What does "judgment was given to the saints" mean for believers today? Setting the Scene in Daniel 7 • Daniel 7 unfolds a series of night visions describing four beastly kingdoms that dominate human history. • Amid the turmoil, Daniel sees “the Ancient of Days” (v. 9) take His seat; heavenly court convenes; verdicts are issued. • Verse 22 pivots the whole chapter: “until the Ancient of Days came and judgment was rendered in favor of the saints of the Most High, and the time came for the saints to possess the kingdom.” (Daniel 7:22) • The phrase “judgment was rendered in favor of the saints” literally means the heavenly court finds for God’s covenant people and grants them authority to participate in His rule. The Core Idea Behind “Judgment Was Given to the Saints” • Legal Vindication—God publicly rules on behalf of His people, overturning all hostile verdicts of the world. • Transfer of Authority—Judicial authority is placed into the hands of the saints; they will share in Christ’s governance of the coming kingdom. • Future Reign Guaranteed—The decision ushers believers into a literal, earthly kingdom where they exercise dominion under the Messiah. How the New Testament Echoes the Same Truth • 1 Corinthians 6:2-3—“Do you not know that the saints will judge the world? … Do you not know that we will judge angels?” • Revelation 20:4—“Then I saw thrones, and those seated on them had been given authority to judge…” • Matthew 19:28 & Luke 22:29-30—Jesus promises His followers thrones of judgment in the renewal of all things. • 2 Timothy 2:12—“if we endure, we will also reign with Him.” • Romans 8:17—Believers are “heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ.” Implications for Believers Today • Confident Assurance – The final verdict is already in: God rules in our favor. No earthly court can overturn His decision (Romans 8:33-34). • Identity & Dignity – We are destined for royal, judicial service. That identity shapes how we see ourselves and treat others. • Present Discernment – Because we will judge the world, we practice godly wisdom now, settling disputes inside the church with fairness and grace (1 Corinthians 6:1-5). • Perseverance in Suffering – Temporary injustice cannot compare with future vindication; endurance is worthwhile because the kingdom awaits (2 Corinthians 4:17). • Motivation for Holiness – Those who will participate in divine judgment must pursue purity and integrity today (1 Peter 1:15-16). • Kingdom-Minded Service – We prepare for future responsibilities by faithful stewardship in present callings (Luke 19:17). Practical Takeaways • Anchor your sense of worth in God’s declared verdict, not in shifting human opinions. • Cultivate Scriptural discernment; your decisions now are training for kingdom administration. • Extend mercy, remembering you will one day dispense justice under Christ’s authority. • Stand firm under pressure; the Ancient of Days has already ruled in your favor. |
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