Rev. Rob Jones

Author: Robert Jones

  • God’s Sovereignty and the Hope of Redemption

    Daniel Series #8

    Daniel 8:1-17 NRSV

                In the third year of the reign of King Belshazzar, a vision appeared to me, Daniel, after the one that had appeared to me at first. 2 In the vision, I saw myself in Susa, the capital, in the province of Elam, and I was by the Ulai Gate. 3 I looked up and saw a ram standing beside the gate. It had two horns. Both horns were long, but one was longer than the other, and the longer one came up second. 4 I saw the ram charging westward, northward, and southward. All beasts were powerless to withstand it, and no one could rescue from its power; it did as it pleased and became strong.

    5 As I was watching, a male goat appeared from the west, coming across the face of the whole earth without touching the ground. The goat had a horn between its eyes. 6 It came toward the ram with the two horns that I had seen standing beside the gate,[f] and it ran at it with savage force. 7 I saw it approaching the ram. It was enraged against it and struck the ram, breaking its two horns. The ram did not have power to withstand it; it threw the ram down to the ground and trampled upon it, and there was no one who could rescue the ram from its power. 8 Then the male goat grew exceedingly great, but at the height of its power, the great horn was broken, and in its place, there came up four prominent horns toward the four winds of heaven.

    9 Out of one of them came another[g] horn, a little one, which grew exceedingly great toward the south, toward the east, and toward the beautiful land. 10 It grew as high as the host of heaven. It threw down to earth some of the host and some of the stars and trampled on them.11 Even against the prince of the host, it acted arrogantly; it took the regular burnt offering away from him and overthrew the place of his sanctuary. 12 Because of wickedness, the host was given over to it together with the regular burnt offering; it cast truth to the ground and kept prospering in what it did. 13 Then I heard a holy one speaking, and another holy one said to the one who spoke, “For how long is this vision concerning the regular burnt offering, the transgression that makes desolate, and the giving over of the sanctuary and host to be trampled?” 14 And he answered him, “For two thousand three hundred evenings and mornings; then the sanctuary shall be restored to its rightful state.”

    When I, Daniel, had seen the vision, I tried to understand it. Then someone appeared standing before me, having the appearance of a man, 16 and I heard a human voice by the Ulai, calling, “Gabriel, help this man understand the vision.” 17 So he came near where I stood, and when he came, I became frightened and fell prostrate. But he said to me, “Understand, O mortal, that the vision is for the time of the end.”

    Introduction: 

    Beloved, Daniel 8 presents yet another powerful vision of God’s sovereign hand at work throughout human history. We see empires rise and fall, evil powers oppress God’s people, and yet God remains in control. This message is as relevant today as it was in Daniel’s time. Amen!?

    Daniel receives a vision during the third year of King Belshazzar. In the vision, he sees himself in Susa, where a ram with two horns rises in power, charging in all directions unopposed. Suddenly, a male goat from the west, with a single prominent horn, attacks and defeats the ram. The goat becomes powerful, but its large horn is broken and replaced by four others. From one of these four horns emerges a small horn that grows in power, challenges heavenly powers, ends regular offerings, desecrates the sanctuary, and casts truth to the ground. Daniel hears a holy one’s question about the duration of these events and learns the period will last 2,300 evenings and mornings, after which the sanctuary will be restored. Like in chapter 7, Daniel could not understand what he saw. So, God instructs Gabriel to explain to Daniel what the vision means. Gabriel is the same angel that John tells us announces both John the Baptist and Jesus to their mothers.  

    1. God’s sovereignty over kingdoms 

    So, Gabriel explains what the ram, the goat, and the horns symbolize. We can also deduce from history what this vision means. Like all the dreams and visions in Daniel, the animals represent real history. The two-horned ram symbolizes the Medo-Persian Empire. The goat that followed with a great horn represents the Greek Empire under Alexander the Great, who defeated Cyrus the Great. The description of how fast the goat moves across the earth is indicative of Alexander’s prowess as a logistical military commander. The four smaller horns offset the great horn, representing the sudden death of Alexander the Great at age 32, when his four generals split his kingdom. (All this, and the imagery from the last chapter, would be very familiar to John when he writes Revelation 13) One must keep in mind the rest of Daniel as these visions unfold; kingdoms do not rise by chance, but under God’s sovereign decree. Daniel knows this by instinct and through faith. Recall what he says in 2:21, “He [God] changes times and seasons; he removes kings and sets up kings.” God is not a passive observer but the sovereign ruler over history. Isaiah 46:9-10 also reminds us that God declares, “9…I am God, and there is no one like me, 10 declaring the outcome from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, ‘My purpose shall stand, and I will fulfill my intention,’”. Therefore, even when the world seems chaotic, God’s plan is unfolding perfectly.

    The little horn: Opposition to God’s people. 

    The vision then shifts to a “little horn” arising from one of the four horns, speaking boastfully and opposing God’s people. Historically, Antiochus IV Epiphanes fits this description. As ruler of the section of the Greek empire that held Jerusalem, he persecuted the Jews and desecrated the temple.

    History Lesson:

    The Seleucid Empire, originally tolerant of Jewish customs in Judea, saw a dramatic policy reversal under Antiochus IV. A conflict over the High Priesthood and potential political unrest led Antiochus IV to intervene violently in Jerusalem, resulting in a massacre and the installation of his preferred High Priest, Menelaus. He then issued decrees outlawing Jewish religious practices, desecrated the Temple by introducing Greek religious rites and sacrificial practices, and established a military fortress (the Acra) to control Jerusalem.

    These unprecedented attempts to suppress Judaism and enforce Hellenization, combined with brutal military actions, led to the Maccabean Revolt. Traditional accounts portray the uprising as a national resistance to foreign oppression; however, some modern scholars suggest it was also fueled by internal conflict between traditionalist and Hellenized Jewish factions. The crisis instigated by Antiochus IV catalyzed a significant revolt, ultimately reshaping Jewish society and establishing the Hasmonean dynasty. During the revolt in 1 and 2 Maccabees, the celebration of lights, or Hanukkah, comes from. 

    Yet this “little-horn” figure also points us forward in time to the ultimate Antichrist, described by Paul in 2 Thessalonians 2:3-4, “Let no one deceive you in any way, for that day will not come unless the rebellion comes first and the lawless one is revealed, the one destined for destruction. 4 He opposes and exalts himself above every so-called god or object of worship, so that he takes his seat in the temple of God, declaring himself to be God.” Not to mention the beast of Revelation 13. 

    Daniel is being shown a preview of what will happen in a few years, as well as what John will write about in his first two letters and the book of Revelation. None of this is shown to Daniel to scare him. No, it is shown to reassure him and as a moral lesson to God’s people. Daniel’s vision is a warning for believers to be vigilant, to stand firm in our faith, and to keep our eyes on his victorious King and coming Messiah, Christ.

    God’s Judgement and Redemption. 

    Daniel is not shown the specific details of Antiochus IV or the Maccabean revolt; he is only given the big picture, but despite the little horn’s apparent success, Daniel is assured that its end is destruction. Daniel 8:25 says, “But he [the little horn] shall be broken—but not by human hand.” Again, reflecting the assurance of God’s authority stated in chapter 2, a reassurance that God’s judgment is indisputable. Ultimately, Christ, the Son of Man (Daniel 7:13-14), will reign forever. Paul, who is also very familiar with the tales of Daniel, encourages us in Romans 8:28, saying, “We know that all things work together for good for those who love God.” 

    This vision, both familiar and confusing, teaches us that no matter how dark the times or powerful the opposition, God reigns supreme. There is Hope in God’s sovereign plan, resting in His control over history—a plan of redemption of God’s people and creation. Gabriel encourages Daniel to stand firm against the spiritual forces that oppose God; likewise, we are encouraged to stand against any force that opposes Christ and His teachings. Knowing the promise and the life-changing power of Christ, as well as the life-giving promise of God’s grace, we are called to live as faithful witnesses, confident that God’s kingdom will prevail.

    Call to Action 

    Daniel’s vision is a reminder for us to take time to examine our hearts: Are we placing our trust in God’s sovereign plan or allowing anxiety about the future to take hold? How would you react to a vision like this from God? How would you handle Gabriel explaining it to you? Daniel’s vision is a call for us to commitment to daily prayer and reading Scripture—especially passages that remind us of God’s supreme authority, such as Psalm 46 which says, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. 2 Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change, though the mountains shake in the heart of the sea, 3 though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble with its tumult.” or Romans 8 which says, “I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, 39 nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

    As I reflect on this passage, providence brings to my attention the news of a powerful 8.8 magnitude earthquake in Russia, with a tsunami sweeping the Pacific coasts of the United States and Hawaii, on this day, July 30, 2025. In moments like these, the truths of Psalm 46 become not just words but anchors for the soul: “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” When we witness so many calamities—whether earthquakes, floods, heatwaves, violent storms, or even tragedies wrought by human hands—we are reminded that our sovereign God guides all of history according to His perfect will.

    Therefore, let us hold steadfastly to the faith once delivered to the saints. Let us pray fervently for creation and one another, as well, trusting not in our own wisdom or strength but in the gracious providence of our King. Encourage the church and every believer to persevere, knowing that Christ reigns and His kingdom cannot be shaken. Above all, we rest in the blessed assurance that our Lord will return in glory to consummate the redemption He accomplished on the cross—a truth attested by the angel Gabriel to Daniel and fulfilled in the finished work of Christ. In this sovereign hope, we endure, comforted by the knowledge that God’s purposes will stand, and His people shall never be forsaken.

                In the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. AMEN.

    Bibliography

    Daniel / auth. Creasy, Dr. Bill – [s.l.] : Logos Bible Study, 2011. – Second Edition. – Audible Lecture.

    NRSVue // Holy Bible w/ With Deuterocanonical/Apocryphal Books of the Old Testament.. – Washington D.C.: Zondervan, 2021. – Vol. Updated Edition. – National Council of Churches of Christ in the United States of America.

    The Harper Collins Study Bible, New Revised Standard Version with the Apocryphal and Deuterocanonical Books // NRSV Bible/ed. Meeks Wayne A. [et al.]. – New York: Harper Collins Publishers, 1993.

  • An Exegetical and Theological Analysis of Daniel Chapter 9

    Daniel Series #9

    Daniel 9 NRSV

    In the first year of Darius son of Ahasuerus, by birth a Mede, who became king over the realm of the Chaldeans, 2 I, Daniel, perceived in the books the number of years that, according to the word of the Lord to the prophet Jeremiah, must be fulfilled for the devastation of Jerusalem, namely, seventy years.

    3 Then I turned to the Lord God to seek an answer by prayer and supplication with fasting and sackcloth and ashes. 4 I prayed to the Lord my God and made confession, saying,

    “Ah, Lord, great and awesome God, keeping covenant and steadfast love with those who love you and keep your commandments, 5 we have sinned and done wrong, acted wickedly and rebelled, turning aside from your commandments and ordinances. 6 We have not listened to your servants the prophets, who spoke in your name to our kings, our princes, and our ancestors, and to all the people of the land.

    7 “Righteousness is on your side, O Lord, but open shame, as at this day, falls on us, the people of Judah, the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and all Israel, those who are near and those who are far away, in all the lands to which you have driven them because of the treachery that they have committed against you. 8 Open shame, O Lord, falls on us, our kings, our princes, and our ancestors because we have sinned against you. 9 To the Lord our God belong mercy and forgiveness, but we have rebelled against him 10 and have not obeyed the voice of the Lord our God by following his laws, which he set before us by his servants the prophets.

    11 “All Israel has transgressed your law and turned aside, refusing to obey your voice. So the curse and the oath written in the law of Moses, the servant of God, have been poured out upon us because we have sinned against you. 12 He has confirmed his words that he spoke against us and against our rulers by bringing upon us a calamity so great that what has been done against Jerusalem has never before been done under the whole heaven. 13 Just as it is written in the law of Moses, all this calamity has come upon us. We did not entreat the favor of the Lord our God, turning from our iniquities and reflecting on his fidelity. 14 So the Lord kept watch over this calamity until he brought it upon us. Indeed, the Lord our God is right in all that he has done, for we have disobeyed his voice.

    15 “And now, O Lord our God, who brought your people out of the land of Egypt with a mighty hand and made your name renowned even to this day—we have sinned, we have done wickedly. 16 O Lord, in view of all your righteous acts, let your anger and wrath, we pray, turn away from your city Jerusalem, your holy mountain; because of our sins and the iniquities of our ancestors, Jerusalem and your people have become a disgrace among all our neighbors. 17 Now therefore, O our God, listen to the prayer of your servant and to his supplication, and for your own sake, Lord, let your face shine upon your desolated sanctuary. 18 Incline your ear, O my God, and hear. Open your eyes and look at our desolation and the city that bears your name. We do not present our supplication before you on the ground of our righteousness but on the ground of your great mercies. 19 O Lord, hear; O Lord, forgive; O Lord, listen and act and do not delay! For your own sake, O my God, because your city and your people bear your name!”

