What does it mean to "know their God" in the context of Daniel 11:32? Setting the scene: Daniel 11:32 “With flattery he will corrupt those who violate the covenant, but the people who know their God will be strong and take action.” What “know” means in the Hebrew text • The verb is יָדַע (yada) – more than awareness, it carries the ideas of intimacy, loyalty, and personal involvement. • In Genesis 4:1 Adam “knew” Eve; in this same relational sense, the faithful remnant “knows” God. • So Daniel is describing a deep covenant relationship, not mere information about God. Key marks of those who know their God • Reliance on God’s character rather than human alliances (Psalm 20:7). • Steadfast loyalty when pressured to compromise (Exodus 20:3; Acts 5:29). • Discernment to reject flattery and lies (John 10:4–5). • Spiritual strength that expresses itself in decisive obedience—“be strong and take action.” Strength that flows from knowing Him • Inner courage: “Be strong and courageous…for the LORD your God goes with you.” (Deuteronomy 31:6) • Moral clarity: “Those who know Your name trust in You.” (Psalm 9:10) • Persevering endurance: “The LORD will rescue me from every evil deed.” (2 Timothy 4:18) Taking action: what it looked like then • Historically, faithful Jews under Antiochus IV refused to eat idol‐sacrificed meat, circumcised their sons, and reclaimed the Temple (1 Maccabees 2–4). • Their bold acts sprang from relationship, not rebellion for its own sake. New Testament echoes • “This is eternal life: that they may know You, the only true God.” (John 17:3) • “The one who says, ‘I know Him,’ but does not keep His commandments is a liar.” (1 John 2:4) • Paul’s pursuit: “that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection.” (Philippians 3:10) Practical takeaways for believers today • Cultivate intimacy—regular time in Scripture and prayer deepens yada. • Obey promptly—each act of obedience reinforces loyalty. • Stand firm—expect cultural pressure, but recall that true strength comes from relationship (Ephesians 6:10). • Serve boldly—knowing God propels believers to decisive, loving action in their sphere, whether resisting sin, sharing the gospel, or defending truth. Conclusion To “know their God” in Daniel 11:32 is to possess an intimate, covenant bond with Him that produces unshakeable strength and courageous obedience in the face of corruption and compromise. |
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