The Rising: Antichrist is Born (Before They Were Left Behind, #1) Summary & Key Insights

"The Rising: Antichrist is Born" (the first in the "Before They Were Left Behind" series) prequels the popular "Left Behind" series, laying the groundwork for the rise of the Antichrist by focusing on his early life and the events leading up to his global dominance. The story primarily centers on Nicolae Carpathia, a charismatic and ambitious young man from Romania, who, unbeknownst to the world, is the prophesied Antichrist.

The narrative follows Nicolae's rise to power through a combination of political maneuvering, strategic alliances, and supernatural influence. He displays extraordinary abilities, including healing powers and seemingly prophetic insights, which garner him immense popularity and trust among world leaders. These abilities are, in fact, subtle manifestations of demonic power subtly guiding his actions.

Key characters besides Nicolae include his mentor, a shadowy figure connected to globalist organizations, and various political figures who initially support or later oppose him. The book emphasizes the global political landscape, highlighting the increasing instability and interconnectedness of nations. This creates a fertile ground for Nicolae’s ascension, as he exploits existing conflicts and fear to consolidate his power.

The main plot unfolds as Nicolae's influence expands gradually. He establishes himself as a peacemaker, resolving seemingly intractable conflicts, while subtly manipulating events to his advantage. He leverages advancements in technology and global communication to control the flow of information and shape public perception. His charm and persuasive rhetoric are crucial to gaining the trust and support of various influential figures, including business magnates, religious leaders, and even governments.

A central theme is the deception surrounding Nicolae's identity. While the reader is aware of his true nature, the characters within the story are oblivious, highlighting the ease with which deception can take root in a world craving solutions and susceptible to charismatic leadership. The narrative also explores themes of global politics, religious manipulation, and the subtle yet powerful influence of demonic forces working behind the scenes.

The overarching narrative arc focuses on Nicolae's calculated climb to global power, culminating in his position as a globally admired figure poised to establish a new world order. The book ends with him firmly entrenched in a position of authority, setting the stage for the events detailed in the "Left Behind" series, where his true identity and evil intentions will be revealed to a shocked world.