    20 While I was speaking and was praying and confessing my sin and the sin of my people Israel and presenting my supplication before the Lord my God on behalf of the holy mountain of my God, 21 while I was speaking in prayer, the man Gabriel, whom I had seen before in a vision, came to me in swift flight at the time of the evening sacrifice. 22 He came and said to me, “Daniel, I have now come out to give you wisdom and understanding. 23 At the beginning of your supplications, a word went out, and I have come to declare it, for you are greatly beloved. So, consider the word and understand the vision:

    24 “Seventy weeks are decreed for your people and your holy city: to finish the transgression, to put an end to sin, and to atone for iniquity, to bring in everlasting righteousness, to seal both vision and prophet, and to anoint a most holy place. 25 Know therefore and understand: from the time that the word went out to restore and rebuild Jerusalem until the time of an anointed prince, there shall be seven weeks, and for sixty-two weeks it shall be built again with streets and moat, but in a troubled time. 26 After the sixty-two weeks, an anointed one shall be cut off and shall have nothing, and the troops of the prince who is to come shall destroy the city and the sanctuary. Its end shall come with a flood, and to the end there shall be war. Desolations are decreed. 27 He shall make a strong covenant with many for one week, and for half of the week he shall make sacrifice and offering cease, and in their place shall be a desolating sacrilege until the decreed end is poured out upon the desolator.”

    A Reformed Perspective with Parallel Scriptures

    Introduction

    Throughout all of Scripture, a divine tapestry is woven—one whose threads run seamlessly from the earliest prophets to the final apostles, all converging upon a savior, a messiah, our Christ. Despite the diversity of voices, historical settings, and theological emphases, the canonical writings reveal a remarkable unity: every covenant, prophecy, and sacred promise finds its ultimate fulfillment and meaning in Jesus. Daniel’s visions, Isaiah’s suffering servant, Moses’ law, and Paul’s gospel all echo this central motif—God’s redemptive plan, orchestrated through Christ, unfolds progressively yet coherently across generations. The varied perspectives of the prophets and apostles do not fracture the message but instead enrich the portrait of redemption, demonstrating that God is the main character, even the intricacies and tensions within Scripture somehow harmonize to proclaim the glory of Christ and the hope of the gospel for all peoples. Approaching Daniel chapter 9, we see Daniel begin to not only understand this, but also come to terms with the history of his people, Israel. We, the reader, as we study Daniel, likewise begin to understand that he, like all the prophets, is very influential to the theology in the New Testament and the narrative of Christ and his Gospel teachings.  

    Contextual Overview

    Daniel 9 is set during the first year of Darius the Mede (v. 1), placing Daniel and the Jewish exiles near the end of the Babylonian captivity. By consulting Jeremiah’s prophetic writings, Daniel becomes aware that the seventy years of desolation prophesied for Jerusalem (Jeremiah 25:11-12; 29:10) are drawing to a close. This awareness drives Daniel to seek the Lord in intercessory prayer, fasting, and repentance on behalf of himself and his people.

    • Parallel Scripture: Jeremiah 25:11-12 – “This whole land shall become a ruin and a waste, and these nations shall serve the king of Babylon seventy years. 12 Then after seventy years are completed, I will punish the king of Babylon and that nation, the land of the Chaldeans, for their iniquity, says the Lord, making the land an everlasting waste.”
    • Parallel Scripture: Leviticus 26:40-42 – Daniel is led to this confession of iniquity because of the Law and his devotion to it: “But if they confess their iniquity and the iniquity of their ancestors—their treachery against me and also their continued hostility to me, 41 so that I in turn was hostile to them and brought them into the land of their enemies—if, then, their uncircumcised heart is humbled and they make amends for their iniquity, 42 then will I remember my covenant with Jacob; I will remember also my covenant with Isaac and also my covenant with Abraham, and I will remember the land.”

    Daniel’s Prayer: Confession and Covenant Mercy (Daniel 9:3–19)

    Daniel’s prayer is notable for its deep humility, corporate confession, and appeal to God’s covenant faithfulness. He does not excuse or minimize Israel’s sin; rather, he identifies himself with his people’s rebellion, acknowledging their failure to heed God’s law and prophets.

    Daniel’s prayer is an exemplary expression of Reformed theology in practice:

    • Total Depravity: Daniel confesses that “we have sinned and done wrong and acted wickedly and rebelled, turning aside from your commandments and rules” (v. 5). He sees no merit in Israel but appeals solely to God’s mercy.
    • Sola Gratia (Grace Alone): The hope of Daniel and Israel is not in human performance but in the LORD’s steadfast love and covenantal promises (v. 4, 18–19).
    • Corporate Solidarity: Daniel confesses not only his sin but that of the whole nation, modeling the communal aspect of covenantal responsibility.
    • God’s Glory: The ultimate plea is for God’s own name and reputation: “For your own sake, O Lord, make your face to shine upon your sanctuary… because your city and your people are called by your name” (v. 17, 19).

    Parallel Scripture: Nehemiah 1:4-11 – Nehemiah’s confession and intercessory prayer for Israel in exile.

    Parallel Scripture: Psalm 106:6-8 – “Both we and our fathers have sinned… Yet he saved them for his name’s sake.”

    Parallel Scripture: Exodus 34:6-7 – The LORD’s self-revelation to Moses as “merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love.”

    God’s Immediate Response: The Seventy Weeks Prophecy (Daniel 9:20–27)

    As Daniel is still speaking, Gabriel arrives to give him “insight and understanding” (v. 22). Daniel’s prayer is met with God’s immediate response, demonstrating the closeness of God to His people and His readiness to act in accordance with His covenant promises.

    • Parallel Scripture: Isaiah 65:24 – “Before they call, I will answer; while they are yet speaking, I will hear.”

    The Seventy Weeks: Structure and Theological Meaning

    Gabriel’s message is highly symbolic, speaking of “seventy weeks” (literally, seventy ‘sevens’), which most Reformed interpreters understand as seventy periods of seven years—a total of 490 years. This period is decreed “about your people and your holy city” (v. 24) to accomplish six redemptive goals:

    • To finish the transgression
    • To put an end to sin
    • To atone for iniquity
    • To bring in everlasting righteousness
    • To seal both vision and prophet
    • To anoint a most holy place (or one)

    Through a Reformed theological lens, these are not simply historical benchmarks but ultimate eschatological fulfillments in the person and work of Christ. The atonement for iniquity and the bringing in of everlasting righteousness are climactic in the sacrificial death and resurrection of Jesus, the true Messiah.

    • Parallel Scripture: Isaiah 53:5-11 – The suffering Servant who bears the iniquity of many.

    “But he was wounded for our transgressions, crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the punishment that made us whole, and by his bruises we are healed. 6 All we like sheep have gone astray; we have all turned to our own way, and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all. 7 He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth; like a lamb that is led to the slaughter and like a sheep that before its shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth. 8 By a perversion of justice, he was taken away. Who could have imagined his future? For he was cut off from the land of the living, stricken for the transgression of my people. 9 They made his grave with the wicked and his tomb with the rich, although he had done no violence, and there was no deceit in his mouth. 10 Yet it was the will of the Lord to crush him with affliction. When you make his life an offering for sin, he shall see his offspring and shall prolong his days; through him the will of the Lord shall prosper. 11 Out of his anguish he shall see; he shall find satisfaction through his knowledge. The righteous one, my servant, shall make many righteous, and he shall bear their iniquities.”

    • Parallel Scripture: Hebrews 9:26 – “But as it is, he has appeared once for all at the end of the ages to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself.”
    • Parallel Scripture: Romans 3:21-26 – The manifestation of God’s righteousness through faith in Jesus Christ is for all who believe: “…the righteousness of God has been disclosed and is attested by the Law and the Prophets,22 the righteousness of God through the faith of Jesus Christ for all who believe. For there is no distinction, 23 since all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God; 24 they are now justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, 25 whom God put forward as a sacrifice of atonement by his blood, effective through faith. He did this to demonstrate his righteousness, because in his divine forbearance he had passed over the sins previously committed; 26 it was to demonstrate at the present time his own righteousness, so that he is righteous and he justifies the one who has the faith of Jesus.”

    The Messiah and the New Covenant

    Gabriel’s prophecy divides the seventy weeks into three parts: seven weeks, sixty-two weeks, and the final week. The “anointed one” (Messiah) comes after the sixty-nine weeks, is “cut off” (v. 26), and a desolator comes to destroy the city and the sanctuary.

    Reformed interpreters see the “anointed one” as pointing directly to Christ, who, at the end of the seventy weeks, inaugurates the New Covenant through His blood (cf. Luke 22:20). The destruction of the city and sanctuary (v. 26) finds fulfillment in the destruction of Jerusalem in AD 70, which Jesus Himself prophesied (Matthew 24:2).

    • Parallel Scripture: Luke 24:44-47 – Jesus explains to His disciples that everything written about Him in the Law, Prophets, and Psalms must be fulfilled, including His suffering and resurrection.
    • Parallel Scripture: Hebrews 10:12-14 – “But when Christ had offered for all time a single sacrifice for sins, he sat down at the right hand of God…”
    • Parallel Scripture: Matthew 24:15-21 – Jesus’ prophecy of Jerusalem’s desolation, echoing Daniel.

    Sovereignty and Covenant Faithfulness

    Like the rest of the Book of Daniel, the central theme of Daniel 9 is the sovereignty of God in history and redemption. The seventy weeks are “decreed” (v. 24)—God sets the times and fulfills His word, not men. Daniel’s prayer and Gabriel’s revelation show that God’s redemptive plan is neither delayed nor thwarted by human sin. Rather, in the fullness of time, God sent forth His Son (Galatians 4:4), the true fulfillment of all prophecy and the eternal High Priest.

    • Parallel Scripture: Ephesians 1:9-11 – “He has made known to us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure that he set forth in Christ, 10 as a plan for the fullness of time, to gather up all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth. 11 In Christ we have also obtained an inheritance, having been destined according to the purpose of him who accomplishes all things according to his counsel and will.”
    • Parallel Scripture: Romans 8:28-30 – God’s sovereign working of all things for the good of those who love Him, according to His purpose: “We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose. 29 For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn within a large family. 30 And those whom he predestined he also called, and those whom he called he also justified, and those whom he justified he also glorified.”

    Application for the Church

    For the Christian today, Daniel 9 invites a posture of humility, repentance, and hope. The prayer of Daniel is a model for our own confessions—honest, comprehensive, and grounded in God’s steadfast love. The prophecy of the seventy weeks points us to Christ, the ultimate fulfillment of all God’s promises, and calls us to rest in the finished work of our Savior. We are to pray with confidence in God’s mercy, knowing that all prayers are heard for the sake of Christ. We are to confess our sin corporately, as Christ taught us to pray, “Forgive us our debts.” As we study scripture, we interpret prophecy Christologically, seeing all Scripture as culminating in Jesus (2 Corinthians 1:20).

    Conclusion

    Daniel chapter 9 is both sobering and hope-filled—a summons to repentance and a testimony to God’s unbreakable covenant faithfulness. Its prophetic vision, which Daniel saw because he studied scripture, finds fulfillment in Christ, who alone atoned for our sin and brings everlasting righteousness. In Christ, we know the end of transgression, the sealing of vision, and the anointing of the “most holy.” Until He comes again, may we pray as Daniel did, looking for the consummation of all things in Christ.

    May the prayer and prophecy of Daniel 9 lead us to deeper worship, greater trust in God’s sovereign purposes, and a renewed hope in the gospel of Jesus Christ.

    Bibliography

    A Theology for the Twenty-First Century [Book] / auth. Ottati Douglas F.. – Grand Rapids: William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 2020. – p. p.533.

    Christ-Centered Biblical Theology [Book] / auth. Goldsworthy Graeme. – Lisle : IVP Academic, 2012.

    Handbook on the Prophets [Book] / auth. Chisholm Jr. Robert B.. – Grand Rapids : Baker Academic, 2009.

    NRSVue // Holy Bible w/ With Deuterocanonical/Apocryphal Books of the Old Testament.. – Washington D.C.: Zondervan, 2021. – Vol. Updated Edition. – National Council of Churches of Christ in the United States of America.

    The Gospel According to Daniel [Book] / auth. Chapell Bryan. – Grand Rapids : Baker Books, 2014.

    The Harper Collins Study Bible, New Revised Standard Version with the Apocryphal and Deuterocanonical Books // NRSV Bible / ed. Meeks Wayne A. [et al.]. – New York : Harper Collins Publishers, 1993.

  • An Awe-Filled Presence: From Daniel to John to Paul

    Daniel Series #10

    Daniel 10 NRSV

    In the third year of King Cyrus of Persia, a word was revealed to Daniel, who was named Belteshazzar. The word was true, and it concerned a great conflict. He understood the word, having received understanding in the vision.

