Topics: Daniel, courage, strenght, action
I. God limits persecution
*Elderly Daniel continued to pursue God, despite persecution!
- I heard the man dressed in linen, who was above the waters of the river, as he raised his right hand and his left toward heaven, and swore by Him who lives forever that it would be for a time, times, and half a time; and as soon as they finish shattering the power of the holy people, all these events will be completed. As for me, I heard but could not understand; so I said, "My lord, what will be the outcome of these events?" (Dan. 12:7, 8).
- There was given to him a mouth speaking arrogant words and blasphemies, and authority to act for forty-two months was given to him. And he opened his mouth in blasphemies against God, to blaspheme His name and His tabernacle, that is, those who dwell in heaven. It was also given to him to make war with the saints and to overcome them, and authority over every tribe and people and tongue and nation was given to him. All who dwell on the earth will worship him, everyone whose name has not been written from the foundation of the world in the book of life of the Lamb who has been slain (Rev. 13:5?8).
II. God separates people
*Faithful Daniel experienced the purifying process of trials!
- He said, "Go your way, Daniel, for these words are concealed and sealed up until the end time. 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" (Dan. 12:9, 10).
- "But when the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the angels with Him, then He will sit on His glorious throne. All the nations will be gathered before Him; and He will separate them from one another, as the shepherd separates the sheep from the goats" (Mat. 25:31, 32).
III. God raises the dead
* Hopeful Daniel can look expectantly to rewards in the afterlife!
- "But as for you, 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" (Dan. 12:13).
- I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith; in the future there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day; and not only to me, but also to all who have loved His appearing (2 Tim. 4:7, 8).
Sermon by Pastor Rod Akins July 25th,2021
