The best commentary on Daniel: Faith, Prophecy, and God’s Sovereignty
Introduction
The Book of Daniel is a fascinating part of the Bible that provides a deep look into faith, prophecy, and Godโs control over everything. It tells the stories of Daniel and his friends and includes visions about future kingdoms and the coming of the Messiah. This book is not only interesting but also very important for understanding God’s plans and how to live out our faith.
Daniel is personally my favorite book in the bible, his dedication to the Lord no matter how many dire situations he is placed in continues to be strong. Heavenly Father rewards his devotion by personally safeguarding and delivering him from unimaginable circumstances.
This article will give a brief overview of the trials that Daniel and his wise men faced during their time in Babylon. The second half of the article goes into an in depth study of Daniels prophecies and how they can be applied today.-
Why Study Daniel?
The Book of Daniel found in the Old Testament is helpful for understanding how God is in charge of everything, even when life seems uncertain. Danielโs faithfulness and his visions of future events offer valuable lessons for us.
By studying Daniel, we can learn more about God’s power, the rise and fall of empires, and how to stay true to our beliefs. This guide will help you explore the key aspects of the Book of Daniel, including its prophecies and messages.
“My God sent His angel, and He shut the mouths of the lions. They have not hurt me, because I was found innocent in His sight. Nor have I ever done any wrong before you, Your Majesty.” – Daniel 6:22
Historical Context and Background
The story of Daniel takes place during the Babylonian exile, a time when the people of Judah were captured by King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon. Knowing this background helps us appreciate Daniel’s faith and the challenges he faced.
Exile and Babylonian Captivity
In 605 BC, Nebuchadnezzar conquered Jerusalem and took Daniel and others to Babylon. Despite being in a new land with different customs, Daniel and his friends stayed true to their faith. Their story teaches us how to live faithfully even when surrounded by a culture that doesnโt share our beliefs.
Overview of the Book of Daniel
The Book of Daniel is split into two main parts: historical stories (chapters 1-6) and prophetic visions (chapters 7-12). These sections show how God controls nations, highlights Daniel and his friendsโ faithfulness, and discuss prophecies about future kingdoms and the Messiah.
Daniel 2:20-21 (NIV):
“Praise be to the name of God for ever and ever; wisdom and power are His. He changes times and seasons; He deposes kings and raises up others. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning.”
Key Themes
Godโs Sovereignty Over Nations and Kingdoms
One major theme in Daniel is that God controls who becomes king and who is taken down (Daniel 2:21). This shows that God has ultimate authority over world events.
“He changes times and seasons; He deposes kings and raises up others. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning.” Daniel 2:21 (NIV)
The Faithfulness of Daniel and His Companions
Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego stayed faithful to God despite living in Babylon, a foreign land with a different culture, religion, and values. Their unwavering faith was demonstrated through several key moments:
1. Refusing to Defile Themselves (Daniel 1:8-16)
The prophet Daniel and his friends were selected to be trained in the ways of the Babylonians as seers and revelators for the king. Part of being a servant to the king included eating royal food and wine. However, the food violated Jewish dietary laws, as it was not kosher.
Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food, and he requested permission to eat only vegetables and drink water. After two weeks, he asked the men to see if they were healthier than the other Babylonian seers. After the period and passed they saw that Daniel and his men were in much better health and allowed them to continue their Kosher diet.
“But Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine, and he asked the chief official for permission not to defile himself this way.” Daniel 1:8
What I found interesting about this story is that they did not request for the meats to be killed and served according to Kosher standards, they asked to eat a vegetarian diet. This reminds me of the word of wisdom which states that we are only to eat meat in times of famine or winter.
God blessed Daniel and his mens faithfulness by making them healthier and stronger than those who ate the royal food. Their physical well-being, along with their wisdom, impressed the officials.
They remained committed to following Godโs law, even at the risk of offending the Babylonian authorities.
Babylon was a powerful empire known for its wealth and advanced culture. Danielโs ability to stay true to his faith while working in Nebuchadnezzarโs court is impressive. His choice not to eat the royal food (Daniel 1:8) shows his dedication to God’s laws over cultural practices.
ย 2. Faith in the Fiery Furnace (Daniel 3:16-18)
Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were commanded by King Nebuchadnezzar to bow down and worship a golden statue he had set up. Refusal meant being thrown into a blazing furnace. They refused to worship a golden statue as they were people of God.
