On Christ and the Antichrist

On Christ and the Antichrist is one of the earliest surviving Christian works devoted to the mystery of the last times. Written by Saint Hippolytus of Rome, it brings together the testimony of the prophets, the Gospels, the Apostle Paul, and the Apocalypse to explain what Scripture reveals about Christ and His final enemy. Saint Hippolytus begins from the saving work of the Word of God, Who took flesh from the Holy Virgin and conquered death through His Passion. From there, he turns to the rise of Antichrist, describing his deception, tyranny, false signs, and attempt to imitate the true Christ. He examines the prophecies of Jacob, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Daniel, and Saint John the Theologian with striking detail. Particular attention is given to Daniel's kingdoms, the beasts of prophecy, the ten horns, and the little horn that Saint Hippolytus identifies with Antichrist. The book also explores the mystery of Babylon, the persecution of the saints, and the pressure that will be placed upon those who refuse to submit to the beast. Saint Hippolytus presents the mark of the beast not as an isolated curiosity, but as part of a wider assault upon faithfulness to God.He also speaks of Enoch and Elijah, who will preach repentance during the final tribulation. Throughout the work, the terror of Antichrist is set against the far greater majesty and power of Jesus Christ. The first coming of the Lord in humility is contrasted with His glorious return from heaven in the power of the Angels and the glory of the Father. The final sections turn toward the resurrection, judgment, the punishment of the ungodly, and the everlasting Kingdom prepared for the saints. This is not merely a book of prophetic interpretation, but a call to discernment, endurance, repentance, and steadfast faith. Saint Hippolytus writes with the conviction that the words of Scripture were given so that believers may recognise deception and remain faithful when trials come. On Christ and the Antichrist remains a powerful early Christian witness to the victory of Christ and the eternal Kingdom that can never be destroyed.