Daniel – Mircheal Jones

THE KINGDOMS OF DANIEL:
Chapter 2	Chapter 7
Babylon (606 539 BC): Head of Gold (37 38)	Lion with eagle wings (4)
Media Persia (539 330 BC): Arms and Chest of Silver (39)	Bear with 3 ribs (5)
Greece (330 150 BC): Belly andThigh of Brass (39)	Leopard with 4 heads (6)
Rome (150 BC 500 AD): Legs of Iron (40	Dreadful Beast (7)
Anti Christ: 10 toes- iron and clay (41 43)	Little horn (8)
Christ: Stone that smites (44 45)	Ancient of Days (9 14)

A Prophecy year = 360 days (Rev 11:2 3. 42 months = 3 1/2 years = 1260 days =360 days per year)

Times, Times, and half a time= 42 (Time= 12. Times= 24. 1/2 time= 6)

The “little horn” is Anticochus Epiphanes (but it also refers to Antichrist). He was a wicked leader who came out of Syria, one of the four divisions of Alexander’s empire. He invaded Palestine and set up a statue to Jupiter in the temple! He even went so far as to sacrifice a pig on the altar and sprinkle its blood around the courts! Imagine how the orthodox Jews felt about this! History tells us that the temple lay desolate until Dec. 25, 165 BC when the Jewish patriot, Judas Maccabeus, rededicated the temple and cleansed it; and the total number of days between desecration and dedication was 2300! (See Dan. 8:13 14.) This is a type of the Abomination of Desolation (Matt 24:15) that Jesus spoke of. Anti Christ will defile the Temple in the middle of the Tribulation and an Image will be erected to him in the Temple and everyone will be forced to worship it. (Rev. 13:11 15)

How accurate is Prophecy?? From the command to restore and rebuild Jerusalem until Messiah shall be cut off shall be 69 weeks (Dan 9:24 27). (69 X 7 = 483 years X 360 days = 173,880 days). The command to rebuild Jerusalem was given to Nehemiah on the first day of Nisan in the 20th year of Artaxexes (or March 14, 445 BC on our calendars). The verse divides the time into 7 weeks and 62 weeks (Dan 9:25). History tells us it took 49 years to complete the rebuilding of the entire city (Amazingly it took only 49 days to rebuild the walls. (Nehemiah says it was completed in 52 days (Neh 6:15) but he was in the city for 3 days before the work began (Neh 2:11)). Christ entered Jerusalem and is proclaimed as Messiah but rejected by the leaders of the People on April 6, 32 AD or exactly 173,880 days after the command to rebuild the city!! (See Luke 19:41 47 “at least in this thy day”)

Daniel Chapter 8

The Ram represents the Media Persia (20) Empire. The 2 horns represent the Medes and the Persians. One was higher than the other because the Persians were stronger. The He goat represents Greece. The great horn is Alexander the Great and 4 horns that come in his place are the 4 generals that take over when he dies (Ptolemy, Lysimachus, Cassander and Selenus).

Dan 01:- DANIEL

The Captivities The fall of Jerusalem was in 3 stages: 1) in 605BC Nebuchadnezzar captured the city (Beginning the 70 year period of Jeremiah) but as he did he learned of his father’s death. In his haste to return to Babylon he simply took some of the Temple vessels and a few of the choice men of Isreal (Among whom were Daniel and his friends Dan 1:1 4). 2) in 597BC, after Jehoiakim and Jehoiachin rebelled, Nebuchadnezzar again conquered the city and carried off 10,000 captives. (Among them King Jehoiachin and Ezekiel Ez 1:1 3). 3) Finally, in 587BC, after a long siege, Nebuchadnezzar destroyed the city and the Temple and carried most of the people into captivity. (Although Jeremiah and some poorer people were left Jer 40)

While Ezekiel ministered to the Captive Jews, Daniel bore witness to the Gentile Nations of the SOVEREIGNTY OF GOD. They needed to be made aware that their victory over God’s people was not a result of their POWER but of God’s PUNISHMENT of His people

I. GOD’S SOVEREIGNTY SHOWN THRU HIS SERVANTS 1 6 (Personal)

A) By Blessing those who steadfastly follow Him. 1 (Not eating Kings’s meat resulted in them being “ten times better”).

B) Be revealing the secret of the Dream to Nebuchadnezzar 2 The Secret which the King hath demanded cannot the wise men, the astrologers, the magicians, the soothsayers, show unto the king; But there is a God in Heaven that revealeth secrets, (Dan 2:27 28)

[The Great Image destroyed by the stone].

C) By protecting His servants in Trial 3 [The Fiery Furnace]

D) By humbling the leader of the world 4 [Nebuchadnezzar’s dream of the tree cut down; his resultant sickness and return]. Now I Nebuchadnezzar praise and extol and honor the King of Heaven, all whose works are truth, and his ways judgment: and those that walk in pride he is able to abase. (Dan 4:37)

E) By punishing those who mock Him 5 [Belshazzar’s feast, the writing on the wall, and fall of “invincible” Babylon].

F) By overruling the Law of the World 6 [Daniel in Lion’s Den]

II. GOD’S VIEW OF THE WORLD KINGDOMS 7 12 (Prophecy)

A) The Four Beast’s Kingdom 7 [Lion= Babylon; Bear= Medo Persia; Leopard= Greece; and the 10 horned dreadful beast= Rome {eventually the kingdom of Antichrist}.

B) The Ram and the Goat Kingdom 8 [Ram= Medo Persia. He Goat= Greek {whose “notable horn” was Alexander the Great}.

C) Daniel prays for his own nation and is told the order of events of Israel’s future 9 [The great 70 week prophecy].

D) What shall befall the Jewish Nation in the Latter days 10 12. This is some of the greatest Prophecy in the Bible. It is Vital to the understanding of Revelation.

Dan 01: HOW TO BE TEN TIMES BETTER

I. THE CAPTIVES 1-7 God’s judgment was finally going to fall on His beloved people. Their sin and rebellion had finally reached the place that God could no longer allow them to go unpunished. [There are 5 basic reasons given in “The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire” for why great Civilizations wither and die:

The undermining of the dignity and sanctity of the home.
Higher and higher taxes; the spending of public money for free bread and circuses for the people
The mad craze for pleasure; sports becoming every year more exciting, more brutal, and more immoral.
The building of great armaments when the real enemy is the decay of individual responsibility.
The decay of religion, faith fading into mere form and losing touch with life, losing power to guide people.

Let us be aware of the fact that America is heading down this same path also. And God’s wrath will someday fall on us also!!]

Yet even in wrath, God remembered mercy and prepared Himself a Witness in one of the greatest men of all of history- Daniel. Here is one of the great examples in the Bible of a person who decided to break away from the ordinary and do something special for God. And because of his Faith God made him 10 times better than the worldly wise and gave him glory and honor before 4 different kings. God is looking for men today that can be like a Daniel and bring honor to him before a world of unbelief.

Let’s see what made Daniel such a great man of God and apply the principles to our own life. (If you’re tired of defeat, discouragement, and doubt then there’s a lesson for you here. See how God takes problems and turns them into Pluses; How He snatches victory out of the jaws of defeat.)

Why was Daniel such a great man of God? Let’s look at what happened Around Him (His Childhood and Captivity), In Him (His Conscience), and For Him (His Commendations) and find answers that will also help us today as we face life’s difficult circumstances.

What happened AROUND Daniel to prepare him? His Formative Years: He was born about 625BC (The year the Assyrian Empire began to crumble as Babylon revolted from Assyria and the Babylonian empire was born ). In his 13th year, the mighty capital of Nineveh was finally conquered and Babylon became the dominate world power. Daniel was probably of the Royal seed (vs 3) and as such received the teaching and cultural training of a Prince.

The great Revival: Daniel was raised during the reign of one of the greatest and Godliest of Judah’s Kings, King Josiah. King Josiah came to the kingship at the age of 8 when the Palace guards killed his wicked father. (His grandfather was King Manasseh. one of the most wicked men who ever ruled Judah. He reigned 55 years, was captured by the Assyrian, repented of his sins and returned as king for a short time). At the age of 16, Josiah was converted and began one of the greatest Revivals in the history of Judah.

The King began the repair of the Temple in his 18th year and in the process of doing so found a copy of the scripture (Possibly put in the cornerstone by Solomon when the Temple was being built). Upon hearing it read Josiah called for a national repentance and sweeping changes were made in the nation’s attitude. Daniel was probably in his early teens when this Revival was at its peak. (Josiah was the last “Good” king Judah had. He tried to fight the king of Egypt and was slain. Following his death, the next kings went into sin and God’s judgment fell on the nation).

Daniel was raised in this atmosphere of Revival (He possibly also came under the influence of Jeremiah as he taught in the palace). This early Spiritual Training provided a teen age boy in faraway Babylon with the spiritual strength that gave him the Faith and purpose to carry him through the following years of tragedy and captivity.

