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Daniel Chapter
Eleven
Daniel 11
Chapter Contents
The vision of the Scriptures of truth.
Commentary on Daniel 11:1-30
(Read Daniel 11:1-30)
The angel shows Daniel the succession of the Persian and
Grecian empires. The kings of Egypt and Syria are noticed: Judea was between
their dominions
and affected by their contests. From verses 5-30
is generally considered to relate
to the events which came to pass during the continuance of these governments;
and from verse 21
to relate to Antiochus Epiphanes
who
was a cruel and violent persecutor of the Jews. See what decaying
perishing
things worldly pomp and possessions are
and the power by which they are
gotten. God
in his providence
sets up one
and pulls down another
as he
pleases. This world is full of wars and fightings
which come from men's lusts.
All changes and revolutions of states and kingdoms
and every event
are
plainly and perfectly foreseen by God. No word of God shall fall to the ground;
but what he has designed
what he has declared
shall infallibly come to pass.
While the potsherds of the earth strive with each other
they prevail and are
prevailed against
deceive and are deceived; but those who know God will trust
in him
and he will enable them to stand their ground
bear their cross
and
maintain their conflict.
Commentary on Daniel 11:31-45
(Read Daniel 11:31-45)
The remainder of this prophecy is very difficult
and
commentators differ much respecting it. From Antiochus the account seems to
pass to antichrist. Reference seems to be made to the Roman empire
the fourth
monarchy
in its pagan
early Christian
and papal states. The end of the Lord's
anger against his people approaches
as well as the end of his patience towards
his enemies. If we would escape the ruin of the infidel
the idolater
the
superstitious and cruel persecutor
as well as that of the profane
let us make
the oracles of God our standard of truth and of duty
the foundation of our
hope
and the light of our paths through this dark world
to the glorious
inheritance above.
── Matthew Henry《Concise Commentary on Daniel》
Daniel 11
Verse 2
[2] And now will I shew thee the truth. Behold
there shall
stand up yet three kings in Persia; and the fourth shall be far richer than
they all: and by his strength through his riches he shall stir up all against
the realm of Grecia.
He — Xerxes was more potent than all the other three
because his father Darius had gathered an incredible mass for him
which he
himself increased for six years together
before he made his expedition against
Greece. There were more kings of Persia besides those four
but they had no
concern with the people of God.
Verse 3
[3] And a mighty king shall stand up
that shall rule with
great dominion
and do according to his will.
A mighty king — Alexander the great.
Verse 4
[4] And when he shall stand up
his kingdom shall be broken
and shall be divided toward the four winds of heaven; and not to his posterity
nor according to his dominion which he ruled: for his kingdom shall be plucked
up
even for others beside those.
When he shall stand up — When he is come to
his highest point.
Nor according to his dominion — They did not reign as
kings at first
but only as captains; and as to the extent of their dominion
it was far less than Alexander's
yea
all four fell short of his.
Even for others — Some lesser commanders shared
several parts of the empire.
Verse 5
[5] And the king of the south shall be strong
and one of
his princes; and he shall be strong above him
and have dominion; his dominion
shall be a great dominion.
The king of the south — This king was
Ptolemy
the first king of Egypt after Alexander who is brought in
because he
took Jerusalem by treachery; for the angel minds only those persons and things
which related to the Jews.
One of his princes — Seleucus Nicanor
who
overcame Demetrius
and added Asia to his empire.
Verse 6
[6] And in the end of years they shall join themselves
together; for the king's daughter of the south shall come to the king of the
north to make an agreement: but she shall not retain the power of the arm;
neither shall he stand
nor his arm: but she shall be given up
and they that
brought her
and he that begat her
and he that strengthened her in these
times.
They — The successors of those first kings of Egypt and
Syria.
Make an agreement — Bernice shall come
from Egypt and marry with Antiochus Theus
who was the son of Antiochus Soter
and nephew to Seleucus Nicanor; for her father brought her to Pelusium with an
infinite sum of gold and silver for her dowry.
She shall not retain — She continued not in
favour and authority.
Nor his arm — His power.
Verse 7
[7] But out of a branch of her roots shall one stand up in
his estate
which shall come with an army
and shall enter into the fortress of
the king of the north
and shall deal against them
and shall prevail:
Shall one stand up — Of Bernice shall come
Ptolemaeus Euergetes
who shall revenge the wrong done to his sister.
Shall enter into the fortress — For he invaded Syria
and took many strong-holds.
Verse 8
[8] And shall also carry captives into Egypt their gods
with their princes
and with their precious vessels of silver and of gold; and
he shall continue more years than the king of the north.
He shall continue more years — He continued
forty-six years.
Verse 9
[9] So the king of the south shall come into his kingdom
and shall return into his own land.
Return — So he did with a booty of forty thousand talents of
silver.
Verse 10
[10] But his sons shall be stirred up
and shall assemble a
multitude of great forces: and one shall certainly come
and overflow
and pass
through: then shall he return
and be stirred up
even to his fortress.
But his sons — He means the sons of the king of
the north
shall be incensed with the deeds of Ptolemaeus Euergetes
and his
son Ptolemaeus Philopator.
One shall come — Antiochus the great
shall pass
through Syria and recover what the king of Egypt took from his father.
Even to his fortress — To Raphia
which was
a strong fortress at the entrance of Egypt.
Verse 11
[11] And the king of the south shall be moved with choler
and shall come forth and fight with him
even with the king of the north: and
he shall set forth a great multitude; but the multitude shall be given into his
hand.
His hand — Into the hand of Ptolemy.
Verse 12
[12] And when he hath taken away the multitude
his heart
shall be lifted up; and he shall cast down many ten thousands: but he shall not
be strengthened by it.
His heart shall be lifted up — He might have
recovered all
but he grew proud of his victory
and returned again to his
luxury.
Verse 16
[16] But he that cometh against him shall do according to his
own will
and none shall stand before him: and he shall stand in the glorious
land
which by his hand shall be consumed.
But he — Antiochus
that comes against Ptolemy.
The glorious land — Judea. Antiochus held
all Judea
and with the provision and product of it
maintained his army.
Verse 17
[17] He shall also set his face to enter with the strength of
his whole kingdom
and upright ones with him; thus shall he do: and he shall
give him the daughter of women
corrupting her: but she shall not stand on his
side
neither be for him.
He shall also set his face — He shall use all the
force he can to master Egypt
and engross it to himself.
Upright ones — Many of the religious Jews joined
with him: the rest of his army was a profane rabble of rude Heathens.
He shall give — Antiochus shall give Cleopatra
his daughter to young Ptolemy
called the daughter of women
for her beauty.
Corrupting her — Persuading her to betray her
husband: but she stuck to her husband's interest
and not her father's.
Verse 18
[18] After this shall he turn his face unto the isles
and
shall take many: but a prince for his own behalf shall cause the reproach
offered by him to cease; without his own reproach he shall cause it to turn
upon him.
The isles — The isles and sea-coasts of the
Mediterranean and Aegean sea.
But a prince — The Roman ambassador Scipio beat
Antiochus at his own weapons of power and policy
and turned the reproach upon
his own head.
Verse 19
[19] Then he shall turn his face toward the fort of his own
land: but he shall stumble and fall
and not be found.
Then — Then he turned his face home-ward
yet was he not in
safety
but was quickly after killed.
Verse 20
[20] Then shall stand up in his estate a raiser of taxes in
the glory of the kingdom: but within few days he shall be destroyed
neither in
anger
nor in battle.
A raiser of taxes — Seleucus Philopator
who peeled his subjects
and spared not to rob the temple.