Found in Daniel 3, the narrative tells how these three young men, exiled in Babylon, refused to bow down and worship a golden image that King Nebuchadnezzar had set up. Their refusal, rooted in their unwavering faith in the God of Israel, angered the king, and he ordered them to be thrown into a furnace heated seven times hotter than usual.
Despite the deadly situation, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego stood firm, declaring that God had the power to save them, but even if He chose not to, they would not serve Nebuchadnezzarโs gods or worship his image. This profound faith illustrates their trust in Godโs sovereignty and their willingness to face death rather than compromise their beliefs.
The three refused to bow down, saying, โIf we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to deliver us from it… But even if He does not, we want you to know, Your Majesty, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold.โ
As the king watched, expecting their destruction, he was astonished to see not three men burning, but four walking unharmed in the fireโthe fourth resembling “a son of the gods” (Daniel 3:25). This miraculous event not only demonstrated Godโs power but also His presence in times of trial.
After witnessing this, Nebuchadnezzar called them out of the furnace, praising their God for delivering them. This story serves as a timeless reminder of Godโs protection over His people and the reward of remaining faithful, even in the most dangerous and difficult circumstances.
They demonstrated unwavering faith by trusting in God’s power, regardless of whether He would deliver them or not. They refused to compromise their devotion to God, even in the face of death.
Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednegoโs survival in the fiery furnace shows how God protects those faithful to Him. These stories remind us that God honors faithfulness, even in the face of death.
This story is one of the most powerful demonstrations of faith and Godโs deliverance in the Bible.
3. Danielโs Faithful Prayer Life (Daniel 6:10-23)
The Situation:ย Danielโs enemies plotted against him by persuading King Darius to issue a decree that anyone who prayed to any God or human other than the king would be thrown into the lionsโ den.
Daniel continued to pray three times a day, as he had always done, opening his windows toward Jerusalem. He didnโt let the decree stop his worship or hide his faith.
Daniel was thrown into the lionsโ den, but God sent an angel to shut the mouths of the lions. The next morning, he was found unharmed, and King Darius honored Danielโs God.
Danielโs consistent prayer life, even in the face of death, showed his trust and dependence on God.
4. Trusting Godโs Sovereignty (Daniel 2:19-23, 2:46-49)
King Nebuchadnezzar had a disturbing dream, and none of the wise men of Babylon could interpret it. When Daniel was called upon, he sought God’s wisdom through prayer.
Daniel prayed with his friends for Godโs help, and God revealed the meaning of the dream to him in a vision.
Daniel gave all the credit to God for revealing the mystery, and he was promoted, while his friends were also given positions of authority in Babylon.
Daniel and his friends trusted in God’s wisdom and timing. They remained humble, giving God the glory rather than taking credit for themselves.
5. Avoiding Assimilation into Babylonian Culture
Throughout their time in Babylon, Daniel and his friends consistently resisted cultural pressures to conform to the pagan practices of Babylon. They maintained their identity as Godโs people, both in their diet, worship, and loyalty to God’s laws.
They showed that even while living in a foreign, non-believing culture, it is possible to remain faithful to God and uphold His commandments.
Conclusion
Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego remained faithful to God by:
- Obeying Godโs laws rather than succumbing to pressure from the Babylonian culture.
- Maintaining their prayer life and personal devotion, even when faced with death.
- Trusting in Godโs sovereignty and deliverance in the face of life-threatening challenges.
- Refusing to compromise their beliefs for political gain or personal safety.
Their faith and courage serve as powerful examples of how to remain devoted to God, even in the most difficult and hostile environments.
Daniel and his friendsโShadrach, Meshach, and Abednego also fellow prophetsโshow us how to stay faithful to God even when facing danger. Their stories encourage us to remain loyal to our faith.
Prophecies About Future Kingdoms and the Messiah
Danielโs visions predict the rise and fall of various kingdoms and the coming of a Savior. These prophecies help us understand God’s plans for the future.
“He changes times and seasons; he deposes kings and raises up others. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning.” Daniel 2:21
Prophecies and Their Interpretations
Danielโs book contains some of the Bibleโs most intriguing prophecies. These visions give us a glimpse into future events and the coming of Godโs kingdom.
