August 17, 2004

MICHAEL THE GREAT PRINCE

"At that time Michael, the great prince who protects your people, will arise. There will be a time of distress such as has not happened from the beginning of nations until then" (Daniel 12:1, NIV).

There are eight distinct titles in the Bible that identify Christ as a prince. Each emphasizes some unique feature of His princely role. Three of these are applied to Jesus by Daniel.

The word, Michael, means "One who is like God." While this person is not specifically identified in this passage, a comparison with other Scriptural references clearly identifies Him as none other than Jesus Himself (see Jude 9: 1 Thessalonians 4:16; John 5:28).

In this eschatological setting, Christ is portrayed as the champion who stands up in the great controversy to deliver His people. He arises in power and authority to deliver and vindicate His people at the most difficult period in the history of the church. When Christ ceases to intercede in heaven and the Holy Spirit is withdrawn from the earth, all the diabolical powers of this world will be unleashed in indescribable fury.

The scene that follows will be one of unparalleled strife and senseless violence. Satan will violently oppose God's people. In that darkest of hours, Michael, the great prince, will rise in vigorous defense and will deliver His people. The deliverance of God's people is never in doubt. We have the divine guarantee of deliverance. In the time of trouble, "The precious Saviour will send help just when we need it... Glorious will be the deliverance of those who have patiently waited for His coming, and whose names are written in the book of life."--The Great Controversy, pp. 633, 634.

My Prayer Today: Lord, thank You for standing up for Your people. Amen.