Within few days — For he lived not out the third
part of his father's reign.
Not in battle — Not by open force
but by poison.
Verse 21
[21] And in his estate shall stand up a vile person
to whom
they shall not give the honour of the kingdom: but he shall come in peaceably
and obtain the kingdom by flatteries.
A vile person — Antiochus
called Epiphanes by
his flatterers
but the people of God accounted him infamous
base
and
treacherous.
They — Neither peers nor people
nor was he the heir
but his
nephew; but he crept in by flatteries.
Verse 22
[22] And with the arms of a flood shall they be overflown
from before him
and shall be broken; yea
also the prince of the covenant.
Overflown — The Egyptian force near Pelusium
where they fell by the power of Antiochus
with a great slaughter
near the
river Nile.
The prince — The high-priest with his place
and honour
for he put out Onias
and set up in his stead
Jason his brother.
Verse 23
[23] And after the league made with him he shall work
deceitfully: for he shall come up
and shall become strong with a small people.
After the league — For he made a league
with Egypt
and came with a few
(but chosen men) and took the passes
and put
all in subjection to him.
Verse 24
[24] He shall enter peaceably even upon the fattest places of
the province; and he shall do that which his fathers have not done
nor his
fathers' fathers; he shall scatter among them the prey
and spoil
and riches:
yea
and he shall forecast his devices against the strong holds
even for a
time.
He shall enter peaceably — He shall come in upon
the Egyptians under pretence of peace
in a plentiful and delicious country
and among a mass of treasures which the kings successively had heaped up; the
greatest part of which Antiochus distributed among his confidants
whereby he
obliged them the faster to him. He did herein what his fathers had not done;
the kings of Syria before him
could never attain to this success over Egypt.
Against the strong-holds — Having succeeded thus
far
he shall proceed to the places of greatest strength in that kingdom.
For a time — That is 'till God put a stop to
his career
for the Egyptians found means to deliver themselves from his yoke.
Verse 25
[25] And he shall stir up his power and his courage against
the king of the south with a great army; and the king of the south shall be
stirred up to battle with a very great and mighty army; but he shall not stand:
for they shall forecast devices against him.
But he shall not stand — He might have
prospered
if he had not been betrayed by Eulaius
Benaeus
and the rest of his
nobles
corrupted by Antiochus.
Verse 26
[26] Yea
they that feed of the portion of his meat shall
destroy him
and his army shall overflow: and many shall fall down slain.
Yea — His most familiar friends and confidants; for he shall
be overthrown with a great slaughter
as when the Nile overflows the country.
Verse 27
[27] And both these kings' hearts shall be to do mischief
and they shall speak lies at one table; but it shall not prosper: for yet the
end shall be at the time appointed.
At one table — They shall meet under pretence of
peace.
But it shall not prosper — For neither shall
Antiochus gain Egypt by all his artifice
nor Ptolemy
Syria.
At the time appointed — By the Lord
whose
purpose and counsel shall stand.
Verse 28
[28] Then shall he return into his land with great riches;
and his heart shall be against the holy covenant; and he shall do exploits
and
return to his own land.
Then shall he return — Antiochus shall
depart with his booty gotten in Egypt.
Against the holy covenant — Against the law of
God
with the people that worshipped God according to his will.
Verse 29
[29] At the time appointed he shall return
and come toward
the south; but it shall not be as the former
or as the latter.
Toward the south — Egypt
to fight
against Ptolemy.
But — This shall not be so prosperous as the two former
expeditions
but shall fail both of his victory and booty.
Verse 30
[30] For the ships of Chittim shall come against him:
therefore he shall be grieved
and return
and have indignation against the
holy covenant: so shall he do; he shall even return
and have intelligence with
them that forsake the holy covenant.
The ships of Chittim — The Romans out of
Italy
and the Archipelago. This made his heart boil with rancor
which he spit
out against the Jews; especially being solicited to it by Jason first
and
Menelaus after
who were apostates
and betrayers of their brethren.
Verse 31
[31] And arms shall stand on his part
and they shall pollute
the sanctuary of strength
and shall take away the daily sacrifice
and they
shall place the abomination that maketh desolate.
And arms — Not only of his own army
but many Jews.
The sanctuary — Even the holy of holies.
The abomination — The statue of Jupiter placed in
the temple.
Verse 36
[36] And the king shall do according to his will; and he
shall exalt himself
and magnify himself above every god
and shall speak
marvellous things against the God of gods
and shall prosper till the
indignation be accomplished: for that that is determined shall be done.
The king — Antiochus was an eminent type of antichrist; to whom
many things that follow may be applied by way of accommodation: altho' they
principally refer to Antiochus
and had their primary accomplishment in him.
For that that is determined — That which God hath
decreed to be done by him shall be done; and that which God hath purposed to be
done upon him.
Verse 38
[38] But in his estate shall he honour the God of forces: and
a god whom his fathers knew not shall he honour with gold
and silver
and with
precious stones
and pleasant things.
But in his estate — In the room of his
father's god.
The God of forces — This seems to be
Jupiter Olympius
never introduced among the Syrians
'till Antiochus did it.
Verse 39
[39] Thus shall he do in the most strong holds with a strange
god
whom he shall acknowledge and increase with glory: and he shall cause them
to rule over many
and shall divide the land for gain.
With a strange god — Using all art and
authority to propagate his worship.
Verse 41
[41] He shall enter also into the glorious land
and many
countries shall be overthrown: but these shall escape out of his hand
even
Edom
and Moab
and the chief of the children of Ammon.
The children of Ammon — He will not hurt
them; because they helped him against the Jews.
Verse 43
[43] But he shall have power over the treasures of gold and
of silver
and over all the precious things of Egypt: and the Libyans and the
Ethiopians shall be at his steps.
At his steps — He had them at his foot
at his
beck.
Verse 45
[45] And he shall plant the tabernacles of his palace between
the seas in the glorious holy mountain; yet he shall come to his end
and none
shall help him.
None shall help him — God shall cut him off
in the midst of his days. And when he destroys
who can help?
── John Wesley《Explanatory Notes on Daniel》
The Vision Of The Time Of The End - II (11:2-35)
INTRODUCTION
1. In the tenth chapter
we saw the beginning of the final vision recorded by Daniel... a. A vision that pertains to what will affect Daniel's people (i.e.