Danielโs Prophetic Visions
The Statue Dream
Danielโs statue dream, found in Daniel 2, is one of the most profound examples of religious imagery in the Bible. In the dream, King Nebuchadnezzar sees a colossal statue made of various materialsโgold, silver, bronze, iron, and clayโrepresenting successive empires. This dream is rich with cultural context and plays a significant role in biblical prophecy.
The composition of the book of Daniel places this vision in the broader narrative of God’s sovereignty over the rise and fall of earthly kingdoms. This dream foretells the coming of God’s eternal kingdom that will replace all human governments.
In comparison to other prophetic visions, the statue dream holds a similar level of importance for its vivid portrayal of Godโs ultimate plan for humanity. The present work of biblical scholars continues to highlight this dream as a valuable resource for understanding both Godโs word and the future kingdom He promises.
A thorough analysis of Danielโs prophecy underscores its continuing relevance, making it an essential study for those seeking to understand the trajectory of world history through the lens of divine revelation.
The Four Beasts
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In the prophetic book of Daniel, the vision of the Four Beasts stands out as a powerful and mysterious portrayal of the rise and fall of empires. Found in Daniel 7, this vision describes four terrifying beasts rising from the sea, each representing a different kingdom.
These beasts, a lion with eagle’s wings, a bear, a leopard with four wings, and a dreadful, unnamed fourth beast, emerge in a particular order, symbolizing the kingdoms that would dominate world history.
The full explanation of the text is rooted in Daniel’s understanding that these beasts represent successive world powersโBabylon, Medo-Persia, Greece, and Romeโwhose rule would be temporary, giving way to God’s eternal kingdom.
For modern readers, the Four Beasts prophecy offers much more than just a glimpse into ancient history. It reveals the overarching plan of God through divine inspiration, showing that human kingdoms, no matter how powerful, are ultimately subject to His authority.
The good thing about this prophecy is that it does not leave the reader in fear or confusion, but provides hope by pointing to the final triumph of God’s kingdom. For those studying the mysteries of Daniel, this vision offers a deeper insight into how God orchestrates the rise and fall of nations, preparing the way for His eternal reign.
The Four Beasts prophecy continues to challenge and intrigue scholars and theologians today, offering a full explanation of the text to those who approach it with faith. It remains a central focus in understanding the prophetic book of Daniel and serves as a reminder that God’s sovereignty prevails over the course of history.
The Seventy Weeks
The prophecy of the Seventy Weeks, found in Daniel 9, is one of the most intricate and significant passages in the Bible, offering profound insights into God’s plan for humanity.
This prophecy outlines a timeline of seventy weeks (or seventy sets of seven years) that covers significant events in Israelโs history, culminating in the arrival of the Messiah. The strength of this commentary lies in its ability to provide a detailed framework for understanding this complex prophecy, shedding light on its implications for both ancient and modern contexts.
The Seventy Weeks Prophecy, found in Daniel 9:24-27, is one of the most debated and significant prophecies in the Bible. Delivered to Daniel by the angel Gabriel, this prophecy outlines a timeline for the coming of the Messiah and significant events related to the future of Israel. Hereโs a breakdown of the prophecy and its key elements:
Context of the Prophecy
Danielโs Prayer: Daniel was praying for the restoration of Jerusalem, as he had read in Jeremiahโs prophecy that the Babylonian exile would last 70 years. Danielโs prayer for his peopleโs deliverance prompted a divine revelation concerning not just the immediate future, but a much broader span of time.
Gabrielโs Message: Gabriel visits Daniel and presents a prophetic timeline concerning the fate of Jerusalem, the coming of the Messiah, and future events for Israel.
Structure of the Prophecy: The Seventy ‘Weeks’
The prophecy speaks of “seventy weeks” (or ‘sevens’), which most scholars interpret as seventy sets of seven yearsโa total of 490 years. The term “weeks” here refers to periods of seven years rather than seven days. Daniel 9:24 โ “Seventy ‘sevens’ are decreed for your people and your holy city to finish transgression, to put an end to sin, to atone for wickedness, to bring in everlasting righteousness, to seal up vision and prophecy and to anoint the Most Holy Place.”
The Purpose of the Seventy Weeks
The prophecy outlines six key purposes to be fulfilled within these seventy ‘weeks’:
- Finish transgression โ To deal decisively with Israelโs sin.
