1 John 2:18-27

Introduction:

1. The term “Antichrist” arouses a great deal of speculation about a singular, charismatic, evil figure who would oppose Christ at His return.

2. John is the only NT writer to use this term, and he applied it to the false prophets who denied the humanity of Christ (1 John 2:18, 22; 4:3; 2 John 7).

3. John clearly taught they were living in the last hour, many antichrists had already come, and abiding in the gospel was and still is the solution.

Discussion:

I. Defining the Last Hour

A. Some falsely accuse John of teaching Jesus’ return was imminent.

B. John used the term “hour” in a distinctive way describing critical periods in the scheme of redemption (John 2:4; 4:21, 23; 5:25, 28).

C. The final critical period prior to judgment was inaugurated when Jesus arose, ascended, sat down, sent the Spirit, and established the church.

D. The presence of “antichrists” verified the “hour” of Christ had come.

II. Defining Antichrists

A. Gr. antichristos: anti- against, in place of, instead of, and Christos- Christ

B. An antichrist is anyone/thing seeking to displace Jesus the Christ.

C. John’s antichrists opposed Christ with their false Christology.

III. Identifying Antichrists

A. The one who denies that Jesus is the Christ is an antichrist.

B. These claimed the Christ could not come in flesh because it was evil.

C. They departed from the apostolic gospel (cf. Galatians 1:6-9; 2 Peter 2:1-3).

D. Can we think of other ways one may deny the Christhood of Jesus?

IV. Defeating Antichrists

A. John’s solution was simple and consistent with other biblical writers.

B. Anointing: chrisma: kindred to Christ (Christos); designated God’s elect (Luke 23:35; Romans 11:5; 16:13; Colossians 3:12; 1 Thessalonians 1:4; 1 Peter 2:9; 5:13).

C. They were to hold fast what they heard about the Christ (1 Corinthians 15:1-4; Colossians 1:23; Hebrews 3:6, 14; 4:14; 10:23; 2 Peter 3:18).

Conclusion:

1. Eternal life is the promise the Lord gave (1 John 2:25).

2. Eternal life is in knowing God and Jesus Christ whom He sent (John 17:3).

3. We must hold to this knowledge and abide in Him (1 John 2:27-28).