HOW DOES THIS RELATE TO US TODAY?? Do our children receive their standards and moral strength from the world and it’s Philosophy thru TV, Rock Music, Peer Pressure, etc or do you try to have them in Church EVERY week learning about the Word of God and establishing them in a living Faith. If the bottom does drop out, and your standard of living drops dramatically; if everyone else at School is taking drugs, or engaging in premarital sex, and the pressure mounts every day for them to “join the crowd; where will your children get the strength to make the right decisions? Does our Church teach and train our Young People so that they can withstand the Pressures that are sure to come their way?? Are you giving your children the inner moral strength that they will surely need in the days ahead or are you allowing someone or something else to mold their purpose.

{Daniel means= “God is my Judge”; Hananiah= “Gracious is the Lord”; Mishael= “Who is he that is God?”; Azariah= “God has helped”. Their parents wanted even their names to testify of God}.

II. His Capture The fall of Jerusalem was in 3 stages: 1) in 605BC Nebuchadnezzar captured the city (Beginning the 70 year period of Jeremiah) but as he did he learned of his father’s death. In his haste to return to Babylon he simply took some of the Temple vessels and a few of the choice men of Isreal (Among whom were Daniel and his friends Dan 1:1 4). 2) in 597BC, after Jehoiakim and Jehoiachin rebelled, Nebuchadnezzar again conquered the city and carried off 10,000 captives. (Among them King Jehoiachin and Ezekiel Ez 1:1 3). 3) Finally, in 587BC, after a long siege, Nebuchadnezzar destroyed the city and the Temple and carried most of the people into captivity. (Although Jeremiah and some poorer people were left Jer 40)

The Reason he was taken captive Nebuchadnezzar wanted the best men of a captured country to educate and bring into the ranks of his country. In order to do this he tried to give them the learning of the Chaldeans (See vs 4 & 17) The language of Babylonia (Captives from many countries were housed there), knowledge of Astronomy and astrology; mathematics, natural history, architecture, agriculture, and mythological learning in the religion of the Babylonians

III. THE CONSCIENCE 8 16 Daniel and his friend learned the education of the Babylonians (as Moses learned the wisdom of Egypt) but knew how to consider it in the context of Godly wisdom. But they could not eat of the King’s meat because it had been offered in sacrifice to false gods. (Paul’s admonition to the Corinthians.)

The education could be controlled and used for God The eating of the meat would destroy their testimony. (Many young men were captured along with Daniel and his 3 friends but only these 4 stood for God and accomplished His will.)

He determined in his heart (Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh). His determination was to be separate- Christians are to be separate from the world (II Cor 6:14 18), keep unspotted from the world (James 1:27), and realize that the friend of the world is the enemy of God (James 4:4) [The World is the Lust of the eyes, the lust of the flesh, and the pride of life I John 2:16].

The test of his determination requested that he might abstain. Given a trial time of 10 days ended up making them 10 times better!

IV. THE COMMENDATIONS 17 21

A) From God vs 17 gave them knowledge and skill (Gave Daniel “Special” Wisdom. Because he was the Leader???)

B) From Nebuchadnezzar vs 18 20 Nebuchadnezzar found them 10 times better than anyone else. (vs 21 Daniel lived as a Witness for God among the Gentile nations for the entire Captivity Who knows if thou art come to the kingdom for such an hour as this? [Esther 4:14]).

Is God training any Daniels here today? You may not have to stand during a “Captivity” but you will have to stand during life’s Circumstances. If you were suddenly thrust into a prisoner of war camp in Viet Nam would you be a “Whiner” or a Witness?? If you were elected to Congress in the next 10 years would you be a “Compromiser” or a Christian???

Would you dare to be a Daniel? It all must start with giving your heart and life to God. A commitment that’s more than a future hope of Salvation; it’s a daily taking up of your Cross and following Christ Today! Can God count on you??

The Book of Daniel teaches us Four Principles we need to Keep during a “Babylonian Captive”:

1) Be careful about swallowing Government Propaganda- “I will not defile myself with the portion of the king’s meat”.

2) Never allow Government Idols to demand supremacy over God- Even if it means a fiery furnace.

3) Disobey laws that keep you from prayer and worship of God- Even if it means a lion’s den

4) Hold to Hope. God is still in control and He can bring down Proud Rulers (Nebuchadnezzar), replace Partying Rulers (Belshazzar), and defeat Predicted Rulers (All the way to Antichrist).

Dan 01-4 HOW DOES GOD BRING CONVICTION?

Daniel Chapter 1 By putting Christians in the place of Testimony.

1> Daniel and his friends were captured in order for God to use them as witnesses.

2> The little captive girl that told Namaan how to be cured of his leprosy (Go to Elisha).

3> Paul in the Philippians jail- Sang up an earthquake.

Be sure you are known as a Christian instead of a complainer.

Chapter 2 SECOND- By showing that only HE has the answers for the future. Nebuchadnezzar began to wonder what the future held. God revealed it to him in a dream. No one could interpret the dream and this angered him. Finally Daniel said God would give him an answer. He called his friends together and they prayed. God gave the answer and Nebuchadnezzar said, Of a truth it is, that your God is a God of gods, and a Lord of kings, and a revealer of secrets, seeing thou couldest reveal this secret (Dan 2:47).

In an uncertain world where war, crime, and disease can conquer you at any time you need a Rock to hold to (and hide under).

Are you fearful of the future?? God holds it in his hand.

Chapter 3 THIRD- by showing you can’t overcome God’s Plans

Nebuchadnezzar made an image of gold (Trying to overrule God’s plan by making the entire image of Chapter 2 of Gold) and required everyone to bow before it. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego decided to burn instead of bow and this angered Nebuchadnezzar. (The Life Application Bible list 8 excuses these men could have used to justify bowing- 1. We will bow but not actually Worship the idol. 2. We will do it this one time and ask God’s forgiveness. 3. The King has absolute power and we must obey him. 4. The King appointed us- we owe him this much. 5. We must obey the customs of this country. 6. We aren’t as bad as our ancestors who set up idols in the Temple! 7. We’re not really hurting anyone. 8. If we don’t do this then we’ll be killed and some heathen will take our place and our people will be treated roughly as a result. The one thing they couldn’t get by was “Thou shall have no other gods beside me”.

He ordered them thrown into the fiery furnace but God turned on the “Holy Air Conditioner” and the fire became a place of fellowship with God!

This brought Nebuchadnezzar to realize that God was not only A god but the MOST POWERFUL GOD- Then Nebuchadnezzar spake, and said, Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who hath sent his angel, and delivered his servants that trusted in him, and have changed the king’s word, and yielded their bodies, that they might not serve nor worship any god, except their own God. Therefore I make a decree, That every people, nation, and language, which speak any thing amiss against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, shall be cut in pieces, and their houses shall be made a dunghill: because there is no other God that can deliver after this sort (Dan 3:28-29).

Have you told God, “I’ll marry who I want to marry, get the job I want to get, live where I want to live, etc.”.

Chapter 4 Brings you to the place of admitting your own helplessness. Nebuchadnezzar in his pride refused to believe God’s proclamation 4:25 and was stricken with a disease that make him as a wild animal. Until Finally Nebuchadnezzar was willing to admit that God was truly God. What will God have to do to get YOU to acknowledge Him??

Dan 02:30 THE PEOPLE GOD USES

BACKGROUND King Nebuchadnezzar had been wondering what the future held for him and for his kingdom (2:29). During his sleep he dreamed a dream and could only remember that the dream was very important. He called his advisers to tell him what he had dreamed and then to tell him what it meant; and, of course, they could not do so. The king, in a fit of anger, ordered them all killed. [Two important notes

(1) If Nebuchadnezzar could have remembered the dream then it would have probably received numerous explanations; all of which would have been wrong since Daniel was not called at this time.

(2) This may have been another scheme by Satan to destroy these witnesses for God (as the fiery furnace and den of lions were)].

Upon hearing of the king’s decree, Daniel requested time to Pray and seek God and then report back to the King. He gathered his friends together and held a “prayer meeting”. That night God revealed the dream and the interpretation to Daniel. When Daniel came to the King to give the interpretation he made sure the king knew that THE ANSWER CAME FROM GOD and not from his own wisdom. In doing so he gave us a glimpse of the kind of People that God uses:

1. Not the Worldly Wise This secret is not revealed to me for any wisdom that I have more than any living,… (2:30). Daniel was an intellectual man (1:4) who had been trained in all the wisdom of the Chaldeans and was found by the King to be “10 times better” than anyone else in his realm (1:20) but he realized that God hath made foolish the wisdom of this world (I Cor 1:20) and the foolishness of God is wiser than men; (I Cor 1:25)

2. Not the “Naturally Endowed” Daniel was in his early twenties when this took place. The older and more prestigious men were called in before the king while this young “up start” was left to “Clean the office”. But look who God uses I Cor 1:26 29 For ye see your calling, brethern, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called: But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty; And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are: That no flesh should glory in his presence.

3. Not even the “Perfect” We are not told of Daniel’s “Faults” but we know that he, like Elijah was a man subject to like passions as we are,… (James 5:17). Over and over in Daniel’s speeches he makes the same point that Peter made when he healed the lame man And when Peter saw it, he answered unto the people, Ye men of Israel, why marvel ye at this? or why look ye so earnestly on us, as though by our own power or holiness we had made this man to walk? (Acts 3:12). Daniel was aware of Who he represented and Where his power came from.

