Son of Perdition

The Antichrist is referred to as the "son of perdition" in 2 Thessalonians 2:3 (NKJ). Some translations use the word destruction instead of perdition but the meaning is the same. The destiny of the Antichrist and all who follow him is to spend eternity in hell. “Anyone not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the lake of fire… and they will be tormented day and night forever and ever” (Revelation 20:15, 10).

People will follow the Antichrist because he offers them human solutions to their needs. Thus they don’t have to yield their lives to Jesus Christ which they perceive to be an unseen task master who can not help them. But the Antichrist is referred to as the “worthless shepherd” in Zechariah 11:17 since following him will lead to destruction instead of salvation.

The Antichrist will use religion to cause people to follow him; he will be charismatic and thus the ultimate cult leader. Revelation 13:8 says, “All who dwell on the earth will worship him.” Religion has lead more people away from Christ than anything in this world and this will certainly be the case during the Tribulation.

Most people today don’t even acknowledge the existence of hell. If they did, they’d certainly do their due diligence to make sure they didn’t end up there. Many who do acknowledge the existence of hell have bought into the lie of Satan that they can earn favor with God through their good works. But it is, “by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast” (Ephesians 2:8-9).

No one has to go to hell. “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved” (Acts 16:31). I can’t imagine not believing this.