Ralph Porter
© 2003
AUTHOR
Daniel's ministry was
long--essentially the entire length of the Babylonian
Empire + the beginning of the Persian Empire
Assume he was 20 years old when taken captive to Babylon
605--3rd year of Jehoiakim
536--3rd year of Cyrus
69 years of service
89 years old (at least) --not the days of Abraham and Moses when people
lived over a 100 years!
Contemporary of Jeremiah and Ezekiel
Jeremiah--in the land
Ezekiel--in Babylonia (among the people)
Daniel--in the court (in Babylonia and then in Persia)
Daniel was NOT a clergyman.
Daniel was NOT a prophet.
Daniel was a POLITICIAN! 1:3-5
BACKGROUND
Time of sorrow and captivity
Daniel loved God, His law, and His people.
Daniel wanted to see the salvation and restoration of God's people.
He does reveal
this--but it's going to be a long-term project.
He is called on to reveal a program which will place Israel under subjection
to gentile
(pagan) nations for a long time (2500 years so far!)
PURPOSE AND MESSAGE
Daniel reveals four purposes for writing:
1.
To reveal God's program for His people.
2.
To encourage His people in the midst of affliction.
3.
To demonstrate God's control of historyeven over pagan nations.
4.
To motivate Israel to trust God and be faithful to Him.
--Keeps their eyes on the right place in difficult times.
--We will never lack distractions--Satan wants to get our eyes off the Author
of history and onto the problems of history.
SUMMARY
THE FAITHFUL WILL ULTIMATELY TRIUMPH!
HISTORICAL
PROPHETICAL
1-6 7-12
Historical evidence of
Prophetical evidence of
God's control in history God's control in history
and the triumph of the and the triumph of the
faithful. faithful.
HISTORY
1-6
6 EXAMPLES which demonstrate that God is able to control even the pagan
governments
of this world.
Each example contains certain common characteristics:
1.
Conflict
4.
God is glorified
2. Faithfulness 5. Faithful is exalted
3. Triumph
PROPHECY
7-12
After describing the six historical examples which demonstrate God's control
over
political events, even under pagan governments, Daniel moves on to present the
program for the future.
He describes future events among the pagan nations and their results for
Israel.
He describes the affliction Israel will suffer under Gentile dominion.
GOD'S PROPHETIC PROGRAM FOR THE GENTILE NATIONS
7-8
Overview of the future program for Gentiles: Vision of the 4 Beasts
7
How does God's program for Israel relate to His program for pagan nations?
Will they survive? How?
Detailed view of the future program for Gentiles: Vision of the Ram and
the Goat 8
GOD'S PROGRAM FOR ISRAEL IN THE TIMES OF THE GENTILES
9-12
Daniel 9
Overview
Vision of the 70 Week
Daniel 10-12
Specific details
Prophetic History of the 70 Weeks
What lessons do we learn about life today from the study of this book?
The faithful ultimately triumph!
Ralph Porter
|
HISTORIC REVELATION 1-6 | |||||
|
Daniel's Personal History 1 |
Nebuchad- nezzar's Dream 2 |
The Fiery
Furnace 3 |
Nebuchad- nezzar's Humiliation 4 |
Belshazzar's Feast and Downfall 5 |
Daniel in the Lion's Den 6 |
|
Captivity of Jerusalem 1:1-2
of the young men 1:3-7
of Daniel 1:8-16
the young men 1:17-21
bless the obedient even in adverse situations
|
The king's demand 2:1-16
revealed to Daniel 2:17-23
revealed to the king 2:24-45
honored 2:46-49
answer prayer and do the impossible even when Israel is under pagan dominion
|
The king's decree 3:1-7
3:8-12
3:13-18
punishment 3:19-23
deliverance 3:24-27
exaltation 3:28-30
protect Israel in persecution |
The king's address 4:1-3
of the tree hewn down 4:14-18
pretation 4:19-27
fulfillment 4:28-33
restoration 4:34-37
exaltation 6:37)
God has set up the rulers of the earth and will re- move those who fail to acknow- ledge Him
|
The king's revelry 5:1-4
to the king 5:5-12
of the king 5:13-16
of the revelation 5:17-24
of the revelation 5:25-28
"reward" 5:29
of revelation 5:30-31
6:3)
destroy those who rebel against Him and desecrate His sacred things |
Daniel's prominence 6:1-3
leaders 6:4-9
prayer 6:10-11
judgment 6:12-19
preservation 6:20-24
ment by the king 6:25-28
exaltation 6:28)
protect His servants when they are faithful to Him
|
|
PROPHETIC REVELATION 7-12 | ||||||
|
Prophecy concerning Gentile Nations 7-8 |
Prophecy concerning Israel
9-12 | |||||
|
Overview
|
Detailed View 8 |
Overview
9 |
Detailed View
10-12 | |||
|
Vision of the four beasts
Vision 7:1-14
beasts 1-8
of days 9-12
man 13-14
pretation 7:15-18
problem with fourth beast 7:19-22
nation 7:23-28
|
Vision of the ram and goat
Intro- duction of the vision 8:1-2
8:3-14 Descrip- tion of the ram 3-4 Goat defeats ram 5-8 Little horn rises 9-14
pretation 8:15-27 Revelation presented 15-19 Identity of ram 20 Identity of goat 21-22 Identity of little horn 23-27
|
Vision of the 70 weeks
The occasion 9:1-3
confession and prayer 9:4-19
9:20-23
of the seventy weeks 9:24-27
|
Prophetic
Prophet's preparation
10:1-19
Daniel's fast 10:1-3
heavenly messenger 10:4-8
of the messenger 10:9-15
troubled spirit streng- thened 10:16-19
|
history of
Sixty-nine weeks 10:20- 11:35
Divine preser- vation of Israel 10:20- 11:1
under second and third empires 11:2-35
11:2
11:3-35 Alex- ander 3 Division 4-20 Antio- chus 21-35
|
the 70
11:36- 12:3
Irresistible king described 11:36-39
king attacked 11:40-45
12:1-3
|
weeks
12:4-13
Sealing of the book 12:4
Length of days of tribulation 12:5-13
|
Ralph Porter
AUTHOR
Daniel's ministry was
long--essentially the entire length of the Babylonian
Empire + the beginning of the Persian Empire
Assume he was 20 years old when taken captive to Babylon
605--3rd year of Jehoiakim
536--3rd year of Cyrus
+ 69 years of service
= 89 years old (at least) --These weren't the days of Abraham and Moses, when
people lived over a 100 years!
Contemporary of Jeremiah and Ezekiel
Jeremiah--in the land
Ezekiel--in Babylonia (among the people)
Daniel--in the court (in Babylonia and then in Persia)
Daniel was NOT a clergyman.
Daniel was NOT a prophet.
He was a POLITICIAN! 1:3-5
A politician willing to obey God "at the office".
