The court will come to order

“All rise,” the bailiff barked, “the court will come to order.”  The judge entered wearing a long black robe and took her seat, raised above the rest.  Only after she was seated did we sit down. Only when we were spoken to, did we speak. The protocols are designed to impress those in the courtroom of the solemnity of the proceedings and the power of the court. I am not easily intimidated but a courtroom is one place where I feel very small!

Daniel writes of a court without parallel in this world.  In a vision about the culmination of history, he glimpsed the proceedings that will bring about the judgment of the world. "I watched as thrones were put in place and the Ancient One sat down to judge. His clothing was as white as snow, his hair like whitest wool. He sat on a fiery throne with wheels of blazing fire, and a river of fire flowed from his presence. Millions of angels ministered to him, and a hundred million stood to attend him. Then the court began its session, and the books were opened." (Daniel 7:9-10, NLT)  What does all that mean?  Frankly, I do not know, nor does anyone. But we get the overall picture – God is Mighty, Revered, and will bring the world to account!

Daniel also saw the rebellion of the earth, telling us of his vision in picture language.  One empire after another rising and falling, but one particularly evil.  He saw a ‘little horn’ rising that made war on God’s people. This ruler so hates God and good he attempts to eliminate every reference to the Holy One on earth. "He will blaspheme the High God, persecute the followers of the High God, and try to get rid of sacred worship and moral practice. God’s holy people will be persecuted by him for a time, two times, half a time." (Daniel 7:25, The Message)  The thought is harsh and seemingly hopeless, isn’t it?

"But the court will sit, and his power will be taken away and completely destroyed forever." (Daniel 7:26, NIV)  God strides into the scene and by His irresistible decree removes evil.  I love it, don’t you?  “May Your Kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in Heaven,” I pray.  

Maybe the vision of Heaven’s court called into session terrifies you.  Then, you need to know that you have an Advocate. When I was part of court proceedings, my lawyer stood alongside of me.  He was my representative. He spoke on my behalf. He made the case for me.  Jesus Christ is our Advocate. We need not fear destruction or judgment.  We are guilty!  But, in Christ, our sin-guilt is removed.  John says,  "If we say we have no sin, we are only fooling ourselves and refusing to accept the truth. But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us and to cleanse us from every wrong. If we claim we have not sinned, we are calling God a liar and showing that his word has no place in our hearts. My dear children, I am writing this to you so that you will not sin. But if you do sin, there is someone to plead for you before the Father. He is Jesus Christ, the one who pleases God completely." (1 John 1:8-2:1, NLT)

Daniel saw the Savior/Messiah in outline in his vision.  After the court sat, before the proceedings started, Daniel writes “I saw someone who looked like a man coming with the clouds of heaven. He approached the Ancient One and was led into his presence. He was given authority, honor, and royal power over all the nations of the world, so that people of every race and nation and language would obey him. His rule is eternal—it will never end. His kingdom will never be destroyed." (Daniel 7:13-14, NLT)  Yes, He is both King and Priest!  He rules and He comforts.

The meanings of Daniel’s visions can be hard for us to grasp.  But, the basics are clear! “The court will sit!”  God will not allow evil and wicked men to resist Him forever. He will bring judgment.  His people will be vindicated and will join Him in eternal glory.  That much I understand.  I believe it. I receive it. I live in the hope of the coming of the King.  Do you, dear friend?

Here is the word from the Word. "For the grace of God has been revealed, bringing salvation to all people. And we are instructed to turn from godless living and sinful pleasures. We should live in this evil world with self-control, right conduct, and devotion to God, while we look forward to that wonderful event when the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, will be revealed. He gave his life to free us from every kind of sin, to cleanse us, and to make us his very own people, totally committed to doing what is right." (Titus 2:11-14, NLT)   Hallelujah, Amen!

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Majesty

Majesty, worship His majesty.

Unto Jesus, be all glory,

Honor, and praise!

Majesty, kingdom authority,

Flow from His throne,

Unto His own, His anthem raise.

So exalt, lift up on high,

The name of Jesus.

Magnify, come glorify,

Christ Jesus, the King!

Majesty, worship His majesty,

Jesus who died, now glorified;

King of all kings!

Jack Hayford

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