    2 At that time, I, Daniel, had been mourning for three weeks. 3 I had eaten no rich food, no meat or wine had entered my mouth, and I had not anointed myself at all, for the full three weeks. 4 On the twenty-fourth day of the first month, as I was standing on the bank of the great river (that is, the Tigris), 5 I looked up and saw a man clothed in linen, with a belt of gold from Uphaz around his waist. 6 His body was like beryl, his face like lightning, his eyes like flaming torches, his arms and legs like the gleam of burnished bronze, and the sound of his words like the roar of a multitude. 7 I, Daniel, alone saw the vision; the people who were with me did not see the vision, though a great trembling fell upon them, and they fled and hid themselves. 8 So I was left alone to see this great vision. My strength left me, and my complexion grew deathly pale, and I retained no strength. 9 When I heard the sound of his words, I fell into a trance, face to the ground.

    10 But then a hand touched me and roused me to my hands and knees. 11 He said to me, “Daniel, greatly beloved, pay attention to the words that I am going to speak to you. Stand on your feet, for I have now been sent to you.” So while he was speaking this word to me, I stood up trembling. 12 He said to me, “Do not fear, Daniel, for from the first day that you set your mind to gain understanding and to humble yourself before your God, your words have been heard, and I have come because of your words. 13 But the prince of the kingdom of Persia opposed me twenty-one days. So Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, and I left him there with the prince of the kingdom of Persia 14 and have come to help you understand what is to happen to your people at the end of days. For there is a further vision for those days.”

    15 While he was speaking these words to me, I turned my face toward the ground and was speechless. 16 Then one in human form touched my lips, and I opened my mouth to speak and said to the one who stood before me, “My lord, because of the vision, such pains have come upon me that I retain no strength.17 How can my lord’s servant talk with my lord? For I am exhausted; no strength remains in me, and no breath is left in me.”

    18 Again, one in human form touched me and strengthened me. 19 He said, “Do not fear, greatly beloved; you are safe. Be strong and courageous!” When he spoke to me, I was strengthened and said, “Let my lord speak, for you have strengthened me.” 20 Then he said, “Do you know why I have come to you? Now I must return to fight against the prince of Persia, and when I am through with him, the prince of Greece will come. 21 But I am to tell you what is inscribed in the book of truth. There is no one with me who contends against these princes except Michael, your prince.

    Introduction

    What does it mean to stand before the presence of the Living God? Throughout Scripture, we find moments when God’s holiness breaks into human history, leaving those who encounter Him trembling, speechless, and forever changed. Today, we turn our gaze to three such moments: Daniel’s vision by the Tigris, John’s encounter on Patmos, and Paul’s conversion on the road to Damascus. Each offers a distinct window into the awe that God’s presence rightly inspires—a reverence that is both humbling and transformative. Daniel 10 launches the final vision cycle of Daniel’s book, serving as the prelude to chapters 11 and 12. This chapter is foundational for understanding the spiritual realities underlying redemptive historical events, God’s sovereign work, and the theology of Jewish and Christian writings in 2nd Temple Israel. 

    Daniel’s Vision: The Veil Lifted

    Let us begin in Daniel 10, as the aged prophet mourns and fasts beside the river. His vision occurs “in the third year of Cyrus king of Persia” (Daniel 10:1), placing this event around 536 B.C., after the first Jewish exiles returned to Jerusalem (cf. Ezra 1). Daniel, though esteemed by those in authority, remains burdened for his people and the yet unfulfilled promises. As he is beside the river with others, the heavens open, and only Daniel beholds a “man clothed in linen, with a belt of gold from Uphaz around his waist.” The description is vivid: a body like beryl, a face like lightning, eyes like flaming torches, arms and legs gleaming like burnished bronze, and a voice like the roar of a multitude. Daniel collapses in weakness, overwhelmed by the weight of divine glory.

    • Point of interest: Uphaz is not a known place; it may refer to a type of fine Gold. Beryl is a blue/green topaz that is translucent.
    • Notice: Daniel is not alone. His companions, though blind to the vision, are seized with terror and flee. The mere proximity to the divine is enough to undo them.
    • Daniel must be touched and strengthened; twice a hand lifts him from the ground, twice he is told, “Do not fear, greatly beloved; you are safe. Be strong and courageous!”

    Here, God peels back the curtain, revealing the cosmic struggle and His sovereign hand at work. The encounter is not merely for information, but for transformation—to strengthen, to commission, and to assure Daniel of God’s purposes.

    John’s Vision: The Glory Revealed

    Centuries later, on the lonely island of Patmos, John receives his vision (Revelation 1:12–17). He sees “one like a son of man,” (Daniel 7) clothed with a long robe and a golden sash. His hair is white as wool, His eyes like a flame of fire, His feet are like burnished bronze, and His voice is like the sound of many waters. In his right hand, he held seven stars, and from his mouth came a sharp, two-edged sword, and his face was like the sun shining with full force. When John beholds Him, he falls at His feet as though dead. 

    • The parallels to Daniel are unmistakable: the linen garments, the radiant countenance, the thunderous voice. But here, it is Christ Himself—exalted, reigning, victorious over death and the powers of hell.
    • As with Daniel, John is strengthened by a gentle touch and a word: “Fear not, I am the First and the Last, and the Living One.”

    The awe is not diminished by the passage of time or the coming of the New Covenant. If anything, it is intensified, for the Lamb who was slain is now the risen Lord of glory. There is no denying the impact of Daniel’s vision on the life of John. He understood who it was. He, like all good Jewish boys and girls, would have been raised on the story of Daniel and the Lion’s den. He would have known about Daniel’s visions. 

    Paul’s Encounter: The Light That Blinds and Calls

    Now, let us consider Acts 9. Saul of Tarsus, zealous in his persecution, is struck down on the road to Damascus by a light “brighter than the sun.” He hears a voice, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?” Trembling and blinded, he must be led by the hand, his pride shattered, his life upended. The presence of the Lord renders him powerless; only after three days of darkness and prayer is his sight restored, and his heart renewed.

    • Like Daniel and John, Paul is undone—stripped of self-sufficiency, brought low by the majesty of Christ.
    • He emerges not with mere information, but with a transformed heart—a vessel now fit for service, compelled by the love of Christ and the fear of the Lord.

    Even though we get no description of Jesus when he visits Paul, we do see the result of his being in the presence of the divine. Paul falls to the ground, and the experience both physically and mentally changes him. One might imagine him seeing the blue/green topaz body of Christ standing before Paul. What a fantastic sight that would be!

    Paul would go on to preach about this heavenly body. A Spirit Body is what you will become. In 1 Corinthians 15, he says, “There are both heavenly bodies and earthly bodies, but the glory of the heavenly is one thing, and that of the earthly is another” (v.40). He goes on to say that in the resurrection we will be given a Spiritual Body. What Daniel and John describe, using the best words they have, Paul preaches using the best analogy he has. But the good news is the same: God is with us, and those who are faithful will be with Christ in Heaven. 

    The Reformed Lens: The Holiness and Nearness of God

    Reformed theology teaches us to approach God with humility, awe, and confidence in His sovereignty. Calvin writes about Daniel 10 that “God does not permit us to see the hidden conflict of angels, but here He lifts the veil, so we should not be discouraged by the course of history.” Matthew Henry reminds us that Daniel’s fasting and prayers procured him this heavenly visit—not by merit, but by grace. Daniel is told that Michael has fought the Prince of Persia. This is a direct reference to cosmic battles, just like John describes in Revelation. 

    • We are reminded in these visions that God is utterly holy, infinitely glorious, and altogether beyond our grasp. Yet, in mercy, He stoops to strengthen the weak, to speak peace to the fearful, and to commission the humble.
    • These encounters are not for our entertainment, nor for our pride, but for the deepening of our worship and the shaping of our lives in the likeness of Christ.

    Seeking God’s Presence: A Call to Action

    To encounter God is to be transformed—Scripture shows that those who truly seek Him are never the same. Daniel, John, and Paul were humbled and renewed in the presence of Christ. Their stories urge us not to settle for comfort but to actively pursue God’s presence with reverence, humility, and faith.

    Don’t wait for visions or dramatic signs. Instead, let us tremble at His Word, rejoice in His sovereignty, and pray earnestly for the Spirit’s power. God draws near to the lowly and lifts those who seek Him wholeheartedly. Now is the time to surrender pride, embrace Christ’s love, and become servant leaders in our communities.

    May the Lord grant us eyes to see, ears to hear, and hearts ready to worship—until the day we stand before Him. Believe the good news, seek God’s will and influence, and be in awe, forever changed by our God’s amazing Presence. AMEN!

    Bibliography

    Beale G.K. ( New International Greek Testament Commentary) G. K. Beale The Book Of Revelation A Commentary On The Greek Text William B Eerdmans ( 1998) [Online] // Internet Archive. – 2024. – August 10, 2025. – https://archive.org/details/new-international-greek-testament-commentary-g.-k.-beale-the-book-of-revelation-.

    Calvin John Calvin: Institutes of the Christian Religion [Book] / ed. McNeill, John T. / trans. Battles Ford Lewis. – Philadelphia: The Westminster Press, 1960. – Vol. I:II: pp. 197-237.

    Calvin John Comm on Daniel (V2) [Online] // ccel.org / ed. Pantinga Harry. – Calvin University, 1993-2020. – August 10, 2025. – https://ccel.org/ccel/calvin/calcom25/calcom25.i.html.

    Henry Matthew Daniel 10 [Online] // Bible Study Tools. – Salem Media Group, 2025. – August 10, 2025. – https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/daniel/10.html.

    Meeks Wayne A. [et al.] The Harper Collins Study Bible, New Revised Standard Version with the Apocryphal and Deuterocanonical Books // NRSV Bible. – New York: Harper Collins Publishers, 1993.

    NRSVue // Holy Bible w/ With Deuterocanonical/Apocryphal Books of the Old Testament. – Washington, D.C.: Zondervan, 2021. – Vol. Updated Edition. – National Council of Churches of Christ in the United States of America.

  • God’s Sovereignty in the Midst of Kingdoms

    Daniel Series #11

    Daniel 11 NRSV

    “As for me, in the first year of Darius the Mede, I stood up to support and strengthen him.

    2 “Now I will announce the truth to you. Three more kings shall arise in Persia. The fourth shall be far richer than all of them, and when he has become strong through his riches, he shall stir up all against the kingdom of Greece. 3 Then a warrior king shall arise who shall rule with great dominion and take action as he pleases. 4 And while still rising in power, his kingdom shall be broken and divided toward the four winds of heaven but not to his posterity nor according to the dominion with which he ruled, for his kingdom shall be uprooted and go to others besides these.

    5 “Then the king of the south shall grow strong, but one of his officers shall grow stronger than he and shall rule a realm greater than his own realm. 6 After some years, they shall make an alliance, and the daughter of the king of the south shall come to the king of the north to ratify the agreement. But she shall not retain her power, and his offspring shall not endure. She shall be given up, she and her attendants and her child and the one who supported her.

    “In those times 7 a branch from her roots shall rise up in his place. He shall come against the army and enter the fortress of the king of the north, and he shall take action against them and prevail. 8 Even their gods, with their idols and with their precious vessels of silver and gold, he shall carry off to Egypt as spoils of war. For some years he shall refrain from attacking the king of the north; 9 then the latter shall invade the realm of the king of the south but will return to his own land.

    10 “His sons shall wage war and assemble a multitude of great forces that shall advance like a flood and pass through and again shall carry the war as far as his fortress. 11 Moved with rage, the king of the south shall go out and do battle against the king of the north, who shall muster a great multitude, but the multitude shall be given over to his hand. 12 When the multitude has been carried off, his heart shall be exalted, and he shall overthrow tens of thousands, but he shall not prevail. 13 For the king of the north shall again raise a multitude larger than the former, and after some years he shall advance with a great army and abundant supplies.

    14 “In those times many shall rise against the king of the south. The lawless among your own people shall lift themselves up in order to fulfill the vision, but they shall fail. 15 Then the king of the north shall come and throw up siegeworks and take a well-fortified city. And the forces of the south shall not stand, not even his picked troops, for there shall be no strength to resist. 16 But he who comes against him shall take the actions he pleases, and no one shall withstand him. He shall take a position in the beautiful land, and all of it shall be in his power. 17 He shall set his face to come with the strength of his whole kingdom. He shall make peace with him and shall give him a woman in marriage, in order to destroy the kingdom, but it shall not succeed or be to his advantage. 18 Afterward he shall turn to the coastlands and shall capture many, but a commander shall put an end to his insolence; indeed, he shall turn his insolence back upon him. 19 Then he shall turn back toward the fortresses of his own land, but he shall stumble and fall and shall not be found.