WHY THEN DOES GOD USE CERTAIN PEOPLE? I think the answer is threefold:

1. You must be WILLING TO SERVE God can give you the ability if you will give Him You. Whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister: and whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all. Mark 10:43 44. GOD IS LOOKING FOR YIELDED VESSELS. God never Forces anyone to accept His offer of Salvation and He never forces anyone to enlist in His Service. The eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to shew himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward him. (II Chron 16:9) and He longs to use those who want to be used of Him.

2. You must be FAITHFUL in STRESS Daniel maintained his testimony even if it meant missing the kings’ meat (and possibly losing his head!!). He prayed even if it meant the Lion’s den (Now the just shall live by Faith; but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him. Heb 10:38).

When your Faith is put on trial (AND IT WILL BE!!!) you must be willing to trust in God when it makes no sense, when it involves suffering, and even when it brings you to the point of being slain. Many Christians today are “wandering in the Wilderness” waiting to die because they would not trust God to give them victory over some “giant” or “Fenced city”.

3. You must DEPEND ON GOD FOR STRENGTH God hath spoken once; twice have I heard this; that power belongeth unto God. Ps 62:11. God is a jealous God and He will not give His glory to another. You must learn that what things were gain to me, those I count loss for Christ (Phil 3:7) so that Pride in your Power or Performance will not cripple your service for God.

You must learn that you can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth you (Phil 4:13) and therefore nothing is impossible for you if God desires you to do it.

Are you a vessel God can use?? If so, He will use you not necessarily in ways you desire; but always in ways that are best.

Is there some Sin or Disobedience in your life that will not allow God to work thru you?? Confess and forsake it today.

Dan 02:47 HOW GOD WON A DICTATOR IN IRAQ

Points about the importance of Iraq. Hard to reach family members, friends, neighbors.

1) By Putting Christians in the place of Testimony:

A) Daniel and Friends in Captivity

B) Captive Girl to tell Namaan to see Elisha about leprosy

C) Paul in Jail- Sang up an earthquake

2) By showing He can see our inner most secrets. (Daniel 2:47) The king answered unto Daniel, and said, Of a truth it is, that your God is a God of gods, and a Lord of kings, and a revealer of secrets, seeing thou couldest reveal this secret.

3) By showing His protection of His people- (Daniel 3:28 29) Then Nebuchadnezzar spake, and said, Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who hath sent his angel, and delivered his servants that trusted in him, and have changed the king’s word, and yielded their bodies, that they might not serve nor worship any god, except their own God. Therefore I make a decree, That every people, nation, and language, which speak any thing amiss against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, shall be cut in pieces, and their houses shall be made a dunghill: because there is no other God that can deliver after this sort.

4) By dealing with our Pride in self ability- (Daniel 4:35) And all the inhabitants of the earth are reputed as nothing: and he doeth according to his will in the army of heaven, and among the inhabitants of the earth: and none can stay his hand, or say unto him, What doest thou?

Beltzazzer would not heed. He made fun of God’s word and work and that very night He had to face God unprepared.

Dan 03:13-30 FACING THE FIRE

Wednesday Night we talked about the coming battle of “Gog and Magog” (Ezek 38-39). In it we pointed out that the 3 major “players” immediately before and during the 7 years of Tribulation will be (1) The Russian commonwealth of nations, (2) the European Commonwealth of Nation headed by Antichrist, and (3) the Chinese/Japanese confederacy.

We determined that the Russian army would attack the Mid-East and eventually Israel where they would be defeated. All but 1/6 of the Russian Army would be destroyed during this battle at the beginning of the Tribulation and Israel will spend 7 months burying the dead. Israel will also use the weapons of the fallen Russian soldiers for fuel for the entire 7 years of Tribulation (This may be very important during the last 3 1/2 years).

The defeat of the Russian Army will allow Antichrist to be the most powerful leader in the world and, eventually, cause him to come to Israel, where an image of him will be erected in the Temple (Committing the Abomination of Desolation). This will be the sign for the Jews to escape to the mountains; and the beginning of the infamous “mark of the beast” needed to buy and sell.

Eventually, this will lead to the invasion by the 200 million man Chinese army. As the Antichrist Army and Chinese Army prepare for war they will be persuaded by Demonic spirits to gather in the valley of Armageddon to do battle with God. There the return of Christ will signal their defeat and the blood will flow as high as the horse’s bridle. After this great battle Christ will cast the beast and the false prophet into the lake of fire as He sets up the Millennial kingdom.

All of these facts are fairly easy to document from Biblical readings. You will note, however, that nothing is mentioned about the United States. I believe that is because there is no direct biblical reference to the United States in Prophecy. That leads to some important implications:

1> America will cease to be a “Super Power”. Or it would come to Israel’s aid when attacked by Russia; and it would stand against Antichrist when he proclaimed himself world dictator.

2> The world is suffering famine, disease, and death as 1/4 of its populations die (over 1.25 BILLION people). Nothing is mentioned about American help in these disasters. Besides, with that many people dying, surely, many of these will be Americans.

3> One of the only things that could participate such a worldwide famine would be the lost of America as a source of food supply. That must mean that America is no longer in a position to feed the world; and probably is not in a position to feed itself!

I THINK this will mean that America is in Chaos. It could come from the collapse of our Government (We are VERY close right now), major catastrophes (California earthquakes, Hurricanes, fires, etc), or war (Russia still has ALL their Nuclear Weapons and the Communist still want to be in control). I don’t know How but I believe it WILL happen. My concern is what Christians will do if we face the first part of this disaster before the Rapture comes.

–Lawlessness will abound. How far can Christians go in the protection of their life and family?

–Persecution will be Real- Many will Blame God for the troubles they are suffering. It will be EXTREMELY unpopular to stand for God.

–Christians will be forced to chose between family and Christian Principles as people starve and chaos abounds.

The Good News is that our Bile reading last week contained not only the disturbing prophecies about “Gog and Magog” but also the wonderful example of the 3 Hebrew Children who “Faced the Fire” of Persecution over Christian Principles and won the victory thru their steadfast faith. Dan 3:13-30

As they faced the Fire they gave us THREE PRINCIPLES OF PERSECUTION we all need to recognize:

I. PERSECUTION WILL COME- Phil 1:29 For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake;

John 15:20 Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord, If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you;

1 PE 4:12-14 Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified.

Whether from a collapsing Government or an increase in Satanic activity; Persecution will come. You can count on it.

II. GOD GOES THRU THE TRIAL WITH US(!!)- The Hebrew Children were not in the Furnace alone. God will be with you in the Fiery Furnaces you face and even walk with you thru the valley of the shadow of Death. What a Promise! What a Comfort!

III. PROMOTION COMES AFTER THE PERSECUTION- After the Trial comes the Triumph! God will not leave us or forsake us. A great day of rewards is coming.

Remember, it is Better to be cast into the Furnace of Fire than the Lake of Fire. Better Persecution WITH God than Punishment BY God. Are you ready for the troubles that are coming on this earth? Are you ready to meet God when life is over??

Dan 03:28 FIREY TRIAL

DAN 3:28-29 Then Nebuchadnezzar spake, and said, Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who hath sent his angel, and delivered his servants that trusted in him, and have changed the king’s word, and yielded their bodies, that they might not serve nor worship any god, except their own God. Therefore I make a decree, That every people, nation, and language, which speak any thing amiss against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, shall be cut in pieces, and their houses shall be made a dunghill: because there is no other God that can deliver after this sort.

What God did:

1. Sent His angels (angels minister to saints, behold the face of our father…)

2. Delivered his servants (Victory)

Why He did it

A) They trusted in him Faith is not a feeling you work up but the Word of God you trust in.

B) They changed (disobeyed and altered) the king’s words put God’s word first (Have no other Gods before me, not bow down to graven images).

C) Yielded their bodies denied self That they might not worship any god except their own God.

What happened

1. The Hebrew Children were preserved

2. God was glorified.

3. God’s men were put in a position to do much good.

Today we too are faced with “life altering” decisions:

Our Faith must be put on trial in order to:

1. Test it to prove it is genuine (Abraham’s trial)

2. Purify it 1PE 1:6-7 Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:

3. Increase Patience JAMES 1:3-4 Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.

4. Glorify God 1PE 4:12-14 Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified.

Sunday night we must decide if a couch means more than a cross

Young people must not allow Passion to overcome purity

Dan 04:- GOVERNMENT OF SELF

(1 Cor 9:27) But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.

Christ sets us free from the bondage of sin that He might crown us with a crown of glory. This crown has to do with the fact that He has made us Kings (Rev 1:6)– but our first question is over what do we reign? The answer is simple, the only kingdom any man really has is himself- We are meant to be rulers of the tumultuous and rebellious kingdom within. We see the sin that does so easily beset us and in our innermost heart and conscience we know that we are meant to be lords of ourselves. Yet how do we gain this self-control, this self-denial, that we all instinctively know is right?

