Pseudo-Methodius
7th c.
· Syria
catholic
· Anonymous Author, Apocalypticist
Traditional
Anonymous Syrian Christian author who wrote the 'Apocalypse of Pseudo-Methodius' around 690 AD, shortly after the Islamic conquests of Syria, Palestine, and Egypt. The text was falsely attributed to St. Methodius of Olympus (3rd c.) to lend it authority. It became the most influential apocalyptic text of the Middle Ages, translated into Greek, Latin, and Slavic languages. Its concept of the 'Last Roman Emperor' became the foundation for the Great Monarch prophecy in all of Catholic prophetic tradition.
The Sons of Ishmael Conquer the Christian World
690 AD — Syria
Fulfilled
The sons of Ishmael will come forth from the desert and conquer the Christian lands. Their rule will be cruel and oppressive. Churches will be turned into mosques. Christians will be humiliated, enslaved, and forced to pay tribute. It will seem as if God has abandoned His people.
Read more →
The Last Roman Emperor Awakens
690 AD — Syria
Pending
When all seems lost, the Last Roman Emperor will awaken from his slumber. He will rise in great fury and march against the sons of Ishmael. He will defeat them utterly and liberate all Christian lands. His victory will be total and complete — the power of Ishmael will be broken forever.
Read more →
The Emperor Lays Down His Crown at Golgotha
690 AD — Syria
Pending
After liberating Christendom, the Last Emperor will go to Jerusalem. He will ascend Golgotha, the place of the Cross, and lay down his imperial crown and scepter, surrendering all earthly authority to God. With this act, the Roman Empire will end and the way will be opened for the Antichrist.
Read more →
Gog and Magog Released From Behind the Gates
690 AD — Syria
Pending
After the Last Emperor surrenders his crown, the nations of Gog and Magog — whom Alexander the Great sealed behind iron gates in the North — will be released. They will swarm across the earth like locusts, destroying everything in their path. Their devastation will be unimaginable.
Read more →
The Antichrist Sits in the Temple and Christ Returns
690 AD — Syria
Pending
The Antichrist will appear and seat himself in the Temple in Jerusalem, proclaiming himself God. He will deceive many with false signs and wonders. His reign will be brief. Then Christ Himself will descend from heaven and destroy the Antichrist with the breath of His mouth. The dead will be raised and all will be judged.
Read more →