But as soon as he was in full power, his suspicious, insecure nature took over. Thousands were executed at the slightest perception of a threat to his power.
Read MoreIt was during the reign of Augustus Caesar that Rome reached the pinnacle of its greatness.
Read MoreThe conspirators defended themselves, claiming they were acting on behalf of the Roman Republic. After the murder, the Senate changed the name of his birth month from Quintilis to July in his honor. Nevertheless, Julius Caesar’s assassination sparked a series of civil wars that paved the way for his adopted son Octavian, actually a great-nephew, to rise to power.
Read MoreIn those days, the Jews held the frontier gateways into Egypt. Influenced by Antipater the Idumaean (father of Herod the Great, ruler of Judea at the time of the birth of the Messiah), they had permitted the Roman army to pass into Egypt with no opposition.
Read MoreCleopatra’s devious career of illegitimate romance and intrigue foreshadows the rise of another “woman”. In Biblical prophecy, a woman is a symbol for a church.
Read More“Withdraw immediately, or consider yourself at war with Rome.” Antiochus initially responded that he would reply after consulting with his officers. With his cane, Popilius Laenas drew a circle in the sand around Antiochus Epiphanes and specified that he must give his answer before leaving the circle.
Read MoreThe news of Ptolemy IV’s death and his successor, Ptolemy V—a small child—inspired a spirit of exploitation of the weakened circumstances of Egypt, a spirit that spread all across the northern regions and even took root among the Jews.
Read MorePtolemy’s interactions with the Jews became even more tense when he declared his determination to see inside the Most Holy Place of the temple. With tremendous difficulty the Jews restrained him from doing so.
Read MoreThe kings of the North and of the South are showing a historical pattern of desiring dominance. But neither side is in alignment with God. Through these historical events, there is a symbolism for our time—in earth’s last days—being established.
Read MoreThese divisions from a single body show the futility of mankind’s strife against itself, all for the purpose of self-exaltation. The mindset of man’s glory over God will result in continuous strife until God Himself brings it to a close.
Read MoreThese heinous acts did not pass unnoticed in Egypt, as we will soon see how the revengeful “ancient soap opera” continues. And an ongoing negative influence pounded the tiny nation of Israel, who repeatedly allowed shallow and worldly influences to turn their attention away from God.
Read MoreIn the very middle of these divisions was Israel. Not only was the “traffic” of those traveling between the northern areas (Syria) and southern areas (Egypt), straight through Palestine, there was also the constant political push-and-pull of these upon the inhabitants of the Promised Land.
Read MoreThe parenthetical statement of Gabriel that began in the middle of the closing verse of chapter 10 is completed in the opening verse of chapter 11. It seems an unusual place to divide chapters, but it helps to cement the preparation of Daniel that occurred in chapter 10 to the revelation just ahead . . . .
Read MoreSpiritual battles, though we cannot see them with our eyes, are indescribably fierce. None of us would stand a chance of making it out alive if it were not for mighty angels who do battle on our behalf. But sometimes even they need help.
Read MoreThe root cause of this world’s constant battle for power is the rebellion of Lucifer in heaven before our world was created. It was a challenge to God’s authority, His law, His very character!
Read MoreYes, there are trials and triumphs ahead for every one of God’s people. We must learn to seek character over comfort and holiness over happiness. The deepest comfort and the brightest happiness await all whose love for God causes them to seek the character and holiness that is pleasing to Him.
Read MoreDaniel’s close walk with God translated into a profound concern for the future of all of His people. Here, Gabriel refers to God’s people as Daniel’s people. Throughout history, God has always had a covenant people; a remnant, through whom the message of salvation was to be conveyed to the world at large.
Read MoreDaniel’s three-weeks of prayer may have seemed to him unanswered. But, in addition to the assurance of God’s love, Gabriel also assured him that his prayers were most definitely heard. From the outset, the process of answering had already begun.
Read MoreThose who were with Daniel did not know God. Moreover, they did not know of the greatness of His mercy. The nearness of Christ in His glory is a terror to any who know not of His goodness.
Read MoreOur world, in its fallen state, has sadness and mourning that exists side-by-side with seasons of celebration. Only a close relationship with the LORD maintains the perspective necessary to be spiritually and mentally healthy.
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