(Reflections and notes on Daniel 12. The series has covered the previous chapters in Daniel, you can click here to read those. Previously, following the introduction to the encounter with a messenger of the Lord after going through a time of fasting, Daniel is given a great unveiling of God’s plan for the future. This encounter concludes in this chapter.)
This is the end. The end of Daniel’s final recorded vision. The end of the collection of writings under the name of this great servant of God as well as a great servant of the Babylonian and Persian Kingdoms. The end features much to consider carefully and in greater depth than will be covered in these reflections.
In vs 1-4, we have the conclusion of what was outlined in terms of the last days as mentioned previously. What’s outlined here is fascinating for what it has to say about the concept of resurrection and judgement – there is also a reference to a book that will open, which takes its place among other references to a book that will be opened listing those who are righteous.. There is great trouble still to come for the people of God for sure, but that is not the end of the story. There is much for Daniel to take hope in what’s been shared with him. There’s also a clear understanding that Daniel won’t be around to see all that is mentioned be fulfilled, but he had a responsibility to keep all these things for the time to come.
Those who are wise shall shine like the brightness of the sky above; and those who turn many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever.
Daniel 12:3
What is particularly intriguing is this area of commendation. It’s the reward for a life of righteous living even during challenging and troubling times. If folks walk as the wise and influence others to do so. I read that and think about any term of reference that the vision could be referring to – whether the time of Antiochus of Epiphanes IV, or the Roman times or the end times to come – the key is an endurance of faith expressed in righteous living and the hope to share that living with others so they too can express the right life not just now but for eternity.
Then in vs 5-13, we have the wrap up where Daniel is given a timeline for when these events should take place. Students diligently apply what’s been said here to previous occasions where the concept of time and times is used as measurements of time. Daniel himself is diligent and faithful to record what’s being said, without any commentary of his own to help with the understanding.
When Daniel asks for clarity on the matter for his understanding, he’s given the instruction to maintain the record as well as to be clear that there is a set period of time followed by another set period of time to be aware of. It is so assuring to see, again, how everything is not plain and obvious. It’s reassuring to know that even Daniel – a man of great wisdom, insight and understanding – is left querying what’s going on and when it will happen. Even more than that, it’s good to know that the main point of the entire exercise of getting insights on what happens at the end, is not to get hung up on the timing.
The main point is to take reassurance in the one who knows the end from the beginning. To seek sufficient understanding, not for the sake of boasting about specific historical events and giving a countdown, but to maintain faith in God, live the life that He calls for, encourage others to do so in the light of His impending rule all with the hope of the resurrection to come. As the people of God suffer, so there’s the reason for hope because God knows those things. As the people of the world go from bad to worse, there’s a reason for hope because God knows those things.
But go your way till the end. And you shall rest and shall stand in your allotted place at the end of the days.
Daniel 12:13
Consider those words to Daniel. Words to reassure and to focus his mind. As he faithfully records these words, he knows what he should do. He does not have to be anxious about his people. He does not have to be anxious about his own life. This man’s life, which was devoted to God, can continue with the devotion with renewed vigour and a great promise far beyond his days on earth. This is given to Daniel because of how he was regarded by God.
As we reflect on these, we have the opportunity to consider how we relate to God and how we’re regarded by Him. Particularly as we recognise that being regarded in Christ puts us in a place to be loved even as the Son is loved. That should likewise give us a reason to hope, a reason to live and a reason to be grateful for today and what will happen in the end.
Questions for Daniel 12
What does this episode tell you about the character of God?
What reason is there for hope in knowing about the reward for the righteous?
What is the importance of the times mentioned by the messengers for Daniel and for us?
What does this episode say about the character of Daniel?
What can you learn from Danie’s engagement with this vision?
What reason is there for hope in hearing what is said to Daniel at the end of this vision?
How would you encourage a follower of Jesus based on reading Daniel 12?
Some Helpful Resources
Overview of the book of Daniel by the Bible Project
Bob Deffinbaugh’s commentary on Daniel 12 as part of Bible.org’s series relating prophecy to piety.
The Last Word – Ray Stedman’s sermon on Daniel 12
End-Time Events by David Treybig
I.Gordon’s Commentary on Daniel 12 – How To Shine Like Stars
David Guzik’s scripture breakdown of Daniel 12 for Enduring Word site.
Bob Utley’s Bible Study on Daniel 12
For His Name’s Sake
Shalom
C. L. J. Dryden
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