Wednesday, November 12, 2008

Nationality of the Antichrist

Dr. Couch, what will be the nationality of the antichrist? There seems to be some confusion on this issue.

ANSWER: I believe the antichrist could be around today but he will not be revealed as to who he is until the seven year tribulation begins. In Daniel 9:27 we read: he is the prince who "will make a firm covenant with the many for one week (a seven year period—the tribulation and wrath). Actually, it best reads "He will confirm (higbir), make a strong agreement (make a covenant to prevail) with many …" Benware writes: "The covenant made between the Roman Prince (Antichrist) and the people of Israel requires that Israel will be at least partially restored to the land."

11:37 says "he will show no regard for the gods (Elohim) of his fathers …" Most translate this as gods but if it should read "God" then there would be an indication that he could be Jewish. I lean this way because he will convince the orthodox Jews that he is the Messiah, and they somehow buy into that, maybe on the evidence that he is Jewish.

No one can say for sure.

You need to get Dr. Paul Benware's commentary on Daniel produced by Scofield Ministries. Great commentary!

Thanks for asking.
Dr. Mal Couch