High risk
BACKGROUND
Time of sorrow and captivity
Daniel loved God, His law, and His people.
Daniel wanted to see the salvation and restoration of God's people.
He does reveal
this--but it's going to be a long-term project.
He is called on to reveal a program which will place Israel under subjection
to Gentile
(pagan) nations for a long time (2500 years so far!)
PURPOSE AND MESSAGE
Daniel had four main purposes for writing:
1. To reveal God's program for His people.
2. To encourage His people in the midst of affliction.
3.
To demonstrate God's control of
history--even over the pagan nations
of the
world.
4.
To motivate Israel to trust God and to be faithful to Him.
Keeps their eyes on the right place in difficult times.
We will never lack distractions
Satan wants to get our eyes off the Author of history and onto the problems
of history.
SUMMARY
God's plan for Israel will take them through four major periods of domination
by pagan
nations.
That time is short beside the eternal kingdom of the saints.
God is in control, even in times of affliction.
THE FAITHFUL WILL ULTIMATELY TRIUMPH!
HISTORICAL
PROPHETICAL
1-6
7-12
Historical evidence of
Prophetical evidence of
God's control in history God's control in history
and the triumph of the and the triumph of the
faithful. faithful.
Because of the sorrow, affliction and uncertainty of the future, Daniel begins
with some
historical reminders.
6 examples demonstrate that God is able to control even the pagan governments
of this
world.
He uses them according to His plan.
He uses them to reward the faithful.
Each example has certain characteristics:
1.
Conflict--for the faithful.
•
Greatness, power and pride of a human leader confronted.
• Creates a conflict for God's servant.
• He must make a choice, or do something.
2.
Faithfulness of God's servant.
• Faced with the conflict, he makes the right choice.
3.
Triumph
• God's control over pagan governments demonstrated.
• The faithful ultimately triumphs.
4.
God is glorified.
5.
Faithful is exalted.
• Does not promise "human success" always (Compare Heb. 11:32-39).
Some do die by the sword and the flame, but not this time!
• God is always in control (even over pagan governments).
• Faithful always triumph in the end.
Revelation demonstrates that "the end" is sometimes after death
(compare the martyrs of Heb. 11 and of Rev.)
Daniel is not affirming that there will always be success by human standards.
Daniel is affirming that God is in control and is able to use even cruel pagan
governments as
His instruments.
Dan.
1--Daniel's personal
history--Daniel's special diet.
Dan.
2--Nebuchadnezzar's Dream
Dan.
3--The Fiery Furnace
Dan.
4--Nebuchadnezzar's humiliation and restoration
Dan.
5--Belshazzar's Feast and downfall
Dan.
6--Daniel in the Lion's den.
DANIEL'S PERSONAL HISTORY
1
The book begins with Daniel's own story.
Captivity of Jerusalem
1:1-2
He describes the attack on Jerusalem.
Daniel immediately asserts that God gave Jerusalem and its possessions into
the hand
of Nebuchadnezzar.
God was not defeated at Jerusalem.
The attack was part of His plan.
Preparation of the young men
1:3-7
Nebuchadnezzar wanted to take some of the best and brightest of the young
men
from Jerusalem to Babylon for training.
They would be trained in all areas of Babylonian culture.
Only four representatives from Judah are specifically named.
These include Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and
Azariah.
The latter three are better known by their Babylonian names: Shadrach,
Meshach,
and Abed-nego. These names were given to them after the gods of Babylon.
Daniel also was renamed
Belteshazzar.
These young men were to be trained for three years and then to receive
official
appointments in the government.
Abstinence of Daniel and his friends
1:8-16
Because Daniel recognized that the foods they were being served were
contrary to
those laws which God had demanded of Israel, he requested that a diet be served
to them in accordance with the Mosaic law. 8-10
The man who was in charge was afraid to allow his request lest they not
satisfy the
king's demands and he be killed.
Daniel proposed a test for ten days to prove whether they would be
acceptable to
the king. 10-14
At the end of the test, their appearance was better than that of those who ate
from
the king's table. 15-16
Exaltation of Daniel and his friends
1:17-21
God rewarded them for obedience to His commands and gave them
knowledge and
wisdom above that of any of their fellow trainees.
When they stood before the king, he found them ten times wiser than any of
his
astrologers and magicians.
Daniel thus demonstrates that even in the adverse conditions of captivity,
God
blesses those who are obedient to His commands.
God blesses the obedient,
even under adverse circumstances!
NEBUCHADNEZZAR'S DREAM
2
What's the problem Daniel faces in this chapter?
The prophet then tells of a dream which Nebuchadnezzar has.
The king's demand
2:1-16
While its content and interpretation are significant in that it reveals God's
program
for Gentiles, the emphasis of the story is on the king's demand and Daniel's ability
to meet that demand because of God's intervention.
The emphasis is on the miracle
itself--NOT on the content of the vision.
No king had ever asked such a thing
2:4, 7, 9, 10-11
No king had ever asked under penalty of death that his wise men tell him
what the
dream was, as well as interpret it.
No one can do what the king demands.
"Only the gods" can do it-and they aren't talking!
The king was prepared to kill all the magicians and astrologers if they could
not tell it
to him.
The decree is firmly
fixed--there's no getting out of it.
Maybe he wants to get rid of them, at least some of them.
These were his father's loyal supporters.
He may not be sure he can trust their loyalty.
This is in the year 604
B.C.--Daniel is still "in school".
How does he solve the problem?
Dream revealed to Daniel
2:17-23
Daniel and his friends take their petition to the Lord
17-18
God reveals it to him
19
Daniel praises God for what He has done
20-23
Dream revealed to the king
2:24-45
The approach to the king 2:24-30
• His wisdom is different than that of others
• His wisdom is from God. 27-28
• The dream has to do with a great image that represents the history of
the
Gentile nations from that time up to the establishing of the millennium.
2:29-30
The dream described
2:31-35
The dream interpreted
2:36-45
• Began with Nebuchadnezzar, representative of Babylon
37-38
• After him would come a weaker empire
=> Media-Persia 39a
• After that another empire would come that would rule the whole earth
=> Greece 39b
• The last empire will be stronger, like iron
=> Rome 40
• Nevertheless, it will be divided. It will remain strong, but not as strong
41-42
• In the end, there will be alliances of other powers, but not union
43
• Finally, the entire image and its power will be wounded by another,
eternal
kingdom that will be established--the kingdom of Messiah 44-45
What is the final result of the interpretation of the dream?
Daniel and his God honored
2:46-49
God is glorified
2:46-47
God's faithful servant is promoted
2:48-49
Daniel is given an exalted position of honor
• God honors Daniel because of his faith.
• Nebuchadnezzar worshiped before Daniel and honored him
NOT because of the content of the dream.
Rather, because he had done that which was impossible.
• God must be with Daniel for him to do that.
What is the main message of this chapter?
God will answer prayer and do the impossible,
even when Israel is under Gentile dominion.