    20 “Then shall arise in his place one who shall send an official for the glory of the kingdom, but within a few days he shall be broken, though not in anger or in battle. 21 In his place shall arise a contemptible person on whom royal majesty had not been conferred; he shall come in suddenly and seize the kingdom through intrigue. 22 Armies shall be utterly swept away and broken before him, and the prince of the covenant as well. 23 And after an alliance is made with him, he shall act deceitfully and become strong with a small party. 24 Suddenly he shall come into the richest parts of the province and do what none of his predecessors had ever done, lavishing plunder, spoil, and wealth on them. He shall devise plans against strongholds but only for a time. 25 He shall stir up his power and determination against the king of the south with a great army, and the king of the south shall wage war with a much greater and stronger army. But he shall not succeed, for plots shall be devised against him. 26 Those who eat of the royal rations shall break him, his army shall be swept away, and many shall fall slain. 27 The two kings, their minds bent on evil, shall sit at one table and exchange lies. But it shall not succeed, for there remains an end at the time appointed. 28 He shall return to his land with great wealth, but his heart shall be set against the holy covenant. He shall work his will and return to his own land.

    29 “At the time appointed he shall return and come into the south, but this time it shall not be as it was before. 30 For ships of Kittim shall come against him, and he shall lose heart and withdraw. He shall be enraged and take action against the holy covenant. He shall turn back and come to an understanding with those who forsake the holy covenant. 31 Forces sent by him shall occupy and profane the temple and fortress. They shall abolish the regular burnt offering and set up the desolating sacrilege. 32 He will flatter with smooth words those who violate the covenant, but the people who are loyal to their God shall stand firm and take action. 33 The wise among the people shall give understanding to many; for some days, however, they shall fall by sword and flame and suffer captivity and plunder. 34 When they fall, they shall receive a little help, and many shall join them insincerely. 35 Some of the wise shall fall, so that they may be refined, purified, and cleansed, until the time of the end, for there is still an interval until the time appointed.

    36 “The king shall act as he pleases. He shall exalt himself and consider himself greater than any god and shall speak horrendous things against the God of gods. He shall prosper until the period of wrath is completed, for what is determined shall be done. 37 He shall pay no respect to the gods of his ancestors or to the one beloved by women; he shall pay no respect to any other god, for he shall consider himself greater than all. 38 He shall honor the god of fortresses instead of these; a god whom his ancestors did not know he shall honor with gold and silver, with precious stones and costly gifts. 39 He shall deal with the strongest fortresses with the help of a foreign god. Those who acknowledge him he shall make more wealthy and shall appoint them as rulers over many and shall distribute the land for a price. 40 “At the time of the end the king of the south shall attack him. But the king of the north shall rush upon him like a whirlwind, with chariots and horsemen and with many ships. He shall advance against countries and pass through like a flood. 41 He shall come into the beautiful land, and tens of thousands shall fall victim, but Edom and Moab and the main part of the Ammonites shall escape from his power. 42 He shall stretch out his hand against the countries, and the land of Egypt shall not escape. 43 He shall gain control of the treasures of gold and of silver and all the riches of Egypt, and the Libyans and the Cushites shall follow in his train. 44 But reports from the east and the north shall alarm him, and he shall go out with great fury to bring ruin and complete destruction to many. 45 He shall pitch his palatial tents between the sea and the beautiful holy mountain. Yet he shall come to his end, with no one to help him.

    —-

    Brothers and sisters, open your hearts and minds to the majestic tapestry woven by God throughout history as we turn to Daniel 11—a chapter teeming with prophecy, conflict, and the unmistakable hand of our sovereign Lord. In these verses, we witness the intricate interplay of earthly kingdoms, yet above all, we see the unwavering hand of God. Daniel 11 is a testimony that God is not a passive observer. He is the author and orchestrator, sovereign over all authorities, kingdoms, and eras. When the world seems complex—when rulers rise and fall, and when chaos appears to reign—Daniel reminds us that history unfolds precisely according to God’s redemptive design. Let’s delve into this chapter.

    The Vision and Its Historical Fulfillment

    The vision given to Daniel details a series of conflicts between the “king of the north” and the “king of the south.” Historically, these represent the Seleucid and Ptolemaic empires, born from the fractured legacy of Alexander the Great. The accuracy of this prophecy is staggering. Centuries before the events took place, God revealed the flow of nations and leaders to Daniel. The “king of the north”—the Seleucid dynasty in Syria—and the “king of the south”—the Ptolemaic rulers in Egypt—fought for supremacy over the promised land. Their actions produced turmoil and suffering, yet every battle, alliance, betrayal, and the relentless vying for power was foreseen by the Almighty, and this vision aligns uncannily with the records of ancient world history.

    As seen in a previous vision, Daniel is shown Antiochus IV Epiphanes, one of history’s most notorious persecutors of God’s people, who emerges from the vision as a figure of concentrated evil—foreshadowing the ultimate adversary of Israel and represented by cosmic evil too. His rise and fall shows us not only the consequences of human pride but the limitations of all worldly powers when it comes to God’s dominion. Remember from Chapter 10 that the cosmic veil has been lifted for Daniel. In this vision it is pulled back completely. 

    A quick warning before reading apocalyptic writings: Discernment in real-time

    Before we look at Daniel through a Christian lens, we must understand that all scripture, including Daniel, invites us to discern the sovereign hand of God in History. Meaning we must understand the context of the writing, to us, to the first intended reader, and to future readers. We must seek to understand how others understand it, including men, women, children, those of other denominations, and those of different religions. For as many different people as there are, there are differing understandings. We must be careful not to approach a text through eisegesis.[1] (Please see the footnote to define and understand this interesting and powerful word.)

    One must be sure to seek the writer’s intent rather than a reader’s viewpoint. As hard as it may be, we must not allow personal agendas or cultural anxieties to color interpretation, resulting in selective reading and weaponizing verses according to personal preference. When one fails to discern the sacred tapestry meant to reveal God’s providence and Christ’s redemptive work, the message becomes instead a canvas for human ideology.

    When eisegesis prevails, it can foster fundamentalism—a rigid, literalistic framework that refuses to recognize nuance, context, or the broader sweep of salvation history. Fundamentalism often elevates specific passages above others, ignoring the harmony of scripture and the ongoing revelation of God’s character from Genesis to Revelation. Prophecies, such as those in Daniel, may be twisted into proof texts for political agendas, divisive doctrines, or apocalyptic speculation unanchored from the gospel of grace.

    Signs of eisegesis and non-discernment. 

    • Loss of Context: Extracting verses from their historical, literary, and theological context leads to distortion and confusion. (Usually, a sermon will use “cherry-picked verses”)
    • Moral Certitude and Exclusion: Fundamentalism may breed exclusion, judgment, and self-righteousness, undermining Christ’s call to mercy, humility, and love. Any theology that lifts you up while pushing others down is a result of eisegesis. This form of theology is deadly. 
    • Spiritual Anxiety: Misinterpretations can sow fear, paranoia, and despair, particularly when prophecy is read as a code to be cracked rather than a promise of God’s ultimate victory. (I would list the multitude of books, cable TV shows, or “secrets revealed podcasts, but I only have so much time.)
    • Division and Discord: Communities fracture when scripture is used as a weapon, fragmenting the unity Christ prayed for among his followers. We are called to be servant-leaders; we must never forget the servant modifier in the title.

    Significance of Daniel’s vision in the Christian Tradition

    In considering what Daniel 11 means for us today through a Christian lens rooted in scripture, we understand that this vision underscores the sovereignty of God over all of history. As the rest of Daniel and all of scripture affirms, God’s providence is at the heart of His governance. Proverbs 16:4 states, “The Lord has made everything for its purpose, even the wicked for the day of trouble,” telling us history is not a series of random events but part of God’s divine plan. All scripture is written for His glory and the good of His people (Romans 8:28). Every kingdom and ruler—be it Nebuchadnezzar, Cyrus, or even future figures—is ultimately under God’s sovereign will (Daniel 2:21). Prophecy, therefore, is not merely predictive but a guarantee of God’s steadfast rule over the future, as sure as His reign over the past, echoing Isaiah 46:9-10 which declares God’s purpose from the beginning to the end. The might of earthly principalities is temporary; Psalm 2 reminds us that earthly rulers conspire and plot, but the Lord’s anointed, Christ, will establish His everlasting kingdom (Psalm 2:7-9). All political power is human in nature; therefore it is fleeting, and human ambitions are as fleeting as dust before the eternal throne of Christ, who alone is King and whose reign will endure forever (Revelation 11:15). In light of this, the ultimate purpose of history and prophecy is to point us to Christ, the King who reigns eternally, fulfilling God’s sovereign plan for His glory and the salvation of His elect. 

    Application and Call to Action

    In light of this provincial vision and its ultimate fulfillment in history, how do we respond as Christians. We are called to respond with unwavering trust in God’s providence. Even as the world trembles, nations rage, rulers fall, and uncertainty grips the age. Make it your firm conviction that God remains sovereign over all. Do not yield to anxiety over the powers of this passing world; instead, resolutely anchor your hope in the Lord who governs every detail of creation. The fleeting nature of earthly kingdoms frees us to serve Christ with undivided allegiance. 

    As you discern your place, your call, your mission in Christ’s kingdom, know with certainty that no earthly authority can frustrate His sovereign purposes for His people. With confidence, engage the course of history, bear faithful witness to the gospel, and live as citizens of heaven, not of this world. Do not falter, pray and submit to Christ, even in hardship, persecution, or doubt; do so especially in those times.  Just as Daniel did for his entire life. Rest in the assurance that history does not spiral toward chaos but advances toward Christ’s final victory. God’s plan is unassailable—He works all things together for the good of His people and for the praise of His glory. Let us, therefore, live boldly in hope, assured that the Lord’s purposes will stand.

    Conclusion

    Daniel 11 is not simply a record of battles and kings—it is a clarion call to trust, to hope, and to live in the light of God’s sovereignty. While kingdoms rise and fall, while history shifts and sways, we can rest assured that our Redeemer reigns. Stand firm in the certainty that you belong to an unshakable kingdom. Live your life reflecting Christ’s teachings of love and service. May your life declare the glory of the One who rules over all, and may we all anticipate the day when every knee will bow before Christ, the King eternal. Amen.

    Bibliography

    Calvin John Calvin: Institutes of the Christian Religion [Book] / ed. McNeill, John T. / trans. Battles Ford Lewis. – Philadelphia: The Westminster Press, 1960. – Vol. I: II: pp. 197-237.

    Calvin John Comm on Daniel (V2) [Online] // ccel.org / ed. Pantinga Harry. – Calvin University, 1993-2020. – August 10, 2025. – https://ccel.org/ccel/calvin/calcom25/calcom25.i.html.

    Meeks Wayne A. [et al.] The Harper Collins Study Bible, New Revised Standard Version with the Apocryphal and Deuterocanonical Books // NRSV Bible. – New York : Harper Collins Publishers, 1993.

    NRSVue // Holy Bible w/ With Deuterocanonical/Apocryphal Books of the Old Testament.. – Washington D.C. : Zondervan, 2021. – Vol. Updated Edition. – National Council of Churches of Christ in the United States of America.

    [1] Eisegesis (eye-so-gee-sis) is the practice of interpreting a text by reading one’s own ideas, opinions, or biases into it, rather than drawing meaning from the text itself in its original context. It’s essentially the opposite of exegesis (ex-é-gee-sis), which aims to understand the text based on its historical and literary context. (This is the process by which all good preachers discern the Sunday message each week.)

  • Delivered at the End: Hope and Promise in Daniel’s Final Vision

    Daniel Series # 12

    Daniel 12 NRSV
    “At that time, Michael, the great prince, the protector of your people, shall arise. There shall be a time of anguish such as has never occurred since nations first came into existence. But at that time your people shall be delivered, everyone who is found written in the book. 2 Many of those who sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life and some to shame and everlasting contempt. 3 Those who are wise shall shine like the brightness of the sky, and those who lead the many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever. 4 But you, Daniel, keep the words secret and the book sealed until the time of the end. Many shall be running back and forth, and evil shall increase.”
    5 Then I, Daniel, looked, and two others appeared, one standing on this bank of the stream and one on the other. 6 One of them said to the man clothed in linen, who was upstream, “How long shall it be until the end of these wonders?” 7 The man clothed in linen, who was upstream, raised his right hand and his left hand toward heaven. And I heard him swear by the one who lives forever that it would be for a time, two times, and half a time, and that when the shattering of the power of the holy people comes to an end, all these things would be accomplished. 8 I heard but could not understand, so I said, “My lord, what shall be the outcome of these things?” 9 He said, “Go your way, Daniel, for the words are to remain secret and sealed until the time of the end. 10 Many shall be purified, cleansed, and refined, but the wicked shall continue to act wickedly. None of the wicked shall understand, but those who are wise shall understand. 11 From the time that the regular burnt offering is taken away and the desolating sacrilege is set up, there shall be one thousand two hundred ninety days. 12 Happy are those who persevere and attain the thousand three hundred thirty-five days. 13 But you, go your way, and rest; you shall rise for your reward at the end of the days.”

