Daniel 12:1

Every one that shall be found written in the book.

Divine Registration, the Pledge of Deliverance in Times of Trouble

The whole history of the Church of God bears one unbroken testimony to the fact that her distinction from the world is essential to her, real prosperity; and the more tenaciously that distinction has been maintained the more conspicuous has been her glory, and the more her experimental joys have abounded. Four things in the text.

I. A DISTINGUISHED PEOPLE. Two distinct families are uniformly set forth in the sacred oracles, from the very opening to the closing of the book of God. The seed of the woman and the seed of the serpent. Inquire into the origin and descent of the family of God, the distinguished people. Their origin is in the eternal counsel. They were chosen in Christ as their covenant head. Note some of the family peculiarities of this distinguished people, especially that royal dignity which characterises them all. The Christian is born of God, with a nature capable of enjoying God.

II. THE REGISTER OF DANIEL’S FAMILY. They are said to be written in a book. The book of covenant decrees, entitled “The Lamb’s Book of Life.”

Every child of God, every heir of glory, is found written in that book, as an object of everlasting life. Daniel’s people are like himself in four particulars

1. As the children of a covenant head, the true circumcision.

2. As praying souls.

3. As characterised by integrity.

4. As in high favour with God.

III. THE ORDEALS THROUGH WHICH THIS PEOPLE HAVE TO PASS. They are a tried people--in family experience and outward persecutions. (Joseph Irons.)