John 2:18 – “Dear children, this is the last hour; and as you have heard that the antichrist is coming, even now many antichrists have come. This is how we know it is the last hour.”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, John is warning believers about the times they are living in. He uses the phrase “the last hour” to describe a period of time marked by spiritual danger and deception. It doesn’t mean sixty literal minutes but speaks of the final period of history between Jesus’ first coming and His return.
John reminds them that they have already heard that the antichrist is coming — meaning, there will be a powerful figure opposed to Jesus who will deceive many (a figure mentioned elsewhere in Scripture). But he also tells them that many antichrists have already come — meaning, there are already people at work who are against Christ, spreading lies and leading others away from the truth.
The presence of these false teachers and deceivers is a sign, John says, that they are living in “the last hour.” It is a time of spiritual testing and conflict, when people must stay alert and rooted in the truth of God.
Historical Context
When John wrote this letter, false teachers had already started creeping into the early church. Some were denying that Jesus was the Christ. Others were twisting the message of the gospel or encouraging sinful living.
These teachers were not just misguided — they were deliberately opposing the truth about Jesus. John calls them “antichrists” because they stood against Christ.
For the believers of that time, these false teachers caused confusion, division, and doubt. John is writing to warn them and to help them stay grounded.
Theological Implications
This verse teaches that there is real spiritual opposition to Jesus and His people. The term “antichrist” describes anyone who denies Jesus or tries to replace Him with false teaching.
It also teaches that we are living in the “last hour.” In the Bible, this refers to the period between Jesus’ death and resurrection and His second coming. It is a time when the truth about Jesus will be challenged, and many will try to lead people away from Him.
John’s words remind believers to expect spiritual opposition and to stay awake and alert in their faith.
Literary Analysis
John again uses the phrase “Dear children” — a gentle, pastoral way of speaking to his readers. He is not trying to scare them but to warn and protect them.
He uses the term antichrist in both a singular and plural sense:
- The antichrist – pointing to a future, final enemy of Christ.
- Many antichrists – pointing to the false teachers and deceivers already at work.
John’s use of “the last hour” shows urgency. He wants believers to understand the spiritual reality of the times they are living in.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Matthew 24:24 – “For false messiahs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect.”
- 2 Thessalonians 2:3-4 – Paul speaks of a “man of lawlessness” who will oppose God.
- 1 John 4:3 – “Every spirit that does not acknowledge Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist.”
- 2 Peter 2:1 – “There will be false teachers among you.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For believers today, this verse is a reminder that we are still living in the “last hour.” Spiritual deception is real. False teachers, false ideas, and people who oppose Jesus are still at work in the world.
This verse calls Christians to be aware, discerning, and grounded in God’s truth. It encourages believers not to be surprised when people reject Jesus or twist His message — but to stay firm in the truth of the gospel.
It also invites us to live with urgency, knowing that this time will not last forever and that Jesus is coming again.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is seen in this warning. He doesn’t want His children to be fooled or led astray. Through John’s words, God is protecting His people by opening their eyes to the reality of spiritual conflict.
He loves us enough to tell us the truth about the dangers around us — and to give us the tools to stand strong in His word.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse is centered around Jesus. The very word antichrist means “against Christ.”
False teachers and deceivers try to pull people away from the truth about Jesus — His identity, His mission, and His authority.
But Jesus Himself warned that false teachers would come (Matthew 24).
He also promised that His sheep would know His voice and not follow a stranger (John 10:4-5).
John’s warning reminds believers to stay close to Jesus, who is the truth, the way, and the life (John 14:6).
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What are some ways the spirit of “antichrist” shows up in today’s world?
- How can you stay alert and guard your heart against spiritual deception?
- Why do you think John describes this time as “the last hour”?
- How does knowing there will be opposition to Jesus affect how you live your faith?
- What practical steps can you take to stay grounded in the truth of the gospel?