    The concluding chapter of the book of Daniel centers on the prophetic revelations regarding the end times. In Daniel 10:13-14, an angel conveys to Daniel the challenge faced in delivering this message: “But the prince of the kingdom of Persia opposed me twenty-one days. So, Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, and I left him there with the prince of the kingdom of Persia and have come to help you understand what is to happen to your people at the end of days. For there is a further vision for those days.” (NRSV)
    Daniel 11 outlines a detailed prophecy concerning events from the Medo-Persian Empire to the end times. Notably, verse 40 refers to a climactic “time of the end” wherein “the king of the South” will engage in conflict with “the king of the North,” who will then invade the “Beautiful Land”—the Holy Land—and subdue many surrounding nations (Daniel 11:41).
    Continuing in Daniel 12, the angel elaborates on this message, stating, “At that time Michael, the great prince, the protector of your people, shall arise. There shall be a time of anguish such as has never occurred since nations first came into existence. But at that time, your people shall be delivered, everyone who is found written in the book.” (Daniel 12:1). This “time of anguish” aligns with the prophetic words of Jeremiah, who lamented, “Alas! that day is so great there is none like it; it is a time of distress for Jacob, yet he shall be rescued from it.” (Jeremiah 30:7).
    This yet-to-be-fulfilled prophecy will primarily impact a time even farther in the future than those Daniel has seen thus far. Jesus Himself referenced this tumultuous period in His Olivet Discourse, indicating, “For at that time there will be great suffering, such as has not been from the beginning of the world until now, no, and never will be. And if those days had not been cut short, no one would be saved, but for the sake of the elect, those days will be cut short.” (Matthew 24:21-22). Christian theologians can only conclude that Jesus is referencing Daniel, who in turn is referencing the coming of Christ on the final day.
    The Bible teaches that no one knows the exact day or hour of Jesus Christ’s return, as stated in Matthew 24:36. However, it does provide vague clues that imply Christ’s return is imminent. Matthew 24:33 says, “When you see all these things, you know that he is near, at the very gates.” In the lead-up to this significant event, Jesus warned His disciples—and us today—about various occurrences that would characterize this period. These include religious deception, wars, famines, pestilences, and earthquakes.
    In accord with the testimony of Scripture, these afflictions are not random nor without purpose; our Lord calls them “the beginning of birth pains” (Matthew 24:8), signaling that such tribulations will escalate both in scope and severity as the day of Christ’s return draws near. In this, believers are reminded to remain watchful, trusting in God’s sovereign plan as it unfolds through history. Additionally, Jesus outlined specific signs to be vigilant for: the rise of false prophets who will deceive many (verse 5), the persecution and killing of many of God’s followers (verse 9), and a general increase in lawlessness (verse 12). Despite these tragic developments, it is emphasized that the gospel of the kingdom will be preached throughout the world as a testimony to all nations before the end comes (verse 14).
    Jesus tells us that the gospel of the Kingdom will be preached in the end times. This is the good news that Jesus is going to return to establish the Kingdom of God on earth. This is the message Jesus preached when He lived on earth as a human, and it remains the message that preachers, ministers, pastors, priests, and elders preach every Sunday.
    Mark documents this, writing: “Now after John was arrested, Jesus came to Galilee proclaiming the good news of God and saying, ‘The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has come near; repent, and believe in the good news.’” (Mark 1:14-15)
    After the first century, those who taught and believed the gospel of the Kingdom were severely persecuted. Many gave their lives for their adherence to Christ’s teaching.

    The concept of resurrection is central to biblical teaching, particularly as articulated in the Book of Daniel. The angel communicated to Daniel that many who have died shall awaken, with some destined for eternal life and others facing everlasting shame (Daniel 12:2). This awakening pertains to the divine act of resurrection, wherein God restores the dead to life. It is revealed that “Those who are wise shall shine like the brightness of the sky, and those who lead the many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever.” (Daniel 12:3).
    Paul believed that this prophecy would come quickly. He taught the concept of the first resurrection, where individuals would be transformed into spiritual beings as they rise to meet Christ in the air upon His return (1 Thessalonians 4:15-16; 1 Corinthians 15:50-52). At that significant moment, God’s faithful who remain alive will also transform and ascend to meet the Lord. (1 Thessalonians 4:17).
    Those who are transformed into immortal beings during the first resurrection will reign with Christ for a thousand years. Scripture proclaims, “Blessed and holy are those who share in the first resurrection. Over these the second death has no power, but they will be priests of God and of Christ, and they will reign with him a thousand years.” (Revelation 20:6).

    How do we conclude that Daniel 12 refers to the future?
    Verse 4 of Daniel 12 then reads: “But you, Daniel, keep the words secret and the book sealed until the time of the end. Many shall be running back and forth, and evil shall increase.” This means that Daniel’s prophecies would not be fully understood until the end times, prior to Christ’s return. Previously, Daniel had told King Nebuchadnezzar, “There is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries” (Daniel 2:28). The end time, as described in Daniel 12:4, is characterized by a period when “Many shall be running back and forth, and evil shall increase.” “Evil” can also be translated as knowledge.
    Over the last century, the rate of accumulation of new knowledge has increased exponentially. World-changing inventions, such as groundbreaking medications, the atomic bomb, organ transplants, travel to the moon, and the Internet, have seemingly arrived almost simultaneously. Not all of this knowledge has been used for the betterment of humankind. The atomic bomb was considered by its inventors to be a mistake. The realization of the weapon’s destructive power and concerns for the future led many to advocate for disarmament and international control of nuclear weapons. So, now many believe the meaning of the book of Daniel is becoming clearer!
    The wise shall understand
    Although Daniel apparently understood part of what he was inspired to write (Daniel 10:14), he was curious to know the outcome. “So, I said, my lord, what shall be the outcome of these things?” He said, ‘Go your way, Daniel, for the words are to remain secret and sealed until the time of the end.’” (Daniel 12:8-9). Then the angel continued, telling Daniel that the wise will understand. But first, there will be a time of desolation. Many have theorized what it will be or when it will occur. This is all done in vain. God will reveal the end when God is ready, and not before. Being the first one to see or understand is not a prize to be one. To Daniel and to God, this is not a game. It is about the salvation of God’s people.
    Daniel prophesied the deliverance of God’s people in the end times.
    As these prophesied events begin to unfold, God’s people need to remember that Daniel was also told that the people shall be delivered, everyone who is found written in the book” (Daniel 12:1). In the broadest sense, the return of Christ will bring deliverance not only to the Jewish people, but also to the people of God (who are now of all nationalities and backgrounds) and the whole world. Yet when we specifically consider what will happen to the people of God, the Bible has some important explanations and advice.
    Regarding people who have their names “written in the book,” this phrase seems to be referring to the “Book of Life”—a document containing the names of God’s faithful people (Philippians 4:3; Revelation 3:5; 13:8; 17:8; 20:12, 15; 21:27; 22:19). A careful study of the passages speaking of the “Book of Life” reveals that those whose names will be included in this book will be obedient to the instructions found in the Bible (especially note Revelation 3:5 and 20:12).
    God said to Church members in Philadelphia, “Because you have kept my word of endurance, I will keep you from the hour of trial that is coming on the whole world to test the inhabitants of the earth.” (Revelation 3:10).
    The excellent news!
    The prophecy in Daniel 12 is not only about a future “time of anguish” that will occur at the end of this “present evil age” (Daniel 12:1; Galatians 1:4). It is also about people being “delivered,” which is the most fantastic news in the Bible! In fact, this is what the entire book of Daniel has been building up to. God is God, Sovereign of the universe, creator, protector, redeemer, and ever-present in our lives. Daniel spent his entire life in service to God, exiled from his home. Yet, he led his people both literally in action and in spirit. The scripture writers, especially Paul in the New Testament, tell us Jesus Christ is going to return and establish the Kingdom of God. As Daniel had explained to King Nebuchadnezzar, this Kingdom will eventually fall and “the God of heaven will set up a kingdom that shall never be destroyed.” (Daniel 2:44)
    Daniel 12 is the final promise to Daniel that his people will complete the rebuilding of the Temple and the wall in Jerusalem. It is also a promise to us that God is with us still, the Holy Spirit is protecting those who believe, and Christ will come on a day like the Son of Man on a rolling cloud, and everyone who is in Him will be raised and be with Him forever. Amen.

    Bibliography
    Calvin John Calvin: Institutes of the Christian Religion [Book] / ed. McNeill, John T. / trans. Battles Ford Lewis. – Philadelphia: The Westminster Press, 1960. – Vol. I: II: pp. 197-237.
    Calvin John Comm on Daniel (V2) [Online] // ccel.org / ed. Pantinga Harry. – Calvin University, 1993-2020. – August 10, 2025. – https://ccel.org/ccel/calvin/calcom25/calcom25.i.html.
    Meeks Wayne A. [et al.] The Harper Collins Study Bible, New Revised Standard Version with the Apocryphal and Deuterocanonical Books // NRSV Bible. – New York: Harper Collins Publishers, 1993.
    NRSVue // Holy Bible w/ With Deuterocanonical/Apocryphal Books of the Old Testament.. – Washington D.C.: Zondervan, 2021. – Vol. Updated Edition. – National Council of Churches of Christ in the United States of America.

  • Read This First!!


    Enriching Bible Study and Theological Understanding to the Glory of God, or A theological reason for sermon manuscripts.
    Rev. Rob Jones

    In an age where many voices clamor for our attention and countless resources abound, it can be a rare and gracious gift to encounter sermon manuscripts carefully crafted with the integrity and clarity characteristic of our Reformed tradition. I delight in the rich heritage of theology handed down from the Reformers. I am pleased to share with you my sermon manuscripts. It is my prayer that they may serve as both a guide and a companion on the pilgrim’s journey toward Christ. Shalom.

    The Value of Citation and Footnoting

    Every manuscript I prepare is not simply the fruit of private meditation, but also a tapestry woven with the insights of faithful saints across centuries. Each citation and footnote is thoughtfully included, not for the sake of academic display, but rather to anchor exposition in the whole counsel of God and the wisdom of the church. Those who engage with these manuscripts will discover references to Scripture, confessional statements, classic and contemporary theologians, exegetical works, and Biblical translations—each intended to edify and illumine rather than overwhelm.

    • Accessible Citations: Every referenced work is chosen for its fidelity to biblical truth and its usefulness for the laity and scholar alike.
    • Purposeful Footnotes: Footnotes are not mere academic apparatus; they are invitations to dig deeper, to wrestle with the text, and to ponder the mysteries of grace. Sometimes I just like to clarify a word or theological theme.

    For Personal Bible Study

    It is my earnest desire that these manuscripts would not be put aside after the Sunday service, but rather become a part of your daily walk with the Lord. Those who wish to enrich their personal Bible study will find that the bibliographies and footnotes provide a roadmap for further discovery. Whether tracing the thread of a doctrine through history or comparing perspectives on a difficult passage, the diligent reader will be equipped to grow in understanding and devotion. I also encourage theological discussion with me and among congregants.

    • The included bibliographies provide trusted resources for further study, making it easier to explore theological themes in greater depth. Most of the resources are in my personal library or readily accessible online for free.
    • Footnotes also offer windows into the interpretive process, helping to clarify why certain conclusions are drawn and encouraging critical reflection grounded in Scripture.

    Deepening Theological Insight and Spiritual Growth

    The study of doctrine is not a sterile exercise; it is a means by which we come to know the living God more fully. The citations and references found in these manuscripts are chosen to illuminate the truth and foster a reverence for the mysteries of our faith. They are meant to guard us against error and to draw us, by the Holy Spirit, into deeper communion with the Triune God. I will also state that doctrinal study is not meant to indoctrinate, but to give insight to the discerning heart that one may make up their own mind.

    In the Reformed tradition, we confess that knowledge and love of God are inseparable, and that the means of grace—including the faithful study of the Word—are the Spirit’s appointed instruments for our sanctification. My prayer is that, as readers engage with these manuscripts, they will not merely collect information, but will encounter the living Christ, who alone can satisfy the longing soul.

    Invitation to the Journey

    If you are seeking resources to aid your personal study, to enrich your teaching or preaching, or to deepen your understanding of the faith once delivered to the saints, I invite you to make use of these manuscripts. May the Spirit grant you insight, humility, and joy as you press on to know the Lord, building on the foundation of the Word, guided by the wisdom of those who have gone before, and ever depending on the grace that is ours in Jesus Christ.

    Soli Deo Gloria. (For God’s Glory Alone)

    Rev. Rob Jones

  • Discerning A Divine Moment

    7th Sunday of Easter 2025
    Rev. Rob Jones

    Matthew 28:16-20

    Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. 17 When they saw him, they worshiped him, but they doubted. 18 And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit 20 and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

    John 17:20-26

    “I ask not only on behalf of these but also on behalf of those who believe in me through their word, 21 that they may all be one. As you, Father, are in me and I am in you, may they also be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me.22 The glory that you have given me I have given them, so that they may be one, as we are one, 23 I in them and you in me, that they may become completely one, so that the world may know that you have sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me. 24 Father, I desire that those also, whom you have given me, may be with me where I am, to see my glory, which you have given me because you loved me before the foundation of the world.