- Put an end to sin โ An end to the power and presence of sin.
- Atone for wickedness โ Referring to the Messiahโs sacrifice for sin.
- Bring in everlasting righteousness โ The establishment of a new era of righteousness.
- Seal up vision and prophecy โ The fulfillment of all prophecies.
- Anoint the Most Holy Place โ Often seen as the anointing of the Messiah or the establishment of the new temple.
The Division of the Seventy Weeks
The seventy weeks are divided into three distinct periods:
First Period: 7 Weeks (49 Years)
This period is said to begin with the decree to restore and rebuild Jerusalem. The decree mentioned here likely refers to the command of Artaxerxes (Nehemiah 2:1-8), allowing the Jews to return to Jerusalem and rebuild it.
The first “seven weeks” (49 years) cover the rebuilding of the city and its walls amidst “trouble” (Nehemiah’s time). b. Second Period: 62 Weeks (434 Years)
Following the 7 weeks, there are 62 more weeks (434 years) until “the Anointed One” (the Messiah) arrives.
Many interpret this as referring to the arrival of Jesus Christ, around 483 years after the decree to rebuild Jerusalem. The prophecy culminates in the arrival of Christ, described as the “Anointed One.” c. Final Period: 1 Week (7 Years)
This final week is often seen as the most debated part of the prophecy. After the 62 weeks, “the Anointed One will be cut off” (Daniel 9:26), which is commonly interpreted as Jesusโ crucifixion.
The prophecy also speaks of “the people of the ruler who will come” (often interpreted as the Romans) who will destroy the city and the sanctuary, likely referring to the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 A.D.
The Final ‘Week’ (The 70th Week)
The last “week” or seven-year period is frequently interpreted as the future Tribulation:
Covenant with Many: Daniel 9:27 says, “He will confirm a covenant with many for one โseven.โ In the middle of the โseven,โ he will put an end to sacrifice and offering.”
Many scholars believe this refers to a future political figure who will make a covenant with Israel but break it halfway through the seven years (after 3 1/2 years).
Abomination of Desolation: This figure is said to set up an “abomination that causes desolation,” an act of blasphemy within the temple, which Jesus also refers to in Matthew 24:15.
Messianic Fulfillment
The prophecy of the Seventy Weeks highlights the coming of the Messiah (Jesus) and His role in bringing an end to sin, fulfilling Godโs covenant promises, and establishing an everlasting righteousness. It also outlines judgment on Israel, particularly regarding their rejection of the Messiah, symbolized by the destruction of the temple and Jerusalem.
Conclusion
The Seventy Weeks prophecy is a profound revelation concerning God’s plan for Israel, the coming of the Messiah, and future events of judgment and restoration. While the interpretation of its details varies among scholars, the overarching message remains clear: it points to Godโs sovereign control over history and His redemptive work through Jesus Christ.
The practical application of the Seventy Weeks prophecy is immense for believers today. By studying this passage, Christians gain a deeper appreciation for the precision and fulfillment of God’s promises throughout history. The prophecy predicts the coming of the Anointed One, which many interpret as a reference to Jesus Christ.
This not only underscores the strength of this commentary in explaining the detailed timeline but also highlights the relevance of these ancient predictions for understanding the coming of Christ and the unfolding of Godโs redemptive plan.
The Seventy Weeks prophecy also lies in its ability to connect this prophecy with historical and theological contexts, making it a valuable resource for those seeking a thorough understanding of its significance.
By offering a clear interpretation and applying it to both historical events and contemporary faith, the commentary helps believers see how these ancient prophecies are not just historical curiosities but are deeply intertwined with God’s ongoing work in the world.
Messianic Prophecies
Daniel also talks about the โSon of Manโ (Daniel 7:13-14), a figure who has authority and will rule forever. This prophecy points to Jesus Christ, who will establish an eternal kingdom.
The Messianic prophecies found in the Book of Daniel offer some of the most compelling glimpses into the future Messiah within the Bible. Among these prophecies, Daniel 7:13-14 stands out as a profound declaration of a future ruler, often identified as Jesus Christ, who will establish an everlasting kingdom.
Daniel 7:13-14 (NIV) reads:
“In my vision at night I looked, and there before me was one like a son of man, coming with the clouds of heaven. He approached the Ancient of Days and was led into his presence. He was given authority, glory, and sovereign power; all nations and peoples of every language worshiped him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that will not pass away, and his kingdom is one that will never be destroyed.”
