1 John 2:18

Children, it is the last hour; and just as you have heard that the antichrist is coming, so now many antichrists have appeared. This is how we know it is the last hour.

Study Bible

Children
The term "children" (Greek: τεκνία, teknia) is a term of endearment used by the Apostle John to address the believers. It reflects a pastoral and affectionate relationship, indicating John's role as a spiritual father. This word emphasizes the intimate and nurturing relationship between John and his audience, suggesting a community bound by love and shared faith. In a broader sense, it reminds believers of their identity as children of God, highlighting the familial nature of the Christian community.

it is the last hour
The phrase "it is the last hour" (Greek: ἐσχάτη ὥρα, eschate hora) signifies a period of eschatological significance. In the New Testament, the "last hour" refers to the time between Christ's first and second coming. This phrase underscores the urgency and immediacy of the times in which the early Christians lived. Historically, this reflects the early church's expectation of Christ's imminent return, a belief that should inspire believers today to live with a sense of readiness and purpose.

just as you have heard
This phrase indicates that the teaching about the antichrist was already known to John's audience. It suggests a continuity of apostolic teaching and tradition. The early Christians were well aware of the prophecies concerning false teachers and deceivers, which were part of the oral and written teachings passed down from the apostles. This serves as a reminder of the importance of sound doctrine and the need to be grounded in the truth of Scripture.

the antichrist is coming
The term "antichrist" (Greek: ἀντίχριστος, antichristos) refers to a figure or figures who oppose Christ and His teachings. The concept of the antichrist is rooted in Jewish apocalyptic literature and is further developed in the New Testament. Historically, this reflects the early church's awareness of spiritual opposition and the presence of false teachers. The mention of the antichrist serves as a warning to remain vigilant and discerning in the face of deception.

so now many antichrists have appeared
This phrase highlights the reality that many individuals embody the spirit of the antichrist by opposing Christ and spreading false teachings. The plural "antichrists" indicates that the threat is not limited to a single individual but is a pervasive issue within the church. This reflects the historical context of the early church, which faced numerous heresies and false teachings. It serves as a call to discernment and faithfulness to the truth of the Gospel.

This is how we know it is the last hour
The presence of many antichrists is presented as evidence that "it is the last hour." This phrase underscores the connection between spiritual deception and the eschatological timeline. The early church understood the proliferation of false teachings as a sign of the times, reinforcing the urgency of their mission and the need for steadfastness in faith. For contemporary believers, it serves as a reminder to remain vigilant and committed to the truth in anticipation of Christ's return.

Persons / Places / Events

1. John the Apostle
The author of the epistle, one of Jesus' original twelve disciples, and a key figure in the early Christian church. He writes with authority and pastoral concern.

2. Children
A term of endearment used by John to address the believers, indicating a close, familial relationship and his role as a spiritual father.

3. Antichrist
A term referring to both a specific future figure opposed to Christ and the spirit of opposition to Christ that manifests in various individuals and teachings.

4. Many Antichrists
Refers to those who embody the spirit of the antichrist by denying Christ and leading others astray, indicating a present and ongoing reality.

5. The Last Hour
A term indicating the eschatological period between Christ's first and second coming, characterized by the presence of false teachers and spiritual deception.

Teaching Points

Awareness of the Times
Believers should be aware that we are living in the "last hour," a time marked by spiritual deception and opposition to Christ.

Discernment of Spirits
Christians must exercise discernment to identify and reject teachings and influences that are contrary to the truth of Christ.

Vigilance Against Deception
The presence of many antichrists calls for vigilance in maintaining doctrinal purity and faithfulness to the teachings of Jesus.

Encouragement in Community
The term "children" highlights the importance of community and mutual encouragement in standing firm against false teachings.

Hope in Christ's Return
Despite the presence of antichrists, believers can find hope and assurance in the promise of Christ's return and ultimate victory.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the "last hour" influence the way we live our daily lives as Christians?

2. In what ways can we discern the spirit of the antichrist in today's world, and how can we guard against it?

3. How does the presence of "many antichrists" challenge us to deepen our understanding of biblical doctrine?

4. What role does Christian community play in helping us remain faithful amidst spiritual deception?

5. How can the promise of Christ's return provide hope and motivation in the face of opposition and false teachings?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 24:24
Jesus warns of false Christs and false prophets who will perform signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect. This connects to the presence of many antichrists mentioned by John.

2 Thessalonians 2:3-4
Paul speaks of the "man of lawlessness" who opposes and exalts himself above God, paralleling the concept of the antichrist.

1 John 4:3
John further elaborates on the spirit of the antichrist, which denies Jesus Christ has come in the flesh, emphasizing the doctrinal test for identifying false spirits.