Jesus says these deceptive Christians come on the basis of his name saying “I am he.” At first glance, it appears that those coming would be claiming they are Jesus. We should remember, however, that these people of whom Jesus warns his followers to avoid also “come on the basis of [Jesus’] name”. This means that they come claiming to be fellow followers of the Lord, recognizing his office and authority. If they follow Jesus, then they obviously see Jesus as another entity. They are not claiming to actually be Jesus; therefore, the phrase “I am he” must have a different meaning.
The parallel gospel according to Matthew helps us understand the true meaning of Jesus’ words. When we look at Matthew 24:5, Jesus says they come saying, “I am the Christ.” At first you might think this only confirms the notion that they claim to be Jesus; yet, it actually shows the opposite. How?
Today, when one speaks of Christ, we naturally conclude he speaks of Jesus. We often associate the word “Christ” as another name for Jesus, since we frequently call the Lord by name saying, “Jesus Christ”, or “Christ Jesus”. To Jesus’ audience in the first century, the word “Christ” would have had a more general connotation. “‘Christ’ is not a mere appellative added to distinguish the Lord Jesus from others of the same name; it is an official title.” (it-1 p.438) Yes, the word “Christ”, especially to the Jews, was actually an official title –not an assigned name.
The Greek word Khristos′ is equivalent to the Hebrew word Mashi′ach, both meaning “Messiah” and “Anointed One.” Even more interesting is the fact that Jesus is not the only Christ in the Bible. Frequently, the word Christ is used in the Scriptures as a title for anointed priests, kings, and prophets. For example, Aaron the high priest was ho khristos′, or “the anointed one,” commissioned and “appointed in behalf of men over the things pertaining to God.”(Lev. 4:3, 5, 16; 8:12; Hebrews 5:1) King Saul at 1 Samuel 12:3 was also regarded as the khristou′, or “anointed one”. –it-1 p.439.
It would be much like calling someone “The President.” Right away, we may think of the current president in office; however, we also know that others held that same position. In fact, if a past president should walk into the room, everyone would still address him as “Mr. President.” This is because “president” is a title, an office, held by those whom the people elected. To the Jews listening to Jesus’ warning, they understood the term Christ in a similar manner. They knew Jesus was the current Christ having been anointed by Jehovah God, but they were aware of others who had been anointed, or chosen, in the past that also held that title.
What does this all mean? Jesus is warning that his followers would be misled by those basically saying, “I am He, the one who has been anointed, chosen by God, to lead His people.” Again, they are not saying they are Jesus; however, they are saying they are the ones we should follow because, like Jesus, they have been chosen and anointed by God.
We now understand why Jesus was adamant about warning his followers of the dangers to come. Jesus knew that opportunistic individuals would take advantage of fellow believers after Jesus returned to Heaven. Jesus knew, as God’s Inspired Word clearly teaches, “Do not put YOUR trust in nobles, Nor in the son of earthling man, to whom no salvation belongs.” (Psalm 146:3) Yes, following men for salvation is disastrous.
http://www.jehovahs-witness.net/watchtower/scandals/217255/1/Luke-21-8-Who-Should-We-Really-Avoid#.UwLEUBUo6Uk
