We have considered the titles of Antichrist, his nature and properties, the time of his rise, and with it his ruin; now we are to consider the way and means how he doth acquire and keep up this power in the world.
The means are—(1.) Principal; (2.) Instrumental.
1. Principal: after the working of Satan.
2. Instrumental, which are also two:—
[1.] Pretence of miracles: with all power, signs, and lying wonders.
[2.] Other cheats and impostures: with all deceiveableness of unrighteousness; their general way of dealing being sophistical and fallacious. Let us a little explain these things.
1. The great agent in setting up this kingdom: ‘After the working of Satan.' It may note the manner, as we render after, that is, in such a way as Satan deceived our first parents, ‘for he was a murderer and a liar from the beginning,' John viii. 44; ‘I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve by his subtlety, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity which is in Christ,' 2 Cor. xi. 3.
So all this mystery of iniquity shall be carried on after this manner: by deceit, by the tricks of lying men, and the works of deceiving spirits. Rather it noteth Satan's agency and influence, and after, or according to the working of Satan, is as much as by the working of Satan, noting not only his pattern, but his influence.
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