Chapter CONTEXT from Matthew Henry Bible Commentary (complete): The angel Gabriel, in this chapter, performs his promise made to Daniel in the foregoing chapter, that he would “show him what should befal his people in the latter days,” according to that which was “written in the scriptures of truth:” very particularly does he here foretel the succession of the kings of Persia and Grecia, and the affairs of their kingdoms, especially the mischief which Antiochus Epiphanes did in his time to the church, which was foretold before (ch. 8:11-12). Here is, I. A brief prediction of the setting up of the Grecian monarchy upon the ruins of the Persian monarchy, which was now newly begun (v. 1-4). II. A prediction of the affairs of the two kingdoms of Egypt and Syria, with reference to each other (v. 5-20). III. Of the rise of Antiochus Epiphanes, and his actions and successes (v. 21-29). IV. Of the great mischief that he should do to the Jewish nation and religion, and his contempt of all religion (v. 30-39). V. Of his fall and ruin at last, when he is in the heat of his pursuit (v. 40-45).
This chapter is all about the vision Daniel has as given to him by the Angel Gabriel. This vision concerning the demise of the Persian Empire, confirms the Truth of the Scriptures. So why is this event, which happened in 539 BC, so important to us today.
Even if we try and dismiss the majority of the chapter as just a historical prophecy, our main text for today is still doctrinally sound and applicable, let’s break it down:
With smooth words [of flattery and praise] he will turn to godlessness those who [are willing to] disregard the [Mosaic] covenant, but the people who [are spiritually mature and] know their God will display strength and take action [to resist].
Amplified Bible
He will turn: that is Satan will instill doubt, fear, and other nonsense into the minds of “believers”
Those willing to disregard: Those who are easily fooled, those with itchy ears, those who never had their faith built on the Solid Rock
[Mosaic] Covenant: The Holy Word of God, His Precepts and Law
but the people who [are spiritually mature and] know their God: Satan can not get to everyone, this text makes it clear that with a solid understanding of Biblical Doctrine, those who desire the meat of the Word and are not satisfied with milk alone, Satan can not touch.
Calvin’s Commentary is most helpful here
Today the question is simple, are you a meat eater or are you satisfied with powdered milk. Do you demand solid Biblical preaching and teaching from your church leaders and yourself? Or are you satisfied to go with the flow and just get that feel-good experience?
TOPICS:
Americana, Christian Life, Culture/Society, Informed Citizenship, Informed Patriotism, Pro-Life, Military/Veterans, You Can’t Make This Up, and more.
We hope you become informed readers and citizens based both Biblically and upon our founding fathers: Acts 17:10-12, 2 Tim 2:14-16, Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, and Thomas Paine.
An Attribute of God That Isn’t Discussed Enough
Baylor University Study Affirms Prison Fellowship International In-Prison Program Mission
Survey: 2 in 5 Americans Struggling to Pay Bills
Setting the Facts Straight About Constantine
Young People, Church Membership Isn’t Optional
The (undeclared) war on Christians
LifeWise Academy Brings Bible-based Education to Public School Students During School Hours
Taxpayer dollars being used to remove kids from parents, says family advocate
Nebraska Legislature Passes Bill to Save Babies From Abortion
52nd Annual National Right to Life Convention Begins Friday, June 23rd, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Faithful Steward Ministries and FSM Women's Outreach 