Bible Pathways 09/18/2003
September 18
Read Daniel 10 -- 12
In Today's Reading:
Heavenly messenger detained; prophecy of kingdoms from time of Daniel to the Antichrist; great tribulation
The kingdoms of this world are portrayed by Daniel as being in a constant state of conflict for supremecy over the kingdom of God. The oppression of the kingdoms of this world eventually erupts into open hostility toward God and His people. Daniel foretold that during the period of the revived Roman Empire terrible persecution would take place.
The most wicked of all antichrists shall exalt himself, and magnify himself . . . above every god, and shall speak marvellous things (blasphemies) against the God of gods, and shall prosper till the indignation (wrath) be accomplished: for that that is determined shall be done (Daniel 11:36). Jesus speaks of an abomination of desolation spoken of by Daniel the Prophet but which is yet to come (Mark 13:14).
There have been many antichrists over the past 2000 years, as the Apostle John foretold (I John 2:18); and the driving force of all antichrists is to destroy the Kingdom of God. There shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation . . . and at that time your people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book (Daniel 12:1).
But Daniel also said: I heard, but I understood not: then said I, O my Lord, what shall be the end of these things? And He said, Go your way, Daniel: for the words are closed up and sealed (kept secret) till the time of the end (12:8-9). Daniel admitted that there was much in his prophecy that he did not understand, yet it was intended that he share what was revealed to him with all whose faith is in the eventual glorious outcome. Daniel expresses the utmost assurance that God controls the future. A great peace of mind can rest within the hearts of the people of God with the assurance that He ultimately wins the victory as Daniel foretold, and many shall be purified, and made white, and tried; but the wicked shall do wickedly: and none of the wicked shall understand; but the wise shall understand (12:10).
Daniel's prophecy reminds us to be prepared for the soon return of Christ, when He shall reign and rule over all the world. Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall notcome, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed (II Thessalonians 2:3). The time will come when it seems that the wicked one has triumphed, Even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders (2:9). Then shall that wicked one (Satan) be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume (slay) with the spirit of His mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of His coming. . . . Now our Lord Jesus Christ Himself. . . . Comfort your hearts, and establish you in every good word and work (II Thessalonians 2:8,16-17).
Christ Revealed:
As the One Who lives forever (Daniel 12:7). As One of the Three expressed Persons of the Trinity, Jesus Christ always has been and always will be. Jesus said to them, Verily, verily (truly truly), I say to you, Before Abraham was, I am ((John 8:58). I am the Alpha and Omega (Christ), the Beginning and the Ending, says the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty (Revelation 1:8, also 4:8).
Word Studies:
10:15 dumb = speechless; 11:11 choler = enraged; 11:15 most fenced = best fortified; 11:24 fattest = richest; forecast his devices = devise plans; 12:7 a time, times, and an half = 3-1/2 years..
Prayer Needs:
BP Staff: Ilene Wallace · Pray for our Arabic translator · Government Officials: Sen. Robert Bennett (UT), Rep. Jim McCreary (LA), and Rep. John Tierney (MA) · Country: South Africa (43 million) on the southern tip of the African continent · Major languages: Afrikaans and English · Religious freedom · 67% Protestant; 20% animism, magic, and ancestor worship; 10% Roman Catholic; 3% Asian religions · Prayer Suggestion: Ask the Lord for wisdom as you read His Word, and it will be given to you (James 1:5).
Memory Verse for the Week: Romans 10:10
