The concept of "Antichrists" and the "Last Hour" is primarily derived from the Johannine epistles in the New Testament, specifically 1 John and 2 John. These terms are significant in Christian eschatology and theology, reflecting the early church's understanding of opposition to Christ and the anticipation of the end times.

Antichrists

The term "antichrist" is unique to the Johannine letters, where it is used to describe those who deny the true nature of Jesus Christ. In 1 John 2:18, the apostle writes, "Children, it is the last hour; and just as you have heard that the antichrist is coming, even now many antichrists have appeared. This is how we know it is the last hour." Here, the term "antichrist" is both singular and plural, indicating a specific figure expected in the future and a present reality of multiple individuals embodying the spirit of antichrist.

The antichrists are characterized by their denial of Jesus as the Christ and their rejection of the Father and the Son. 1 John 2:22 states, "Who is the liar, if it is not the one who denies that Jesus is the Christ? This is the antichrist, who denies the Father and the Son." This denial is not merely a theological error but a fundamental opposition to the core tenets of the Christian faith.

In 1 John 4:3, the apostle further elaborates, "And every spirit that does not confess Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you have heard is coming and even now is already in the world." The presence of the antichrist spirit is a sign of the ongoing spiritual battle between truth and deception, light and darkness.

2 John 1:7 warns, "For many deceivers have gone out into the world, refusing to confess the coming of Jesus Christ in the flesh. Any such person is the deceiver and the antichrist." This passage emphasizes the importance of the incarnation, a central doctrine of Christianity, and identifies those who deny it as antichrists.

The Last Hour

The phrase "the last hour" in 1 John 2:18 signifies a period of eschatological significance. It reflects the early Christian belief that they were living in the final stage of God's redemptive history, inaugurated by the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. This period is marked by the presence of antichrists, serving as a reminder of the imminent return of Christ and the consummation of God's kingdom.

The "last hour" is not to be understood as a literal 60-minute period but as a symbolic representation of the end times. It conveys a sense of urgency and vigilance for believers, encouraging them to remain steadfast in their faith amidst false teachings and spiritual deception.

The apostle John's use of "the last hour" underscores the tension between the "already" and the "not yet" of Christian eschatology. While the decisive victory over sin and death has been achieved through Christ, the full realization of God's kingdom awaits His return. Believers are called to live in anticipation of this future hope, discerning the signs of the times and remaining faithful to the truth of the gospel.

In summary, the concepts of antichrists and the last hour serve as a call to discernment and perseverance for Christians. They highlight the reality of spiritual opposition and the urgency of the times, urging believers to hold fast to the truth and eagerly await the return of their Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.