We look to Laws but self-imposed laws have no power to make themselves be obeyed (We make and break our own rules). Our Conscience is but a crying out of a voice of authority; but a voice to which we find ourselves failing to listen.

All of this can be seen in the story of Nebuchadnezzar in today’s scripture. Warned by God; and by God’s man, that his pride would lead to his fall, yet he continued down the same path and ended up losing his kingdom and eating with the animals.

Today I want us to see that, Like Nebuchadnezzar, we will only be able to conquer when we lift up our eyes and acknowledge our total dependence on God. (Example of pornography addict who used porn as an escape from the stress of life- Victory came when he began to look up to God instead of down into the sewers of sin).

AREAS IN WHICH WE NEED TO LOOK TO GOD FOR HELP IN GOVERNING OURSELVES:

FOOD – (Prov 23:2) And put a knife to thy throat, if thou be a man given to appetite. (1 Cor 6:12-13) All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any. Meats for the belly, and the belly for meats: but God shall destroy both it and them.

THOUGHT LIFE- (2 Cor 10:5) Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;

GOSSIP/LOOSE TALK- (James 3:5-8) Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth! {6} And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell. {7} For every kind of beasts, and of birds, and of serpents, and of things in the sea, is tamed, and hath been tamed of mankind: {8} But the tongue can no man tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison.

Don’t allow the fact that you are unwilling to submit to God’s control of your life to drive you from your place of service into a place of rejection and living with animals. Lift up your eyes NOW and allow God to be Lord of your life.

Dan 04:27 KEEPING THE PEACE

Wherefore, O King, let my counsel be acceptable unto thee, and break off thy sins by righteousness, and thine iniquity by shewing mercy to the poor; if it may be a lengthening of thy tranquility (Daniel 4:27).

Daniel here tells King Nebuchadnezzar how to avoid God’s judgment on his Pride and in so doing maintain the “good life” he is now enjoying.

1. Replace Sins with Righteousness

2. Iniquity (sinning) by shewing mercy to the poor See Eph 4:28

James 1:27 Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.

ISA 58:6-8 Is not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke? Is it not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that are cast out to thy house? when thou seest the naked, that thou cover him; and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh? Then shall thy light break forth as the morning, and thine health shall spring forth speedily: and thy righteousness shall go before thee; the glory of the LORD shall be thy rereward.

Dan 04:37 PRIDE

4:17 This matter is by the decree of the watchers, and the demand by the word of the holy ones: to the intent that the living may know that the most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will, and setteth up over it the basest of men.

4:27 Wherefore, O King, let my counsel be acceptable unto thee, and break off thy sins by righteousness, and thine iniquities by shewing mercy to the poor; if it may be a lengthening of thy tranquillity.

4:35 And all the inhabitants of the earth are reputed as nothing: and he doeth according to his will in the army of heaven, and among the inhabitants of the earth: and none can stay his hand, or say unto him, What doest thou?

4:37 Now I Nebuchadnezzar praise and extol and honour the King of heaven, all whose works are truth, and his ways judgment: and those that walk in pride he is able to abase.

There are 3 things that every man wants from life: Significance (Meaning to life), Satisfaction, and Security. The good thing about these is that they all are found in Christ. The Bad thing about these is that they can lead us away from coming to Christ or depending on Christ. (An airplane was about to crash. The passengers were in a panic. A famous movie actor realized that his fame would not help him now. The man with a two car garage and two cars in it realized that that didn’t mean anything now. The man who had been bragging about the million dollar deal he just completed would have willingly given it all for a parachute. Meanwhile, the dedicated Christian bowed his heart in prayer and committed his soul to the God he had served and loved during his life).

Three important Principles that will help you keep your priorities

in order:

1. People are more important than things

2. Time is more important than $$$

3. What God thinks is more important than what people think

Let’s look at a case today of a man who “had it all” (vs 22) thou art grown and become strong: for thy greatness is grown, and reacheth unto heaven, and thy dominion to the end of the earth. Yet Pride came along and caused him to lose it all. That same thing can, and does, happen today. Let’s look at the Background and then draw some Principles to apply to our life.

Nebuchadnezzar the King was again troubled by a dream. Previously he had wondered what the future held and God had revealed it to him in the dream of the great image. Now he had a dream that troubled him and so he called for Daniel. Daniel told him that his pride had come before God and now God was going to show him who really ruled. He would do so by causing Nebuchadnezzar to “lose his mind” and be driven from his position where he would live the life of a beast until he realized that God was God.(The mental disease is called “Lycanthropy” in which a man regards himself as a wolf or some other beast or creature. He then begins to behave as such an animal would behave). (vs 28) All this came upon the king Nebuchadnezzar!!

I. WHAT BROUGHT THIS UPON NEBUCHADNEZZAR? (And will bring punishment upon us!!) PRIDE -Prov 16:18 Pride goeth before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.

A) It brought about Satan’s Downfall Isaiah 14:12 15 How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations! For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north: I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the most High. Yet thou shalt be brought down to hell, to the sides of the pit.

B) It “Made God Sick about His Church” REV 3:15-17 I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth. Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked:

C) It is the “Preacher’s Problem” 1TI 3:6 Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil.

D) It destroys our Love for God I John 2:15 16 Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.

(NOTE Consecrated Conviction is not Pride. I KNOW whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day. II Tim 1:12. You Need Assurance; you don’t need Conceitedness)

TODAY the Problem is that people take over much Pride in their Beauty, in their Brains, and in their Bounty; not seeming to realize that God gave them all of these and GOD CAN TAKE THEM AWAY.

II. WHAT RESULTED FROM HIS PRIDE?? (Why do some men act as “Beast”?) ROM 1:21-24 Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things. Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves:

The Prodigal Son “received” a Hog pen, Nebuchadnezzar lived like an animal, and, today, Men abuse themselves and their families, live in poverty instead of plenty; and die and go to Hell because their Pride will not allow them to submit to God.

III. HOW COULD HE HAVE AVERTED THE DISASTER? vs 27 He could have submitted to God’s Will and found abundant Life. Instead He chose to ignore God and lose it all. HAVE YOU SUBMITTED TO GOD, or are you living as if you never had to answer to anyone for your life?

God sent a Preacher to warn Nebuchadnezzar, and he still wouldn’t listen. Don’t you be that hard headed and hard hearted.

Dan 05:- BELSHAZZAR-BOAST NOT Daniel 5:-

Some twenty years pass between chapters 4 and 5, and King Nebuchadnezzar moves off the scene. He was succeeded by a son who reigned just a few years and then was assassinated by his own brother-in-law. He in turn ruled four years but was killed while in battle. The next two rulers occupied the throne a very brief time; the second of these was Nabonidus. He was actually a son-in-law to Nebuchadnezzar and was married to the widow of one of the previous kings. Nabonidus was king of the Babylonian empire at this time, and his son Belshazzar was king of the city of Babylon. This explains why Daniel was named third ruler (7, 29) [While the events in ch. 5 are taking place, King Nabonidus has been captive of the Medes and Persians for four months].

Note again how God deals with the Pride of a Potentate.

I. BELSHAZZAR’S BLASPHEME 1-4

This feast was in honor of one of the great Babylonian gods, and it took place in the autumn of 539 BC. Archaeologists have unearthed palaces at Babylon containing great halls large enough to entertain a thousand guests. They have also discovered that the walls were covered with a white chalk-like substance, which explains the matter of the handwriting on the wall. The king was not content just to drink wine to his gods (vs. 4, and see Rev. 9:20); he wanted to blaspheme the God of the Jews as well. So he had the sacred temple vessels brought in to be used at this idolatrous, blasphemous feast (see Dan. 1:2). The word “father” in 5:2 indicates “grandfather” (also in vss. 11 and 13).

Please keep in mind that the Medes and Persians were already outside the gates of the city when this feast was in progress! So confident was the king that his fortress city was impregnable that he laughed at the invading armies outside the gates. That a picture of our world today: judgment is about to fall, yet men are making merry and worshiping their false gods. “When they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them…” says the Lord.

Babylon was a strong city with walls 350 feet high and 87 feet thick! The Euphrates River ran diagonally through the city, and great brass gates controlled the entrances to the city. How could any invading army capture such a city? Well, they did!

Il. BELSHAZZAR’S BELLOW 5-9

The guests apparently could not immediately see the mysterious hand appear, but the king looked over their heads and saw it on the opposite wall. Imagine how shocked the guests were when they saw their king trembling, his knees knocking together. Wine could not give him courage now; he was face to face with a message from God. You can read vs. 7, “And the king shrieked…”

He was so afraid until he had to know the meaning of the hand and the handwriting. In fact, he offered the man who would explain it the position as third ruler of the land. (How foolish! In just a few hours Belshazzar would not even be alive and ruling himself!) As usual, none of the king’s “experts” could explain the writing on the wall, and this made the king even more concerned. How strange that he did not know Daniel, the man who had counseled his grandfather, Nebuchadnezzar. But Belshazzar was a careless youth (he was about 35 years old at this time) who was more interested in power and pleasure than in spiritual matters. No wonder his city fell!