Points to ponder:
What Daniel 2 Teaches Us about Our God:
1)
God controls the future.
2)
God controls the times in which we live.
3)
God answers prayer.
4)
God does the impossible
5)
God reveals mysteries
How should we face impossible tasks?
1)
Don't panic.
2)
Trust God.
3)
Take the concern to him in prayer.
4)
Do whatever he tells you to do.
5)
Give God all the credit.
FAITH UNDER FIRE
3
The third historical illustration is the record of the fiery furnace.
The king's decree
1-7
Nebuchadnezzar erects a huge golden image which all are required to
worship at
designated times.
Report of disobedience
8-12
It is discovered that Shadrach, Meshech and Abed-nego are not worshiping
the image.
Their disobedience is reported back to the king.
Three accusations:
1)
They don't pay attention to you.
2)
They don't serve your gods.
3)
They don't worship your image.
Their trial
13-18
The king is enraged that those whom he has elevated to important offices
refuse to
worship his image.
He gives them a second opportunity but they refuse.
The king's question: "What God will be able to rescue you?"
15
Their question: Whether God will rescue them-they don't know! 17-18
Their decision: "We won't serve your gods, nor worship your image!" 18
These young men would not yield, whether anyone else did or not!
Their punishment
19-23
Nebuchadnezzar becomes so angry that he has them thrown into the fiery
furnace
which has been made so hot that it kills the strong men who throw them into it.
Their deliverance
24-27
When God delivers them, they are so preserved that they don't even smell
like
smoke.
A fourth Person, like a "son of the gods" is seen in the fire with them.
Their exaltation
28-30
The result of this deliverance is worship by Nebuchadnezzar for the God who is
able to accomplish such a miraculous deliverance, and a promotion for the men
who are faithful to Him.
God is glorified
28-29
Faithful are promoted
30
What is the specific lesson we learn from this chapter?
God protects His people in the midst of persecution.
What lessons do WE need to learn from their experience in the furnace?
NEBUCHADNEZZAR'S HUMILIATION
4
Another assuring historical message is delivered by the testimony of
Nebuchadnezzar
concerning God's work in his life.
God sets up earthly rulers and removes those who refuse to acknowledge
Him.
He will deal with the proud who think they can get along without Him.
King's address
4:1-3
Nebuchadnezzar addresses the nations to tell them what God has done.
Vision of the Cut Tree
4:4-18
Daniel was called in to interpret the dream for him.
4-9
A great tree gave protection to the multitudes, but was later cut down.
10-18
Interpretation
4:19-27
Daniel was hesitant to interpret the dream because of its message, but he
finally told
the king that he was about to be humbled and to have his kingdom taken away
from him for a time.
Its eventual restoration was promised, once he acknowledged that God was
the ruler
of human governments and that God could give the kingdom to whomever He
chose.
Fulfillment
4:28-33
The fulfillment of the vision and Nebuchadnezzar's restoration to office is
described.
Pride
28-30
Judgment
31-32a
Purpose
32b
Fact
33
King's restoration
4:34-36
Result of the judgment
34-35
His restoration
36
God's exaltation
4:37
The story concludes with Nebuchadnezzar's testimony of praise to God.
What lessons should we apply to our lives from this testimony?
Two major lessons:
(1)
God's sovereignty
What difference should this make in my life?
(2)
Danger of pride
What difference should this make in my life?
BELSHAZZAR'S FEAST AND DOWNFALL
5
The fifth historical report shows what happens to a king who rebels against
what he
knows to be God's will, and who desecrates things which God has declared to be
sacred.
The king's revelry
5:1-4
The king's party is described.
What would God do about this confrontation?
Could the king insult the God of the universe and still come out unharmed?
Revelation to the king
5:5-12
The king's party is cut short because of the handwriting on the wall
5:5
None of his wisemen can interpret the revelation
5:6-9
Daniel is called in because of his ability to interpret dreams
5:10-12
Request of the king
5:13-16
Cause of the revelation
5:17-24
Daniel rejects the offer because it's useless
17
Belshazzar should have learned from Nebuchadnezzar's example to humble
himself
and acknowledge God's sovereignty 18-21
Belshazzar has fallen in the same trap
22
He has deliberately challenged Yahweh
23-24
Interpretation of the revelation
5:25-28
Daniel reveals the downfall of the Babylonian empire and of Belshazzar, its
king.
"Mene"
=>
"numbered"
"Tekel"
=>
"weighed"
"Upharsin"
=>
"divided"
Daniel's "reward"
5:29 (6:3)
Because Daniel is faithful to His God and God has revealed the future to him,
he is
rewarded.
Fulfillment of revelation
5:30-31
The king and his empire are destroyed.
He will destroy those who rebel against Him and desecrate His sacred things.
God will triumph in the end and those who are faithful will triumph with Him!
What's this world coming to? What can we expect in the future?
Some principles to learn and meditate on:
*
It still doesn't pay to rebel against God, nor to look down on what He has
set
apart for Himself!
*
You still can't play games with God and walk away unharmed!
*
God still controls history, even in pagan lands!
DANIEL IN THE LION'S DEN
6
The final encouragement comes from the story of Daniel in the lions' den.
6th example of God's control over history, even in the midst of pagan lands.
What problem does Daniel face in this chapter?
Daniel's prominence
6:1-3
Daniel has been promoted to an important position in the empire.
The leaders' plot
6:4-9
Many are jealous of him.
They want to destroy him but, because of his righteous conduct, they can find
no
fault with him to accuse him before the king.
What did they do first?
What was their conclusion?
What areas of our lives would have to change for our observers to conclude that?
How did they resolve to get Daniel?
Finally they devise a scheme.
They will get Darius to fall into their trap.
They will get him to decree that none can ask anything of any god or man
for thirty
days, except him.
Daniel's prayer
6:10-11
What decision did Daniel make when he found out about the decree?
What was the result of his decision?
When Daniel continues to pray, they accuse him, and Darius is trapped.
Daniel must be thrown into the lion's den.
How would such a decree change your life?
Daniel's prosecution
6:12-19
Daniel's preservation
6:20-24
God is faithful to deliver Daniel, and Darius rejoices.
The jealous accusers and their families are cast into the lions' den.
The king's pronouncement
6:25-28
What is the ultimate result of Daniel's faithfulness?
What does the king recognize about Yahweh?
Daniel and his God receive honor.
Daniel's exaltation
6:28
What lessons should WE learn from this incident?
After describing the six historical examples which demonstrate God's control
over
political events, even under pagan governments, Daniel moves on to present the
program for the future.
Chapters 7-12 are prophetic in nature.
They describe future events among the Gentile nations and their results for
Israel.
They describe the affliction Israel will suffer under Gentile dominion.
7-8
Emphasize God's plan as it relates to the Gentile nations
9-12
Emphasize God's plan as it relates to Israel.
Both subjects are seen in both parts.