    25 “Righteous Father, the world does not know you, but I know you, and these know that you have sent me. 26 I made your name known to them, and I will make it known, so that the love with which you have loved me may be in them and I in them.”

    Acts 16:16-34

    One day as we were going to the place of prayer, we met a female slave who had a spirit of divination and brought her owners a great deal of money by fortune-telling. 17 While she followed Paul and us, she would cry out, “These men are slaves of the Most High God, who proclaim to you the way of salvation.” 18 She kept doing this for many days. But Paul, very much annoyed, turned and said to the spirit, “I order you in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her.” And it came out that very hour.

    19 But when her owners saw that their hope of making money was gone, they seized Paul and Silas and dragged them into the marketplace before the authorities. 20 When they had brought them before the magistrates, they said, “These men, these Jews, are disturbing our city 21 and are advocating customs that are not lawful for us, being Romans, to adopt or observe.” 22 The crowd joined in attacking them, and the magistrates had them stripped of their clothing and ordered them to be beaten with rods. 23 After they had given them a severe flogging, they threw them into prison and ordered the jailer to keep them securely. 24 Following these instructions, he put them in the innermost cell and fastened their feet in the stocks.

    25 About midnight, Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them.26 Suddenly, there was an earthquake so violent that the foundations of the prison were shaken, and immediately all the doors were opened and everyone’s chains were unfastened. 27 When the jailer woke up and saw the prison doors wide open, he drew his sword and was about to kill himself, since he supposed that the prisoners had escaped. 28 But Paul shouted in a loud voice, “Do not harm yourself, for we are all here.” 29 The jailer called for lights, and rushing in, he fell down trembling before Paul and Silas. 30 Then he brought them outside and said, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” 31 They answered, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.” 32 They spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all who were in his house. 33 At the same hour of the night he took them and washed their wounds; then he and his entire family were baptized without delay. 34 He brought them up into the house and set food before them, and he and his entire household rejoiced that he had become a believer in God.

    Sermon

    We live in a world increasingly hostile to the truth of God’s Word. The pressure to conform to popular secular, as well as Christian, views is immense.  We sometimes feel pressure to stay silent when we know that injustice is happening, to hide our faith in the ministry of Christ. 

    It’s tempting to soften the gospel, to avoid calling out sin, especially when certain voices are so loud. It is tempting to keep silent and to keep our heads down so as not to draw unwanted attention in the face of spiritual bullying. All Christians must understand the commission Jesus gave to His Apostles, to make disciples of all the world (Matthew 28:16-20). The Great Commission was a call to stand firm in Christ’s teachings, not their personal beliefs, and He calls us to stand firm—regardless of the cost.

    The lesson in Acts begins with Paul and Silas confronting a spiritual subjugation—a girl enslaved by a “spirit of divination,” who loudly proclaims their identity as servants of the “Most High” God. Notice her persistent shouting in the text, which initially appears as a declaration of truth. In actuality, it was a disruption to God’s purpose. We are told that Paul is annoyed and so calls out the demon. A bold and calculated move upon the part of Paul. 

    Paul was deeply distressed—not annoyed but troubled[1]—by the girl’s spiritual bondage. Her loud proclamation was a sign of her captivity, and Paul’s response was to free her, even if it meant facing opposition. Like Paul, we are called to expose darkness and stand for truth, even when it draws criticism. It is hard to risk being misunderstood for the sake of Christ. Unlike Paul, many Christians are ill equipped to handle being the mouthpiece of God and often misspeak, misquote, or misrepresent the Gospel, even though they have the best of intentions. 

    When our biblical identity and truth clash with prevailing cultural opinions, one of two extremes can come about. There can be a temptation to shrink back, to be silent and hide who we truly are. Or, if our personality is bolder, we may seek to be like Paul and call it out. We may try to shout louder, be more vocal in our approach. Especially today, in a world of extremes, when we feel so emboldened we may like a video online, repost an inappropriate comment, or just completely pull the nuclear option on someone. Whether it is shrinking or bold proclamation, each of these extremes can be problematic. Knowing the right path as Christians can sometimes be difficult to discern.

    Have you ever held back from speaking biblical truth out of fear of being labeled “the wrong kind” of Christian? How many of us sometimes prefer comfort over faithfulness? Or on the other extreme, have you ever stood your ground, but bit off more than you can chew? You know in your heart you are right, but seeking the right scripture, or teaching becomes elusive. So, you resort to your fundamentals, and you end up exactly where you did not want to be. Is one extreme better than the other? 

    When Paul cast out the spirit, the response was immediate hostility rooted in greed and the preservation of societal norms. The owners of the girl (yes, it is often overlooked that she was enslaved) lost their profitable income, and they stirred the crowd against Paul and Silas. Morally Paul was justified in what he did. He freed the girl from the spirit, and without any real value, her owners would be understandably upset. Paul’s actions carried consequences, he and Silas were beaten with rods and thrown in prison.

    Living out our faith often comes at a cost. The world will resist, sometimes violently, when its systems are challenged by God’s justice[2]. Being willing to risk one’s reputation, comfort, or even safety to stand for God’s justice and righteousness, instead of remaining silent is noble, and it is good to seek to live your life like Paul and the other Apostles. However, we must know what it is we are called to do and speak. Societal norms change. Just as Christian interpretation of the scriptures change. Paul was pushing the envelope when he challenged the societal norms with this healing. He was also perpetuating Jesus’ ministry—Jesus was often taunted by demons which he expelled with haste (Matthew 8:16, Mark 5:1-20, Luke 8:26-39, Luke 4:33, Matthew 8:28-34)

    During the Civil Rights Movement, many believers faced imprisonment, violence, and even death for standing against racial injustice—faithful resistance often costs everything. Society was changing, too slowly for some, but changing none-the-less. Now, I don’t believe there is anyone in polite society today who believes that people of a certain color should be made to drink from a different water fountain, or use “colored only” bathrooms. With all that said, there were Christian pastors who preached separate but equal was the will of God, because it was the will of the courts. They misrepresented the spirit of Jesus’ teachings by using cherry picked scripture to keep a status quo. They, in their fear, pushed against a kairos[3] moment in God’s plan. Ultimately, they were proven wrong, but not before many people were hurt and even killed in the process. 

    As followers of Christ, we must be prepared to face opposition, knowing that our victory lies in Christ, not in worldly acceptance. We must be willing to call out injustice, as many churches did when society said not to. Unfortunately, many Christians were silent, maybe because they were scared, they didn’t want to be called out. They believed all of God’s creatures are made in the image of God, but didn’t know how to convey this concept. Not knowing how to articulate their feelings, some resorted to violence out of frustration and innocent people died. Real life is hardly ever as black and white as the history books tell us. 

    Those who were mad at Paul and Silas did not want their status interrupted. They used the societal laws and their beliefs to get revenge against Paul and Silas. They yelled so loud, that others began to yell too, until Paul and Silas were arrested, beaten, and thrown in prison. 

    We saw Paul use one extreme to free the girl from the evil spirit. Then the mood of the story changes. Once he and Silas were in prison, we see another extreme. They were not belligerent or defying authority as prisoners. They prayed, and they sang hymns. But do not mistake Paul’s sudden meekness for sudden cowardice. Despite their suffering in prison, Paul and Silas refused to despair—testifying to us that faith does not depend on circumstances but on the sovereign power of God. Discerning God’s plan, however, takes learning to discern. As citizens of heaven, we are called to love loudly—defend the oppressed, speak truth to power, and resist every form of injustice in many differing ways.

    When the world demands silence or conformity, will you be a voice of hope and truth? Will your life declare the kingdom of God? Paul and Silas, chained and beaten, trusted in God’s power to break the chains—literally and spiritually. Their faith was a witness that the Lord’s power is greater than any prison or oppression. Suddenly, God shook the prison, breaking the chains of every prisoner. The jailer’s life was at risk[4], but Paul and Silas didn’t run for the hills as so many prison escape movies have taught us to do. They remained in their prison cells, and instead offered the prison guard love, forgiveness, and the gospel—leading to his salvation.

    Many believe the abolition of slavery in America was a divine act, carried out through the perseverance of faithful believers praying and acting for justice. But it wasn’t done is a vacuum. God used those who understood the law, more importantly how to change it, to change societal expectations. He also used those who understood the Gospel of Christ to change the beliefs of popular Christian theology[5] to more effectively reflect the mission of Christ in his ministry and the commission given to Paul and the other Apostles. 

    One important lesson we can take from Paul and Silas; it is important to stay with those still in bondage—whether spiritually or socially—and proclaim the gospel of liberation with love and humility. A deeper lesson is it is more important to seek discernment through the Holy Spirit to determine the kairos moments of God’s plan for humanity. 

    We are told often by pastors and preachers not to hide our faith but to live boldly, “Our lives are testimonies of hope amid darkness.” That we are to “stand with the oppressed, pray for justice, and speak biblical truth in our communities.” I believe the lesson of Acts 16 is, “Do not retreat in fear or silence, but also, do not be the crowd who just went along with those who shout the loudest.” Instead, let your life be a testament to the hope found in Christ. 

    Commit to living out your faith actively—whether through prayer, service, or speaking truth—Studying the Word prayerfully, actively, and in community, trusting that the Lord will use your witness for His glory. Let your life reflect the values you discern in Christ. Prayerfully commit to living out your principles actively—whether through repentant reflection, service, or honest communication—and by studying thoroughly, engaging actively, and collaborating with others, trusting that your actions will have a positive impact in those Divine Moments. Paul was uniquely qualified in his discernment. As an Apostle instructed by the risen Christ, he fully understood that God’s plan was perfect and beyond his control. 

    We are told by Luke of his reasoning for doing what he did, but we can read between the lines to discern what it means for Christians today. Remember, the only way to understand God’s plan for us is to engage with God as much as possible—prayer, study, and accountable actions. When culture opposes biblical truth, especially as we understand it, we are called first to discern God’s plan, that kairos moment. We may be called to resist with love, prayer, and unwavering faith. One day it might be boldly calling out injustice or peacefully praying and singing. Only through discernment can we know for sure. The darkness we face may be great, but our Savior’s light is greater still.

    Closing Prayer

    Heavenly Father, empower us by Your Spirit to stand firm amid opposition. Give us the guidance and courage to seek your will in all we do, to speak truth, love boldly, and trust in Your sovereign power to save. Make us faithful witnesses, shining Your light into the darkest places, and may our lives testify to Your liberating grace. In Jesus’ name, amen.

    Bibliography

    2540 Kairos [Book Section] / auth. Thayer Joseph H. // Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament. – [s.l.] : Hendrickson Publishers, 1885. – 2021 – 15th printing.

    5547 Chronos [Book Section] / auth. Thayer Joseph H. // Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament. – [s.l.] : Hendreckson Publishers, 1885. – 2021 – 15th printing.

    Interlinear Bible [Online] // Biblehub.com. – Nov. 29, 2024. – https://biblehub.com/interlinear.

    NIV Study Bible [Book]. – Grand rapids, MI : Zondervan, 2011.

    NRSVue // NRSVue Holy Bible with Deuterocanonical/Apocryphal Books of the Old Testament. – Grand Rapids : Zondervan, 2022.

    The Westminster Study Bible [Book] / ed. Powery Emerson B. [et al.]. – Louisville, KY : Westminster John Knox Press, 2024.

    [1] The Greek word διαπονέομαι (diaponeomai) is translated as annoyed but can also mean troubled. Paul, knowing that this girl was possessed, may have felt compelled by the Holy Spirit to free her of the possession. Despite the consequences, Paul cast out the demon. His actions had repercussions that God used for His kairos moment in the prison. 

    [2] God’s justice here refers to the kairos moment that we are sometimes faced with. Often, what God want’s and what we want are not in sync. However, it is God’s plan which is perfect, and we are the ones who must conform to the kairos moment. How we react in such a moment is not only a test of our faith, but an acknowledgement to God’s sovereignty. 

    [3] kairos (Ancient Greek: καιρός) is an ancient Greek word meaning ‘the right or critical moment’. It is one of two words that the ancient Greeks had for ‘time’: the other being chronos (χρόνος). Whereas the latter refers to chronological or sequential time, kairos signifies a good or proper time for action. In this sense, while chronos is quantitative, kairos has a qualitative, permanent nature. (Thayer, 1885)

    [4] It is suggested that if the jailer had lost his prisoners, he would have been punished or even killed for letting them escape, even if it was not his fault. Once again signaling a societal understanding that those in power will blame those whom they have power over. To trust in God’s plan is to trust in God’s power to save us from our human proclivities. 

    [5] For a deeper dive into changing theology, I would recommend looking at commentaries from pre-1950. Many of these commentaries reflect a narrower understanding of the gospel. Many of the theologies would make even modern Christian fundamentalist seem to be liberal in their understanding. It is important for us as Christians to know that this is not new. Christ founded his ministry on pushing the Jewish temple-based religion further than they were comfortable with. For example, look at the teachings in Matthew 5 where Jesus uses the phrase, “You have heard it said… but I say to you…” This example in the sermon on the mount (Jesus’ most famous sermon) is a call for the Jewish people to be better than the law conscripted them to be. 