III. BELSHAZZAR’S WARNING 10-29

The Queen Mother solved the problem. It is likely that this wise woman was the widow of Nebuchadnezzar whom Belshazzar’s father, Nabonidus, married in order to solidify his power in the kingdom. At any rate, she heard of the consternation in the banquet hall and came to advise the king. “0 king, live forever!” she said (vs.10) – and he was going to be dead before the night was over! Then she told him about Daniel and now he had advised his grandfather. Daniel was an old man now, and had been “retired” from active service. As an honored member of the official family, Daniel was probably invited to the feast as a guest; but he would not defile himself or compromise his testimony. Because of his separated position, Daniel was honored of God (II Cor. 6:14-18).

The king tried to impress Daniel (13-16), but Daniel would not be impressed! He knew that the king’s gifts meant nothing in comparison to the blessing of God; for that matter, Belshazzar was not going to be king much longer. Before explaining the handwriting, Daniel preached a sermon to the king, using the king’s grandfather as his illustration. He warned the king about his pride and sin and reminded him that God judged Nebuchadnezzar severely. “And you knew all this!” Daniel exclaimed; “yet you persist in living such a wicked life”. Now God has sent him a message of judgment that it was too late! God gave Nebuchadnezzar a year to repent (4:28-33), but there was no year for Belshazzar to repent. He was doomed.

Now for the explanation. The words were in Chaldean: MENE (menay), MENE, TEKEL (tekail), PERES (parace). (The word UPHARSIN in vs. 25 is the plural of PERES, and the letter U is our word “and” in the Chaldeans language.). In Babylon, a mina and a tekel were different weights; and the word peres simply means “to divide.” So, when the Babylonian magicians saw these words on the wall, they could not understand what they meant. But God gave Daniel the interpretation: “Numbered – weighed -divided!” Belshazzar’s days had been numbered and time was up; he had been weighed in God’s scales and found wanting; now his kingdom would be taken from him and divided by the Medes and Persians. And keep in mind that Darius was at the gates at that very hour!

Did Belshazzar believe the message from God, even after all his fear and shaking? No! We find no evidence of repentance or concern. He kept his promise and made Daniel third ruler just as though his kingdom were to continue forever. The king’s pride, lust, indifference, and self-satisfaction led to his downfall.

IV. BELSHAZZAR’S DEMISE – 30-31

Had Belshazzar studied the Prophet Isaiah, he would have known just how the city of Babylon would be taken, and by whom it would be taken. Cyrus the Persian conqueror would defeat the Medes and then come down upon Babylon (Isa. 41:25; 45:1-4). He would dig a canal that would reroute the Euphrates River, and then smuggle his army into the city under the gates!

The Babylonians had seen the enemy digging, but they thought they were going to build a mound against the city. Actually, they were diverting the river. Why was the city taken unawares? Because most of the people were drunk! It was a great religious feast day and the people were too involved in pleasure to think about defense. The enemy came right into the banquet hall and the king was slain. What a warning to our nation! We have such a pleasure-mad country today that it will be easy for some enemy to take us unawares, and history will repeat itself.

Who was Darius the Mede? Isaiah had said that Cyrus would capture Babylon and set the Jews free (Isa. 44:28-45:13); see also Dan. 1:21 and 10:1. Darius is mentioned as “king” in Dan. 6:1, 6, 9, 25, 28; 9:1; 11:1. The solution is found in the word “took” in 5:31; it should be translated “received.” Darius (Cyrus’ military leader) received the kingdom from Cyrus, king of Persia, and ruled Babylon for him. In 6:28 we see that it was a dual kingship; Cyrus was the king of the empire, while Darius ruled Babylon and the area connected with it. Cyrus entered Babylon a mighty conqueror and proceeded to deal wisely with the people, including the exiled Jews. It was Cyrus who issued the decrees that permitted the Jews to return to their land and rebuild their temple (Ezra 1:1-4; see Isa. 44:28). So, even the rise and fall of empires is all a part of God’s plan for His people – Rom. 8:28

The fall of Babylon in 539 is a picture of the future fall of Babylon (the devil’s world system) as given in Rev. 17-18. And Bible-believing Christians can already see “the handwriting on the wall.” But blind world rulers continue in their pride and pleasure, little realizing that the Lord is coming, yes, He is even at the doors (James 5:9)!

Dan 05:16a DISSOLVING DOUBTS

Dan 5:16a I have heard of thee, that thou canst make interpretations, and dissolve doubts…

The king was faced with a life changing decision. Regular means of solving the problem had failed (Flip a coin, toss an arrow, etc. Whichever way you want the coin to fall then go that way.). Now he needed a direct word from God. We too are faced with perplexing problems and need to have proper priorities. We need to understand how to obtain answers that will dissolve doubts and allow us to go forward with certainty.

These Principles will help:

I. TOWARD GOD.

A) Does it Please God? Prov 10:22 The Blessing of the Lord, it maketh rich, and he addeth no sorrow with it. If God can Bless it you won’t sorrow over it.

B) Would you want Jesus’ name on it? Col 3:17 And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.

C) Does it glorify God? I Cor 10:31 Whether therfore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.

D) Would you want to be doing this when the Lord returns? Matt 24:44 Therefore be ye also ready; for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.

II. TOWARD MAN.

A) Will it cause others to stumble. I Cor 8:9 But take heed lest by any means this liberty of yours become a stumbling block to them that are weak.

B) Is it to please men or God? Col 3:23 And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men.

C) Does it promote Love? Rom 13:10 Love worketh no ill to his neighbor; therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.

WHAT ARE THE CONSEQUENCES??? Gal 6:7 Be no deceived, God is not mocked; for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.

In addition to the PRINCIPLES you need to apply PATIENCE. Ps 32:9 Be ye not as the horse, or as the mule, which have no understanding: whose mouth must be held in with bit and bridle, lest they come near unto thee. The mule is stubborn with a tendency to hold back when he is supposed to go forward. The horse is impulsive and must be held in check with a bit lest he run away. You must learn that God has times as well as Purposes. God can grow a mushroom overnight but it takes time to grow an oak! It took Joseph 13 years to prepare for becoming Egypt’s prime minister. It took Moses 80 years to prepare for 40 years work. David was anointed King as a boy but he spent many desperate days in the desert fleeing for his life before ascending to the throne (And wrote many of the Psalms!!). Abraham tried to have a son at 86 but ended up in trouble because God wanted him to be 100.

FAITH is making decisions based on the Principles God has given us in His word and then waiting on Him to bring the results at the proper time.

Dan 05:22-30 ARE YOU ON THE LEVEL WITH GOD?

And thou his son, O Belshazzar, hast not humbled thine heart [PRIDE], though thou knewest all this [FOREKNOWLEDGE]; But hast lifted up thyself against the Lord of heaven {REBELLION]; and they have brought the vessels of his house before thee, and thou, and thy lords, thy wives, and thy concubines, have drunk wine in them; [DESECRATION] and thou hast praised the gods of silver, and gold, of brass, iron, wood, and stone, which see not, nor hear, nor know [IDOLATRY]: and the God in whose hand thy breath is, and whose are all thy ways, hast thou not glorified: Then was the part of the hand sent from him; and this writing was written. And this is the writing that was written, MENE, MENE, TEKEL, UPHARSIN. This is the interpretation of the thing: MENE; God hath numbered thy kingdom, and finished it. TEKEL; Thou art weighed in the balances, and art found wanting. PERES; Thy kingdom is divided, and given to the Medes and Persians. Then commanded Belshazzar, and they clothed Daniel with scarlet, and put a chain of gold about his neck, and made a proclamation concerning him, that he should be the third ruler in the kingdom. In that night was Belshazzar the king of the Chaldeans slain. (Daniel 5:22-30).

An Unknown God cannot be trusted, served, or worshipped correctly. Martin Luther said, “Your thoughts of God are too human” and that is exactly the problem today. God is not a feel good friend or a “wink at your badness” grandfather. He is the “God in whose hand thy breath is!” and you insult Him or ignore Him at your own peril (As Belshazzar learned!).

At the pleasure of God the Red Sea divided and its waters stood up as walls (Exo 14). On another occasion the sun stood still for Joshua (Josh 10); and went backward ten degrees on the dial for Hezekiah (Isa 38:8). To provide for his servant, God made ravens to carry food to Elijah (I Kings 17), to prove His power He made iron to swim on top of the waters (II Kings 6:5), to show His Protection the lions were tamed in Daniel’s lion’s den, and to show His Support for His people the Son of God walked in the fire with the three Hebrews children.

Here are some things you need to know about God:

God acts independently of all outside forces: And all the inhabitants of the earth are reputed as nothing: and he doeth according to his will in the army of heaven, and among the inhabitants of the earth: and none can stay his hand, or say unto him, What doest thou? (Daniel 4:35).
Nothing that man does or invents changes what God determines to do: There are many devices in a man’s heart; nevertheless the counsel of the LORD, that shall stand (Proverbs 19:21).
Nothing takes God by surprise: Known unto God are all his works from the beginning of the world (Acts 15:18).
God does not change His mind because something changes. God sees everything from beginning to end at one time: Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning (James 1:17).
Nothing happens that God is not aware of: The eyes of the LORD are in every place, beholding the evil and the good (Proverbs 15:3). What a great joy this should bring to Christians as they recognize that nothing that happens in our life is a surprise to God. What a Warning this should be to sinners as they realized God will judge them.