This vision depicts a figure like a โSon of Manโ coming with the clouds of heaven, receiving dominion and glory from the God of Israel. This imagery is deeply rooted in the historical background of the Jewish expectations for a coming deliverer and is woven throughout the fabric of the book of the Bible.
The true value of these Messianic prophecies lies in their ability to provide a theological blueprint for understanding Christ’s role and mission. Danielโs visions are not just isolated predictions but are integral to the overarching narrative of Godโs plan for salvation.
They affirm the continuity between the Old Testament promises and their New Testament fulfillment, highlighting the divine orchestration of history and prophecy.
In exploring these prophecies, readers gain insight into the holy things foretold by Daniel, which reveal the nature of the Messiahโs kingdomโa realm characterized by righteousness and eternal reign.
The accuracy and depth of Daniel’s prophecies underscore their true value in biblical scholarship and faith, offering believers a profound understanding of how these ancient predictions align with the broader story of redemption and the divine purpose.
The Sovereignty of God in Daniel
Danielโs book shows how God controls all aspects of life, especially the actions of kings and kingdoms.
Godโs Control Over Kings and Kingdoms
Danielโs role was to reveal Godโs control to powerful rulers like Nebuchadnezzar and Belshazzar. Through his visions and actions, Daniel showed that these earthly kings were under Godโs authority.
Key Events
Nebuchadnezzarโs Dream (Daniel 2)
Danielโs interpretation of this dream highlights how Godโs kingdom will eventually dominate all others.
The Handwriting on the Wall (Daniel 5)
This mysterious writing predicted Babylonโs fall, showing Godโs judgment on King Belshazzar and fulfilling Danielโs prophecy.
The Fall of Babylon (Daniel 5)
The prophecy came true when Babylon fell to the Medo-Persian empire, confirming the truth of Danielโs visions.
Eschatological Insights and End Times Prophecies
Danielโs visions about the end times offer important insights for understanding future events.
End-Time Visions
Danielโs vision of the Antichrist is one of the key elements of his prophetic revelations, particularly found in Daniel 7 and Daniel 11. In these visions, Daniel sees a series of beasts that represent different empires, with the final beast being especially terrifying.ย
From this final beast arises a small horn, often interpreted by biblical scholars as a symbol of the Antichrist. This figure is described as boasting arrogantly and waging war against the saints, seeking to challenge God’s authority.
In Daniel 7:8, the little horn represents a future ruler who will exalt himself, speak blasphemies, and attempt to change times and laws. This rulerโs reign will bring intense persecution upon the people of God, but the prophecy assures believers that his rule is temporary, and God will ultimately judge and destroy him.
Danielโs vision shows the Antichrist as an individual or force that opposes God, marking him as a key figure in eschatological events.
The vision of the Antichrist emphasizes the ongoing spiritual battle between good and evil, and it reveals the sovereign control of God over these events. For modern readers, Danielโs prophecy offers both a warning and a comfort.
While it highlights the coming challenges and persecution during the time of the Antichrist, it also assures believers of Godโs ultimate victory. This vision serves as a reminder of the true value of faith and endurance in the face of trials, and it reflects the timeless relevance of Danielโs prophetic message.
Danielโs later visions (chapters 10-12) discuss the Antichrist, the final kingdom, and the resurrection of the dead. These prophecies help us grasp the big picture of Godโs plans for the end times.
Practical Applications for Christians Today
The Book of Daniel is more than a historical text; it offers practical lessons for us today.
Trust in Godโs Sovereignty
One of the key messages of Daniel is that God is in control of everything, even when things seem out of control. We can trust that Godโs plans are perfect and that He holds the future.
Living Faithfully in a Secular World
Danielโs example shows us how to stay faithful to our beliefs even when we are surrounded by a culture that doesnโt share our values. His story inspires us to stand firm in our faith, just as he did in a foreign land.
We are to live in the world not of the world.
Conclusion
Studying the Book of Daniel helps us understand its rich lessons on faith, prophecy, and Godโs sovereignty. It teaches us about trusting in Godโs control, living faithfully, and looking forward to His promises.
What is your favorite book in the bible and why? Share it in the comments below!
Vanessa Rooney – LDS Mum