  • Are We Listening?

    February 23, 2025
    Rev. Rob Jones

    Luke 6:27-38

    “But I say to you that listen, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, 28 bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you. 29 If anyone strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also; and from anyone who takes away your coat do not withhold even your shirt. 30 Give to everyone who begs from you; and if anyone takes away your goods, do not ask for them again. 31 Do to others as you would have them do to you.

    32 “If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. 33 If you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. 34 If you lend to those from whom you hope to receive, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, to receive as much again. 35 But love your enemies, do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return. Your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High; for he is kind to the ungrateful and the wicked. 36 Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.

    37 “Do not judge, and you will not be judged; do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven; 38 give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap; for the measure you give will be the measure you get back.”

    Sermon

    Beloved congregation, today, as we delve into the profound teachings of our Lord Jesus Christ found in Luke 6:27-38, I invite you to ponder a single question: “Am I Listening?” Today’s lesson challenges us to rise above our natural inclinations and embody the radical love and generosity that Jesus exemplifies. Let us explore two key points from this passage that call us to a higher standard of discipleship. Are you Listening?

    The first point I wish to make is found in verses 27-31: Jesus commands us to love our enemies, do good to those who hate us, bless those who curse us, and pray for those who mistreat us. These instructions are not mere suggestions but radical imperatives that redefine how we relate to others, especially those who oppose us. Jesus goes further by teaching us to turn the other cheek, offer our shirts when our coats are taken, and give to everyone who asks. These actions urge us to embody a love that is selfless and sacrificial, reflecting God’s infinite mercy. But how can we genuinely love those who have wronged us or wish us harm? What steps can we take to bless and pray for our adversaries?

    Well, although it may seem a nonsensical answer to those who have not received it, the answer lies in the transformative power of God’s grace. When we consider Christ’s immense sacrifice on the cross, we are reminded that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us (Romans 5:8). This act of ultimate love and forgiveness sets the standard for how we should treat others, regardless of their actions towards us. Jesus, in His divine wisdom, understood that loving our enemies is not only a command but a pathway to spiritual freedom and growth.

    When we choose to love our enemies, we break the cycles of hatred and resentment that can consume our hearts and separate us from God. We allow God’s grace to work through us, bringing healing and reconciliation. In a world that often values retribution and self-preservation, this call to love is countercultural and profoundly challenging. However, it is precisely this challenge that can transform our hearts and communities.

    We must ask ourselves why society has become so cynical and condescending toward others. Perhaps we have been conditioned to see others as competitors rather than brothers and sisters in Christ. Our culture often promotes individualism and self-interest, leading to a breakdown in trust and empathy. It also is why there is a breakdown in community activities, clubs, and groups that seek to do good. I believe this social normalization of individualism is also why traditional churches across America are not growing anymore. This mindset can cause us to view others with suspicion and disdain rather than with the love and compassion that Jesus exemplifies. It becomes easy to point fingers and find a “bad guy.” The concept of a common enemy is a powerful draw to get people to come together. Reformed churches have, over the last few decades, frowned upon using fear tactics to increase their numbers. The old-fashioned “hellfire and brimstone” sermons are few and far between. Reformed pastors also do not preach too much about the devil and his tactics of isolation and damnation of individuals’ souls. But the devil is whispering in your ear all day, every day. The question is, to whom are you listening?

    I’ll tell you that just because we don’t preach about it regularly, and just because we don’t beat that drum every Sunday, doesn’t mean that the devil isn’t working on each of us. He’s trying to isolate us, to make us question our convictions and the things we learned long ago when we were children in Sunday school. Are you hearing the Devil’s whispers that sow doubt and resentment?

    Intellectually, we know better, don’t we? We all will say “YES” to the golden rule, but we turn around and say, “Those people do not deserve the things I have been given. They are not like me, like us.” And we begin to feel closer to others who also say that, and we may even invoke an Old Testament verse or two to help us. Remember, even the devil can quote scripture. But what the devil will never do is quote Jesus! To change this cynicism into compassion, we must return to Christ’s teachings and embrace a lifestyle of radical love and forgiveness. Loving our enemies does not mean condoning their actions or allowing ourselves to be harmed. Instead, it means extending the same grace and mercy that we have received from God. It means seeking to understand and empathize with others, even when it is difficult. Such actions reflect the light of Christ onto others so the Spirit can work in and through our actions for the benefit of us all. Are you hearing the Spirit whispering for you to follow Jesus?

    By choosing to love our enemies, we reflect Christ’s character and bear witness to the transformative power of the Gospel. Are you listening to the voice of Jesus that calls you to embody love and forgiveness, or are you giving an ear to the Devil’s lies that encourage division?”

    If we decide to follow Christ, we are vessels of God’s grace, bringing light and hope to a world that desperately needs both. Can we seek to embody this radical love in our daily lives, trusting that God will work through us to bring about His kingdom on earth? Can we be known as a people who reflect the boundless love and generosity of our Lord Jesus Christ? By the grace of Christ and by the power of the Holy Spirit, we can.

    The next point is contingent upon our actions based on the teachings above (vv.27-31). In verses 32-38, Jesus emphasizes the principle of generosity. He challenges us to give without expecting anything in return and to treat others with the same grace and kindness that we desire for ourselves. Jesus teaches that the measure we use in giving will be the measure we receive.

    This call to generosity transcends mere charity; it is a lifestyle of open-handedness and grace. We are to give freely, not only of our material possessions but also of our time, energy, and love. In doing so, we mirror the divine economy of grace, where God’s blessings flow abundantly to all.

    What does it mean to give without expecting repayment? How can we cultivate a heart of genuine generosity in our daily lives? To whom do we listen? Who do we emulate in our lives?

    To cultivate a heart of authentic generosity in our daily lives, we must first understand the profound impact of emulating Jesus in all our actions. Throughout His ministry, Jesus consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to love, grace, and selflessness. By mirroring His actions, we foster a lifestyle of true generosity and altruism. In fact, we do the exact opposite of what the devil is whispering in our ears that we should do. 

    One striking example of this altruistic lifestyle in modern times is the story of Captain Tom Moore, a British Army officer and World War II veteran. During the COVID-19 pandemic, at the age of 99, Captain Tom set out to raise funds for the National Health Service (NHS) by walking 100 laps around his garden before his 100th birthday. His initial goal was to raise £1,000 (British pounds), but his story captured the hearts of people worldwide, and he ultimately raised over £32 million.

    Captain Tom’s actions exemplify the radical love and generosity that Jesus calls us to embody. Despite his age and personal challenges, he did not hesitate to use his abilities and platform to help those in need. This selfless act of kindness is a powerful reminder that true generosity requires us to go beyond our comfort zones and extend grace to all, regardless of their background or circumstances. If the devil is telling you to make yourself comfortable, do something radical!

    By following the call of Jesus and the example of individuals like Captain Tom Moore, we can change the hearts of others and even entire communities. Jesus’ call to generosity encourages us to give our time, resources, and love freely, trusting that God will meet our needs. It urges us to actively seek opportunities to help others, bless those who may not be able to repay us and show compassion in a world that often prioritizes self-interest.

    Can we commit ourselves to this higher standard of discipleship? By following Jesus’ example of unconditional love and generosity, we not only reflect His character but also become instruments of God’s grace in our world. The Holy Spirit is with us and will help us strive to live out these teachings daily, making a difference in the lives of those around us and bringing glory to God’s name.

    As we reflect on these teachings of Jesus, let us commit to embodying radical love and generosity in our lives. Let us seek opportunities to love our enemies, bless those who curse us, and pray for those who mistreat us. Additionally, let us strive to give freely and generously, trusting in God’s provision and grace. Let us move forward with hearts transformed by these teachings, ready to make a difference in our communities and the world. Let us dismiss the devil’s influence, those soft whispers in our ears. Embrace the words of Christ so we may be known as a people who reflect the boundless love and generosity of our Lord and Savior. Are you listening? Indeed, will you go forth boldly with hearts transformed by these teachings, ready to make a difference in your own lives, your communities, and the world? I pray that we all listen in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

    Bibliography

    –  Captian Tom Moore. February 2/20, 2025. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Captain_Tom_Moore.

    –  Interlinear Bible. Nov. 29, 2024. https://biblehub.com/interlinear.

    –  Merriam-Webster. 2024. https://unabridged.merriam-webster.com.

    –  NIV Study Bible. Grand rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2011.

    –  “NRSVue.” NRSVue Holy Bible with Deuterocanonical/Apocryphal Books of the Old Testament. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2022.

    –  Powery, Emerson B., et al., . The Westminster Study Bible. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox Press, 2024.

  • … and His Disciples Believed in Him. 

    Jan 19, 2025
    Rev. Rob Jones

    John 2:1-11

    On the third day there was a wedding in Cana of Galilee, and the mother of Jesus was there. 2 Jesus and his disciples had also been invited to the wedding. 3 When the wine gave out, the mother of Jesus said to him, “They have no wine.” 4 And Jesus said to her, “Woman, what concern is that to me and to you? My hour has not yet come.” 5 His mother said to the servants, “Do whatever he tells you.” 6 Now standing there were six stone water jars for the Jewish rites of purification, each holding twenty or thirty gallons. 7 Jesus said to them, “Fill the jars with water.” And they filled them up to the brim. 8 He said to them, “Now draw some out, and take it to the person in charge of the banquet.” So they took it. 9 When the person in charge tasted the water that had become wine and did not know where it came from (though the servants who had drawn the water knew), that person called the bridegroom 10 and said to him, “Everyone serves the good wine first and then the inferior wine after the guests have become drunk. But you have kept the good wine until now.” 11 Jesus did this, the first of his signs, in Cana of Galilee and revealed his glory, and his disciples believed in him.

    A Wedding

    The wedding at Cana in John 2:1-11 is a significant theological statement in the Reformed tradition. It highlights God’s grace, covenantal blessings, and Christ’s transformative power. The story unfolds during a joyous wedding but quickly turns into a divine revelation that reveals Jesus’ mission and identity as the Messiah.

    The passage begins with Jesus and his disciples attending a wedding in Cana, a cultural and theological event. Weddings in ancient Jewish culture were communal celebrations symbolizing God’s creation of a covenant relationship. Jesus’ attendance emphasizes His affirmation of creation and life’s joys.

    However, the party is suddenly interrupted. The crisis of running out of wine disrupts the celebration. In Jewish tradition, as with many modern celebrations, wine represents joy, abundance, and life. The depletion of wine could lead to social embarrassment and overshadow the joyous occasion. It would, at the very least, slow the party down.

    The Theological Implications of the Miracle

    When Mary informs Jesus about the lack of wine, it sparks a conversation that reveals much about Jesus’ relation to His mother and His mission. Jesus’ response, “Woman, what concern is that to me and to you? My hour has not yet come” (John 2:4), might initially seem dismissive; however, a deeper exploration reveals that Jesus is indicating the profound shift from familial ties to His heavenly mission. His “hour” refers to the time of His ultimate revelation in glory through His death and resurrection. This response emphasizes that Jesus prioritizes His divine mission over societal expectations or familial relationships. In Reformed thought, this is reflective of an essential tenet in that it posits God’s sovereignty over all aspects of life. (Calvin)[1]

    The miracle itself—transforming six stone jars of water into wine—is laden with rich theological symbolism. The stone jars in this story are for Jewish rites of purification, pointing to the Old Covenant, which emphasized ritual cleansing and adherence to the Law (Exodus 30:18-21). In turning water, which symbolizes ritual purity, into wine, Jesus manifests the inauguration of a new covenant—a covenant of grace, and the wine represents his blood. The abundance of wine produced (approximately 120 to 180 gallons) emphasizes not only the generosity of God’s grace but also points to Christ as the fulfillment of the Old Testament sacrificial system (Hebrews 9:11-14)[2].

    The act is reminiscent of the messianic banquet imagery prevalent in the Hebrew Scriptures (Isaiah 25:6-8), where joy and abundance would signify God’s blessing and restoration of His creation. Here, we see the inauguration of that eschatological hope: Jesus not only provides for the immediate need but also foreshadows the greater fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan through Himself.

    The Response of Faith

    The climax of the narrative culminates in the response of the disciples: “and his disciples believed in him” (John 2:11). This declaration underlines the sovereign action of God in evoking faith. Faith is a gift from God, rooted in the initiative of grace rather than human merit (Ephesians 2:8-9). The miracle signifies the revealing of Christ’s glory, which not only strengthens the faith of His disciples but also serves as a call to all believers to recognize Jesus as the ultimate source of joy and salvation. (Calvin)[3]

    Conclusion: A Foretaste of Greater Glory

    The wedding at Cana is more than a physical miracle; it embodies profound theological truths about Christ’s redemption for us; it showcases God’s sovereign grace, covenantal fulfillment, and the ultimate restoration of creation through Christ. Divine blessings, in this case, are symbolized by the good wine and, therefore, encouraged to partake and celebrate the joyous communal event of marriage. Those who come to believe are encouraged to participate in the joy and hope of knowing Christ, who transforms and redeems all aspects of life. This miracle foreshadows believers’ eschatological hope in Christ, who will restore all creation, culminating in a divine banquet where God’s people will rejoice in His eternal presence.