During biblical times weighing something involved placing the object to be weighed on one side of a scale and known weights on the other side until the scales became level (hence our term for something being right meant it was “on the level”). When God weighs the various components of your life against the principles of the word of God will He find you are “on the level”?

It is interesting to notice some things in the Bible that God weighs- the wind and waters (Job 28:25) and the dust of the earth and the majesty of the mountains (Isaiah 40:12). It is also revealing to see some of the things about people that God weighs.

What we do- our actions: Talk no more so exceeding proudly; let not arrogancy come out of your mouth: for the LORD is a God of knowledge, and by him actions are weighed (1 Sam 2:3). From the very beginning with Adam and Eve we learn that Mankind wishes to have no witness to his sins, no searcher of his heart, and no judge of his deeds. No wonder they fear the words of Psalms 90:8 Thou hast set our iniquities before thee, our secret sins in the light of thy countenance. We try to cover our sins with fig leaves or excuse them by blaming someone else but none of these things change the fact that “all have sinned and come short of the glory of God” (Rom 3:23).
Why we do things- our motivation: All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but the LORD weigheth the spirits (Proverbs 16:2). And when Simon saw that through laying on of the apostles’ hands the Holy Ghost was given, he offered them money, Saying, Give me also this power, that on whomsoever I lay hands, he may receive the Holy Ghost. But Peter said unto him, Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money. Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter: for thy heart is not right in the sight of God. Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the thought of thine heart may be forgiven thee. For I perceive that thou art in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity. (Acts 8:18-23).
Where we go- our daily walk: The way of the just is uprightness: thou, most upright, dost weigh the path of the just (Isaiah 26:7). “Be careful little feet”
How we deal with life situations- our character: Let me be weighed in an even balance, that God may know mine integrity (Job 31:6). Choosing to choose God’s way in all of life’s choices
But, most importantly, God weighs our response to who He is: Thou art weighed in the balances, and art found wanting (Daniel 5:27). And thou his son, O Belshazzar, hast not humbled thine heart, though thou knewest all this; But hast lifted up thyself against the Lord of heaven; and they have brought the vessels of his house before thee, and thou, and thy lords, thy wives, and thy concubines, have drunk wine in them; and thou hast praised the gods of silver, and gold, of brass, iron, wood, and stone, which see not, nor hear, nor know: and the God in whose hand thy breath is, and whose are all thy ways, hast thou not glorified:

Belshazzar made the fatal mistake of believing that he was not totally accountable to God. He forgot that God held his life breath in His hands and HIS PURPOSE IN LIFE WAS TO GLORIFY GOD- We fall short of this glory when we use our time, talent, or treasure without regard to God’s will, work or word.

We must all stand before God’s “weighed in the balance” scales where we will receive either rewards or rejection. Are you “on the level” with God?

Dan 06:- LIVING WITH LIONS

Satan’s Attack:

1-TALK accuses us to God; God to us; and us to others. He also accuses us to ourself.

2. TEMPTATION Self Rule- Needs of Flesh. Soul Rule- Pride. Satan Rule- Worship Satan and get what you really want.

3. TRIALS (Fiery)

1 Pet 5:8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:

REASONS FOR PERSECUTION 2 Tim 3:12 Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.

1) Jealousy- vs 3-4 (See reason for Deacons in Acts 6)

2) Godly Living- 5 Phil 1:29 For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake;

3) Manipulation 6-8 Told Darius one thing but wanted to accomplish another.

REACTIONS TO PERSECUTION- Remain faithful to God and your calling 10

RIGORS OF PERSECUTION

1) Slander by Enemies- 11-13

2) Heartbreak by Friends 14

3) Unavoidable actions 15-18

REMEMBER- Satan can do nothing without Divine Permission (Job). God builds a hedge around His people and There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it. (1 Cor 10:13)

RESULTS OF PERSECUTION

1) King- Fasted, Concerned 18-20

2) Daniel- Angelic Protection, Heavenly intervention 21-23 Victory-28

3) Persecutors- Destruction- Self, Family

4) God- Exalted 2 Chr 16:9 For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward him.

1 John 4:4 Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.

This is not true for Sinners. In the case of Sinners, Satan can:

1. TRAP you- 2 Tim 2:25-26 In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; 26 And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.

2. CONTROL You- John 8:44 Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it.

2 Pet 2:19-21 While they promise them liberty, they themselves are the servants of corruption: for of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage. 20 For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning. 21 For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them.

2 Tim 4:16-17 At my first answer no man stood with me, but all men forsook me: I pray God that it may not be laid to their charge. 17 Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me; that by me the preaching might be fully known, and that all the Gentiles might hear: and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion.

Dan 06:- LIVING WITH LIONS2

Life is Good- but sometimes it turns bad! How do you survive when Life suddenly throws you a curve and you end up in a room full of Lions?

I. REASONS FOR BEING THROWN INTO A LION’S DEN

1) Pride / Jealousy- vs 3-4 “Then was Daniel preferred above the presidents” (See reason for Deacons in Acts 6)

2) Persecution- Godly Living- 5 Then said these men, We shall not find any occasion against this Daniel, except we find it against him concerning the law of his God. (Daniel 6:5)

Phil 1:29 For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake; 2 Tim 3:12 Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.

3) Politics 6-8 Told Darius one thing but wanted to accomplish another.

How does Satan come at us as a Lion Today? 1 Pet 5:8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:

1- SATAN ATTACKS US THROUGH TALK :

A) Accuses us to God- And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night. (Revelation 12:10)

B) Accuses God to us- And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die: For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil. (Genesis 3:4-5)

C) Accuses Us to Others and Others to Us- Mine enemies speak evil of me, When shall he die, and his name perish? (Psalms 41:5)

To speak evil of no man, to be no brawlers, but gentle, shewing all meekness unto all men. (Titus 3:2)

D) Accuses us to our self. –For if our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart, and knoweth all things. (1 John 3:20)

2. SATAN ATTACTS US THROUGH TEMPTATION (Temptation of Jesus)

A) Self Needs- Needs of Flesh.

B) Soul Needs- Pride.

C) Satan Needs- Worship Satan and get what you really want.

3. SATAN ATTACKS US THROUGH TRIALS Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: (1 Peter 4:12)

A) Trials of Faithfulness / Faith- Daniel (Faith denies self and take up the Cross. Flesh cries it is better to be a free man in Hell than a slave in Heaven so let me do my own thing).

B) Trials of Family- If Satan can not defeat you then he will try to defeat someone whose defeat will defeat you- Attacked Job through Family.

C) Trials of Fortune- Too Much or Too Little- Remove far from me vanity and lies: give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with food convenient for me: Lest I be full, and deny thee, and say, Who is the LORD? or lest I be poor, and steal, and take the name of my God in vain. (Proverbs 30:8-9)

II. REACTIONS TO BEING THROWN IN LION’S DEN-

A) Abandon Religion- Book of Hebrews- Heb 10: 35-38

B) Become a little religious- Lions destroyed the Samaritans. II Kings 17

C) Remain faithful to God and your calling vs 10

RIGORS OF PERSECUTION

1) Slander by Enemies- 11-13

2) Heartbreak by Friends 14

3) Unavoidable actions 15-18

RESULTS OF PERSECUTION

1) King- Fasted, Concerned 18-20

2) Daniel- Angelic Protection, Heavenly intervention 21-23 Victory-28

3) Persecutors- Destruction- Self, Family

4) God- Exalted 2 Chr 16:9 For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward him.

1 John 4:4 Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.

This is not true for Sinners. In the case of Sinners, Satan can:

1. TRAP you- 2 Tim 2:25 26 In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; 26 And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.

2 Pet 2:19 21 While they promise them liberty, they themselves are the servants of corruption: for of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage. 20 For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning. 21 For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them.

2 Tim 4:16 17 At my first answer no man stood with me, but all men forsook me: I pray God that it may not be laid to their charge. 17 Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me; that by me the preaching might be fully known, and that all the Gentiles might hear: and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion.

Dan 06:- THE CHARACTER OF A LION TAMER

As Christians, we realize that we (Eph 6:12) wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Sometimes this means Satan comes against us as an “angel of light” (2 Cor 11:14) to confuse us. Sometimes he comes as a tempter to defeat us (Matt 4:-). And sometimes he comes as a “roaring lion” (I Pet 5:8) to destroy us.

The book of Daniel shows us how people won the victory in each of these situations- In Chapter one Satan attempts to defeat Daniel as an “angel of Light” by getting him to believe he needs the better way of the Babylonians to survive. In Chapter three Satan tempts the 3 Hebrew Children to simply bow as a matter of courtesy as befitted their high position. And in today’s chapter, Satan uses the jealousy of other men to come against Daniel and throw him into the lion’s den.

