Jon talked about the Beast, or the Antichrist, in Revelation 13. While it’s easy to identify this figure with a politician, cult-leader, or boss we don’t like, it’s the “spirit” of the Antichrist that can appear anywhere—even in our own hearts.
MY STORY
Prior to 1970, apart from Hitler, who was the most evil human being in history?
Why would most people, without hesitation or mental reservation, be willing to describe this person as full of animosity and malice?
WHAT DOES GOD WANT US TO HEAR?
[The Second Beast] performs great signs, even making fire come down from heaven to earth in front of people, and by the signs that it is allowed to work in the presence of the beast it deceives those who dwell on earth, (Revelation 13:13-14)
Every spirit that does not confess Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you heard was coming and now is in the world already. (I John 4:3)
In what ways have you seen the Book of Revelation weaponized—even to the point of using an interpretation as a litmus test for salvation?
What are we to make of the complex imagery of the first beast in Revelation 13? Will he really look like this, or do these physical characteristics symbolize something diabolical about him? Explain.
What did Jon say were some of the dangers of trying to identify an historical person as the Antichrist? What are we in danger of missing if we do that?
How did the Romans of the first century display most of the characteristics of the Beast?
What type of systems today create this kind of deep oppression of God’s people (especially in the third world)?
How does the “Spirit of the Antichrist” show up today—in our society, our culture, or our personal lives?
What does God want us to hear? Based on the passage and the questions above, what “takeaways” do you think God has revealed to you?
WHAT DOES GOD WANT US TO DO?
Jon said, “[The Apostle] John emphasizes that the Beasts are counterfeit versions of Jesus.”
What are some counterfeit forms of Jesus that exist in the world today? Which of these are the most seductive to you?
What are some modern day versions of the “Imperial Cult” that provide empty promises of security, meaning, safety, and comfort?
How is anything that presents Jesus as unnecessary energized by the Spirit of the Antichrist?
What does God want us to do? Flowing out of our reading and interpretation, what action does this passage or the Spirit’s leading, call us to?
WHAT DOES GOD WANT ME TO DO?
In which parts of your life might you tempted to believe that Jesus’ influence is less necessary than in the other parts?
What’s the current substitute for Jesus in those areas of life?
Look at one of the areas of your life where you might have said, “I can take care of this. Jesus doesn’t need to bother” and hand that over to God.
Let go of the things, positions, possessions, or relationships, that have served as parodies of Jesus for you. Encourage this spirit of the Antichrist (in your heart) to go jump into a bottomless pit.
What does God want ME to do? What is the personal application and action step God is calling you, personally, toward?
Message Notes
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