But, the focus changes-the center of attention is different.
Each section begins with a general overview-a summary of the future.
Following the overview, each presents specific details relating to God's
program
for the group considered.
PROPHECY CONCERNING GENTILE NATIONS
7-8
Chapters 7-8--God's prophetic program for the Gentile nations.
OVERVIEW: VISION OF THE FOUR BEASTS
7
A summary of the future program for Gentiles.
Summary of the period from the Babylonian Empire until the establishment of the
millennial kingdom.
Chronologically this passage backs up.
The vision was given before chapter 5.
During 1st year of Belshazzar
553 B.C.--14 years before the Persian victory over Babylon.
Vision revealed
7:1-14
Four beasts
1-8
1st year of Belshazzar
=
3rd year of Nabonidus
=
556+3
=
553 B.C.
1
Daniel saw "the four winds of heaven stirring up the great sea."
2
"Four winds" indicates movement from all four directions.
The winds were "stirring up" ("churning up" (NIV)) the great sea.
Great sea = 1) Gentile nations, or
2) Mediterranean--central to the four empires.
The beasts came up out of the sea
3
that is, either from the pagan nations,
or, from that geographical area.
1st Beast
=
Lion with eagles' wings
=
Babylonia
FIERCE
4
Lion
=
Power--strength among the other beasts.
Eagles' wings
=
speed and efficiency
His wings were clipped
He was made like a man.
Is this a good change or a bad one? Why?
Here we're tempted by our humanistic (man-centered) view.
The significance of this change depends on whether you see it
from
man's view, or from the lion's view.
If you were caught alone in the jungle, which would you rather be?
Lion or man?
He lost the characteristics of the lion and the eagle.
He received the characteristics of a man.
Therefore, he was weaker than before.
The lion with wings was actually a symbol of the Babylonian empire
which
has been found among the ruins.
Also it's recorded that the wise men of Nebuchadnezzar's court
referred to
him:
sometimes, as lion
other times, as eagle.
So the description in this case was not a new one.
The transformation to a man is a new sign.
Daniel sees three other beasts besides.
2nd Beast
=
Bear, raised on one side
=
Medo-Persia
STRENGTH
5
This empire always had a stronger side:
First, MEDIA-Persia
Later, Media-PERSIA (after Cyrus overthrew Astyages)
It devoured much meat => has three ribs between its teeth:
Part of what has been devoured becomes part of the empire.
Three nations united to oppose Cyrus:
In 546, Cyrus attacked LYDIA-took control of Asia Minor.
In 539, Cyrus conquered BABYLONIA.
In 525, Cambyses II conquered EGYPT.
3rd Beast
=
Leopard
=
Greece
SWIFT, SPEED
6
Four bird wings on its back
Could refer to 4 generals supporting Alexander's movements.
Could refer to double speed and effectiveness of normal flying beast.
Wings
=
what carries the beast forward.
Four heads
=>
Four descendants (generals) who took control of the
empire
soon after Alexander's premature death.
331-23
--Initial attack by Alexander
323-01
--Internal competition for control
301-(198)
--Ptolemy-- Egypt and Palestine
(198-143)
--Seleucus--Syria and Mesopotamia
Lysimachus--Thrace and Bithynia (NW of Asia
Minor.
Cassander--Macedonia and Greece
4th Beast
=
Incomparable, TERRIFYING beast
=
Rome
7-8
Strong--It crushed and trampled the others
It had 10 horns
=
10 kings
A little horn came out from among the 10, pulling up 3 of the others
as it
came (Compare report on the Antichrist in Rev. 17)
Human eyes
=
intelligence (perhaps exceptional, but human)
Mouth--speaks boastfully.
Ancient of Days
7:9-12
Daniel also foresees the judgment by the Ancient of Days, which
resulted in
the destruction of the last horn.
God sits down to judge
9-10
The beast is killed
11
It's the beast that's killed.
Both the horn, its final manifestation, and the system, which he
represents.
The other beasts lose their authority, but continue to exist.
12
The empires are removed but not the nation itself.
Nations were "stripped of their authority," not destroyed. (NIV)
Son of Man
7:13-14
The kingdom of the Son of Man is established.
His kingdom and His authority are international and eternal.
Vision interpreted
7:15-18
Daniel asks for the interpretation of the vision.
The four human kingdoms will come and they will fall, but God's people
possess an
eternal kingdom.
SUMMARY: There will be a period of control by pagan kings,
but, God is in control.
In the end there will be an eternal kingdom which will conquer.
The faithful will ultimately triumph.
Problem of the fourth beast
7:19-22
The interpretation of the vision satisfies Daniel, but one thing continues to
bother
him:
The fourth beast is much worse than the others.
What does it represent?
He is especially concerned about the little horn.
The horn wages war against the saints and overpowers them
(NIV-he's
defeating them!) 21-22
Even though this is only temporary--it bothers Daniel.
Explanation to Daniel
7:23-28
Although this empire afflicts God's people for a while, this condition is
temporary.
Afterwards the saints will receive an eternal kingdom.
10 horns
=>
3 horns
=>
1 horn
=
kings
(as representatives of their kingdoms). 24
Authority of the little horn only lasts "time, times and ½ a time."
25
Time = some period of time. What does it represent?
1.
Hebrew has a third category for number: single, plural, & dual (for pairs).
Only some words use this number (e.g., pants, socks, etc.)
Here that form is not used.
2.
Sometimes the plural is used to express the dual idea (with other words).
3. In Aramaic version of Old Testament, some manuscripts use the dual form here.
2:4-7:28 was originally written in Aramaic, even in Hebrew version of the Old Testament.
The Aramaic version uses the same consonants, but different vowels (vowels were added later).
One of the main Hebrew MSS uses the dual form.
4.
Logically the context demands it here (time + ? + ½ time).
It has to be a specific designation of some time period.
5.
12:11 speaks of approximately the same time period and describes it as
1290 days (1260 = 3 ½ years). (12:6 &
12:11)
6. The parallel passage in Rev. 12:14 & 12:6 also supports this idea.
7.
The time described equals the ½ week of Dan.
9:26-27.
After this period of 3 ½ years (which equals the last ½ of the tribulation)
the
Antichrist will be judged and the eternal kingdom established. 7:26-27
The vision views a period of affliction for Israel.
BUT God controls everything.
The saints will ultimately triumph.
How does Daniel respond to this vision?
7:28
WHY?
What clues might that give us about the proper response for us?
While men's kingdoms are replaced by others,
God's people possess an eternal kingdom.
DETAILED VIEW: VISION OF THE RAM AND THE GOAT
8
The details of the period are then expanded in another vision which was
received in
the concluding years of the Babylonian empire.
The details Daniel deals with in the vision of chapter 8 don't deal with
Rome, but
with the next immediate conflict of empires, that is, the conflict between Persia
and Greece.