Our job is to learn to distinguish Satan in whatever method he uses and then to defeat him in the Power of God. And I think we can learn a lot about how to defeat Satan’s Attacks by examining the Character of Daniel as described in this chapter.

1) He was a GOOD MANAGER-(Dan 6:1-2) It pleased Darius to set over the kingdom an hundred and twenty princes, which should be over the whole kingdom; {2} And over these three presidents; of whom Daniel was first: that the princes might give accounts unto them, and the king should have no damage. God likes ORGANIZATION and he expects His people to be good managers (1 Cor 4:2).

2) He had an “EXCELLENT SPIRIT”- (Dan 6:3) Then this Daniel was preferred above the presidents and princes, because an excellent spirit was in him; and the king thought to set him over the whole realm. Your attitude and demeanor will have a great deal to do with your success.

3) He had EXEMPLARY BEHAVIOR- (Dan 6:4) Then the presidents and princes sought to find occasion against Daniel concerning the kingdom; but they could find none occasion nor fault; forasmuch as he was faithful, neither was there any error or fault found in him. May you ever live so that the only fault people can find in you will be about your service for God!

4) He was STEADFAST in his RELATIONSHIP with GOD- (Dan 6:10) Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went into his house; and his windows being open in his chamber toward Jerusalem, he kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before his God, as he did aforetime. You must build your house before the rain comes! To wait may be too late.

5) He was delivered because of his FAITH IN GOD- (Dan 6:23) Then was the king exceeding glad for him, and commanded that they should take Daniel up out of the den. So Daniel was taken up out of the den, and no manner of hurt was found upon him, because he believed in his God. We are saved by Faith and we must live by Faith- even if that means we must sometimes lay down with lions!! The world believes that if you can control the circumstances you can control the man; but they forget the “hidden factor”- God.

There are EIGHT ELEMENTS of Prayer in Daniel’s Prayer ( 6:10) that we need to use in our Prayer:

1) Private- In his house instead of on the street Corner (Matt 6:5-6)

2) Testimony- Everyone knew he was consistent in Prayer (They FOUND Daniel- see #1)

3) According to the Bible- Opened window toward Jerusalem- Deut 28:36-, II Chron 6:36-39

4) Worship- He Kneeled

5) Regularity- 3 times a day

6) Petition- He Prayed= “To bow in entreaty”

7) Thanksgiving- He gave thanks even though he realized how difficult his situation was.

8) Steadfast- As He did aforetime- Ask, and keep on asking

Dan 06:10 DANIEL’S PRAYER

Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went into his house; and his windows being open in his chamber toward Jerusalem, he kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before his God, as he did aforetime. (Daniel 6:10).

1) Private- in his house

2) Public- Windows being open

3) Biblical- Opened window toward Jerusalem- If they sin against thee, (for there is no man which sinneth not,) and thou be angry with them, and deliver them over before their enemies, and they carry them away captives unto a land far off or near; Yet if they bethink themselves in the land whither they are carried captive, and turn and pray unto thee in the land of their captivity, saying, We have sinned, we have done amiss, and have dealt wickedly; If they return to thee with all their heart and with all their soul in the land of their captivity, whither they have carried them captives, and pray toward their land, which thou gavest unto their fathers, and toward the city which thou hast chosen, and toward the house which I have built for thy name: Then hear thou from the heavens, even from thy dwelling place, their prayer and their supplications, and maintain their cause, and forgive thy people which have sinned against thee. (2 Chronicles 6:36-39).

4) Worshipful- Kneeled

5) Regular- Consistent- 3 times a day

6) Specific- Petition Prayed

7) Thanksgiving- He gave thanks even though he realized how difficult his situation

8) Steadfast- As he did aforetime. Ask, and keep on asking

DANIEL’S CHARACTER:

1) Good Worker- (Dan 6:1-2)

2) Excellent Personality (Spirit) vs 3

3) Exemplary Behavior vs 4. May you always live so that the only fault people can find with you is your service for God

4) Consistent Godly Character vs 10

5) His Faith in God delivered him- Then was the king exceeding glad for him, and commanded that they should take Daniel up out of the den. So Daniel was taken up out of the den, and no manner of hurt was found upon him, because he believed in his God. (Daniel 6:23).

Dan 06:14 WHEN YOU MAKE A MISTAKE

Then the king, when he heard these words, was sore displeased with himself, and set his heart on Daniel to deliver him: and he laboured till the going down of the sun to deliver him (Dan 6:14).

The King made a mistake and it could have cost Daniel his life. What about the Mistakes we make?? What is their Cause and Cure?

I. THE CAUSE OF MISTAKES–

A) Carelessness- And as thy servant was busy here and there, he was gone (1 Ki 20:40). Not paying attention to situations.

B) Anger- He that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down, and without walls (Prov 25:28). Unable to control yourself you seek to control others.

C) Ignorance- I once hurt some people’s feelings in a Revival by preaching about a man committing suicide because I didn’t know a man in the Church has recently committed suicide.

D) Public Pressure- And the king was sorry: nevertheless for the oath’s sake, and them which sat with him at meat, he commanded it to be given her (Mat 14:9). It cost John the Baptist his head & Daniel a night in the lion’s den. Don’t let your mouth overrule your mind!

E) Imagination- Wicked Thoughts: And God saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually (Gen 6:5). Part of our Sinful Nature; it causes us to long for the bad instead of the good.

Wrong Thoughts: Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ; (2 Cor 10:5)

(Caused by Failure to Listen “I thought you said…”; Look “Mistaken identity”; or Love- If you don’t love someone; EVERYTHING they do is wrong!!).

II. MINIMIZING MISTAKES-

A) Look before you leap!

B) Listen to the Holy Spirit’s warnings.

C) Consider the Consequences of your actions.

III. CORRECTING MISTAKES Now I rejoice, not that ye were made sorry, but that ye sorrowed to repentance: for ye were made sorry after a godly manner, that ye might receive damage by us in nothing 2 Cor 7:9

A) Determine the extent of the Mistake:

1. Will it do more harm than good to try to correct (I meant to say you were fat instead of ugly). Sometimes the cure is worse than the disease. You must live with the consequences.

2. Was it a public or Private mistake (Correction should correspond)

B) Accept the Blame if it belongs to you- For I will declare mine iniquity; I will be sorry for my sin (Psa 38:18).

don’t transfer Blame to:

Mate- Adam “The Woman thou gavest me”

People- Saul, Aaron “Trying to please the People”

Circumstances- We all live in the same wicked world.

C) Correct as soon as possible- Don’t let it “fester” and infect the body. Don’t make a Mountain out of a Mistake!

God intervened and the King was able to correct the mistake about Daniel. He’ll help transform your life also. Give Him a Chance today.

Dan 06:25 28 DANIEL’S GOD

Daniel was living in a strange land in strange circumstances yet he was able to be a tremendous witness for the Lord. So much so, until 2 different world leaders recognized and honored “Daniel’s God”. What about YOU? Does the World say about the God you serve?

1. Nebuchadnezzar the King recognized “Daniel’s God” because He was able to do what no one else could do Dan 2:47 The king answered unto Daniel, and said, Of a truth it is, that your God is a God of gods, and a Lord of kings, and a revealer of secrets, seeing thou couldest reveal this secret. (See vs 28)

2. Darius the King recognized “Daniel’s God” in

I. HIS PROTECTION protected Daniel in the Lion’s Den

II. HIS KINGDOM

A) Living God Not a dead idol that was normally worshipped

B) Steadfast (Forever Stable).

C) Kingdom shall not be destroyed. Most last less than 200 years.

D) Dominion shall be even unto the end Everlasting power

III. HIS POWER

A) Delivereth and Rescueth

B) Worketh signs and wonders in heaven and earth

C) Delivered Daniel from the power of the Lions.

IV. HIS SUBJECTS Daniel prospered under 2 kingdoms.

Why was Daniel’s God recognized so much and so mightily?

Two basic things:

1. Commitment Dan 1:8

2. Consistent Dan 6:5, 10

Dan 06:7 LORD OF THE LIONS

It is His will that I should cast

My care on Him each day

He also bids me not to cast

My confidence away.

But Oh, how foolishly I act

When taken unaware!

I cast away my confidence

And carry all my care.

Many of the early Christians had to face the real lions of Rome as they were put to death for their faith. We don’t face many real lions but we live in a time when troubles seem to stalk our lives like lions in the forest. Even if they aren’t attacking us their continual roaring troubles our peace and confidence.

