I. Introduction: The book of Daniel that many prophetic visions and prophecies about the world as we’ve know it, and the world powers throughout time. Daniel 12 is the final chapter of the book and it gives us a view of the end times and the ultimate victory of God’s people. This chapter is full of figurative examples and promises of hope for the faithful believer. It’s also a warning to those who reject God’s truth. The chapter is divided into three main sections: the time of distress (Daniel 12:1-4), the conversation between the two angels (Daniel 12:5-13), and the resurrection and judgment (Daniel 12:13).
II. The Time of Distress (Daniel 12:1-4)
These verses describes a time of great trouble that will come upon the earth. It is a time when Michael, the great prince, will arise and protect God’s people (Daniel 12:1). This is somewhat like the text in Revelation 12:7-9, where Michael and his angels fight against the dragon and his angels. It is also reminiscent of Jesus’ words in Matthew 24:21, where he speaks of a time of great distress that has never been seen before. This time of distress will be a time of purification for God’s people, as seen in Malachi 3:2-3, where the Lord is described as a refiner’s fire. Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens (Daniel 12:3), just as Jesus said in Matthew 13:43 that the righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father.
III. The Conversation Between the Two Angels (Daniel 12:5-13)
In these verses, Daniel sees two angels, one on each side of the river, and asks them how long it will be until the end of these wonders (Daniel 12:6). The angel gives a cryptic answer, saying it will be for a time, times, and half a time (Daniel 12:7). This is what the prophecy points to in Revelation 12:14, where the woman is taken care of for a time, times, and half a time. The angel also tells Daniel that the words are closed up and sealed until the time of the end (Daniel 12:9), just as John is told in Revelation 10:4 not to write down what the seven thunders have said. Daniel is then told to go his way and rest, for he will rise to his inheritance at the end of the days (Daniel 12:13).
IV. The Resurrection and Judgment (Daniel 12:13)
This section provides the ultimate hope for believers, as it speaks of a resurrection and judgment. Those who sleep in the dust of the earth will awake, some to everlasting life and some to shame and everlasting contempt (Daniel 12:2). This is close to what to Jesus said in John 5:28-29, where he says that all who are in the graves will hear his voice and come forth, some to the resurrection of life and some to the resurrection of condemnation. It is also like the text of Revelation 20:12-15, where the dead are judged according to their works, and those whose names are not found in the book of life are cast into the lake of fire.
V. Conclusion: Daniel 12 is a chapter that gives the world both a warning and a promise. It warns of a time of great distress that will come upon the earth, but it also promises ultimate victory for God’s people. Daniel 12 encourages believers to remain faithful and wise, as they will shine like the brightness of the heavens. It’s also a message of hope for the resurrection and judgment, where those who have been faithful will receive everlasting life. Daniel 12 is a strong reminder that God is in control and that his promises will be fulfilled.
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