Introduction
8:1-2
The vision
8:3-14
This vision pictures a ram with uneven horns (Medo-Persia) being
defeated by a
goat with one horn (Greece).
The Ram
8:3-4
Persia
The great pagan king does whatever he pleases!
No one can oppose him!
The Victorious Goat
8:5-8
Greece
The goat defeated the ram and became great.
While the goat was strong, it was broken into four horns.
The vision thus far depicts Greece's overthrow of the Medo-Persian
empire
under Alexander the Great, and its subsequent division into four powers after
his death.
The Little Horn
8:9-14
Antiochus IV Epiphanes
The next event is the appearance of a little horn from out of the four
divisions.
The description of the vision seems to apply to Antiochus Epiphanes,
a Seleucid
He conquers Jerusalem, stops the sacrifices, and desecrates the
temple.
His destruction was accomplished in slightly over three years.
The great pagan king does whatever he pleases!
No one can oppose him!
The interpretation
8:15-27
Revelation introduced
8:15-19
Identification of the ram
8:20
Identification of the goat
8:21-22
Identification of the little horn
8:23-27
Antiochus is a type of the one represented by the little horn of Daniel
7, who
will reign in the last days.
Because of the typology involved, the interpretation moves from
Antiochus to
this ruler, whom he prefigures, without reference to the intervening fourth
kingdom.
In the end the reference must be eschatological because there are
things
that Antiochus could not have done, such as, stand up to the Prince of
princes, since there was no king in Israel at the time.
When the true little horn comes, he will oppose Christ, and be cut
off at
the second advent.
How does Daniel respond to this vision (8:27)?
How does this message apply to our lives today?
PROPHECY CONCERNING ISRAEL
9-12
God directs Daniel's attention to His program for Israel in the future.
How does God's program for Israel relate to this frightening program for the
pagan
Gentile nations?
Will they survive? How?
Chapters 9-12 answer these questions.
GOD'S PROGRAM FOR ISRAEL IN THE TIMES OF THE GENTILES
Gentiles are still involved but the focus changes.
Daniel 9
= Overview
Daniel 10-12
= Specific details
OVERVIEW: VISION OF THE SEVENTY WEEKS
9
The occasion of the vision 9:1-3
Historical context 9:1
As far as Daniel himself is concerned, the vision answers the questions
he had at the
fall of Babylon.
As far as the book is concerned, it answers the questions raised in chapter 8.
Fulfillment of Jeremiah's prophecy
9:2-3
Daniel read Jeremiah's prophecy which promised that the captivity
would last seventy
years (Jer. 25:11-12).
He began to calculate the years and realized that the end was near.
In fact, the fall of Babylon was a sign of the end (Jer. 25:12)
Therefore, Daniel began to pray for the nation (9:4-19)
How do you suppose he would pray? (based on Deut. 28-30?)
Daniel's confession and prayer
9:4-19
He prays concerning the covenants and the confession of sin of the people.
He prays on the basis of Deuteronomy 28-30.
He recognizes that they have come under the judgment God had
promised (28:1-14,
15-68).
They have not yet repented, in accordance with 30:1-3 (9:13).
Therefore, they continue under judgment and haven't been forgiven.
Daniel asks that on the basis of God's grace, God would forgive them and
fulfill the
covenants He had made with Israel.
Apparently he tries to do for the people that which God's people should have done for
themselves, according to Deuteronomy 30.
He was hoping to introduce God's blessings for Israel.
Summary
1st part of chapter: 1-19
Recognizes the cause of their suffering (Deut. 28-30)
• They haven't obeyed
• They must repent and turn back to God
2nd part of chapter: 20-27
God's plan to restore them and to establish the Kingdom
God's answer to Daniel 9:20-27
The revelation introduced
9:20-23
In response to Daniel's prayer, the Lord sent Gabriel with the message
that his prayer
had been heard and he was to receive special understanding of God's plan for
Israel.
Revelation and promise given to Daniel by Gabriel.
God's plan to accomplish Daniel's petition revealed
9:24-27
Daniel is informed that His desire won't come yet--but it will come!
So God gives Daniel a revelation of His plan for His people.
THE VISION OF THE SEVENTY WEEKS 9:24-27
Announcement of the seventy weeks
9:24
The fulfillment of God's promise to restore Israel would be accomplished
during a period
of seventy "weeks"-seventy "sets of seven" (years).
At the conclusion of this period six things will have been accomplished:
(Either all at the end, or 3 at 1st coming and 3 at 2nd coming
Daniel saw them as one united result of God's program)
Three purposes related to God's redemption of His people:
These purposes were accomplished (or at least provision was made
to accomplish
them) at Christ's 1st coming.
They are related to God's provision for the removal of sin
1. To finish the transgression-stop the violation of the law.
> assures the conclusion of their rebellion.
2. To put an end to sin.
> general reference to sin itself
> provision for its removal
3. To make atonement for wickedness
> payment of sin's penalty
Three purposes related to the Kingdom of Christ
These purposes will be accomplished at Christ's second coming:
1. To bring in everlasting righteousness
2. To "seal up" vision and prophecy.
"Seal up" can have two senses:
--to close it up--to limit access to it--as in Daniel 12
--to ratify, confirm, assure it--as in Daniel 9
Note how it's used in Ezekiel 28:12 "Thou sealest up the sum"
("You were the model of perfection," NIV)
--the epitome of something.
This purpose assures the climax of all that the prophets
have
promised for God's people.
3. To anoint the most holy
Could refer to the most holy place
= "Holy of Holies" => Reestablish
the temple.
Could refer to the Most Holy One
= Christ (Messiah)
This vision reveals God's program for Israel from the time of Daniel until
the
establishment of the millennial kingdom when the Christ comes- a reference to the
second coming of Christ .
Summary of the program 9:25-27
9:25
From the decree to rebuild Jerusalem until the Messiah arrived there
would be a
period of 7 + 62 "weeks" (= sets of seven [years])
The subdivision is not explained.
Basically it carries through to about the end of the century and
the end of
the construction period (around 400 B.C.)
No significant event is related to the exact date.
Another period of degeneration and divine silence follows.
9:26
At the end of the 69 weeks,
• Messiah will be cut off.
• Jerusalem will be destroyed.
Don't miss the prophetic evidence from the Old Testament for Messiah's
rejection and divine judgment!
How else can the city be destroyed after His coming?!!!
9:27
During the last week a covenant will be made.
"He" refers to the prince who will
come--a descendant of the people
who would
destroy the city.
He makes the covenant for one "week".
He breaks the covenant at mid-week.
He will then stop the sacrifices and cause abomination, until
the completion
of the seventy week period.
One who causes desolation will come with abominations ("detestable
things").
• He will be motivated by them
• Or, he will bring them into "a wing of" the temple.
The end will come and the desolator will be judged.
Interpretive problems in this chapter
[For a complete discussion of these issues, consult Harold Hoehner's
Chronological Aspects of the Life of Christ]
When does the period begin?
