When
we study (Dan. 2,7, and 8) along with associated pages in
Revelation, and other prophetic books, we get a good look
at the Anti-Christ. We'll see that he is the second most
important personality in the entire Bible. In (Dan. 3)
we'll see more of him in type, as well as observe some
practical points of Christianity.
B.
Its
component:
gold - gold has always been connected with worship of the
devil. (See rev. 17:4) It is particularly associated with
the Babylonian religion. It is also mentioned in (2
Chron. 9:13) - (Adonikam = Lord of the Rebellion).
Following the principle of first mention, the number 13
is first found and equated with rebellion in (Gen. 14:4).
C.
Its
Purpose:
to be worshipped. Remember Nebuchadnezzar is a type
of the Anti-Christ. He sets up an image (probably of
himself) to be worshipped. Something very similar will
again take place - (Rev. 13:11-15). Another interesting
note, is music is needed to worship the image. More and
more of the music being used today revolves around
worship of the devil.
B.
They
would not bend
- They were rigid in their stand for what they knew
was right. In (vs. 11) all that is being asked for is
conformity. That's all the world wants you to do -
conform to their standards.
Note:
The
question is often asked, "where was Daniel during this
entire episode?" Most of the commentators neatly tuck him
away on an out of town mission or some such thing. But
according to (Dan. 2:49), Daniel sat in the gate of the
king. That means he was at his right hand, as his
constant companion and advisor. What seems to be nearer
the truth is Daniel was probably there, next to the king,
and unable to protest because he had accepted worship of
himself in (Dan. 2:46-48). - Yea verily "all have
sinned."
C.
They
would not burn
- God rewarded their steadfastness (vs. 18) with
protection and company with the Son of God (vs. 25). Hell
(found in type in the furnace) has no power over those
who put their trust in the Lord.
Note:
Notice
(vs. 16) and their quick unwavering answer. There are
some things you don't need to pray about.
Perhaps the
finest of Luther's great hymns is Ein Feste Burg, "A
Mighty Fortress". Its majestic and thunderous
proclamation of our faith is a singing symbol of the
reformation. Inspired by Psalm 46 - Luther was caught up
in the hymn, the very essence of faith, and the fervor
and flavor of patriotism which he found in the
Psalm.
Long ago in
the 14th century, when Sergius the hermit was leading his
countrymen, and Tartar hordes were overrunning his land,
this Psalm was a source of strength and courage. Over and
over, the godly hermit recited Psalm 46 and then led his
revived men in a charge that drove the invaders back and
brought ultimate victory. Throughout the ages men have
been stirred by the realization that the Eternal God is
available to them and that nothing, literally nothing,
can overwhelm or destroy a man when he lives in his
faith.
