Bible Pathway - Sept. 18, 2010
Highlights:
Gabriel sent to Daniel but the prince of Persia withstood (a demonic force). It's war and every child of God is in it (Dan. 10:11-13). The march of the kings, 1,2,3, (chap. 11). At the end, Michael the archangel appears and a time of great anguish follows. But read the promise to those whose names are written in the Book of Life (12:1).
The kingdoms of this world eventually will erupt 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 Antichrist 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 (Dan. 11:36). Jesus speaks of an abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet (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 thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book (Dan. 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 thy 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'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 not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed (II Thess. 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 (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 stablish you in every good word and work (II Thess. 2:8,16-17).
Thought for Today:
Is any among you afflicted? let him pray. Is any merry? let him sing psalms (James 5:13).
Christ Revealed:
As Him that liveth for ever (Dan. 12:7). As One of the Three expressed Persons of the Trinity, Jesus Christ always has been and always will be. Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily (Truly, truly), I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I am (John 8:58). I am Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the Ending, saith the Lord (Jesus Christ), which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty (Rev. 1:8, also 4:8).
Word Studies:
10:15 dumb =speechless; 11:11 choler =furious rage; 11:15 fenced cities =strongholds; 11:24 fattest =richest; forecast his devices =prepare his plans; 12:7 a time, times, and an half =3-1/2 years.
Prayer Needs:
Pray for Government Officials: Sen. Robert Bennett (UT) and Rep. John Tierney (MA) • Country: Bhutan (2 million) in the eastern Himalayas of central Asia • Major languages: Tibetan and Nepalese dialects • Public worship, evangelism, and proselytization are illegal • 50-70% Buddhist; 24-45% Hindu; 5% Muslim; <1% Protestant/Roman Catholic • Prayer Suggestion: Ask God for daily direction (Ps. 48:14).
Memory Verse for the Week: Galatians 1:24
