The antichrist spirit has a goal for the Church-embrace Jesus apart from the anointing. Without the anointing, He becomes a safe religious figure who is sure not to challenge or offend us. Paul described this deceptive possibility as "having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away!" {2 Tim. 3:5}.
The antichrist spirit aims to lead the Church towards a superficial acceptance of Jesus, encouraging followers to embrace Him without the accompanying anointing. This detachment allows Jesus to be perceived as a benign religious figure, one who does not confront or provoke discomfort among believers. The concept highlights a critical issue within the church about maintaining a genuine relationship with Christ that is dynamic and transformative.
Bill Johnson references Paul's warning in 2 Timothy 3:5 about the danger of having a mere appearance of godliness while failing to acknowledge its true power. This facade can be misleading, leading the community away from the authentic, life-changing experience that arises from a full recognition of the Holy Spirit's anointing. Johnson urges believers to be discerning and to seek the genuine power of God rather than settling for a diluted version of faith.