Israel b. Describing what will occur "in the latter days
for the vision refers to many days yet to come" - Dan 10:14 c. Its words were to be closed and sealed "till the time of the end" - Dan 12:9 -- For such reasons this vision has been called "The Vision Of TheTime Of The End"
2. In the introductory remarks of the vision
we were given a glimpse of the spiritual warfare that was going on "behind the scenes"... a. With angelic forces withstanding each other - Dan 10:13a
20 b. With angelic forces helping each other - Dan 10:13b
21; 11:1 [Beginning with Dan 11:2
"The Vision Of The Time Of The End" begins inearnest. The "glorious man" proceeds to tell Daniel what will happen"in the latter days" (Dan 10:14)
beginning with...] I. THE PERSIAN-GREEK CONFLICT
A. FOUR PERSIAN KINGS WILL ARISE... 1. Three more kings will arise in Persia 11:2
a. The fourth shall be far richer than them all b. By his strength and riches
the fourth shall stir up all against Greece 2. As confirmed by history
these kings who followed Cyrus (Dan10:1) were:
a. Cambyses b. Smerdis c. Darius Hystaspis (Darius the Great) d. Xerxes (called Ahasuerus in the book of Esther - Est 1:1) B. A MIGHTY GREEK KING SHALL RISE AND FALL... 1. A mighty king shall arise - Dan 11:3 a. He shall rule with great dominion b. He shall do according to his will -- This was Alexander the Great 2. His kingdom shall be broken and divided into four pieces - Dan11:4
a. This was also prophesied in Dan 8:21-22 b. The kingdom will not be given to his posterity
nor will the dominion be as great c. As confirmed by history
Alexander's empire was eventually divided between his four generals after he died in 323 B.C. 1) Seleucus I - who began the Seleucid (Syrian) empire
from Turkey to India 2) Cassander - who took over Macedonia (Greece 3) Lysimachus - who took Thracia (between Greece Turkey 4) Ptolemy I - who ruled over Egypt [At this point
the "glorious man" begins to describe an extendedconflict between "the kings of the North" and "the kings of the South"which will have a big impact upon the people of Daniel (Israel II. THE EGYPTIAN-SYRIAN CONFLICT
A. THE CONFLICT WILL BEGIN... 1. The "king of the South" will gain in strength - Dan 11:5a a. This king is Ptolemy I b. Who ruled Egypt 2. As well as "one of his princes"
who will gain power over the other - Dan 11:5b a. This is thought to refer to one of Alexander's princes (generals) b. In which case it is Seleucus I
who ruled Syria B.C.) -- Caught in the middle between Syria and Egypt
Israel the brunt of much of the conflict between these two empires B. THERE WILL BE A FAILED ALLIANCE 1. The "daughter of the South" will go to the "king of the North" - Dan 11:6a a. The event occurred in the reigns of Ptolemy Philadelphus (284-246 B.C.) and Antiochus Theus (261-246 B.C.) b. Berenice
daughter of Ptolemy Philadelphus was given to Antiochus
upon the condition that Antiochus divorce his wife Laodice c. Hoping to make peace between Egypt and Syria 2. But the "daughter of the South" will not retain her authority - Dan 11:6b a. Two years after the marriage
Berenice's father (Ptolemy Philadelphus) died b. Antiochus put her away and restored his first wife Laodice c. Laodice killed Antiochus
and Berenice fled
but was later put to death along with her children and attendants C. THE SOUTH WILL RISE IN ANGER... 1. A "branch of her roots" will come with an army - Dan 11:7 a. This was Berenice's brother
Ptolemy Euregetes (246-221 B.C.) b. Who failing to save his sister
attacked Syria her death 2. The avenger (Ptolemy Euregetes) will succeed - Dan 11:8 a. Euregetes took their gods
princes
and precious articles to Egypt b. Euregetes ruled longer than the next Seleucid king
Seleucid Callinicus (246-226 B.C.) D. THE CONFLICT WILL ACCELERATE... 1. The "king of the North" (Seleucid Callinicus) will try to invade the kingdom of the South - Dan 11:9-10 a. He does not succeed
though his sons (Seleucid Ceraunus and Antiochus the Great) shall stir up strife b. One son in particular
Antiochus the Great (225-187 B.C.)
does succeed in overwhelming Egypt land taken by Egypt 2. The "king of the South" will respond in rage - Dan 11:11-13 a. This king of Egypt b. Angry that Antiochus the Great regained control of Syrian territory
he gathered a great army and defeated Antiochus at Raphia c. His victory was short-lived
for Antiochus returned with a better-equipped army in 203 B.C. 3. Others will contribute to the war against the South - Dan 11:14
a. This included Philip
king of Macedon
who aligned with Antiochus b. Also some violent Jews
prompted by what they perceived as the fulfillment of the vision
but they shall fall 4. The "king of the North" shall prevail against the South
but then fall - Dan 11:15-19 a. Again
this is Antiochus the Great 1) The forces of the South were not able to resist him 2) He stood in the "Glorious Land " (Israel destruction in his power b. He tried to strengthen his kingdom by giving his daughter in marriage 1) His daughter Cleopatra
given to Ptolemy Epiphanes (204- 180 B.C.) 2) But she came to favor the purposes of her husband rather than her father c. Antiochus then turned his attention to the coastlands (Mediterranean ) 1) Making war with the Romans 2) But was defeated by Scipio Asiaticus
a Roman military leader d. Defeated by the Romans
Antiochus the Great returned home and died soon after [At this point our attention is focused on one leader of the Seleucid(Syrian) empire
who would have a powerful impact upon the people ofDaniel
Antiochus Epiphanes (175-164 B.C.)...] III. THE RISE OF ANTIOCHUS EPIPHANES
A. PRECEDED BY A TAX COLLECTOR... 1. One who will impose taxes on the "glorious kingdom" (Israel - Dan 11:20 a. This is Seleucus Philopator (187-175 B.C.) b. Oldest son of Antiochus
and his immediate successor 2. Whose reign will be short-lived a. Compared to his father
who reigned thirty-seven years b. Who died
not in battle
but was poisoned B. THEN WILL COME A VILE MAN WITH NO HONOR... 1. Held in contempt
the people will not give him honor - Dan11:21
a. His official name was Antiochus "Epiphanes" (the Illustrious) b. His people refereed to him as Antiochus "Epimanes" (the Insane) 2. He shall take the kingdom peaceably
but with intrigue - Dan11:21-24
a. This may refer to his dealings with the Egyptians (or perhaps Israel b. After making a league with them
he will act deceitfully and become strong with a small number of people c. Through peaceful means he will plunder the riches places of the province 3. He will provoke the "king of the South" - Dan 11:25-28 a. Two times Antiochus invaded Egypt b. The Egyptian king
Ptolemy Physcon
sought to oppose him
but was betrayed by his own people c. Both kings were deceitful liars
but their plotting was subject to the times and manner appointed by God d. On his return home
Antiochus passed through Israel was moved against the holy covenant (the institutions of the Law of Moses) C. HE WILL BRING BLASPHEMIES AGAINST ISRAEL 1. Once again Antiochus Epiphanes will head toward the South - Dan 11:29-30a a. This was his third invasion b. But he was not as successful as before c. For Roman ships from Cyprus 2. Frustrated
he will take out his rage against "the holy covenant" - Dan 11:30b-32a a. By showing regard for those who forsake the holy covenant b. By defiling the sanctuary fortress (i.e.
the temple) c. By taking away the daily sacrifices d. By placing there "the abomination of desolation" e. By flattering those who do wickedly against the covenant 3. In the years 169-167 B.C.
Antiochus Epiphanes: a. Took the city of Jerusalem b. Commanded the Jews to worship the Greek idol which he set up in the temple c. Put an end to daily sacrifices and polluted the altar by offering swine flesh on it d. Forbid circumcision
the observance of the Sabbath
and possession of a copy of the law D. THOSE WHO KNOW GOD WILL RESIST VALIANTLY... 1. They shall be strong - Dan 11:32b-33a a. Carrying out great exploits b. Instructing many 2. When they fall
they shall receive aid - Dan 11:33b-34 a. For many days they shall fall by sword
flame
captivity and plunder b. They will receive a little help
even from many through intrigue 4. When those of understanding fall
it will be to refine them - Dan 11:35 a. To purge them
and make them white b. Until "the time of the end; because it is still for the appointed time." -- The events described here were fulfilled during the Maccabean period
which began in 168 B.C. with the revolt of Mattathias (an elderly priest) and his five sons CONCLUSION
1. Up to this point
there is little controversy over the content of the vision... a. It describes the conflict between the Persians and the Greeks
followed by the conflict between the Syrians and the Egyptians b. The latter described in detail
because Israel middle c. Israel king
Antiochus Epiphanes 2. From Dan 11:36 on
there is quite a diversity of opinions... a. Some believe Antiochus Epiphanes is still the subject b. Others suggest that a Roman emperor is being described c. Still others believe it refers to someone yet to come We shall examine the remaining portion of this chapter and the finalchapter in our next study... Note: The historical information in this lesson was taken from Albert
Barnes' commentary on Daniel.
