1 John 2:18

KJV

¶ Little children, it is the last time: and as ye have heard that antichrist shall come, even now are there many antichrists; whereby we know that it is the last time.

KJV (with Strong's)

Little children {G3813}, it is {G2076} the last {G2078} time {G5610}: and {G2532} as {G2531} ye have heard {G191} that {G3754} antichrist {G500} shall come {G2064}, even {G2532} now {G3568} are there {G1096} many {G4183} antichrists {G500}; whereby {G3606} we know {G1097} that {G3754} it is {G2076} the last {G2078} time {G5610}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Children, this is the Last Hour. You have heard that an Anti-Messiah is coming; and in fact, many anti-Messiahs have arisen now — which is how we know that this is the Last Hour.

Berean Standard Bible

Children, it is the last hour; and just as you have heard that the antichrist is coming, so now many antichrists have appeared. This is how we know it is the last hour.

American Standard Version

Little children, it is the last hour: and as ye heard that antichrist cometh, even now have there arisen many antichrists; whereby we know that it is the last hour.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
The Apostle John tenderly addresses believers, declaring that they are living in "the last time," an era inaugurated by Christ's first coming and leading to His return. He reminds them of the expected coming of a singular "antichrist" but immediately clarifies that the spirit of opposition to Christ is already actively at work through "many antichrists," whose very presence serves as undeniable proof that humanity is indeed in this final, decisive period of redemptive history.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse appears in the second chapter of John's first epistle, following his foundational statements on fellowship with God, the nature of sin, and Christ's role as advocate and propitiation for sins ([1 John 1:5-2:2](/1_john/1-5-2-2 "1 John 1:5-2:2 - God is Light, Christ is Advocate")). John has just exhorted his "little children" not to love the world or the things in the world, contrasting the fleeting nature of worldly desires with the enduring will of God ([1 John 2:15-17](/1_john/2-15-17 "1 John 2:15-17 - Do Not Love the World")). Verse 18 then transitions to a warning about the spiritual dangers of the age, specifically the manifestation of antichristian forces, establishing a direct link between rejecting worldly desires and discerning spiritual truth. The subsequent verses (e.g., [1 John 2:19-23](/1_john/2-19-23 "1 John 2:19-23 - The Spirit of Antichrist")) further elaborate on the identity and false teachings of these antichrists, particularly their denial of the Father and the Son.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** John is likely writing to churches in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey), possibly from Ephesus, towards the end of the first century AD. The early Christian community was grappling with internal divisions and external pressures. Within the church, nascent Gnostic or proto-Gnostic teachings were emerging, challenging the orthodox understanding of Jesus Christ, particularly His full humanity and divinity (the Incarnation). These false teachers often claimed a superior, secret "knowledge" (gnosis) and denied the true nature of Christ's coming in the flesh. The concept of "the last days" or "the last time" was deeply rooted in Old Testament prophecy (e.g., [Isaiah 2:2](/isaiah/2-2 "Isaiah 2:2 - The Last Days"), [Daniel 10:14](/daniel/10-14 "Daniel 10:14 - The Last Days")) and was understood by early Christians as the eschatological era inaugurated by the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, leading up to His second coming. This period was expected to be characterized by intensified spiritual conflict, deception, and the rise of figures opposing God and His Messiah.
* **Key Themes:** The primary themes in [1 John 2](/1_john/2 "1 John 2 - Abiding in Christ") that this verse contributes to include the **urgency of the eschatological age** ("the last time"), the **reality of spiritual deception**, and the **importance of discerning truth from error**. John emphasizes that the presence of those who deny Christ's true identity is not merely a sign of the times but *constitutes* the very nature of "the last time." This passage also reinforces the theme of **abiding in Christ** ([1 John 2:24-28](/1_john/2-24-28 "1 John 2:24-28 - Abiding in the Son")), as a firm foundation in Him is the antidote to the deceptions of antichrists. The epistle consistently calls believers to **test the spirits** ([1 John 4:1](/1_john/4-1 "1 John 4:1 - Test the Spirits")) and to **hold fast to the truth** they have received from the beginning, which is Christ Himself.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **paidíon (Greek, _paidíon'_):** This neuter diminutive form of `país` (child) literally means "a childling" or "an infant." John uses it affectionately and paternally throughout his epistles (e.g., [1 John 2:1](/1_john/2-1 "1 John 2:1 - My Little Children"), [1 John 2:12](/1_john/2-12 "1 John 2:12 - I Write to You, Little Children"), [1 John 3:7](/1_john/3-7 "1 John 3:7 - Little Children")). It signifies a tender, intimate relationship, emphasizing the spiritual immaturity or dependent status of his readers, yet also conveying deep pastoral care and authority.
* **éschatos (Greek, _éschatos'_):** This word is a superlative meaning "farthest," "final," "last," or "uttermost," referring to both place and time. When used in the phrase "the last time" (hṓra), it denotes the ultimate, culminating period of history. John's declaration is not merely a prediction of a future event but an assertion that the final epoch of salvation history has already begun with Christ's incarnation, death, and resurrection.
* **antíchristos (Greek, _antíchristos'_):** Derived from `anti` (against or instead of) and `Christos` (Christ), this term specifically refers to an "opponent of the Messiah" or one who sets himself up "in place of Christ." John is the only New Testament author to use this specific term. Its dual meaning is crucial: it points to a singular, ultimate adversary (the Antichrist) and to the many individuals or movements embodying this spirit of opposition in the present.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Little children,"**: John's characteristic tender address, `paidíon`, revealing his pastoral heart and the affectionate relationship he has with his readers. It underscores his spiritual authority and love, setting a tone of intimate instruction.
* **"it is the last time:"**: A profound theological declaration. John asserts that the present era is the eschatological "last time" (`hṓra`), signifying that the decisive period of God's redemptive plan, inaugurated by Christ, is now unfolding. This is not merely a future expectation but a present reality.
* **"and as ye have heard that antichrist shall come,"**: This acknowledges a common teaching or expectation within the early Christian community regarding a specific, prominent figure, "the Antichrist," who would appear at the end of the age to oppose Christ. The phrase "shall come" (`érchomai`) indicates a future, singular manifestation.
* **"even now are there many antichrists;"**: This is John's crucial clarification and warning. While a singular "Antichrist" is expected, the spirit of opposition is already active and embodied in numerous individuals or groups (`polýs antichristos`). These "many antichrists" are present realities, not just future threats, and they manifest the same anti-Christ spirit.
* **"whereby we know that it is the last time."**: The presence and activity of these "many antichrists" serve as irrefutable evidence (`ginṓskō`) that the church is indeed living in the "last time" (`éschatos hṓra`). Their existence confirms the eschatological nature of the present age, highlighting the urgency of spiritual discernment and steadfastness.

