beast.

            In looking at that name, Beast, we have another clear picture of one of the facets of his character. Ruthless. Vicious. Animalistic. With Christ’s name as the Lamb, what a stark opposition between the Beast and the Lamb! So, if he really is that way, why isn’t the world’s definition of a mad demon-man correct?

            We can find the answer to that question in another one of the Antichrist’s names. The Bloody and Deceitful Man. He knows what he wants to do, and parading on stage shouting “I’m a wicked person!” surely won’t attract the favorable attention the Antichrist wants. He’s a liar, a deceiver. For the first three and a half years of the Tribulation, the Antichrist makes himself out to be the most agreeable, kind, and peace-driving person one could ever meet. He’s buying his allies while he has time. It’s only after these few years have passed that he begins to show his true colors, begins to live up to his wicked names. And believe me, that’s just the beginning of his list of names!

            But back to a more on-track note. I’m sure the most common antichrist theory now is that of Barack Obama. However, I hold to a singular proof that Barack Obama is most likely not the Antichrist. How do I know? Simple. The Rapture has not happened yet. Now, I know that there are many theories about when the Rapture will happen, and I just so happen to believe that it will be before the Tribulation begins. Biblically, I am told that the Antichrist’s appearance will be preceded by a departure (as in the saints being raptured to heaven) (2 Thessalonians 2:1). Therefore, I can conclude that Barack isn’t it, because he (the Antichrist) will not appear until the Day of the Lord has begun (2 Thessalonians 2:2). Now, am I saying that Barack can’t be the Antichrist? Not at all. I’m just saying that it seems highly unlikely. And, I do have one more indication that Barack doesn’t fit the bill. Don’t get me wrong, he’s my president and I’m not trying to disrespect him, but if you evaluate him honestly, he’s not necessarily ‘fluent’ in speeches. He’s just one of those presidents that isn’t as good a public speaker as others – that’s fine. Not holding it against him. It’s just that the Antichrist is identified by his intelligence and persuasiveness (Daniel 7:8,20; 8:23), by his subtlety and craftiness (Ezekiel 28:6), in order that he is ruling people by their own consent (Revelation 17:13). He can sway the crowd – he’s a leader with fluency and likeability unmatched. And the population is currently pretty split on whether they like him or not. I can think of others who perhaps fit the description more than he does. And please understand I mean no offence whatsoever.

So, what are we to look for in the Antichrist? Let me show you just a few things.

 

·         He is a Gentile (that means he’s not Jewish). I say this because he rises up from the sea (Revelation 13:1), and the sea depicts Gentile nations (Revelation 17:15). However, there are some who believe he is Jewish. It’s up to your own research to decide what you believe.

·         His influence is worldwide (Revelation 13:8). He is often making alliances with other nations (Daniel 8:24; Revelation 17:12).

·         He has eliminated three rulers while gaining his political power (Daniel 7:8,24) and one kingdom that he rules revives (Revelation 13:3).

·         He is able to rise due to his peace program (Daniel 8:25).

·         A very important one here. He makes a seven year peace treaty with Israel (Daniel 7:27).

·         He sets himself up as God (Daniel 11:36-37; 2 Thessalonians 2:4, Revelation 13:5).

 

Now that you’ve learned all this, I think you can see why the Antichrist isn’t the

raving mad foaming-at-the-mouth lunatic that most people portray him as. He is a calculating, determined enemy that plays his hand wisely (although he’s playing against the wrong opponent – an undefeatable one). Are we close to seeing the rise of this Antichrist? Personally, I think so. I mean, I’m 16 years old and I don’t plan on being more than 30-something before we see the Rapture and Tribulation, as well as the rise of the Antichrist. But, that’s personal opinion. I’m not God; I don’t know when it will happen. It could be 200 years from now for all I know. However, two things in particular have drawn my attention to believing that we are certainly in the last days. One of these is the unification of Israel into a nation. What more fulfillment of prophecy could you possibly want than that! God told us that he would gather his people from the four corners of the world (Isaiah 11:12). And, if you want a detailed look at another facet of this prophecy, take a look at this page - http://brittgillette.com/WordPress/?p=16

Now, the second thing that points me toward a ‘last days’ view is that many have been pushing for worldwide government. Peculiar, no? Revelation 13:8 come to mind?

            Conclusion – Modern man’s definition of the true Antichrist leaves a lot to be desired. And, for many, this mistake could be fatal. While they wait for the murderer, the Antichrist will already be burrowed deep in their hearts. By the time they realize, it will be far too late. Do I believe that Barack Obama, the Pope, or others are the Antichrist? No. Is the Antichrist alive today? Quite possibly. But are you ready to face him when he comes? Personally, I would much rather have my guarantee of salvation in Christ than have to face the Antichrist. You can’t win against him; someone needs to come in and save your rear, before it’s too late! You know, Jesus Christ has always been standing right at your back, just waiting for you to turn around and let him be the savior you need. He’s the only way. And since we’ve been talking about Revelation, let me show you one of my most cherished verses, conveniently from that same book.

 

The Spirit and the bride say, "Come!" And let him who hears say, "Come!" Whoever is thirsty, let him come; and whoever wishes, let him take the free gift of the water of life. (Revelation 22:17)

 

            Christ has made the free gift ready. All you have to do is take it!

 

 

            For more information about anything you’ve read or possibly want to know, email me! I’d be happy to tell you about Christ or listen to anything you have to say, even if it doesn’t have to do with this article. I won’t judge you for it.

 

            If you’re curious about salvation or other things, take a look at one of my favorite Christian webpages! http://www.jesus-is-savior.com/salvation_webpages/00-introduction.htm

 

 

 

For those of you who might possibly be curious, this is not some copied material that I rearranged or something. This is my established personal belief and knowledge. And I’d like to thank my Biblical Doctrines teacher Mr. Abbey for having me in class last year.

Author's Note

Feel free to say anything you'd like, counter me with your own views, etc. I'd be happy to explain why I believe what I do and discuss your own ideas.

Reviews

[alter]

Excellent. I enjoyed reading every word.

[Carrie Ott]

Thanks for the great comment, alter!

[Erotic Sammy]

Aww man my friend Joshua H. was writing somthing like that except the title is Who is the Anti-christ do you mind if he finishes it please say yes just email me or reply me okay he spent a few months on this.

[writer-scott]

Interesting, Your words make a lot of sense, and your right how most people view things about the antichrist in the wrong light. thanks for your great article/essays, it was a enjoyable read as well as learning a few interesting points.