Daniel 7

Read Daniel 7

“Daniel saw a dream and visions of his head as he lay in bed.” The prophet received revelation from the Lord concerning the empires that would eventually replace Babylon on the world stage. Beyond the coming story of the Greeks and the Romans, there would eventually come “one like a Son of Man” who would command a realm greater than all the realms that would arise from the embers of Rome.

The victory of God's chosen Man would be an expression of the Lord's perfect judgment against those who imagine that they rule the world and that God and His Word can be safely ignored. Though a boasting tyrant might have “a mouth speaking great things,” and though demonic hosts might presume that they can wage “war with the saints” without adverse consequences, the “Ancient of Days” will make all things right. Judgment will be made in favor of “the saints of the Most High.” The time will come when the Son of Man and His holy people will possess “the kingdom.”

What will this final glorious dominion be like? It will not be a local empire, but will include “all peoples, nations, and languages” under the authority of the great Son of God. It will also not be a temporary empire, but will stand forever. The realm will be one of glory not only for the Captain of our salvation, but also for those who belong to Him. “The kingdom and the dominion and the greatness of the kingdoms under the whole heaven shall be given to the people of the saints of the Most High; His kingdom shall be an everlasting kingdom, and all dominions shall serve and obey Him.”

What will be the final condition of tyrants who would dare to oppose God's appointed Messiah? Rebellious rulers may proclaim their own supremacy for a season, but they will be given into the hand of the Almighty. The power of the evil one and his allies will “be taken away.” He will “be consumed and destroyed to the end.”

Daniel was overwhelmed by what he saw. “As for me, Daniel, my thoughts greatly alarmed me.”

We who worship our sovereign God can muse upon our destiny with great joy. Jesus has already atoned for all our sins through His death on the cross. His resurrection is our confidence, and His promises bring us peace. He assures us by His Holy Spirit that we will be with Him forever in a world of perfect glory.

Prayer from A Book of Prayers

Lord God, a moment is coming that will signal the end of this present era and the beginning of the age to come. On that day Your Son will come on clouds of glory, but until then we will bring the message of Jesus Christ everywhere. Grant us open doors for the gospel and give Your servants both desire and strength for the task ahead. Thank You for the gift of Your Son. His Kingdom shall never be destroyed. We enjoy many blessings of eternity even now, but we desire the revealing of the fullness of Your Son’s dominion. You have spoken to Your prophets about great things concerning men and nations. You also revealed to them good news about the coming of Jesus. He first served in a lowly condition, but He shall return with judgment and glory. We believe Your Word, and we earnestly seek the appearing of Jesus Christ. Save us, O God!