Daniel 12
-“Now at that time” refers to the period of the Anti-Christ’s
temporary reign during the tribulation period going back to the last chapter
(Daniel 11:36-12:1a). This is a time of incredible distress for Israel “such as
never occurred since there was a nation (Daniel 12:1b).” There is some evidence
for a “rapture (a`rpaghso,meqa- To be caught up, snatched away, steal, carry away,
or tear out, 1 Thessalonians 4:17)” of the saints of God here too with the
phrase, “at that time Your people, everyone who is found written in the book,
will be rescued (Daniel 12:1c).” There will be an awakening of many of the
deceased to everlasting life, but the unbelieving will perish in disgrace and
everlasting contempt (Daniel 12:2, 1 Corinthians 15:12-58, Revelation 20:4-6,
15). Prophetically Daniel, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, commends
those with insight because they “will shine brightly like the brightness of the
expanse of heaven, and those who lead the many to righteousness, like the stars
forever and ever (Daniel 12:3).” Daniel is then told to “seal up the book until
the end of time Daniel 12:4a).” This is left for the Lamb to break open when we
get to Revelation (Revelation 5:1-10). Another amazing prophecy of the latter
days is at the end of verse 4 where it is revealed that “many will go back and
forth, and knowledge will increase.” *Application* The advances of
transportation and technology in the last century should alert us to the fact
that the end of time is coming quickly upon the earth as we know it.
-Daniel then sees two others standing on each side of the
river. The question is asked, “How long will it be until the end of these
wonders (Daniel 12:6)?” The man dressed in linen, who was above the waters of
the river, replied as he raised his hands swearing to God that it would be “for
a time, times, and half a time (interpreted to be 3 ½ years); and as soon as
they finished shattering the power of the holy people, all these events will be
completed (Daniel 12:7, Luke 21:24-28, Revelation 10:7; 15:1).” Daniel had
trouble understanding the final outcome of these events and asks, but he is
simply told again to go his way for these prophecies “are concealed and sealed
up until the end of time (Daniel 12:8-9).” “Many will be purged, purified, and
refined, but the wicked will act wickedly; and none of the wicked will
understand, but those who have insight will understand (Daniel 12:10).” The
regular sacrifice, which is abolished in the middle year of “Jacob’s trouble
(the seven year period also known as the Great Tribulation),” and the setting
up of the end of times “abomination of desolation,” will initiate a period of
1290 days (3 ½ years). 45 days later will mark the blessing on those who keep
waiting and attain (Jeremiah 30:7, Daniel 7:25; 12:11-12, Revelation 12:14). The
final words of the book give Daniel some sage advice from the messenger, “Go
your way to the end; then you will enter into rest and rise again for your
allotted portion at the end of the age (Daniel 12:13).”
-*Application* This perplexing sequence of events that
Daniel sees and hears at the end of his book must be measured with plenty of
other Scriptures and intense searching, seeking, and humbly praying before the
LORD for understanding. Piecing together prophecy is a difficult, almost
impossible task, but it is keenly rewarding for those who dig deep. We, like
Daniel, will not have total understanding of all God’s mystery until it is
accomplished, but we do have revelation to know a vast amount as we stay alert
and ready for the return of the King for His Kingdom. Keep drawing close to God
for answers and keep the faith.
Verses to Memorize: Daniel
12:3-4, 13
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