－－《Executable
Outlines》
11 Chapter 11
Introduction
Verse 1-2
Also I in the first year of Darius.
The Vision by the Hiddekel
The prophet here tells of a long and devout season of fasting and
prayer to which ha had given himself. It lasted “three full weeks.” At the end
of this time
he was by the side of the great river Hiddekel
now known as the
Tigris
far away from the scenes of court life. Lifting up his eyes
he was
greeted with an overpowering vision. Before him stood a being in man’s form
clothed in linen and girded with gold. His body was like the beryl--like the
bluish-green
prismatic light
His face was as the appearance of lightning
insufferably bright. His ayes were as burning flame. His arms and his feet were
like burnished brass
and the voice of his words had the volume and majesty of
the shoutings of a multitude. Compare the vision in Revelation
ch. 1. Daniel
was completely overwhelmed by the suddenness and transcendent glory of the
vision. This shows how merciful it is in God to veil over the spiritual world
from our fleshly sight. Were he to lift that veil
it would be impossible for
flesh and blood to sustain itself under the “weight of glory.” The object of
this vision was to reveal to Daniel a still fuller account of the fortunes of
his people “in the latter days”; that is
in the mysterious future
extending
down to the end of this present world. To this revelation the whole remaining
portion of this book is devoted. It was in answer to Daniel’s anxieties
concerning the Jewish people that this glorious apparition came. It is ever
true that the histories of this world always have a background of spiritual
agencies. Scripture everywhere represents the angels as largely participating
in the divine government of the world
and in the whole ongoing of earthly
affairs. Among the active unseen potencies there are both good and bad
often
in conflict with each other. We are wont to speak in a spiritualizing way of a
struggle between the good and evil principles in man
but Holy Scripture
teaches us to regard the matter as a substantial reality. The glorious angel
who appeared to Daniel had a struggle of three weeks with the evil angel at the
head of the Persian monarchy
and only by Michael’s help overcame him
and
gained superior influence over the Persian king. After that he was to encounter
the prince-angel of Grecia
in which no great success
even with Michael’s
help
was to be gained. The angel then proceeds (in Daniel 11:2-4) to state the course of
things in its outward manifestations . . . But with all the tribulations thus
to come upon the prophet’s people in those evil times
God was to be at the helm
neither suffering them to be overwhelmed
nor allowing their afflictions to be
without profit. For their sins
apostasies
and infidelities the hand of
judgment was to be lifted up against them. When God lets the wicked have their
way
it is that he may destroy them utterly; but when he chastises his people
it is to purify and redeem them. Nor are God’s chosen ones alone in their
conflicts with the ills and trials of time. The Eternal Father makes angels his
ministers to the heirs of salvation. (Joseph A. Seiss
D. D.)
Verses 2-9
Verses 10-19
Verse 12
But he shall not be strengthened by it.
The Secret of Strength
There are five principal ways of coming to a clear perception of
God.
1. We may know God by vision; that is
by the inner sense of the
Spirit. This is the manner in which the Lord made known his mind and nature to
the Old Testament saints. They saw the object which the divine being presented
to their interior eye. Every sincerely spiritual man lays tacit claims to
spiritual intercourse with God; to communications
directions
assurances
and
inward voices and revelations from the Lord. It is a part of our spiritual
nature
of our divine equipment
to enjoy immaterial contact with the heavenly
world
and to hold personal fellowship with the Father
the Son and the Holy
Ghost. This spiritual insight is the beginning of the knowledge of God. The
people happy enough to know God in this sense will become strong
will have
their feet upon the rock of ages.
2. God communicates Himself for our knowledge by His Word. The Word
must be read
remembered
and searched out daily. The Bible needs digging
and
patient
devout
sympathetic and determined digging.
3. God will reveal Himself for our knowledge in our experience. The
history of the world is largely the account of the modes in which God has been
making Himself known in it. Long
tedious
and interwoven has been the method
of the revelation of the Father to us in our trial. But in the glass of our
life we look back to see what God is. In that experimental commentary we find
our best explanations of His darkest enigmas. Whatever we know of His
providence has come from our own deliverances
guidances
and escapes from
danger.
4. We may know God in history. The people that have learned to read
history do therein know their God. They can see the tendency and destination of
all things.
5. We may also know the Lord in nature. Can you know nature unless
you know nature’s God? “The world in its sophistry knew not God! (T.
R. H. Sturges.)
Verses 20-27
Verse 32
But the people that do know their God shall be strong.
Strength in God
The follies and vices which disfigure human life
do not always
proceed from a principle of depravity. The indiscretions and vices into which
men fall
proceed often from weakness of mind rather than from a badness of
heart. There is a certain feebleness in the springs of actions
a facility of
disposition
a silliness of soul which marks the characters
and runs through
the life of many men
as pernicious to them in the conduct of life
as the
principle of actual depravity could be. This weakness of mind is not only
pernicious but criminal. There are mental defects that are inconsistent with a
state of virtue. In the Scriptures a sound mind
as well as a good heart
is
mentioned as an ingredient in the character of a saint. Religion and virtue go
under the name of wisdom; vice and wickedness under the name of folly. In
opposition to the feeble-minded
it it said in the text
that they who know
their God
or are truly religious
are strong. Religion
when rightly
understood
and virtue
when properly practised
give nerves and vigour to the
mind
and infuse into the soul a secret strength. This strength
1. Makes us superior to the opinion and fashion of the world. In
certain companies
men are ashamed of their religion. They lend a pleased ear to
arguments that shake the foundations of their faith. The truly religions man
performs his duty through evil report and through good report. The applause of
such fools as make a mock of sin he despises. His standard of moral conduct is
his own conscience well informed by the word of God.
2. Makes us
superior to the difficulties and dangers we meet with in the world. The
feeble-minded man is intimidated on the slightest occasion. Happy to catch at
any subterfuge
he finds or makes a thousand obstacles to the discharge of his
duty. What infinite mischief has this pusillanimity done in the world! Very
different is the character of him who is strong in the Lord. When he is assured
he is in the right path
he sees no obstacles in the way. Nothing is difficult
to a determined mind. Through Christ strengthening him
the man of God can do
all things. Through the divine aid
resolution is omnipotent. See St. Paul’s
words to the elders of Ephesus. This was not the vain boast of men who are
brave when the day of battle is distant
and who
in the midst of tranquility
talk of despising danger. It was the speech of one who acted what he spoke. (J.
Logan
F.R.S.E.)
Aspect of the Times
The universal consciousness of humanity acquiesces in the
admission of the divine existence. God is as much a necessity of the intellect
in these advanced days of enlightenment as in the world’s early childhood. The
great thought forms
as Mr. Morell calls them
have as much necessity for God
as for space and time. Sometimes men assume the air of dictatorship
and
venture to say if there be a God
he should have revealed himself thus and
thus
assuming that they know the best methods of divine manifestation
and can
calculate how much light the human mind can bear. We cannot find out the Almighty
to perfection. It takes lifetime after lifetime to find out the history of the
rocks; it takes weary years to know enough of astronomy to trace the very
footprints of Creatorship; and yet men expect to know him who is from
everlasting to everlasting
in the space of a few brief years. He
then
who
aspires to know God
must begin with humility. The main faculties for
apprehending God are not intellectual
but moral. When it pleases God to reveal
himself to men
it is mainly to the conscience and the heart. Such a
revelation
Paul tells us
has been made in the universal conscience; in the
great moral laws of Hebrew revelation
but mainly in the Son who came forth
from the Father to give life to the world. See the revelations between this
knowledge and the well-being of man.
