June 18: ACCOUTREMENTS OF IDOLATRY

Thus he shall act against the strongest fortresses with a foreign god, which he shall acknowledge, and advance its glory; and he shall cause them to rule over many, and divide the land for gain. Daniel 11:30

The licentiousness with which the strongest fortresses of Liberty and Reason were worshiped betrays a misunderstanding of true liberty—that which is found only in Christ—and also a misunderstanding of the kind of reason spoken of by the LORD as He sought to convey the nature of His salvation—the only real salvation: that which is built upon His forgiveness and an authentic relationship with the Creator God who is able to recreate hearts! He is able to transform a corrupted character into a character that is pure and undefiled. “Come now, and let us reason together,” Says the LORD, “Though your sins are like scarlet, They shall be as white as snow; Though they are red like crimson, They shall be as wool.” (Isaiah 1:18)

The so-called “freedom” of licentiousness did not take long to wear thin as public policy. On the heels of introducing the Goddess of Reason, leaders pondered a way to gain - and hold - the public’s attention in a way that would reduce the turbulence and anarchy.

What sort of foreign god was acknowledged? And how was its glory advanced? The system of paganism introduced to the French public was built around the idol, the Goddess of Reason. It was regulated by a heathen ritual enacted by the National Assembly and carried on by policy. The history of idolatry has more often than not included the element of occultism. The so-called “supreme being” (the Goddess of Reason) and the “liberty” that she represented opened the door for demonic activity. The latter, occultic phase of this chaotic situation drew many adherents, some of whom were elevated to positions of national influence. The last clause of our opening verse tells us that they would divide the land for gain. Prior to the Revolution, the land in the kingdom of France was owned by the Catholic church and a few landlords of immense estates. French law required the estates to remain undivided so that no heirs or creditors could sell off any partitions. But, as revolution acknowledges no law, the titles of nobility were abolished, and the land confiscated. Two thirds of the kingdom was sold in small parcels to benefit the public treasury.

This historical item of prophetic fulfillment is perfectly matched to its prophecy. It is just one of many “anchors” that provide placement in the biblical timeline. Such practical elements not only build our faith; they also provide perspective to guide our understanding of events. Jesus tells His followers who choose to abide in Him: “No longer do I call you servants, for a servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things that I heard from My Father I have made known to you.” (John 15:15) He also said:

“And now I have told you before it comes, that when it does come to pass, you may believe.” John 14:29 (see also Daniel 2:30 & Hebrews 4:12)