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.

1 JOHN 2:18KJV
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1 John 2:18 (KJV)

What does 1 John 2:18 mean?

1 John 2:18 warns believers that they are living in a crucial period described as "the last time," marked by the presence of many people who oppose Christ, called "antichrists." The verse points out that the appearance of these opponents is a sign that this significant time has arrived, just as the readers had previously heard would happen.

John, the writer, is addressing a group of Christians he cares for, calling them "little children" to show affection and guidance. He reminds them that they have been told about a coming figure called "antichrist," but now there are already many such people causing trouble and spreading false ideas. This situation is meant to help the readers recognize the seriousness of their times and stay alert to spiritual dangers.

The Greek behind 1 John 2:18

  • "children" (τεκνία, teknia): This word is a tender term for "little children" or "dear children," showing John's caring and personal relationship with his readers.
  • "last" (ἔσχατος, eschatos) and "time" (ὥρα, hōra): Together, these words mean "the last hour" or "the final period," suggesting a decisive or urgent time, not necessarily a literal hour but a significant phase in history.
  • "antichrist" (ἀντίχριστος, antichristos): This word means "one who is against Christ" or "in place of Christ." John uses it both for a specific expected figure and for anyone who opposes or denies Christ, highlighting that the problem is already present in many people, not just one.
  • "many" (πολλοί, polloi): The use of "many antichrists" emphasizes that opposition to Christ is widespread, not limited to a single person.

Why 1 John 2:18 matters

  • 1 John 2:18 clarifies that "antichrist" is not just a future individual but can refer to anyone actively opposing Christ, which broadens the warning for readers.
  • The verse connects the idea of "the last time" to real events happening among the believers, making the warning immediate and relevant rather than distant or abstract.
  • This verse sets the stage for the following verses, where John explains how to recognize these "antichrists" and why it is important for believers to remain faithful to what they have learned.

Where else these words appear

“antichrist” Greek G500 · used in 4 verses

  • 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.
  • 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.

“whereby” Greek G3606 · used in 15 verses

  • Matthew 12:44 Then he saith, I will return into my house from whence I came out; and when he is come, he findeth it empty, swept, and garnished.
  • Luke 11:24 When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through dry places, seeking rest; and finding none, he saith, I will return unto my house whence I came out.
  • Hebrews 3:1 Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus;

“children” Greek G3813 · used in 48 verses

  • Matthew 2:8 And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, Go and search diligently for the young child; and when ye have found him, bring me word again, that I may come and worship him also.
  • Mark 5:39 And when he was come in, he saith unto them, Why make ye this ado, and weep? the damsel is not dead, but sleepeth.
  • Luke 2:27 And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law,

“last” Greek G2078 · used in 49 verses

  • Matthew 5:26 Verily I say unto thee, Thou shalt by no means come out thence, till thou hast paid the uttermost farthing.
  • Luke 14:10 But when thou art bidden, go and sit down in the lowest room; that when he that bade thee cometh, he may say unto thee, Friend, go up higher: then shalt thou have worship in the presence of them that sit at meat with thee.
  • 1 Corinthians 15:52 In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.