1. This was the strength of the early Church. In the days of the
Church’s strong faith and martyr-like devotion
what was it that made the
Christians the men they were? I boldly answer:--“The knowledge of God
which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
2. This was the strength of the Reformation age. It was giving back
to the world the truth concerning God. The people that do not know God
their
god shall be weak
puerile
enslaved. True knowledge of God makes men strong
makes nations strong.
3. This is our strength in the present era of time. We cannot reach
large enough generalisations of facts to know exactly what is our state
compared with past eras. We may exalt political economy into a science; and
when relations between man and man are out of order we may shrug our shoulders
and talk of the philosophy of things
and the inevitableness of injustice in
the present day. We may point to great empires
and say success is with the
mightiest armies; but who that troubles to think but must know that if nations
are to be great and honourable
it must be
as Mr. Pressense says
by a return
to the uninviting virtues of simpler times; yes to a purer and more practical
faith in the living God who is the Saviour of all men. (W. M. Statham.)
The Sources of Courage
What is called courage is sometimes a blind folly that cannot see
danger
or a lack of sense to see it as it is. Or it is a mere love of
encounter
of distinction
or of destroying. You have the picture of it in Job
(Job 39:19-25)
where the war-horse is
described. That is courage
but a thing to be checked as much as to be cheered
as much a mischief as a virtue
and it is perhaps hard to say to which it most
inclines. The sublimest courage
the loftiest heroism is an inspiration. How
can you measure the courage? By the measure of the love. The highest courage is
sacred to love. A definition of courage may be this the life held for another s
good. And this is Christianity. Its source
its strength
its life
its all
is
love. Everything that can create and sustain the truest love is found in the
religion of Jesus Christ
and there only. Why then have we so many so-called
Christians who do not exhibit much love or courage either
but are just as
selfish and fearful as other people? Because we have come to make religion an
appeal to selfishness
instead of appealing to the generous appreciation of
that which is love-worthy. They that do “know their God” shall do exploits.
This is the source of courage as it is the source of love; and more--this is
life eternal
to know the only true God
and Jesus Christ whom He hath sent.
Think of the different motives that prompt men to endurance and valour
and see
how they meet in Jesus Christ.
1. I can think that soldiers find some courage in the greatness of
their nation
they have a pride in the vastness of the dominion. But what king
can vie with our King? Well may the children of Zion be joyful in their King.
Does the antiquity of the kingdom add to the stateliness and renown? The
ancient kings are all in the dust
but our King--“Before the mountains were
brought forth
or ever Thou hadst formed the earth and the world
even from
everlasting to everlasting
Thou art God.” Think
too
of the blessedness of
His way; and of the victories He hath won. Lift up your head
walk with firm
step. Better not be His at all than be His without a courage worthy of His
greatness and renown.
2. Do men find courage in Him whom they serve? Is the Spirit of the
Leader able to kindle enthusiastic devotion
and daring unto death? Then how
shall we speak of Our glorious Lord and Saviour? I wonder with shame and grief
at myself that I can know Him at all
and yet be halfhearted in His service;
that we can call Him Lord without finding an enthusiasm that fills and fires
the whole heart. For such a King and Captain shall we have a timid
faltering
service? It cannot be. (Mark Guy Pearse.)
The Influence of Religion on Military Courage
These words are part of a prophecy which relates
as some think
to a very important period of the history of the Jews
when the Maccabees
at
the head of handfuls of men
destroyed great armies of aliens
and were the
happy instruments
in the hands of Divine Providence
of saving their church
and nation from destruction
and of raising it to a degree of consideration and
renown
equal to what they had enjoyed under the administration of some of
those good kings that sprung from David. Concerning this glorious period the
prophet Zechariah speaks
when the Lord says by his mouth
“I have bent Judah
for me
filled the bow with Ephraim
and raised up thy sons
O Zion! against
thy sons
O Greece! and made thee as the sword of a mighty man. The Lord of
hosts shall defend them
and they shall devour and subdue with sling-stones
and they shall drink
and make a noise as through wine; and they shall be
filled like bowls
and as the corners of the altar; and the Lord their God
shall save them in that day as the flock of his people; for they shall be as
the stones of a crown
lifted up as an ensign upon His land.” Others refer this
prophecy to the Christian church
and to the courage displayed by the followers
of Christ in holding fast his name
and spreading the favour of it all around
in defiance of those Roman tyrants who endeavoured to extirpate Christianity
out of the world.
I. WHO THEY ARE THAT KNOW THEIR GOD. In the language of
scripture
no wicked man knows the Lord.. “The sons of Eli
” it is said
were
“sons of Belial; they knew not the Lord.” But the Lord is known by all the
upright; for “the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; a good
understanding have all they that do his commandments.” Those who know the Lord
know something concerning the perfections of his nature. It is but a “little
portion that they hear of him
and the thunder of his power who can
understand?--But they know at least
that he is the Most High over all the
earth
glorious in holiness
invariable in justice
irresistible in power. They
know him to be excellent and amiable in all his perfections
and would abhor
themselves if they felt a latent wish that he were anything else than he is.
They who know their God know that
although there is but one God
yet there are
three persons to whom the glory of deity equally belongs. This knowledge of God
is attended with suitable dispositions of heart. All who know God to salvation
trust in him as their God. They rejoice in his kindness
and count it their
glory and joy to call him their God. They that know their God keep his
commandment. Disobedience to his voice they count the worst of all evils.
II. HOW THE KNOWLEDGE OF GOD FITS MEN FOR DOING EXPLOITS
IS NOW TO BE CONSIDERED.
The word exploits is a supplement of our translation. But the words
plainly signify
that those who know their God “shall be strong
” and do such
things as could not be expected from persons not under the influence of a
religious principle. The exploits done by those that know their God must be
undoubtedly consistent with justice. Heroical actions have been performed for
the gratification of ambition
or other corrupt dispositions of the human
heart. But those who know their God would not
for the world
do an unjust
action
or to risk the loss of their souls
by disobeying God. The noble army
of martyrs laid down their lives
not only for their heavenly Father
but for
their brethren
when they sealed the truth with their blood. But how does the
knowledge of our God prepare us for doing what we may be called to do
in the
defence of our country
and of ourselves?
1. They that know their God
know his will
and are disposed to do
it. And this is one article of the revealed will of God
that we should be
ready
when we are called by providence
to defend our king and country
our
liberties
and our religion. “Honour the king.” “Be subject to every ordinance
of man
for the Lord’s sake.” The difference between those who know their God
and other men
is
that most other men will do some things that God requires
but they are not ready for every good work. Where their life
their interest
their credit
may suffer by obeying the will of God
they must be excused; but
the lovers of God delight to show their obedience
where self-denial must be
practised.
2. They that know their God are strengthened to do exploits
by their
confidence in God as their God. “They that know his name will put their trust
in him”; and “through him they will do valiantly.” Our confidence in God is
founded on the mediation of our Lord Jesus Christ. “He is the way: no man cometh
to the Father but by him.” Now
when we believe in Jesus Christ for the
remission of sins
and life everlasting
what have we to fear? God. We may die
but we cannot be hurt. It is a consciousness of guilt that disqualifies us for
dangerous duties.