Daniel seems to indicate that the period is about to begin.
Therefore, the logical decree would appear to be that of Cyrus.
1. Decree of Cyrus
Oct. 29, 539 B.C.
• Return to the land
• Rebuilding of the temple
But, this decree has problems:
• City was not rebuilt then. It was neither mentioned in it nor
was it
accomplished as a result.
• Mathematically it doesn't work out. Nothing happens 483
years later.
2. Decree of Artaxerxes to Ezra
457 B.C.
• Second return to the land
• Refers to restoration of worship and to spiritual/moral
reformation
• No reference to the reconstruction of the city
• Nothing happens 483 years later.
3. Decree of Artaxerxes to Nehemiah Mar. 5, 444 B.C.
• Refers to reconstruction of the walls
• Notice the reference to the city in 9:25
Rebuild Jerusalem
Build the plaza (streets) and trench (moat) around it (walls?)
"In times of distress" fits times of Nehemiah
• Date comes out exactly right.
How do these time periods work out historically?
Mar. 5, 444 B.C. +
69 weeks (= years of 360 days) =
Mar. 30, A.D. 33
(10 of Nisan, A.D. 33)
69 X 7 X 360 = 173,880 days
(Compare Daniel's reference to 3 ½ years
= 1260 days)
Mar. 5, 444 B.C. +
173,880 days = Mar. 30, A.D. 33
Confirmation:
444 B.C.
- A.D. 33 =
476 years
476 X 365.24219879 = 173,855 days
+ days between Mar 5-30 = 25 days
173,880 days
On the basis of this calculation,
10th of Nisan, A.D. 33 = Triumphant Entry
14th of Nisan, A.D. 33 = Passover = Day of Crucifixion
10th of Nisan
= Monday =
Palm Monday = Ruins tradition; fits Scripture.
Starting the week on Monday eliminates the problem of the "missing day" in the chronological
accounts of Holy Week.
How do we explain the parenthesis between weeks 69-70?
Doesn't this parenthesis ruin the seventy week schedule?
Some contend that we invented the parenthesis in the middle of the
seventy
weeks to fit our interpretation of the passage.
But, notice that Dan. 9 itself requires the break. 9:26
After the 62 weeks (7 + 62 = 69)
• Messiah is cut off = A.D. 33
• The city and the temple are destroyed = A.D. 70
• Devastations
follow--until the end there will be war (= A.D.
70, 135, or the
end of the tribulation).
9:27 "And"
= "Then" for another week the prince makes a covenant.
Therefore, Daniel 9 itself requires the parenthesis here.
DETAILED VIEW: PROPHETIC HISTORY OF THE SEVENTY WEEKS
10-12
Specific Details concerning God's Program for Israel
The preparation of the prophet
10:1-19
The things Daniel had seen caused him great
concern--He was worried!
His fast 10:1-3
Because of what he had seen.
• Another revelation not recorded.
• Caused same reaction as 9:24-27
Dual reaction: Good news/bad news.
Fasted for three weeks because of his concern.
Vision of the Messenger 10:4-8
A heavenly messenger arrived.
Delay of the messenger
10:9-15
Explains that he left the first day of the three weeks in answer to
Daniel's prayer
10:12
He had to struggle against Satan's forces.
Therefore, he was delayed 3 weeks
10:13
Satan's purpose was to prevent the messenger's arrival.
Finally Michael, who ministers in the affairs of Israel, came to help him
so that he
was able to get through.
The messenger was sent to reveal the things which would occur in the
last days.
10:14
Strengthening of Daniel 10:16-19
He receives a special revelation.
His Spirit is strengthened and revived.
Afterwards, the messenger returns to the struggle.
• Against the Prince of Persia
• Afterwards, against the Prince of Greece
10:20
What does this episode teach us about events in the times of the Gentiles?
What does it teach us concerning our own life and ministry?
The sixty-nine weeks 10:20-11:35
Details concerning the events which transpire during the sixty-nine
weeks are
revealed.
Preservation of Israel 10:20-11:1
God protects Israel before their enemies.
The angel reveals how God has been involved, and used His angelic
representatives, to preserve Israel from their enemies.
This divine preservation of God's people will continue throughout
the difficult
period to follow.
The messenger helps Darius accomplish God's purposes.
Detailed History 11:2-35
History of the second and third empires = Medo-Persia & Greece
Persia 11:2
At the time the vision was received, Persia dominated the region.
Since Daniel is more interested in the events to come during the time
of the Greek
empire, he briefly describes the remainder of the Persian period and moves on.
Persia was still led be Cyrus (539-530) at the time this prophecy was
made.
Following Cyrus, Persia was ruled by Cambyses (530-22), Cyrus's
son, Pseudo-Smerdis
(522), Darius I (522-486), Xerxes (486-465), Artaxerxes (465-423), and four lesser
kings during the final days of decline (423-331).
The prophecy only refers to four additional kings that would
yet reign.
This leaves out Artaxerxes, and the last four minor kings of
Persia.
The account ends with Xerxes, because he stirs up the final
confrontation with
Greece. This ultimately leads to Persia's ruin.
This is the first step of the irreversible process, which continues until Alexander
conquers Persia in 331 B.C.
They never recover from their loss.
Greece 11:3-35
After a brief explanation of how the downfall of Persia begins to
take place, Daniel
presents the Greek empire and its descendants.
Alexander 11:3
Alexander the great struggled against the Persians, finally
conquering Darius III at
Gaugamela in 331 B.C.
Conflict 11:4-20
In 323 B.C., Alexander died under circumstances which are
not clearly defined.
His four generals and their descendants struggle to establish
themselves.
Division of empire
11:4
A struggle for control resulted, which continued for centuries.
Due to its location in the middle, Israel was most affected by
the conflict
between the Ptolemies (Egypt) and the Seleucids (Syria).
Conflict between descendants
11:5-17 301-198 B.C.
Ptolemy vs. Seleucus
11:5 301-260 B.C.
The conflict between these two families is first summarized (5), and then
described in greater detail (6-20).
In the beginning, Ptolemy was strong.
He controlled Palestine and protected
Seleucus.
As time progressed, the conflict between their descendants grew.
They fought a series of wars which lasted over
one hundred years.
In the end, the Seleucids became much stronger.
2nd Syrian War 11:6-8 260-55 B.C.
At the end of the second of the wars between the two families, Antiochus II,
a descendant of Seleucus, marries the daughter of Ptolemy II, in order to
protect their alliance.
When Antiochus died, his heirs did not honor the
conditions of their
treaty. 6
This action caused Ptolemy III to try to rescue his
sister and her son.
He arrives too late.
A previous wife of Antiochus II had her and her son
killed, so that she
could place her own son on the throne.
Ptolemy III attacked Syria, killed the former wife,
and conquered
territory far into the Seleucid empire. 7
Ptolemy III took a large quantity of spoils from the battle
and returned
home. 8
Seleucus immediately took control of most of Syria
again.
