Daniel: Humble Servant, Faithful God - Spiritual Warfare in a World Gone Mad

For the next two weeks, we’re going to wrap up the last three chapters of Daniel. Chapter 10 begins with Daniel learning of a great conflict that his people would experience. Hope was kindled when Cyrus allowed the Jews to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the city. That hope was quickly demolished by the continued struggle Israel endured. Life in Jerusalem was not the bounty of a land flowing with milk and honey. Instead, it was filled with poverty and extortion. Further revelation from God in Chapters 7-9 was of ongoing suffering under the Greek prince who would come. Evil will continue to dominate and destroy the earth and especially God’s people. Chapter 11 explains a series of conflicts between Persia and Greece, culminating in their destruction.

God’s people are caught in the middle of these struggles and terrible times. But God offers them new understanding and renewed hope. God’s messengers come and indicate that behind these power struggles are spiritual, evil personalities who influence these kings and warlords, while God’s angelic hosts do battle on behalf of his people. Israel needs to understand that the conflicts of this world are the fruit of a spiritual battle of which they are a part. In addition, God offers renewed hope in Chapter 12 that whatever happens in this life, this life is not the end. He tells them of the resurrection that remains the hope of the wise. These are important truths we’ll explore Sunday. Join us.