chapter 12

Summary and Key Events

Chapter 12 wraps up the vision of chapters 10-12 with a focus on the end times, promising that a time of great distress is coming—but also that God's people will be delivered. The archangel Michael will stand up in defense of Israel, and those whose names are written in the book will be saved. The chapter speaks of a future resurrection—some to everlasting life, others to shame and contempt—and encourages the wise to remain faithful and lead others in righteousness.

Key Verse

12:1b-3 There will be a time of distress such as has not happened from the beginning of nations until then. But at that time your people—everyone whose name is found written in the book—will be delivered. Multitudes who sleep in the dust of the earth will awake: some to everlasting life, others to shame and everlasting contempt. Those who are wise a will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars for ever and ever.