On almost all athletic fields, there is a player or coach who stands out and is considered a star. We give out Star of the Game awards for exceptional play. A player’s outstanding performance brings attention just as shining stars are recognized. In Daniel 12:2 it says that people who lead others to Christ is the equivalent of an exceptional performance in God’s kingdom.
- There are great promises for those who trust Christ, Daniel 12:1-3.
- “Their names are written in the Book of Life. Those that are dead will rise; some to eternal life and some to everlasting contempt.” Read Revelation 20:11-15.
- “Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness like the stars for ever and ever.” Daniel 12:2-3. Also read Philippians 2:14-16.
Based upon what you have learned, how important is it to tell others about Jesus? Are you ready to boldly tell others about Jesus for the rest of your life? Heaven and hell are in the balance for every person that has walked on the face of earth.
What are you doing about the people God has put into your life?
In the conclusion of the vision, two others came and asked the question, “How long will it be before these astonishing things are fulfilled?” Christ responded by lifting both of His hands toward heaven and saying, “It will be for time, times, and half a time (3 and a half years, Revelation 11:2, 12:6, 13:5). When the power of the holy people has been finally broken, all these things will be completed.” It will end when Israel will finally turn to Christ.
Daniel then asked another question in verse eight to which Christ answered, “Go your way Daniel because the words are closed up and sealed until the time of the end... go your way till the end. You will rest (die) and then at the end of days you will rise to receive your allotted inheritance.”
Christ was telling Daniel to put his questions to rest, trust Him for the fulfillment of His Word, live the rest of his life serving Him and when Christ returns, he would receive a heavenly reward. For many of us that is great wisdom. We get so bogged down looking for answers that we never really live by faith. It is time to put aside whatever is slowing your relationship with Christ down and follow Jesus wholeheartedly until he takes you home.
What have you learned about secure leadership from the book of Daniel?
What areas of insecurity have you gained victory or have begun to work on?
What praises can you give to God for what you have learned?
TALKING POINTS: SHINING LIKE STARS
Main thought:
Those who bring others to Christ are like stars in the kingdom of God.
Key Scripture:
Daniel 12:1-3
Discussion questions:
1. Why is introducing people to Jesus so important to God?
2. What have you learned about secure leadership from the book of Daniel?