Who Is the Antichrist? Answering the Question Everyone Is Asking
With the growing interest in the Antichrist these days, curiosity runs high for both Christians and unbelievers—with good reason. In books, movies, and even everyday conversation, so many different ideas about who he is, what he will do, and the timing of his arrival abound that it’s difficult to separate biblical fact from human speculation. Bestselling Bible prophecy expert Mark Hitchcock looks to the one source readers can trust—the Bible—and answers questions such as where will the Antichrist come from and when will he appear on earth’s stage.
Biblical Identity and Global Power
The spirit of the antichrist is already at work in the world (1 John 4:3), but one day a real, global figure will rise to fulfill the prophecies. Many assume the Antichrist will be a U.S. political figure or a business elite, but the Bible gives us something far more specific. He will perform a fake resurrection to mimic Christ, and demand worship as if he were God (2 Thess. 2:4). Ultimately, the Antichrist’s goal is about worship, the very thing Satan has always desired (Isaiah 14:13–14).
Gog and the Antichrist: Two Different End-Time Players
It is vital to distinguish between key figures in prophecy. Gog is a ruler over Russia who will lead her and her allies to their doom in Israel during the Tribulation period. When Gog and his massive coalition are destroyed during the first half of the Tribulation, a profound power vacuum will open up, and the Antichrist will move quickly to fill it. The elimination of this Russian-Islamic alliance and all their troops will pave the way for the Antichrist to posture himself to take over the world at the midpoint of the Tribulation and declare himself to be God.
The following table compares the distinct roles of these end-time figures based on the biblical text:
| Feature | Gog (Ezekiel 38) | The Antichrist |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Role | Ruler over Russia leading a coalition to doom | Global figure demanding worship as God |
| Timing of Activity | First half of the Tribulation | Midpoint and end of the Tribulation |
| Key Event | Invasion when Israel is living securely | The campaign of Armageddon |
The Significance of the Mark and 666
Regarding the control he exerts, Revelation 13:16–17 states: "Also he compels all, the small and the great, and the rich and the poor, and the free men and the slaves, to be given a mark on their right hand or on their forehead [signifying allegiance to the beast], and that no one will be able to buy or sell, except the one who has the mark, either the name of the beast or the number of his name." This mark will be a spiritual decision that separates those who follow Christ from those who follow deception. Some wonder if the mark of the beast will be a physical mark or something more symbolic/spiritual that is not tangible, like the seal of the Holy Spirit.
Historical and Modern Perspectives
Interpretations of this figure vary widely. Some believe the Antichrist spoken about already came and passed away—Emperor Nero of Rome. Others suggest the Anti-Christ today is the seat of the Bishop of Rome, who brings followers to him as if he is God on Earth, deceiving many that he is the way to God. Furthermore, some argue that the Antichrist is anything or anyone that looks to separate you from God or Christ, even if not intentional, such as a phone or other worldly distractions.
About the Author
Mark Hitchcock has authored over thirty books related to end-time Bible prophecy that have sold over one million copies. He completed his PhD at Dallas Theological Seminary in 2005 and serves as an associate professor of Bible exposition at DTS. Since 1991, he has served as senior pastor of Faith Bible Church in Edmond, Oklahoma.