3. The people that do know God
have learned patiently to do his
will. None can hope to do exploits that is unqualified to bear those things
that are unpleasant to the flesh. Hardness must be endured by every good
soldier of Jesus Christ. “If we faint in the day of adversity
our strength is
but small.”
4. The people that do know their God
are prepared for extraordinary
services
by the ordinary course of their service to God. When men are daily
adding sin to sin by obstinate impenitence
they prepare thorns and briars to
tear their consciences
when an evil day comes. How can such men be unappalled
when they find themselves placed in a situation that exposes them to a
premature death? All that know their God
have learned to keep up an
intercourse with him by prayer; and in the time of distress and danger
they
pray more earnestly. Great are the victories which prayer hath obtained.
5. That the people who do know their God are strong to do exploits
because God is their helper. The Lord is good unto all
but he loves all that
walk in his ways. “He is their arm every morning
their salvation in the day of
trouble.” How were all the heroes of Israel
in ancient times
enabled to do
those mighty works for which they are held in everlasting remembrance? The Lord
was with them. They were strong in his strength.
He protected them by the shield of his salvation. What shall we
say at the conclusion of the whole matter?
1. Seek the knowledge of God. Let those who yet know not God seek the
knowledge of his excellency
of his grace
of his will. Use the means of
knowledge with which God hath furnished you in great plenty. Pray for the
spirit of wisdom and revelation.
2. If any of you say that you know God
consider by what course of
actions you ought to verify their pretentions; for if you say that you know
God
and keep not his commandments
you are liars. Great exploits were done by
the heroes of God’s people. You must cut off right hands and right feet
when
they make you to offend. You must crucify the flesh
with the afflictions and
lusts.
3. To animate us to such exploits as we may be called to perform
let
us call to remembrance the exploits performed by believers in ancient times.
Paul put us in mind of the many mighty works done through faith
that we may be
ready
when we are called by divine providence
to follow their example. Are
you called to practise virtue and holiness
admit the opposition to be expected
from a crooked and perverse generation? Are you called to risk your lives in
battle? Remember Abraham
who
with a little army
fought bravely and
successfully against four victorious kings
to rescue his beloved nephew.
4. Those who are barren and unfruitful in the knowledge of God ought
to consider their ways. Yon cannot go as missionaries to spread the light of
the gospel amongst the heathen; but you may be fellow-helpers to them by your
contributions and prayers. You are not called to the field of battle; but you
may assist the defenders of your country by your cheerful payment of those
taxes that are necessary for their support
and by your prayers to God that he
may cover their heads in the day of battle. All that know the Lord love him.
All that love him will desire to approve their love by those works that are
pleasing in his sight. Exploits in the service of Satan indicate not only
ignorance of God
but enmity against him. You must not imagine that the best
means will give you the saving and sanctifying knowledge of God
without divine
illumination. “There are some
” says Paul
“that have not the knowledge of God;
I speak this to your shame.” There are some of the military order
as well as
men of other descriptions that have not the knowledge of God. None know God who
dare to profane his name by needless oaths and execrations. (G. Lawson.)
And do exploits.
Great exploits
An exploit I would define to be a heroic act
a brave feat
a
great achievement. There are three opportunities open to us that are grand
thrilling
far-reaching
stupendous and overwhelming. In these you may do
exploits. The three greatest things on earth to do are to save a man
or save a
woman
or save a child. During the course of his life
almost every man gets
into an exigency
is caught between two fires
is ground between two
millstones
sits on the edge of some precipice
or in some other way comes near
demolition. There are exigencies in the life of a woman. The embarrassed and
humiliated woman seems to cheer up in Christian confidence. And there is
another exploit you may do. You may not only save a man
and a woman
you may
save a child. (T. De Witt Talmage
D.D.)
Untold possibilities of a man of faith
During one of Mr. Moody’s early visits to England
as he was about
to return
a friend said to him: “The world has yet to see what God could do
with a man who would let Him use him.” This made such a deep impression upon
Mr. Moody that he was led to put himself in the hands of the Lord for service
as never before
and the blessing which attended the great evangelist’s
teaching
in some measure
let the world see how much God could use a man who
is willing to be used. A life given to Jesus Christ as Saviour
and that life
consecrated to him for service
with a realisation of the mighty power of
prayer
will certainly accomplish great things for God. The Christian Hero:
I. SOME ACCOUNT OF THAT KNOWLEDGE WHICH CHRISTIANS POSSESS OF THEIR GOD.
1. By his word and spirit they know him as a God of infinite
perfection. The idols of the heathen are far inferior to their makers. The
Christian knows
that the God whose he is
and whom he worships and serves
is
possessed of every perfection
and that in its highest degree.
2. As a reconciled God in Christ. Christ gave himself for his people.
God devised the plan of our reconciliation and peace with him.
3. They know him as their own God in Christ. He hath made himself
over to them
and they have accepted him
and they live in the sure possession
and in the sweet enjoyment of him.
4. They know him as their God
with whom they live in the closest
correspondence. He commands
and they obey.
II. SOME OF THOSE EXPLOITS WHICH CHRISTIANS SHALL PERFORM IN
CONSEQUENCE OF THEM KNOWING GOD.
1. They shall be strong
and perform the most difficult pieces of
duty.
2. They shall subdue strong corruptions.
3. They shall be strong in resisting strong temptations.
4. In patiently bearing heavy burdens.
5. In suspending the divine judgments
and holding back the arm of
omnipotence itself.
III. THE INFLUENCE WHICH THE KNOWLEDGE THAT
THEY HAVE OF THEIR GOD HATH UPON THEIR BEING STRONG
AND DOING EXPLOITS.
1. By their knowledge
that the command of God is their warrant for
doing these exploits.
2. That they have Jehovah Jesus for their commander.
3. They have the whole armour of God
as their military
accoutrements
in the day of battle.
4. They know that they have the fulness of God
and of Christ
for
their supplies.
5. They know that they are assured of complete victory over their
enemies.
6. They know they shall receive a glorious reward. Admonish such
The Heroism and Achievements of those who know and confide in God
These words are found in a prophecy respecting Antiochus
Epiphanes
the bitter enemy and persecutor of the Jews. I am not going to
harrow up your feelings by a recital of his cruelties. Persecution has always
served to enable us to “discern the righteous from the wicked
and him who
serveth God from him who serveth him not.” And so we find it here. The
faithless Jews
by the promise of place and wealth and power
would be led to
sacrifice their consciences; “ And such as do wickedly against the covenant
shall be corrupt by flatteries.” Not so those who are “upright in heart.” Their
principles shall be unyielding and triumphant
“but the people that do know
their God shall be strong and do exploits.” Consider three things with regard
to the persons here spoken of.
I. THEIR KNOWLEDGE.
Knowledge is the prerogative--the distinction--of humanity. The principal
object of this knowledge must be God himself
whether we consider the
perfections of his nature
or the various relations in which he stands to us.
God in nature is God above us; God in providence is God beyond us; God in law
is God against us; but God in Christ is God for us
and God with us
and God in
us. We must know him in the person of his dear Son. This knowledge is not merely
speculative
it is experimental. There is a great difference between knowing a
thing only in theory
and knowing it in experienced by the confidence of the
heart
the bias of the will
and the glowing of the affections. “Lasting” is
very distinguishable from reading
and hearing
and talking about a thing. The
true knowledge is ever accompanied with three things
confidence
affection and
obedience. This knowledge is also appropriating. Where this appropriation is
not actually realised
it is always desired.
