Daniel: Humble Servant, Faithful God - Times of Tribulation

Sunday we’ll move into chapter eight, where Daniel has another vision during the time of king Belshazzar of the Babylonian empire. This week’s vision builds on the vision of chapter seven. In chapter seven, the third empire has a king that persecutes God’s people. In this week’s vision, that person is highlighted, and his horrible deeds revealed.

At least three things are revealed in this vision. First, the people of God are not exempt from tribulation. Daniel is given tragic news for his people; they will suffer intensely in the third kingdom. Second, God’s glory is not in his temple. It was destroyed under Nebuchadnezzar and this king will desecrate the rebuilt temple, worshipping pagan deities in God’s sanctuary. While God holds this king accountable, he doesn’t protect his sacred places. Third, as this pagan king leads idolatrous worship in the temple of God, Israel’s leaders join in the desecration. This not only brings shame on the nation, but further suffering as correction from God.

There isn’t much hope in this vision and Daniel is traumatized by the explanation. But there is hope because these events mark the beginning of the end of the kingdoms of men and the purification of God’s people. Gabriel, one of God’s angelic hosts is sent to interpret the vision and designates these things the last days of Israel’s humiliation. These days of darkness will end with the dawn of the Son of Man! Join us as we worship God for the gift of Jesus Christ!