Some time passed before any further developments
occurred.
3rd Syrian War
11:9 246-41 B.C.
The third war involved Seleucus III and Ptolemy III.
Seleucus took control of the rest of Syria and part of
northern Palestine.
He was unable to do any more and returned home.
4th Syrian War
11:10-12 219-17 B.C.
The fourth war occurred when Antiochus III attacked the
kingdom of
Ptolemy IV.
He was successful in arriving as far as Gaza, but then
returned home.
10
Ptolemy IV returned to avenge Antiochus' attack.
Ptolemy won a great victory.
11
He killed 10,000 soldiers and 300 cavalry.
He also took 4,000 prisoners.
He was unable to take advantage of his victory.
He returned home to enjoy the luxurious life he
had there. 12
Battle of Paneas 11:13-17 202-198 B.C.
The fifth war was conclusive.
When Ptolemy IV died, he left a small child to become
king of Egypt.
Antiochus III, who had been occupied in fighting on the
other side of his
empire, saw the opportunity and decided to attack. 13
He was assisted by Philip V of Macedonia and by many
from Israel. 14
It appears that those from Israel thought they could win
their
independence from Egypt.
Actually they had it pretty good under Egypt.
The consequences of submission to Syria were fare more
serious.
In 198 B.C., at the Battle of Paneas, Antiochus III defeated
Ptolemy. 15
Following their defeat, Egypt left the area and surrendered Palestine to
Antiochus.
Thus Antiochus took control of Palestine and was able
to do whatever he
pleased with them. 16
Antiochus decided to continue on to take Egypt.
Since he was fighting on two fronts, against Egypt and
against Rome, in
alliance with Hannibal of Carthage, he decided to make an alliance
with Egypt.
He gave his daughter, Cleopatra, as a wife to Ptolemy VI.
His plan was to assimilate Egypt into Syria by marriage.
The marriage was made, but the plan was not successful.
17
Conflict with Rome
11:18-20 198-75 B.C.
Antiochus then headed to Greece to fight against Rome.
In the beginning his efforts were successful.
He conquered Macedonia, part of Thracia, and part of
Greece.
However, Scipio came to fight for Rome and defeated
Antiochus. 18
He chased him back into Macedonia.
19
The final battle was at Magnesia in 190 B.C.
A treaty was signed at Apamea in 189 B.C.
In essence, the treaty was an unconditional surrender by
Antiochus.
He had to give up much of his land and fighting equipment.
He had to pay a strong indemnization to Rome for twelve
years and send
twenty prisoners to guaranty the payment.
Antiochus IV was one of the prisoners sent.
The result of this battle was that when Antiochus III died in 187
B.C., and
Seleucus IV took over the throne (187-175 B.C.), he had a peaceful reign.
All his efforts were dedicated to collecting taxes throughout the
kingdom, including in Israel. 20
Seleucus IV was poisoned by one of his chief aids.
When Antiochus IV heard about it, he left Athens for
home.
He had gone to Athens following his release by Rome
shortly before.
Antiochus killed Heliodorus who had killed Seleucus to
take the throne.
21
Antiochus IV 11:21-35
175-63 B.C.
A new epoch in Syria's history began under Antiochus IV.
His importance is suggested by the emphasis given his reign
in Daniel.
Antiochus IV was victorious over armies that opposed him, as
well as over the
priesthood of Israel.
He named those he wanted to serve as priests.
21-24
He controlled his kingdom by power and by deceit.
After taking control of his own kingdom again, Antiochus
returned to oppose
Egypt.
In 170 B.C., Ptolemy VI decided to try to take back Palestine.
When Antiochus heard of his plan, he invaded Egypt and
conquered Ptolemy.
25
Ptolemy was defeated, in part, because his own officials
betrayed him. 26
When Antiochus conquered Egypt, he pronounced himself king
of Egypt.
He then created internal competition by naming Ptolemy
VII as king of
Memphis, and Ptolemy VIII as king of Alexandria.
As long as these two were in competition, they were no
threat to Antiochus.
27
Antiochus returned from Egypt to discover that Jason, the former
priest, had
returned to Jerusalem.
The people were supporting Jason in an attempt to stop
Menelaus from
being High Priest.
Menelaus hid in the Acra, in the center of Jerusalem.
The Jews were protesting against Menelaus because he had
robbed the
temple.
Antiochus interpreted their move as a rebellion against
him.
Therefore, he decided to attack Jerusalem.
28
He robbed the temple and took plunder also.
He left Philip of Phrygia, one of his generals, there to
maintain order.
After about a year of competition, Ptolemy VII and VIII decided
to unite their
efforts and oppose Antiochus.
He returned and defeated them again in 168 B.C.
29
This time, however, something different happened.
He was met there by the Roman general, Popileus Lenus,
who insisted that
he leave at once.
Under threat from Rome, Antiochus decided he had better
go. 30
As he returned from Egypt, Antiochus was depressed and angry.
He decided to take out his frustration against Jerusalem.
He decided that the only way to protect his empire was to
unify it.
Therefore, he would have to destroy Judaism, in order to
establish cultural
unity.
The result of this effort was a period of persecution for the
faithful in Israel.
31-33
Antiochus attacks and persecutes the faithful in Jerusalem. (1
Macc.
1:38-64)
Under the leadership of the Maccabees, the people of Israel were
freed
temporarily from their suffering.
They were helped somewhat by groups of people whose
motives weren't
necessarily right, and who weren't totally committed to their cause, but
who did bring them relief for a time. 34-35
This could describe small resistance groups, or the
Maccabees.
Many help them, but with false motives.
They join the cause, but they aren't there because of
personal conviction
and desire to help.
While there appears to be purification and repentance, it is
temporary because
the right time for permanent relief still hasn't come. (1 Macc. 2:15-27)
Antiochus' purposes weren't going to be fulfilled because it
wasn't time yet.
In the end God will deliver His people from this great affliction.
But it won't be completed until the end time that God has
established.
Transition from Antiochus to Antichrist 11:35b leads into 11:36
". . . it is still to come at the appointed time."
"Then the king (of that time) will do as he pleases . . . ."
Another king who does as he pleases will come, and this one will
take them to the
end of the time God has appointed.
Some scholars say there isn't enough basis to change persons at this point;
they think it looks like
the author is referring to the same person throughout this section.
However, it seems likely that the author changes persons in this
passage, for the following reasons:
1.
The transitional emphasis on the end of his days, and of another
time period yet to come,
implies a change 35b-36.
2.
The descriptions of this king's character go beyond those known
to have been true of
Antiochus and include some that were definitely not true of him:
11:36-37
"He will exalt himself above every god."
Antiochus insisted that they worship the Greek gods.
(2 Thess. 2:4)
11:37
He isn't interested in women.
Antiochus was known for his relations with women.
11:38-39 He worships a god that his fathers didn't know
--a god of fortresses.
