Daniel 12

Daniel 12:1-3

Jesus Christ shall preserve his people under, and at last deliver them from, the terrible harassments of Antiochus, Romish Heathens, Antichrist, Turks, &c.; and at the last day he will reward them according to their faithfulness and usefulness. 4, 9, 10. These predictions shall never be fully understood before the fulfilment. And, as there will be then a mixture of persons good and bad, it will be only the former who will be bettered by these troubles, or who, by diligent observation, will understand the fulfilled predictions. 7, 11, 12. The time, times, and an half, or 1260 days, denote the 1260 years of Antichrist’s reign. Thirty years of terrible wars at the destruction of Antichrist bring it to 1290; and, by the end of 1335, we expect the millennium will be introduced in its full glory. 9, 13. Daniel must rest contented with the discoveries which he had obtained, and prepare for the eternal state, in the assurance of happiness and honour in it

REFLECTIONS UPON CHAP. XII.—Seasonable and effectual are Jesus’ assistance, protection, deliverances, and comforts. He is a present help in times of trouble to his people. And to all his chosen sheep he gives eternal life, and none shall pluck them out of his hand. O how great is the happiness of saints, and especially of faithful ministers, in the resurrection and in the eternal state! But on the contrary, inexpressible the infamy and ruin of the wicked! Neither angels nor saints know any thing more of future events but as God is pleased to reveal them. Yet, by humble searching of the scriptures and careful observation of providences, every prediction will at length appear plain. And it is Christ to whom we must apply for all necessary illumination. Never must we, except by death, and the last judgment, expect complete deliverances all at once. And it is not the curious scrutinizer into God’s secrets, but the firm believer of his promises and observer of his laws, who may then expect safety and happiness