    In the Gospel of John, “signs” emphasize Jesus’s actions’ deeper meaning and purpose. The term “sign” suggests indicators of a greater truth, revealing Jesus’s identity as the Son of God and divine authority. John focuses on the theological implications, emphasizing the signs’ role in illuminating Jesus’s mission and God’s kingdom. The signs provoke belief and faith in Jesus, as John highlights the reactions of faith they elicit. Unlike the Synoptic Gospels, John frames the signs as part of a deliberate revelation of Jesus’s glory and divine nature.

    “Signs” emphasizes that these events are not just astonishing but carry profound meaning, urging the audience to recognize Jesus and respond in faith.[4]

    Reflection for Contemplation

    As we reflect on the wedding at Cana, look for the profound theological truths that underlie this miracle: God’s sovereign grace, covenantal fulfillment, and the ultimate restoration of creation through Christ. The miracle of turning water into wine is not just a physical act but a sign of the redemption that Christ brings to all aspects of life. It is a foreshadowing of the eschatological hope Reflection for Contemplation

    As we reflect on the wedding at Cana, look for the profound theological truths that underlie this miracle: God’s sovereign grace, covenantal fulfillment, and the ultimate restoration of creation through Christ. The miracle of turning water into wine is not just a physical act but a sign of the redemption that Christ brings to all aspects of life. It is a foreshadowing of the eschatological hope

    In the face of this miracle, we are reminded that faith is a gift from God, rooted in the initiative of grace rather than human merit. We are called to respond in faith, to recognize Jesus as the ultimate source of joy and salvation. As we gaze upon the signs of Christ’s glory, we are urged to recognize Jesus and respond in faith, to trust in His sovereign power and gracious love. Will we respond to the signs of Christ’s glory with faith and obedience, or will we miss the profound meaning and purpose that underlies these events? The choice is ours, but the promise of redemption and restoration is clear: Christ is the ultimate source of joy and salvation, and His glory will be revealed to all.

    In the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. AMEN.

    BIBLIOGRAPHY

    Bultmann, R. K. (1976). The Gospel of John: A Commentary. (Archive.org) Retrieved January 2025, from Archive.org: https://archive.org/details/gospelofjohnco00bult

    Calvin, J. (n.d.). Institutes of the Christian Religion, Book 1 and 2. In J. T. McNeill (Ed.), Institutes of the Christian Religion(F. L. Battles, Trans., Vol. I). Philadephia: The Westminster Press.

    NIV Study Bible. (2011). Grand rapids, MI: Zondervan.

    NRSVue. (2022). NRSVue Holy Bible with Deuterocanonical/Apocryphal Books of the Old Testament. Grand Rapids: Zondervan.

    [1] God’s Sovereignty:  Jesus prioritizes His divine mission over societal expectations or familial relationships, citing Jesus’ response in John 2:4. This is reflective of the Reformed tradition’s emphasis on God’s sovereignty over all aspects of life (emphasis in the article). To support this claim, one can refer to Calvin’s Institutes (1559), specifically Book 1, Chapter 17, Points 1-3 (Calvin, 1559, 1.17.1-3).

    [2] The New Covenant: The transformation of the stone jars of water into wine as a sign of the inauguration of a new covenant—a covenant of grace, where wine represents Christ’s blood. This is supported by Hebrews 9:11-14, which mentions the inauguration of a new covenant through the death of Christ. To further elaborate on this concept, one can consult the book of Hebrews, specifically chapters 8-10, which explore the contrast between the Old and New Covenants (Hebrews 8.7-13, 9.15-22, 10.1-18).

    [3] Faith as a Gift: Faith is a gift from God, rooted in the initiative of grace rather than human merit (Ephesians 2:8-9). This concept is a central tenet of Reformed theology, and one can find further discussion in Calvin’s Institutes, specifically Book 3, Chapter 2, “Faith: Its Definition Set Forth, and Its Properties Explained” (Calvin, 1559, 3.2). 

    4 Jesus’ Signs: In the Gospel of John, signs reveal Jesus’ identity as the Son of God and divine authority. This is in line with the book’s emphasis on the signs of Christ’s glory (John 20:31, 21:25). To explore this concept further, one can consult Rudolf Bultmann’s book The Gospel of John (Bultmann, 1976). See bibliography for URL.

  • A Shouting Stone 

    Palm Sunday Sermon

    Rev. Rob Jones

    Luke 19:28-40

    After he had said this, he went on ahead, going up to Jerusalem. 29 When he had come near Bethphage and Bethany, at the place called the Mount of Olives, he sent two of the disciples, 30 saying, “Go into the village ahead of you, and as you enter it you will find tied there a colt that has never been ridden. Untie it and bring it here. 31 If anyone asks you, ‘Why are you untying it?’ just say this, ‘The Lord needs it’” 32 So those who were sent departed and found it as he had told them. 33 As they were untying the colt, its owners asked them, “Why are you untying the colt?” 34 They said, “The Lord needs it.” 35 Then they brought it to Jesus; and after throwing their cloaks on the colt, they set Jesus on it. 36 As he rode along, people kept spreading their cloaks on the road. 37As he was now approaching the path down from the Mount of Olives, the whole multitude of the disciples began to praise God joyfully with a loud voice for all the deeds of power that they had seen, 38saying, “Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord! Peace in heaven, and glory in the highest heaven!” 39 Some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to him, “Teacher, order your disciples to stop.” 40He answered, “I tell you, if these were silent, the stones would shout out.”

    Introduction

    Palm Sunday is a day rich in symbolism and significance. As we reflect on Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem, our scripture today, taken from Luke 19:28-40, provides us with a profound vision of glorification and the compelling force of the Holy Spirit. As we delve into this passage, we are reminded of how God’s glory is revealed and how the Holy Spirit moves among us, compelling the faithful to bear witness.

    Luke 19:28-40 – The Triumphal Entry

    In Luke 19:28-40, we witness the moment Jesus draws near to the majestic city of Jerusalem with a sense of purpose. He instructs His disciples to retrieve a colt, one that has never felt the weight of human presence. This choice is rich with cultural symbolism, signaling the dawn of a new kingship. As Jesus gracefully rides into the heart of the city, the air buzzes with excitement. Crowds gather, their joy palpable, as they spread their cloaks upon the dusty path, creating a vibrant tapestry for the King to tread. They erupt into joyous exclamations, “Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord!”—their voices harmonizing in a symphony of praise.

    Yet, not all are swept away by this buoyant tide of celebration. The Pharisees, their expressions twisted in indignation, implore Jesus to silence His high-spirited followers. But with unshakeable resolve, Jesus responds, ” I tell you, if these were silent, the stones would shout out.” His words resonate like a thunderclap, emphasizing to them, to the reader, and to us who hear the story that the glory of God is too grand to be contained or muted.

    This passage encapsulates the very essence of glorification. Jesus stands as the pivotal point of divine revelation, welcomed not only by the joyous shouts of humanity but by the entire cosmos. The imagery of stones crying out serves as a powerful reminder that God’s glory transcends all limitations. When the faithful acknowledge and proclaim the magnificence of the Divine, they are propelled by the Holy Spirit—a force so compelling that even the quietest, inanimate objects cannot help but bear witness. When we shout Hallelujah, creation itself bears witness! The celebration of God’s majesty reverberates through everything, illuminating the profound connection between the divine and the earthly.

    The Glorification of God

    The glorification of God stands as a fundamental theme on Palm Sunday, marking a significant moment in the Christian faith. As Jesus makes His triumphant entry into Jerusalem, He is met with acclaim as the messianic king—a long-awaited figure of hope and deliverance for the people. The enthusiastic shouts of the crowd—“Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord!”—are more than simple expressions; they serve as a powerful declaration of faith, signifying their recognition of God’s sovereign authority over their lives and hope in the unfolding events.

    In the Old Testament, Psalm 118:26 resonates deeply within this context: “Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord!” This phrase captures a moment of divine acknowledgment and is echoed by the masses in the Gospel of Luke, reinforcing not only their recognition of Jesus’ identity but also the principle of glorifying God through communal worship.

    Within the Reformed tradition, the concept of glorification transcends mere outward displays of praise; it is fundamentally tied to an inner transformation of the heart. Theologian John Calvin, in his profound work “Institutes of the Christian Religion,” articulates the notion that authentic worship emerges from a heart that is humbled before God. This humbling acknowledgment of God’s supreme authority and abundant grace leads to a genuine relationship with the Divine.

    When the Holy Spirit resides within believers, it inspires a profound shift that drives them to glorify God through not only their words but the entirety of their lives. Worship becomes a holistic expression that combines daily actions, decisions, and interactions, ultimately reflecting the transformative impact of God’s grace in their lives. Worship does not stop when the blessing is given, and the post-lude is played at the end of the hour. Worship continues in every aspect of our existence. Thus, the essence of glorifying God is lived out in ways that align with the core values of humility, service, and authentic worship—truly embodying the spirit of Palm Sunday beyond a mere celebratory moment.

    Compelled by the Holy Spirit

    The Holy Spirit’s role in compelling the faithful to glorify God is evident throughout the Bible. In Acts 2, we see the Spirit descending upon the apostles, empowering them to speak in tongues and proclaim the gospel boldly. Peter, filled with the Spirit, addresses the crowd, leading to the conversion of about three thousand souls that day.

    Similarly, in the Old Testament, we find the Spirit moving mightily. In Ezekiel 37:1-10, the prophet witnesses a vision showing a valley full of dry bones. The Lord asks if they can live and commands Ezekiel to prophesy to them. As he prophesied, the bones come together, covered with flesh but without breath. Then, the Lord commands Ezekiel to prophesy to the breath (The Ruach- the same Hebrew word used when God breathed life into Adam. It is literally translated as the Holy Spirit.), bringing life into the bones and turning them into a vast multitude of living beings. This vivid illustration demonstrates the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, which can bring life to the lifeless and compel all creation to glorify God.

    The compelling force of the Holy Spirit is not just a historical phenomenon; it is an ever-present reality. As believers, we are called to be vessels through which the Spirit manifests God’s glory. In “Knowing God” by J.I. Packer, the author highlights how the Holy Spirit enlightens our minds, awakens our hearts, and strengthens our will to live in accordance with God’s purposes. (Packer) It is through the Spirit that we are equipped to shout praises even when confronted with adversity.

    Biblical Examples and Illustrations

    Throughout scripture, we find numerous examples of individuals compelled by the Holy Spirit to glorify God. In 2 Samuel 6:14, David dances before the Lord with all his might, undeterred by the disdain of others. His unabashed worship is a testament to how the Spirit moves us—encouraging us to celebrate God’s presence joyfully.

    Paul, in his epistles, frequently speaks of the Spirit’s work in his ministry. In Romans 8:14, he writes, “For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God.” Paul’s missionary journeys, filled with trials and triumphs, display a life led by the Spirit devoted to glorifying God.

    In our lives, we encounter moments where the Holy Spirit compels us to act in faith. C.S. Lewis, in “Mere Christianity,” describes the Spirit’s influence as a persistent nudge, guiding us towards truth and righteousness. Whether through acts of kindness, moments of worship, or standing firm in our convictions, the Spirit empowers us to be witnesses to God’s glory. (Lewis)

    Conclusion

    As we reflect on the triumphant entry of Jesus into Jerusalem, let us be reminded of the call to glorify God in all we do. The Holy Spirit compels us, just as it compelled the crowd to shout praises and the stones to cry out. Our glorification of God is not limited by circumstance; it is an expression that transcends time, space, and even the barriers of the physical world.

    Beloved, on this Palm Sunday, may we allow the Holy Spirit to move freely within us. Let us be bold in our worship, steadfast in our faith, and unwavering in our witness. For if we remain silent, the stones themselves will shout. God’s glory is, indeed, boundless and ever-present, and we are privileged to be part of His divine story.

    In the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Amen.

    Bibliography

    Interlinear Bible. 29 Nov. 2024. <https://biblehub.com/interlinear&gt;.

    Lewis, C. S. “Mere Christianity.” Horizon Ridge Publishing, n.d. Kindle Epub P.32-34.

    Merriam-Webster. 2024. <https://unabridged.merriam-webster.com&gt;.

    NIV Study Bible. Grand rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2011.

    “NRSVue.” NRSVue Holy Bible with Deuterocanonical/Apocryphal Books of the Old Testament. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2022.

    Packer, J. I. “Knowing God.” Downers Grove: Intervarsity Press, 1973. Kindle Epub p.236.

    Powery, Emerson B., et al., The Westminster Study Bible. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox Press, 2024.