Text: Daniel 12 : 1-13

Dear Young People,

THE CLOSING OF THE PROPHETIC REVELATION TO DANIEL

God had revealed much to Daniel. He had revealed to him prophecies concerning World Empires. Daniel had understanding concerning the Rise and Fall of 4 great world empires.

1. Babylonian
2. Persian
3. Greek
4. Roman

Revelation was also given concerning the Day of Judgment. All told, Daniel was given revelation that few men were privileged to receive. But there came a time when God in His own sovereign will decided that He would end the word of prophetic revelation to Daniel. Thus He said,

"But you, Daniel, shut up the words,
and seal the book until the time of the end;
Many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall increase."
Daniel 12:4

A PLEA FOR FURTHER REVELATION

Daniel cried out to the Lord for further revelation. It seemed as if there were many more things that God could reveal to him. It seemed also that there were many more things not yet disclosed. But God's answer to him was firm.

"Go your way, Daniel, for the words are closed up
and sealed till the time of the end.
Many shall be purified, made white and refined,
But the wicked shall do wickedly;
And none of the wicked shall understand,
But the wise shall understand."
Daniel 12:9

The matter was closed. Daniel saw heavenly beings discussing this issue of "the time of the end" (Daniel 12:4-8). They may discuss, for they were heavenly beings. However, the will of God for Daniel was that he had been given all the visions that were meant for him to receive.

He may however take comfort in this thought. The Lord's elect will be "purified, made white and refined." They will also be given wisdom to understand things in the hard days in the end times.

However, this comfort would not be something that the wicked would ever have. They would not understand things spiritual. They would never understand concepts such as the Day of Judgment. They do not even understand anything much about God!

Prayerfully,                                                                             

Pastor Charlie

First released 15th September 2002, © Bethany Independent-Presbyterian Church, Singapore