ANSWER:
There is no official (conciliar) view on this point. Orthodoxy is biblical and patristic, which means that the scriptural use is very important. In the NT, "antichrist" is plural, and it seems to refer to those who introduce (or become) replacements or substitutes for Christ. This is discussed in the Epistles of John. This process was already happening during the first century. This language (replacement or substitute for Christ) can also be found in 1 Thessalonians and Revelation, but the precise term "antichrist" is not used. When people talk about "the antichrist" that is what they are referring to, but it not the actual biblical language. So the question becomes, will there be in the future or very soon a person who will be the embodiment and climax of this spirit? This is very possible we have to be on guard not be deceived by "false messiahs / christs." |
