April 28, 2021
The Program of the Antichrist
And I saw when the Lamb opened one of the seals, and I heard, as it were the noise of thunder, one of the four beasts saying, “Come and see.” And I saw and behold a white horse: and he that sat on him had a bow; and a crown was given unto him: and he went forth conquering, and to conquer. (Revelation 6:1, 2)
Last time we began to look at the Antichrist in our continued study of Bible prophecy.
Our focus last time was on the person of the Antichrist. Today we will consider his program.
He is part of a trinity intended to mimic the true Triune God. The demonic trinity consists of the Dragon, Satan, representing the Father. The Beast, the Antichrist mimics the Son. The Holy Spirit is represented by the False Prophet. (Revelation 12, 13).
Notice from our opening text that the Antichrist arrives with a bow but no arrows. He will present himself to this world as a man of peace. His notoriety will be gained as he is able to consecrate a seven-year covenant of peace with Israel. Every president in the past fifty years has sought to create peace in the Middle East, between Israel and her neighbors. The Antichrist will finally be able to accomplish this!
This will be a fulfillment of a prophecy made over 2500 years ago. Then he shall confirm a covenant with many for one week; but in the middle of the week he shall bring an end to sacrifice and offering. (Daniel 9:27a).
This covenant, so desired by the world, will usher in a one-world system. One government of promised peace. One interconnected economy. One worship.
God will ultimately get the victory. Though this man of sin will be allowed to rule this earth for seven years, he will in the end be destroyed. He will be swept away as with a hurricane. He will finally, and permanently be cast into the Lake of Fire prepared for the Devil.
There are only two sides in the battle for the universe. I realize that sounds like a plot for a science fiction novel, but it is true. In this universal battle between God and Satan, on which side are you? Are you prepared for eternity where you will live somewhere forever?
What is happening up in heaven during these seven years? For those whom Jesus has taken with Him to heaven at the Rapture, there will be two key events.
First, there will be what is referred to as ‘the Bema Seat.’ To the child of God it is written, So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God. (Romans 14:12) This is not to determine the destiny in heaven or hell—that was settled the day one called upon the Lord and trusted His finished work.
In the Olympic Games the winning athletes would come to an award area to receive their crowns or laurel wreaths. Some would receive honors; most would not. So the believer one day will come before Christ to be awarded. Some will be rewarded, and to them, He will say “Well done.” Others will lose out on their rewards, and there will be shame. (1 Corinthians 3:11-15).
The second event that will occur in heaven during those seven years will be the Marriage Supper of the Lamb. (Rev 19:7-9) It will be the finest wedding reception of all time! Believers will see Jesus, loved ones and heroes of the past. All tears will be wiped away. There will be no more sin or suffering. Are you prepared to be part of this great celebration?