Read: Daniel 12.1-4
Bonus Reading: Isaiah 4.2-3; Malachi 3.16-18; Revelation 21.22-27
Introduction: Do you ever remember seeing your name printed in the newspaper, on a cast list, the honor roll, the church bulletin, or some other list? What was that experience like for you? Did it feel validating to see your name in print?
Information: You can almost here Gabriel saying, “I’ve got some good news and some bad news.” What’s the news in Daniel 12.1?
Introspection: Daniel’s message over and over again is that we can trust in God’s control regardless of our present circumstances. For the people of Daniel’s day, Babylon, then Persia seemed to have all the power and control. Then, for second-century Palestine, they would wonder if Antiochus Ephiphanes’ power would remain unchecked. For the people living when Jesus came on the scene, and even when Paul was at work, Rome seemed to be undefeatable. Who seems to be the unstoppable force for us? What does it mean for you to know that your name is “written in the book”? What are your thoughts about those whose names are not found there?
Impression: Imagine God showing you your name written in the book. What do you hear God say to you as you look at your name written down?