Concerning the time when the antichrist sets up his “abomination of desolation”, the prophet records this: “the people who know their God shall be strong and carry out great exploits.” (Daniel 11:32b) NKJV. Let’s break this verse down so we can understand it. First of all, Daniel is writing down information given him by a mighty messenger angel from God. (Perhaps Gabriel or Jesus Himself?). It details what at least some of the people who “know” God will be doing at that time of great tribulation. The word “know” is yada in Hebrew which means to have experienced Jehovah to the point where they believe on Him and have a personal relationship with Him. In other words, they are confident He is the One to look to and serve in this difficult time. In the Greek LXX, the word “know” in this verse is ginosko, a term meaning intimate knowledge and understanding. There should be little question that at this time the messenger is referring to a future people who not only know God, but also His Son, Jesus Christ.
The word “strong” in this verse is in Hebrew chazak, meaning established, courageous, and valiant. No room for weakness, timidity, or inhibitions here!
However, the words “great exploits” are not in the text but added by the translators for clarity. And, I believe, rightly so, as “exploits” are implied. Otherwise, the verse would simply end “carry out” or accomplish and execute.
In any case, this prophecy indicates that knowledgeable Christians will be busier than ever doing God’s work during the last three-and one-half years of this age. One of the things we know for certain they will be doing is found in the next verse; “Those of the people who understand shall instruct many.” (Daniel 11:33). Christians living at this time who know their bible and all the eschatological events detailed in scripture will be used mightily by God to teach and exhort fellow Christians. In addition to teaching, a current English definition of “exploits” is as follows; bold, daring and heroic feats. We can only guess at what some of these feats might be, but when we read about what things the “heroes” of the bible accomplished when empowered by God’s Spirit and little else, we needn’t limit ourselves.
I’m confident many who are reading this will live to see these final days of this age. We’re definitely living in the end times. Are you ready to do great exploits? A mighty angel who came from the presence of the Father said you will.
Maranatha, Jim