Dr. David Jeremiah Presents
Living inthe Ageof Signs
Online Destination
Living in the Age of Signs
Online Destination
Sign 2
Pain Today, Rewards Forever
Today’s Devotion:
Pain Today, Rewards Forever
When supporters of Martin Luther stood by their leader in sixteenth-century Germany in protest against abuses in the established church, they were persecuted like Luther was. And for two thousand years, followers of Jesus Christ have been persecuted just as their Lord was. We are reminded throughout God’s Word that there is a cost to following our Savior, but the rewards are also great.
The probability of persecution is not the focal point of the Gospel message, but prospective followers of Christ should understand that “all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.” Jesus told His original disciples plainly, “If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you” (John 15:20). Jesus also called those who are persecuted for His sake “blessed” (Matthew 5:10). Why? Because “great is your reward in heaven” (Matthew 5:12).
Persecution is painful, but the anticipation of eternal rewards for faithfulness is a balm for the wounded body and soul. Plus, it helps to know that you do not suffer alone.
Persecution is the legacy bequeathed by Christ to His people.
Thomas Watson
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Some 2,600 years ago, God gave King Nebuchadnezzar a dream. In this dream, the king saw a five–part statue made of five different metals (see Daniel 2). Each section represented an empire, beginning with Nebuchadnezzar's Babylon. Four of these empires have already risen and fallen in history—a clear fulfillment of Daniel's prophetic interpretation. The fifth and final empire indicates a future Europe—a ten nation coalition that will unite under the Antichrist's rule.
You can read about the King's dream and Daniel's interpretation in Daniel 2, but let's take a quick visual look at what you will find:
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King Nebuchadnezzar's Babylon
Daniel's words to the king are clear. "You are this head of gold" (Daniel 2:37–38).
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Medo–Persian Empire
The Medo–Persian Empire conquered Babylon in 539 BC and remained in power for approximately two hundred years (Daniel 5:28).
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Grecian Empire
Greece's Empire succeeded the Medo–Persians (Daniel 8:21).
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Roman Empire
When the Grecian empire was conquered by Rome, all the lands and peoples of the previous kingdoms were assimilated into the Roman Empire through the strengths of the "iron legions of Rome" (Daniel 2:40).
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Future European Coalition
This empire has not yet risen. Daniel foretells a time when the Roman Empire—Europe—will consist of ten kingdoms or leaders. The future Roman Empire will be present on the earth when God sets up His earthly kingdom (Daniel 2:44).