Antiochus' gods were those of his fathers.
3.
11:36-39 describes the king's policies.
If this were still Antiochus, there would be no reason to
describe his policies, because
they have already been described.
It appears he's starting from the beginning again because this
is a new king.
4.
Numerous historical details are given in verses 40-45.
These details don't fit what is known about the life of Antiochus.
It seems strange that suddenly Daniel starts making so many
"mistakes" when he was so
accurate before.
The description fits what we know about the Antichrist.
5.
There is no reason to continue the discussion of Antiochus since
his story reaches its
climax in verses 30-35.
6.
His presentation as "the king" suggests a change in the person
described:
Antiochus isn't called "king" in chapter 11.
He is "a despicable person" on whom the honor of kingship is
never conferred.
Earlier kings were always called "the king of the north."
That title is not used here either.
7.
12:1 "Now at that time . . . ." affirms that this king rules during the
Great Tribulation (Matt.
24:21; Jer. 30:4-9)
70th week 11:36-12:3
Daniel uses the pause at the conclusion of 11:35 to introduce another
transition.
The transition jumps from Antiochus to the one whom he
represents, Antichrist.
When "the appointed time" comes, then the king at that time will
do as he
pleases.
This one who does as he pleases will bring on the final scenes of
God's plan for His
people.
Irresistible King described
11:36-39
The subject shifts dramatically to view the events of the seventieth
week, and
particularly to those related to the king who does as he pleases.
Description of the king who does as he
pleases--a proud king
Compare the parallel descriptions given in other passages:
Little horn (Dan. 7)
Prince who was to come (Dan. 9)
Man of sin (2 Thess. 2)
The beast (Rev. 13)
He exalts and magnifies himself (11:36; 2 Thess. 2:3-4)
He speaks against God; that is, he denies God's right to rule.
"Until the indignation is finished"
--refers to the end of the seventieth week.
--refers to the end of the period of divine indignation against Israel and unbelievers.
He institutes his own
religion--focused on himself. 11:37
He doesn't accept any other previous god.
He denies the god (s) of his fathers.
The term for god (s) used in this verse is "Elohim," as in Genesis.
Therefore some say that they must be Jews.
But, the use of the plural, in contrast to the singular uses in the
context,
implies that he is talking about pagan gods.
Therefore, verse 36--describes his denial of the true God
verse 37--describes his denial of all other gods.
He establishes himself as god (37b; 2 Thess. 2:3-4)
He honors a "god of fortresses"
11:38
This could be a figurative
reference--that is, a reference to power.
He spends vast sums of money in "sacrifices" for military activity in
order to
establish additional fortresses and to demonstrate his own great power.
The strongest of fortresses will be conquered by this "strange god."
11:39
The people of the conquered towns that honor him will be repaid
for their
submission to his authority.
He will distribute the land to those who "pay the price," that is,
who submit to him
and worship before him.
Irresistible King attacked 11:40-45
Description of the military movement:
Two possible interpretations:
1)
Two powers are involved in the conflict: the king of the south
vs. the king
of the north.
Compare the description of the forces in the rest of
chapter 11.
2) Three powers are involved in the conflict: the king of the
south and the
king of the north unite to fight against the king who does as he
pleases described in verses 36-39.
This king would then be the descendant of Rome mentioned in
Chapter 9.
They oppose him because he is identified with Israel and
helps them
(Ezek. 38-39).
It's hard to be sure which of these alternatives is more likely.
The two power view is more consistent with the rest of the
chapter.
However, no one fits that description today with the same
kind of power
over the rest of the region Seleucus had.
Rome is viewed as a western power, not a northern power.
Also, in modern history (except for the Iraq conflict), instead
of a conflict
between north and south, both powers have been allied together against
Israel.
It is easier to imagine a modern united effort of northern
and
southern powers to get Israel.
A parallel guarantee of protection made by a western
power, or
alliance, to Israel would set up the context for the events Daniel and
Ezekiel foresaw.
At the end of this period, the king would be able to establish his throne
in Jerusalem
as his international seat.
He establishes his palace between the seas
That is, between the Mediterranean Sea and the Dead Sea
by the beautiful holy mountain, that is, Zion.
In the end he will be destroyed.
Israel delivered 12:1-3
The Great Tribulation comes at that time, after he establishes his palace
in
Jerusalem. 12:1a
He breaks his treaty with them and sets himself up as dictator.
He demands that all worship him.
That's the way the Great Tribulation (the last 3 ½ years of the
tribulation) is
launched. (Matt. 24:21-22; Jer. 30:4-9)
Then comes the salvation of God's people at the end.
12:1b-3
Revelation indicates that 144,000 will be sealed to protect them from
the
judgments of the tribulation period.
Although they will suffer tremendously, they won't die.
God will protect them and in the end they will be saved.
The resurrection and the judgment
12:2-3
Now, at last, they see what the people in the midst of their suffering
couldn't see:
the final result, the climax of the great drama, the end of the times of Gentile
dominion over them.
Some will be resurrected to receive eternal life; others for future
punishment. 2
In reality there will be a pause between the two parts of the
resurrection seen
here.
However, the author isn't nearly as interested in the chronology of
the events as in
the reality of their occurrence.
He's interested in how the conflict ends.
Now the conclusion, that couldn't be seen before, is finally seen.
In Daniel 11 it wasn't time to receive the prize yet.
That victory wasn't final; it was partial and temporary.
They were still going to face additional affliction.
In 12:3, we come to the final victory.
Those who have insight (the wise ones) mentioned earlier finally
receive the
promised exaltation (Cp. 11:33 with 12:3).
In the end the faithful really do triumph.
This victory is permanent.
God's people may have lost a lot of intermediate battles, but
they eventually
win the war that really counts.
Conclusion 12:4-13
On this victorious note, the book is brought to a conclusion.
Sealing of book 12:4
The book is sealed, since its contents were not for those of that time.
They could see the basic message of God's protection, but much could
not be
understood until the end, when its details would be fulfilled, and thus truly
understood.
God will open the book for His people to understand it in His time.
Appendix: Length of days 12:5-13
An appendix is attached in which the length of the days of the tribulation is sought.
The duration is described as three and a half years.
From the time when the sacrifice is cut off, there will be three and a half
years, plus
thirty days.
The extra days allow for a transition period during which those who
know the Word
of God escape to the wilderness.
Also, 1335 days are established until the time of blessing which follows
the tribulation.
That allows a forty-five day interval between the sign of the Son
of man in the
heavens and the second coming itself.
That also allows a period of transition to prepare for the events
which occur at His
coming.
With these time indications, the book closes.
Daniel gives the encouraging message to God's people that though troublesome
times lie
before them, the One who controls human affairs will watch over them.
No one will harm them apart from His will.
God will protect those who are faithful to Him.
In the midst of God's program for Israel, which includes times of suffering,
God's faithful
ones will ultimately triumph!