The apostle John provides insight into the antichrist spirit that was evident at the end of the first century and persists today. He describes many antichrists as individuals influenced by this spirit who have separated from the faithful. John identifies these antichrists as those who deny the Father and the Son, rejecting Jesus Christ as the Messiah.

In his epistles, the apostle John introduces the term antichrist, using it in a general sense to describe an attitude opposed to God and those who embody it. He notes that even in his time, there were many antichrists, individuals influenced by an unholy spirit that led them to beliefs and practices contrary to the Savior. These antichrists had once fellowshipped with the brethren but separated due to the conflict between the unholy spirit and the Spirit of God. John warns the church to remain vigilant, as the antichrist spirit could still deceive those who stayed. John further identifies antichrists as those who deny that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh, countering false beliefs that corrupted the true nature of the Messiah. He emphasizes that anyone who rejects the incarnation of God into human flesh stands against the very purpose of the Messiah's life, ministry, and death. Through these warnings, John urges believers to test the spirits behind the messages they hear, ensuring they align with the truth of Scripture and the reality of Christ's incarnation.

The concept of the Antichrist is a critical element in understanding false teachings and deception within the spiritual realm. John, in his epistles, warns that antichrists are present at all times, with their influence intensifying as the end approaches. This makes it essential to recognize the spirit of Antichrist, which often becomes evident only after such individuals depart from the true path, revealing their divergence through a track record of contrary actions. These individuals, if truly aligned with Christ, would remain among the faithful, but their departure signifies their antichrist tendencies, as they become uncomfortable among those striving to be Christ-like. John defines an antichrist as one who denies the Father and the Son, essentially rejecting or refusing God's truth. This denial can manifest in various forms, from resisting the Holy Spirit's guidance to outright rejection of God, ultimately distorting the true nature of God in one's mind. By rejecting any part of God's revelation, the image of God becomes skewed, leading to a false understanding. God acknowledges human limitations in fully comprehending His nature and offers grace for this shortfall, expecting a sincere effort to grow in understanding. Yet, it must be recognized that elements of antichrist exist within all, stemming from a past immersed in a world opposed to God. Even after being called out, remnants of anti-God attitudes and beliefs linger, requiring continuous effort to purge them with the aid of God's Spirit. The Christian journey is thus a lifelong endeavor to root out the antichrist within, striving to embody Christ's character. This process of eliminating antichrist tendencies aims to transform individuals into reflections of Christ, aligning with God's purpose to create sons and daughters in the image of His Firstborn. The struggle against antichrist elements is fraught with challenges, compounded by human nature and satan's influence. However, the reward for those who persevere, especially in the first resurrection, is profound, promising a closer likeness to Christ and an eternal position alongside God and Christ. The essence of Christian life is to cast out the antichrist and embrace Christ, putting on the new man as a constant act of transformation.