Daniel 11:32

With flattery he will corrupt those who violate the covenant, but the people who know their God will firmly resist him.

Study Bible

With flattery he will corrupt those who violate the covenant
This phrase refers to the tactics used by a deceitful leader, often identified as Antiochus IV Epiphanes in historical context. He used charm and deceit to win over those who were already inclined to break their covenant with God. The "covenant" here refers to the Mosaic Covenant, which was central to Jewish identity and religious practice. Flattery and manipulation are common tools of leaders who seek to undermine faithfulness to God, as seen in other biblical narratives such as the serpent's deception in Genesis 3. This tactic is a warning against the seductive power of words that lead believers away from their commitments to God.

but the people who know their God
This phrase highlights the distinction between those who are swayed by deceit and those who remain steadfast. "Knowing God" implies a deep, personal relationship and understanding of His character and promises. This is reminiscent of the call to know God in passages like Jeremiah 9:24 and John 17:3. The emphasis is on an intimate knowledge that goes beyond mere intellectual assent, involving trust and obedience. Historically, this group is often associated with the Maccabees, who resisted Hellenistic influences and fought to preserve Jewish law and worship.

will firmly resist him
The resistance mentioned here is both spiritual and physical. The people who know their God are empowered to stand against the corrupting influence of the leader. This resistance is not passive but active, involving a commitment to uphold God's laws and principles. The Maccabean Revolt is a historical example of such resistance, where Jewish fighters stood against the imposition of Greek culture and religion. This phrase also foreshadows the New Testament call for believers to resist the devil (James 4:7) and to stand firm in the faith (Ephesians 6:13-14). It underscores the theme of perseverance and faithfulness in the face of persecution and deception.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Flatterer
This refers to a leader or ruler who uses deceit and manipulation to lead people astray. In the context of Daniel 11, this is often associated with Antiochus IV Epiphanes, a Hellenistic king known for his persecution of the Jews and desecration of the temple.

2. Those Who Violate the Covenant
These are individuals who have turned away from their commitment to God, succumbing to the temptations and pressures of the world.

3. The People Who Know Their God
This group represents the faithful remnant who remain steadfast in their devotion to God, despite external pressures and temptations.

4. The Covenant
Refers to the sacred agreement between God and His people, which in the Old Testament context, is often associated with the Mosaic Covenant.

5. Resistance
The act of standing firm against the corrupting influences and pressures, demonstrating faithfulness to God.

Teaching Points

The Power of Knowing God
Knowing God personally and intimately empowers believers to stand firm against deception and corruption. This knowledge is not just intellectual but relational, involving trust and obedience.

The Danger of Flattery and Deception
Believers must be vigilant against those who use flattery and deceit to lead them away from their commitment to God. Discernment is crucial in identifying and resisting such influences.

Faithfulness in Adversity
True faith is demonstrated not in the absence of trials but in the ability to remain steadfast in the face of them. The faithful remnant in Daniel 11:32 serves as an example of unwavering commitment.

The Importance of Community
The phrase "the people who know their God" suggests a collective resistance. Believers are encouraged to support and strengthen one another in their faith journey.

Covenant Commitment
Understanding and valuing the covenant relationship with God is essential for maintaining faithfulness. This involves regular engagement with Scripture, prayer, and community worship.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of "knowing God" in Daniel 11:32 influence your daily walk with Him? What practical steps can you take to deepen this knowledge?

2. In what ways can flattery and deception manifest in today's world, and how can believers guard against them?

3. Reflect on a time when you faced adversity. How did your faith in God help you to stand firm, and what can you learn from that experience?

4. How can you contribute to building a community that supports and encourages faithfulness among believers?

5. What does it mean to you to be in a covenant relationship with God, and how does this understanding impact your actions and decisions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ephesians 6:10-18
This passage speaks about the armor of God, which believers are encouraged to put on to stand firm against the schemes of the devil, similar to how the faithful in Daniel 11:32 resist corruption.

James 4:7
This verse encourages believers to submit to God and resist the devil, promising that he will flee from them, echoing the resistance theme in Daniel 11:32.

Hebrews 11:33-34
These verses highlight the faith of those who, through their knowledge of God, were able to perform great acts and resist evil, akin to the faithful remnant in Daniel 11:32.