II. THEIR STRENGTH. “Shall
be strong.” Their strength is not natural. The fall has left us as much without
strength as without righteousness. It is much easier to convince men of their
guilt than of their weakness. Even Christians themselves acquire the knowledge
of this weakness slowly and gradually. At first
they are found to rely much
upon their convictions
purposes
and resolutions
and
perhaps
vows too; but
their iniquities
like the wind
after all
carry them away. By their failings
and falls
they are taught that they only are safe
“Who are kept by the power
of God
through faith unto salvation.” Christians
by experience
learn more
and more where alone their strength lies
and they are led to trust in the Lord
only. Two things with regard to this strength you must remember. The supplies
of it are communicated seasonably. And it is obtained by the use of means. Some
have a stupid notion that we should not engage in the exercises of religion
unless we feel in a suitable and lively frame for them. If we are in a bad
frame
we need to come to God by prayer
and in the use of the means he has
appointed
that we may get into a good and lively frame.
III. THEIR EXPLOITS. Exploits
are rare
difficult
curious
marvellous
illustrious acts anal achievements.
There are many important things belonging to real religion
which are not
deemed worthy of the name by the men of the world. A man who “walks by faith
not by sight
” will be led to the conclusion that there is nothing really great
but what relates to the soul
or eternity
or God. We are not to confine these
exploits to particular ranks and conditions of men. View Christians under six
characteristics
Christians are no ordinary characters. They are a “peculiar
people
” they are men “wondered at.” They profess
and they do
more than
others
and you should glory in their characters. (Willam Jay.)
And they that understand
among the people shall instruct many.
Knowledge Commended
The uninspired book of the Maccabees is perhaps the best interpreter
of this passage in Daniel. The prophet
we think
refers to the great
persecution under Antiochus
when the followers of Judas Maccabaeus
knowing
their God and keeping close to Him amidst general defection
refused to bow
before the idols of Syria; these were strong by God’s grace
and did great
exploits; wonders of valour we road of in the history of Judas and his
brethren
and wonders of heroic Buffering never surpassed are recounted of the
mother and sons and those other martyrs who
under tortures of the most amazing
character
held fast their faith even to the end. In that age there were some
who were stoned
who were sawn asunder
who felt the violence of fire
and yet
were not separated from their God by all that the foe could do. Those by whom the
exploits were performed were not ignorant
but a people who did know their God;
and those who helped to keep up the light of Israel in the midst of the thick
darkness were not uninstructed themselves
but they were a people who did
understand. Our subject this morning is knowledge
especially knowledge of the
things of God. The question is very often put to us in a very general and vague
manner
“Is knowledge a good thing or not?” We are expected to give an answer
promptly and without reserve; and if we do we shall very likely be caught in a
trap. “Knowledge: is it a good thing in itself or not?” That depends upon
several things. You might as well ask me whether air is a good thing. Why
of
course
speaking loosely
it is; but then there is much bad air in old wells
and cellars
and so on
which will destroy life
and therefore you cannot
expect me to say at once
if I know you are on the catch
either “Yes
” or
“No.” Air is a good thing
as a general rule; the lungs require it
man must
have it; it is a good thing. So is knowledge. Knowledge heaves the intellectual
lungs: it is a good thing; but then there is noxious knowledge
which it were
infinitely better for us never to receive
just as there is pestilential air.
Is water a good thing? Again I answer
“Yes
” in the abstract. So many watery
particles are absolutely necessary to the building up and sustenance of the
human frame
that every thirsty man knows that water is good. Yet there is bad
water; there have been poisoned wells; water stagnates and becomes putrid and
injurious to life; water is good take it abstractedly. But yet there is a
knowledge which
like stagnant or poisoned water
may destroy the soul. The
tree of the knowledge of good and evil stood in Paradise
mark that--but it
ruined Paradise
mark that
too! A man may know much
and he may still stand in
his integrity; but the chances are
that while men are what they are
there
will be a serpent in the tree of knowledge
seeking the ruin of souls. If you
want to judge concerning the good or evil of knowledge
you must ask yourself
What
is its source? To have one’s lips touched with a live coal is a choice
blessing if the seraph bring that coal from off the altar; but there are
tongues which are set on fire of hell--and who desires to feel such accursed
flame? You must know whence cometh the coal before you may consent that it
shall touch your lips. Knowledge may be tested by considering its character.
Some knowledge is like the light of the moon--clear
cold
barren
if not
deleterious to health; but heavenly knowledge is fructifying
healthful
and
genial
chasing away disease like the warm rays of the sun. You may make
knowledge good or evil
by the way in which you use it. If it be a torch
you
may carry it with you to kindle the flame of Tophet’s fire; or
on the other
hand
by that heaven-lit torch you may
through grace
find your way to the
gates of Paradise. Judge of knowledge
therefore
ever with discretion
and
while you seek it as in the abstract an eminently good thing
yet be not in
haste to plunge yourself into every abyss to find its bottom
nor into every
burning crater to fathom its depth. I know enough of poison without drinking
it
and enough of sin without running into it.
I. First
then
there is is A SPECIAL KNOWLEDGE
REFERRED TO
“the people who do know their God.” To know God is
the highest and best form of knowledge. But what can we know of God? Nothing
but what He has been pleased to reveal to us. He hath revealed something of
Himself in the Book of Nature
and much more in the Book of Revelation; and He
hath been pleased to cast a vivid light upon the Book of Revelation by
manifesting Himself unto His people as He doth not unto the world. Those who
know the Lord should believe in the unity of His essence and subsistence
“Hear
O Israel: the Lord our God is one Lord.” We should know the Lord in the
plurality of His persons. God said
“Let us make man in our own image.” Let not
man be content until he knows something of the “us” from whom his being was
derived. Endeavour to know the Father. Seek to know much of the Son of God who
is the brightness of His Father’s glory and the express image of His person
and yet in unspeakable condescension of grace became man for our sakes. Forget
not the Holy Spirit: endeavour to get as clear a view as you can of His nature
and character
His attributes
and His works. Let us study to be well
instructed in the divine attributes
and ask for grace to know them all. Be not
like those who dream of a God who is all love
and nothing else. Do not be
content with a maimed and distorted view of God’s attributes; feel Him to be
omnipresent: let it be your delight to know that you have not to call upon Him
as one who is afar off
but ever near at hand. Recognise Him as omnipotent;
know that there is nothing which He cannot do
and therefore doubt Him not.
Whatever else you do not know do know the character of your God. “They that
know Thy name will put their trust in Thee.” Then labour to know God in His
actions; study well the past. Do not be ignorant of the great work of creation;
if you have the skill
look at that creation in the light of modern science so
far as that light is really derived from facts and not from conjectures. Pry
into God’s great works in providence; begin your pilgrimage of study at the
gates of Eden and travel onward to the present time; float safely in your
meditations with Noah in the ark; study the wonderful justice of God in thus
sweeping away the race of men. If you have mastered all this
seek to know
something of the teaching of the Spirit of God concerning the plan of
salvation. Do not be content to be saved in the dark; try to find out how it is
that you are saved. I have thus brought out what I think is the idea of the
text about the people knowing their God; but we must not overlook that little
word their--“They that know their God.” It is not “they that know God
” but
“their God.’” To know anything of Him aright
you must get a firm hold
of God; He must be your God. “There is no praying
” said one old man who used
to be much in prayer
“till you come to a close grip.”
