aniel's vision near the river Hiddekel. (1-9) He is to expect
a discovery of future events. (10-21)
Verses 1-9.: This chapter relates the beginning of Daniel's last
vision, which is continued to the end of the book. The time
would be long before all would be accomplished; and much of it
is not yet fulfilled. Christ appeared to Daniel in a glorious
form, and it should engage us to think highly and honourably of
him. Let us admire his condescension for us and our salvation.
There remained no strength in Daniel. The greatest and best of
men cannot bear the full discoveries of the Divine glory; for no
man can see it, and live; but glorified saints see Christ as he
is, and can bear the sight. How dreadful soever Christ may
appear to those under convictions of sin, there is enough in his
word to quiet their spirits.
Verses 10-21: Whenever we enter into communion with God, it becomes us
to have a due sense of the infinite distance between us and the
holy God. How shall we, that are dust and ashes, speak to the
Lord of glory? Nothing is more likely, nothing more effectual to
revive the drooping spirits of the saints, than to be assured of
God's love to them. From the very first day we begin to look
toward God in a way of duty, he is ready to meet us in the way
of mercy. Thus ready is God to hear prayer. When the angel had
told the prophet of the things to come, he was to return, and
oppose the decrees of the Persian kings against the Jews. The
angels are employed as God's ministering servants, (Heb 1:14).
Though much was done against the Jews by the kings of Persia,
God permitting it, much more mischief would have been done if
God had not prevented it. He would now more fully show what were
God's purposes, of which the prophecies form an outline; and we
are concerned to study what is written in these Scriptures of
truth, for they belong to our everlasting peace. While Satan and
his angels, and evil counsellors, excite princes to mischief
against the church, we may rejoice that Christ our Prince, and
all his mighty angels, act against our enemies; but we ought not
to expect many to favour us in this evil world. Yet the whole
counsel of God shall be established; and let each one pray, Lord
Jesus, be our righteousness now, and thou wilt be our
everlasting confidence, through life, in death, at the day of
judgment, and for evermore.
aniel's vision near the river Hiddekel. (1-9) He is to expect
a discovery of future events. (10-21)