“But I will shew thee that which is noted in the scripture of truth: and there is none that holdeth with me in these things, but Michael your prince.”
(Daniel 10:21)
In this tenth chapter of Daniel, the prophet describes his experience of a vision from God in which he saw great and horrible events foretold. And in our text, the angel sent to aid Daniel in his understanding of the vision affirms that the revelation he has received is indeed the “scripture of truth.” Because it is forever and always true and accurate, we do well to acknowledge the unique and supreme way Scripture conveys God’s will and mind to humanity.
First and foremost, Scripture stands as an infallible and independent authority, the very expression of God Himself. For this reason, God’s truth is not subject to the whims of human opinion or the limitations of human reason; it is absolute, rooted in infinite perfection.
Further, biblical truth is twofold:[1] it contains no error in its assertion (truth of assertion) and it is unfailingly faithful in its promises (truth of promise). This dual nature of truth means that Scripture is historically, theologically, and morally accurate as well as trustworthy in the promises it makes. This reliability of God’s Word is demonstrated in the fulfillment of prophecies, the consistency of its teachings, and the transformative power it holds in the lives of believers.
The impartiality and particularity of Scripture further affirm Its truthfulness. It does not shy away from revealing the flaws of even the most revered figures, nor does it hesitate to acknowledge the virtues of adversaries. This unbiased portrayal of events and characters adds to the credibility of the Bible as true.
Above all, Scripture is the ultimate standard of truth which means that all doctrine and worship must align with its teachings, even those truths of God that stand above human reason and natural understanding. For example, the doctrines of the Trinity, the Incarnation of Christ, and Justification by faith, though beyond human logic, are all affirmed in Scripture and hence are held as irrefutable truths of the Christian faith.
Scripture also serves as the definitive rule of faith and practice. Indeed, the entirety of Christian doctrine and moral guidance is contained within its pages. It is in this divine library that we find all that is necessary for our spiritual journey towards salvation and a life pleasing to God. Therefore, what better foundation could we stand on than the unwavering truth of God’s Word?
Contemplation:
- Trusting in the Unchanging Word. Reflecting on Daniel 10:21, I am reminded of the infallible nature of Scripture. In a world filled with uncertainties and shifting truths, the Scripture, being the mind and will of God, stands as an unchanging guide. So in times of doubt or confusion, I can turn to God’s Word, trusting in its unfailing wisdom and guidance.
- Embracing the Mysteries of Faith. Scripture reveals truths that are often beyond human reason, such as the mysteries of the Trinity and the Incarnation. These truths challenge my understanding, yet they are the core of my faith. And I find comfort in the knowledge that God’s ways are higher than mine, and His truth is beyond the reach of human reasoning.
- Learning from Scripture’s Honesty. The impartiality of Scripture, as seen in Daniel 10:21, teaches me the value of honesty and integrity. The Bible does not hide the flaws of its heroes nor ignore the virtues of its adversaries. This challenges me to approach my own life and interactions with others with the same honesty and fairness. I want to learn from Scripture’s example to be truthful and just in all my dealings.
- Guided by the Divine Standard. Recognizing Scripture as the ultimate rule of faith and practice profoundly impacts how I live as a follower of Christ. Every aspect of my life, from beliefs to actions, need to align with the teachings of Scripture. So help me continually seek to understand and apply its truths, allowing it to shape my life and guide my path.
Prayer (Supplication)
Almighty and Everlasting God, whose Word is truth, I come before You with a trembling heart and an earnest desire to be ruled by the Scripture of truth. You have not left us to wander in confusion or error, but have given us a clear and perfect Word, breathed out by the Holy Ghost and preserved through the ages. Lord, I confess my weakness and inconsistency in handling this sacred trust.
And I ask, Father, that You grow in me a deeper reverence for Your Word. Incline my heart to Your testimonies, and not to selfish ambition. Give me eyes that see the truth plainly and ears that delight in Your statutes. Make my soul ready to receive all You have declared, even when it reproves or humbles me. Teach me not to lean on my own understanding, but to submit wholly to Your revealed will.
Lord, I pray for discernment in doctrine. Guard me from error, from the subtle snares of false teachers and worldly philosophies. Let my faith be anchored in what You have spoken—not in tradition, not in feeling, not in novelty, but in the Holy Scriptures. Lead me to know Christ more clearly and walk in holiness more consistently through the truth You have provided.
I ask You also, dear Father, to help me obey what I know. Make me not just a hearer, but a doer as well. When Your Word commands, may I obey willingly. When it comforts, may I believe gladly. When it warns, may I tremble rightly. And when it promises, may I hold fast with endurance. Let my life be a living exposition of the truth I confess, and let Your Word conform me into the image of Christ, day by day.
And Lord, for Your Church, I ask that You raise up men who preach Your Word with boldness and faithfulness. Protect Your people from error and apathy. Cause Your Word to do its work and be glorified in every nation, tribe, and tongue.
O Father, build me up by the truth, sanctify me by the truth, comfort me in the truth, and keep me till the end by that very same truth, for Thy Word is truth.
Through Jesus Christ, the Word made flesh, I pray, Amen.
Further Scripture References for Daniel 10:21:
Daniel 10:13; Jude 1:9; Revelation 12:7; John 17:17.
[1] Edward Leigh, A System or Body of Divinity (London: A.M. for William Lee, 1654), 81.