II. THE HAPPY INFLUENCE OF THIS KIND OF
KNOWLEDGE: next requires our notice. The text shows that it
strengthens
gives courage
energy
vigour
resolution daring
success. They
who know their God are strong
and do exploits. Knowledge strengthens the
spiritual man
because
in the first place
it is that on which faith has to
feed. Where there is faith
knowledge is a great gain. This will be clear to
all of you who read attentively your Bible
because the words “to know” and “to
believe” are frequently used in Scripture almost synonymously. If you turn to
the tenth chapter of St. John’s gospel
you will find there at the
thirty-eighth verse
that the Saviour said
“But if I do
though ye believe not
Me
believe the works; that ye may know
and believe
that the Father is in Me
and I in Him.” And then in the first epistle of St. John
in the second
chapter
at the third verse
we have an expression which is tantamount to the
one I have already referred to. “And hereby we do know that we know Him if we
keep His commandments.” We are sure of our faith and of our knowledge by
walking in obedience to Him. The source from which Christian faith comes proves
the importance of knowledge. How does faith come to the Christian? “Faith
cometh by hearing
and hearing by the Word of God.” There is the whole history
of faith--the Word of God gives the teaching which blesses us with knowledge
and then comes faith. You see
then
that if knowledge be under God the Holy Ghost
truly the food of faith
then
in order to be strong
since faith is the very
sinew of human strength
we must get much knowledge of the things of God. The
people who do know their God shall be strong in faith
and shall do great
exploits. Think again
of the influence of faith upon all the other graces.
Love is the sweetest of all; but how can I love till knowledge gives me a view
of Christ? Knowledge opens the door
and then through that door I see my
Saviour. Look at hope again. How can I hope for a thing if I do not know of its
existence? Hope may be the telescope
but then till I get knowledge there is
something in front of the glass
I can see nothing whatever; but knowledge
takes away the impediment
and then when 1 look through the optic glass I can
see the glory to be revealed; but I cannot hope for that of which I know
nothing whatever. I must know there is a heaven
or I cannot hope for it. Then
take patience. How shall I have patience unless I have heard
as James says
of
the patience of Job; unless I know something of the sympathy of Christ
and
understand the good which is to come out of the correction which my heavenly
Father gives me? Knowledge gives me reasons for patience. Again
from the
connection of the text
it appears that many were led astray in the days of
Antiochus. “Such as do wickedly against the covenant shall he corrupt by
flatteries; but the people that do know their God shall be strong
” and so on.
It seems
then
that to know God is a means of steadfastness. Who are the people
that are greatly troubled by new systems of philosophy and infidelity which are
constantly springing up? Why
the people who do not know their God. Knowledge
will clearly be seen by you to be a great means for enabling you to do great
exploits
if you think of its bearing upon usefulness. A Christian without
knowledge
for instance
is an admirable man in the holiness of his life; but
to what other end
to what other purpose can you put him? He must not enter the
pulpit--if he be already there
he had better retire. Do not be content to be
always children--you will never be men unless you are children first; do not be
content to be stunted in your understanding
but ask to grow in grace and in
the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ
for the sake of your own
usefulness.
III. We come
in
the third place
TO NOTICE HOW
THIS KNOWLEDGE MAY BE OBTAINED. Time has fled
and therefore we
will not enlarge
but just give the outline. Search the Scriptures. Do not
merely read them--search them; look out the parallel passages; collate them;
try to get the meaning of the Spirit upon any one truth by looking to all the
texts which refer to it. Read the Bible consecutively; do not merely read a
verse here and there--that is not fair. Pray after you have read it as much as
you like
but do not make a penance of what ought to be a pleasure. Next
use
good helps to your Bible. Next
be sure to attend a teaching ministry. Do not
be always after sweets. Then I should say
if you want to understand much
be
much in prayer.
IV. And now I want
to say ONE WORD BY WAY OF
CAUTION. Remember that knowledge of itself with all its
excellencies and virtues when God blesses it--has a danger in it to you.
“Knowledge
” says the apostle
“puffeth up.” So it does. You may get proud of
what you know
and then God forgive you
and deliver you from it! And
moreover
you may get so positive about what you know
that you may have made
up your mind never to know any more. Do not get into that state. Your knowledge
may even make you supercilious to the people of God. You may look down with
contempt on some who do not know so much as you
and yet they nay have twice
your holiness and be doing more service to God.
V. THE DUTY OF SPREADING THIS KNOWLEDGE
WHEN WE HAVE IT. “They that understand among the people shall
instruct many.” It is a prophecy which is fulfilled
but it is also a
suggestion of a duty which we have to carry out. Are we instructing many
those
of us who know the Lord? If God has lighted your candle
try to shine and let
other candles be lit by you. (C. H. Spurgeon.)
And the King shall do according to his will.
The Reign of the Antichrist
We Christians look for an Antichrist yet to come. Apart from
revelation
it is
in itself
in conformity with human nature
and the laws of
things
that
as good intensifies to a grand consummation of good
so will evil
also intensify the grand consummation of evil. The world is made up of light
and shadow
the one always accompanying the other; and as the light increases
the shadows deepen; till
when the king of glory comes to crown and establish
the good
he will be confronted with the King and head of all wickedness
wrought up to the summit of lawlessness and blasphemy at which its doom shall
come. In the Old Testament
wherever we look we find some image and
fore-intimation of this great evil power
running parallel with the predictions
and promises concerning the seed of the Woman
and the Messiah of the chosen
people. It was the firm belief of all the Christian Fathers that there is yet
to come a development and impersonation of Antichristianism more dreadful than
has ever yet been seen on Earth
and which shall be destroyed only in the great
day of God Almighty. This Antichrist is described in the passage of Daniel now
before us. Whoever this King may be
or from whatever quarter he may come
he
is the last representative of the bestial world power that ever bears rule upon
earth. Whoever he is
he is some individual person.
Antichrist indeed exists at all times
but only as a working
spirit which has not yet come to its final development and concentrated
embodiment. Wilfulness will be his characteristic; and magnifying himself
and
irreligion. We everywhere and in all circles and teachings
hear about the
“Coming Man.” He is the man of sin
the lawless one
the Antichrist. (Joseph
A. Seiss
D.D.)
..
Verses 36-45
And the King shall do according to his will.
The Reign of the Antichrist
We Christians look for an Antichrist yet to come. Apart from
revelation
it is
in itself
in conformity with human nature
and the laws of
things
that
as good intensifies to a grand consummation of good
so will evil
also intensify the grand consummation of evil. The world is made up of light
and shadow
the one always accompanying the other; and as the light increases
the shadows deepen; till
when the king of glory comes to crown and establish
the good
he will be confronted with the King and head of all wickedness
wrought up to the summit of lawlessness and blasphemy at which its doom shall
come. In the Old Testament
wherever we look we find some image and fore-intimation
of this great evil power
running parallel with the predictions and promises
concerning the seed of the Woman
and the Messiah of the chosen people. It was
the firm belief of all the Christian Fathers that there is yet to come a
development and impersonation of Antichristianism more dreadful than has ever
yet been seen on Earth
and which shall be destroyed only in the great day of
God Almighty. This Antichrist is described in the passage of Daniel now before
us. Whoever this King may be
or from whatever quarter he may come
he is the
last representative of the bestial world power that ever bears rule upon earth.
Whoever he is
he is some individual person.
Antichrist indeed exists at all times
but only as a working
spirit which has not yet come to its final development and concentrated
embodiment. Wilfulness will be his characteristic; and magnifying himself
and
irreligion. We everywhere and in all circles and teachings
hear about the
“Coming Man.” He is the man of sin
the lawless one
the Antichrist. (Joseph
A. Seiss
D.D.)
──《The Biblical Illustrator》