Destined To Rule

Read: Daniel 7:15-28

Then the sovereignty, power, and greatness of all the kingdoms under heaven will be given to the holy people of the Most High. Daniel 7:27

IN WORD

From almost the beginning, earth has been contested territory. We’ve seen that often in the Word. The promises of God are almost always opposed by deception, delays, or distraction. The people of God are relentlessly tempted and tested. At the precise time of two prophesied deliverers, ungodly kings were inspired to try to wipe out a generation of boys. Neither Moses nor Jesus was eliminated, but both were subjected to extreme resistance. The latter was offered the kingdoms of the world in exchange for false worship. Why? Because the kingdoms of the world are the contested territory. That’s what the battle is about.

Perhaps we thought the battle was only for the souls of men and women, but it’s bigger than that. In Daniel’s vision, the sovereignty, power, and greatness of all kingdoms under heaven were handed over to the Son of Man. Then in Daniel 7, verses 18, 22, and 27, the Kingdoms are given to the holy ones of God, the people who love Him. This hasn’t been just a spiritual battle; it has been a Kingdom battle. The Ancient One has limited His power in order to win with His character—through His people. And His people will reign where brutal emperors and proud dictators once plundered and pillaged and persecuted.

That’s certainly the picture we see in Revelation and many other places in Scripture. The people of God, the chosen and faithful ones, aren’t just saved. We are raised up to the throne room to reign with the Son of God/Son of Man. We are destined to rule.

IN DEED

You may not have any desire to rule this world. That’s good; the Kingdom is not for the power-hungry. But the Son will nevertheless share His authority with you, and the oppressors will finally be under your influence. In fact, some degree of that authority has already been given to faithful followers of the King. Exercise it. Grow in it. Learn what it means. One day, you will walk in it fully.

ADDITIONAL READING: Revelation 3:21-22

The church is the one institution of which Jesus promised the gates of hell will not prevail against it.

CHARLES COLSON