The spirit of antichrist is already here

"Little children, it is the last hour; and as you have heard that the Antichrist is coming, even now many antichrists have come... the spirit of the antichrist is already in the world" (1 John 2:18; 4:3).

We all know about the Holy Spirit’s work in the world to draw people to Jesus. And we are also aware of His work in our hearts—convicting, cleansing and perfecting us (John 16:8; 2 Cor. 7:1). The Holy Spirit is guiding us to God's truth, and preparing our hearts for the coming of the Lord.

But there is another spirit at work in the world—the spirit of antichrist is preparing hearts for the antichrist's arrival. Though we know the antichrist will come in the last days, the spirit of antichrist is already here—working to set up things for his kingdom by lying to and deceiving people.  So when the antichrist makes his public appearance, millions will have already been prepared for him; he already has their hearts and minds. 

“False messiahs and false prophets will rise up and perform signs and wonders so as to deceive, if possible, even God's chosen ones. Watch out! I have warned you about this ahead of time!” (Mar 13:21-23)