#### Literary Devices
John employs several effective **Literary Devices** in this verse. The most prominent is **Direct Address**, utilizing the tender and affectionate term "Little children" (`paidíon`), which establishes a paternal tone and fosters a sense of intimacy and trust between the author and his audience. This gentle address contrasts sharply with the grave warning that follows. There is also significant **Repetition** of the phrase "the last time" and the word "antichrist," which emphasizes the urgency and central importance of these concepts. The repetition of "the last time" frames the declaration, reinforcing its significance, while the repetition of "antichrist" highlights both the singular future figure and the plural present manifestations. Furthermore, John uses **Contrast** by juxtaposing the singular "antichrist" (whom they "have heard that... shall come") with the immediate reality of "many antichrists" who are "even now" present. This contrast serves to ground the eschatological expectation in the contemporary experience of the church, making the abstract future threat concrete and immediate.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse profoundly shapes our understanding of eschatology, moving it from a purely future event to a present reality. John asserts that the "last time" is not merely a distant future but the very epoch in which believers now live, inaugurated by Christ's first coming. The presence of "many antichrists" is not a deviation from God's plan but a divinely ordained sign confirming the nature of this age. Theologically, it underscores the ongoing spiritual warfare and the necessity of discerning truth, particularly concerning the person and work of Jesus Christ. It teaches that the spirit of antichrist is fundamentally a denial of Christ's true identity, whether as God incarnate or as the Son of the Father, and this denial is a hallmark of the end times.

