How will encountering the Antichrist feel?

1. Understanding the Antichrist

The term “Antichrist” arises from passages such as 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.” While the word can refer to any figure opposing or denying the identity of Jesus Christ, Scripture also points to a specific future individual who will lead a large-scale rebellion against God. This figure is characterized by deceptive power and direct opposition to the truth of the gospel (2 Thessalonians 2:3–4).

2. Scriptural Depictions of Encounter

In 2 Thessalonians 2:9–10, we read: “The coming of the lawless one will be accompanied by the working of Satan, with every kind of power, sign, and false wonder, and with every wicked deception directed against those who are perishing.” This passage underlines that the Antichrist will inspire awe, fear, or fascination through deceptive miracles and seemingly supernatural signs.

Revelation 13 also provides dramatic imagery describing a beast receiving power from the dragon (symbolic of Satan). Many will marvel and follow him (Revelation 13:3–4). The text emphasizes that an encounter with this figure will not be casual or uneventful. It will likely evoke intense emotional and spiritual reactions.

3. Emotional and Behavioral Responses

Encountering the Antichrist, according to biblical accounts, involves strong psychological and emotional responses:

• Fear and Awe: Observing powerful signs can lead to fear. Revelation 13:4 indicates people will exclaim, “Who is like the beast, and who can wage war against it?” This reaction suggests a sense of helplessness or confusion.

• Fascination and Intrigue: Deceptive wonders can captivate onlookers. Matthew 24:24 warns, “For false Christs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and wonders that would deceive even the elect, if that were possible.” The intensity of counterfeit miracles makes many curious or dazzled by the Antichrist’s apparent capabilities.

• Pressure to Conform: When an individual wields influence over governments or cultural norms, the social pressure on those witnessing these events can grow, as seen in Revelation 13:16–17. People fear financial ruin or social alienation if they do not comply. This pressure can trigger anxiety and inner conflict.

4. The Spiritual Influence of Deception

The Antichrist’s greatest weapon is not mere physical force but spiritual deception. Second Thessalonians 2:11–12 mentions that “God will send them a powerful delusion so that they will believe the lie, in order that judgment may come upon all who have disbelieved the truth.” The deception is so persuasive that those who have not anchored themselves in genuine faith will be drawn into the lie.

This phenomenon can involve mental confusion and moral inversion, where evil is depicted as righteous and good is labeled as harmful. Encountering the Antichrist may evoke a sense of moral dissonance in people who sense wrong but still cannot fully articulate their alarm.

5. The Believer’s Internal Conflict

For those committed to biblical truth, encountering such malevolent power can be unsettling. One might wrestle with doubt or anxiety upon seeing the widespread acceptance of the Antichrist. Yet passages like 2 Thessalonians 2:8 assure believers that the Lord will ultimately overthrow this figure “with the breath of His mouth and annihilate by the majesty of His arrival.”

Christians are encouraged to stand firm in faith, recalling that the presence of false wonders does not negate the historical and ongoing works of God. Evidence of divine action—ranging from archaeological finds supporting biblical accounts (e.g., the Dead Sea Scrolls confirming Old Testament reliability) to historical testimonies of the Resurrection—reinforces that even extraordinary displays of deception cannot overturn the truth of Scripture.

6. Hope and Ultimate Triumph in Christ

Despite the alarming nature of a future encounter with the Antichrist, Scripture consistently reminds believers of the ultimate triumph of God. Revelation 17:14 declares: “They will make war against the Lamb, and the Lamb will triumph over them because He is Lord of lords and King of kings,” emphasizing that Jesus has final authority.

For those uneasy about the prospect of facing deception, Jesus’ teaching in John 14:1 is a calming directive: “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in Me.” When individuals place their confidence in Christ’s redemptive work—bolstered by historical evidence of His resurrection—they stand on a firm foundation that surpasses any threat from counterfeit wonders.

7. Practical Responses to the Antichrist’s Influence

• Discernment: Study Scripture daily (Acts 17:11) to cultivate biblical literacy, equipping one’s mind to detect error.

• Prayer and Community: Pray for wisdom (James 1:5) and stay connected with a supportive faith community.

• Steadfast Faith: Remember that the Holy Spirit empowers believers to withstand deception (John 16:13).

• Confidence in Christ’s Sovereignty: Trust that God remains in control (Psalm 103:19).

8. Summary of Emotional and Spiritual Experience

Encountering the Antichrist, based on biblical outlines, will likely be accompanied by moments of shock, fear, and perplexity. Deception, fueled by seemingly miraculous signs, can generate widespread confusion. However, for those grounded in the truth of God’s Word and anchored by faith in Jesus Christ, there is assurance of ultimate deliverance.

While feelings of dread or awe may arise, Scripture underscores that the final destiny of this adversarial figure is defeat. Faith, knowledge of the truth, and reliance on the power of God’s Spirit provide a protective guard, enabling believers to endure and maintain hope during the darkest trials.