* [2 Thessalonians 2:3-4](/2_thessalonians/2-3-4 "2 Thessalonians 2:3-4 - The Man of Lawlessness")
* [Matthew 24:24](/matthew/24-24 "Matthew 24:24 - False Christs and Prophets")
* [1 John 4:1-3](/1_john/4-1-3 "1 John 4:1-3 - Test the Spirits")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
John's declaration that "it is the last time" is not meant to incite fear or speculative date-setting, but to instill a profound sense of urgency and discernment in believers. It reminds us that the spiritual battle is not a distant concept but an ever-present reality. The "many antichrists" of John's day, denying the incarnation of Christ, serve as a timeless warning against any teaching or ideology that diminishes the person and work of Jesus. For us today, this means we must be vigilant against all forms of spiritual deception, whether they come from overt opposition to Christ or subtle distortions of His truth within religious or secular thought. We are called to be rooted in the foundational truths of the gospel, to exercise spiritual discernment, and to cling to the authentic revelation of Jesus Christ as the Son of God who came in the flesh. Our steadfastness in sound doctrine and our active love for one another are crucial defenses in this ongoing spiritual climate.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding "the last time" as a present reality, rather than just a future event, change my perspective on daily life and spiritual vigilance?**
* **In what ways might the "spirit of antichrist" manifest itself in our contemporary culture or even within religious discourse today?**
* **What practical steps can I take to cultivate greater spiritual discernment and guard against deceptive teachings?**

### FAQ
**What is the difference between "the Antichrist" and "many antichrists"?**

Answer: John's use of both terms in [1 John 2:18](/1_john/2-18 "1 John 2:18 - The Last Time and Antichrists") is significant. "The Antichrist" (singular) refers to a specific, prominent individual who is expected to emerge at the culmination of the "last time" to embody ultimate opposition to Christ, as also described in passages like [2 Thessalonians 2:3-10](/2_thessalonians/2-3-10 "2 Thessalonians 2:3-10 - The Man of Lawlessness"). "Many antichrists" (plural) refers to individuals or groups who, even in John's own day and throughout history, exhibit the spirit of antichrist. These are false teachers, deceivers, or systems of thought that deny the true nature of Jesus Christ (especially His incarnation, as seen in [1 John 4:2-3](/1_john/4-2-3 "1 John 4:2-3 - Test the Spirits")) or seek to usurp His authority. Their presence is a sign that the "last time" is already underway.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The declaration of "the last time" in [1 John 2:18](/1_john/2-18 "1 John 2:18 - The Last Time") finds its ultimate fulfillment and meaning in Christ. It is not merely a chronological marker but a theological reality inaugurated by the advent of Jesus. His first coming, His perfect life, atoning death, and glorious resurrection marked the decisive turning point in human history, ushering in the final age of God's redemptive plan. The "antichrist" and "many antichrists" are defined precisely by their opposition to Jesus, who is the Christ, the Son of God come in the flesh ([1 John 4:2](/1_john/4-2 "1 John 4:2 - Jesus Christ Has Come in the Flesh")). The very existence of those who deny Him underscores His unique and indispensable role as the Messiah. Christ is the true Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), the one in whom all the promises of God find their "Yes" and "Amen" ([2 Corinthians 1:20](/2_corinthians/1-20 "2 Corinthians 1:20 - All Promises are Yes in Christ")). While antichrists seek to deceive and draw people away, Christ is the Truth ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life")), the faithful and true witness ([Revelation 3:14](/revelation/3-14 "Revelation 3:14 - The Faithful and True Witness")), who has overcome the world and its spiritual forces ([John 16:33](/john/16-33 "John 16:33 - I Have Overcome the World")). The believer's victory over the spirit of antichrist comes through faith in Him ([1 John 5:4-5](/1_john/5-4-5 "1 John 5:4-5 - Victory Over the World Through Faith")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 John 4:3

And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that [spirit] of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world.

2 John 1:7

¶ For many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist.

1 John 2:22

Who is a liar but he that denieth that Jesus is the Christ? He is antichrist, that denieth the Father and the Son.

Matthew 24:24

For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if [it were] possible, they shall deceive the very elect.

Matthew 24:5

For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many.

1 Timothy 4:1

¶ Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;

1 Timothy 4:3

Forbidding to marry, [and commanding] to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know the truth.