How can we have the Joy of the Lord living among the troubles of the lions? The only way is to realize we serve the “Lord of the Lions”

THE REASONS FOR THE LIONS:

1. Job- David And David said unto Saul, Thy servant kept his father’s sheep, and there came a lion, and a bear, and took a lamb out of the flock: (1 Sam 17:34)

2. Righteous Living- Daniel All the presidents of the kingdom, the governors, and the princes, the counsellors, and the captains, have consulted together to establish a royal statute, and to make a firm decree, that whosoever shall ask a petition of any God or man for thirty days, save of thee, O king, he shall be cast into the den of lions. (Dan 6:7)

3. Sin- Samaritans And so it was at the beginning of their dwelling there, that they feared not the LORD: therefore the LORD sent lions among them, which slew some of them. (2 Ki 17:25)

4. Satan- Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: (1 Pet 5:8)

THE OVERCOMING OF THE LIONS:

1. Wise use of available resources- David used sling David said moreover, The LORD that delivered me out of the paw of the lion, and out of the paw of the bear, he will deliver me out of the hand of this Philistine. And Saul said unto David, Go, and the LORD be with thee. (1 Sam 17:37)

2. Divine Power of God- Angels protected Daniel, Samson strength from God. Like Darius the King, we question God’s ability to care for us in the midst of the Lions- And when he came to the den, he cried with a lamentable voice unto Daniel: and the king spake and said to Daniel, O Daniel, servant of the living God, is thy God, whom thou servest continually, able to deliver thee from the lions? (Dan 6:20).

3. Repentance

4. Watchful living Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: (1 Pet 5:8)

Dan 07:- THE TROUBLE WITH VISIONS

We leave the Historical part of Daniel’s book and enter the Prophecy Portion. In the first 6 chapters we saw how God worked through INDIVIDUAL PEOPLE to affect the kingdoms of the world. In these chapters we will see how God’s OVER-RIDING PLAN is at work in the affairs of nations- (Rom 13:1) For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.

As we examine these visions of PRE-RECORDED HISTORY, I want us to see that there are CONSEQUENCES THAT COME WITH REVELATION.

THE VISION 7:1-14

THE KINGDOMS OF DANIEL:
Chapter 2	Chapter 7
Babylon (606 539 BC): Head of Gold (37 38)	Lion with eagle wings (4)
Media Persia (539 330 BC): Arms and Chest of Silver (39)	Bear with 3 ribs (5)
Greece (330 150 BC): Belly andThigh of Brass (39)	Leopard with 4 heads (6)
Rome (150 BC 500 AD): Legs of Iron (40	Dreadful Beast (7)
Anti Christ: 10 toes- iron and clay (41 43)	Little horn (8)
Christ: Stone that smites (44 45)	Ancient of Days (9 14)

The “little horn” is Anticochus Epiphanes (but it also refers to Antichrist). He was a wicked leader who came out of Syria, one of the four divisions of Alexander’s empire. He invaded Palestine and set up a statue to Jupiter in the temple! He even went so far as to sacrifice a pig on the altar and sprinkle its blood around the courts! Imagine how the orthodox Jews felt about this! History tells us that the temple lay desolate until Dec. 25, 165 BC when the Jewish patriot, Judas Maccabeus, rededicated the temple and cleansed it; and the total number of days between desecration and dedication was 2300! (See Dan. 8:13-14.) This is a type of the Abomination of Desolation (Matt 24:15) that Jesus spoke of. Anti-Christ will defile the Temple in the middle of the Tribulation and an Image will be erected to him in the Temple and everyone will be forced to worship it. (Rev. 13:11-15)

II. THE EXPLANATION 7:16-27 A Prophecy year = 360 days (Rev 11:2-3- 42 months = 3 ½ years =1260 days =360 days per year) Times, Times, and half a time= 42 (Time= 12. Times= 24. ½ time= 6)

III. THE VEXATION (Dan 7:15) I Daniel was grieved in my spirit in the midst of my body, and the visions of my head troubled me.

(Dan 7:28) Hitherto is the end of the matter. As for me Daniel, my cogitations much troubled me, and my countenance changed in me: but I kept the matter in my heart.

WHEN GOD GIVES US A VISION:

1) We are Expected to act on it

A) Visions Give us HOPE- (Prov 29:18) Where there is no vision, the people perish:

B) Visions give us DIRECTION-(Isa 30:21) And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left.

2) It will cause Discomfort- The Pride of knowledge will soon be replaced with the Pain of knowledge.

A) Daniel was grieved in his Spirit-Affect your Heart

B) His Cogitations (Thoughts) were Troubled- Your Mind

C) His Countenance Changed (Cp Neh 1:3 & 2:2)- Physical

3) It has far Reaching effects.

A) Will change your Course of Action

B) Will affect everyone who hears the vision (He Wrote!!!)

The vision of ch. 7 should be dated about 550 B.C., or the first year of Belshazzar’s reign as coregent with his father Nabonidus. The four beasts who arise out of the stormy seas of human upheaval correspond to the great image of Nebuchadnezzar in ch. 2. Actually, ch. 7 records three visions. The four beasts who rise from the sea are followed by a vision of the great day of awesome judgment in v. 9. Finally, the concluding vision of v. 13 focuses on the glorious return of the Son of Man.

The lion represents Babylon. Possibly the eagle’s wings symbolize Nabonidus and Belshazzar. What appeared to be a divine kingdom turns out to be only too human.

The second beast is like a bear and represents Medo-Persia. That the beast rises on one side reflects the superiority of Persian influence in the Medo-Persian Empire. The three ribs which have been dispatched and are in the mouth of the beast probably represent the conquered kingdoms of Egypt, Syria, and Babylon.

A leopard is next. Possessed of four wings and four heads, this unusual but swift beast represents the conquering strength of the Greek Empire of Alexander the Great. The wings doubtless reflect the rapidity of the Grecian conquest, while the four heads are prophetic of the division of Alexander’s empire among his four generals at the time of his death: Ptolemy, Seleucus I, Cassander, and Lysimachus.

The final and most terrible of the beasts is not compared to any animal in the biological kingdom. His great iron teeth suggest an immediate correlation between this beast and the iron legs of Nebuchadnezzar’s image in ch. 2. The ten horns of the beast also correspond to the ten toes of Nebuchadnezzar’s image and point to the final expression of the Roman Empire, which this beast prefigures. The little horn (v. 8) which springs up, displacing three of the horns, is to be understood as the “man of sin” (cf. 2 Thess. 2:3-8, note), the “king” (cf. Dan. 11:36-45), the “beast” (cf. Rev. 13:4-10), or the Antichrist. This horn, which is a symbol of strength and sovereignty, is said to have eyes, an observation intended to identify the horn as intelligent and human. Verse 25 further defines the focus of the little horn’s attack. The assault is waged against the Most High God, even to the changing of times and laws. Further, the saints of God become the object of intense persecution and oppression, so that they are “worn out.”

These atrocities are brought to their culmination at the judgment seat of God. The description found in vv. 9, 10 is the same given by John from Patmos in Rev. 1:12-15 and 20:11-15. The “Ancient of Days” is the eternal God. The white garment indicates His purity and holiness, the hair like wool His eternal nature. The throne itself was aflame with judgment and justice. Books which apparently contained the accounts of the deeds of men were opened by the thousands of attendants. The last beast was destroyed and consigned to the burning flame (v. 11).

(vv. 13,14) Daniel’s next vision was as encouraging as the first vision was terrifying. The description is that of the inauguration of the Son of Man, the glorified Lord, before the Ancient of Days. In these verses, “the Ancient of Days” is surely a divine designation. The title “Son of Man” was a favorite title of Christ for Himself (Matt. 8:20; 9:6; 10:23; 11:19; 16:27, 28; 19:28; 24:30; 25:31). Rather than being “like a lion” (v. 4), “like a bear” (v. 5), “like a leopard” (v. 6), or incomparably horrible (v. 7), the divine King will at the same time be a human King. His deity is indicated by His coming “on the clouds of heaven” (cf. Matt. 24:30; 26:64; Mark 13:26; Rev. 1:7), by the worship that He receives (v. 14), and by the eternity of His kingdom (v. 14; cf. Ps. 2:6-9). The vision depicts the kingdom era or the Millennium (cf. Rev. 21:1-6, note). The entire vision is explained to Daniel so that he can know the course of world history, culminating in the ultimate triumph of God’s kingdom on earth. Note Daniel’s particular curiosity concerning the fourth awesome beast with the ten horns and finally the little horn (v. 19). The assurance is that this last terrible and oppressive world system will be subdued by the Most High. In place of unjust earthly kingdoms, the Lord’s theocratic kingdom, an everlasting kingdom, will be established (v. 27).

Dan 09:1-19 POWERFUL PRAYING

(vv. 1,2) Daniel’s discovery of the purpose of God for the Jewish people was made through the study of Jeremiah’s prophecy. This was in the first year of the reign of Darius (Gubaru), the son of Ahasuerus (not the same as the Persian king of Esth. 1:1) who was “made king,” probably by Cyrus, in 539 B.C. (see 5:31, note). Interestingly, Daniel did not make his next discovery by means of visions. He read the revelation already provided by God to Jeremiah. He “understood by the books the number of the years” of the Exile. This information of 70 years of captivity followed by restoration is recorded in Jer. 25:11, 12; 29:10.

Vs. 9:3-19 In this remarkable prayer of confession (see Ezra 9 and Neh. 9 for similar prayers), Daniel associated himself with the sins of his people 32 times. He approaches God on the basis of His loyal love (see note on Hos. 2:19) in His covenant with Israel (v. 4), confesses their sins (vv. 5-10), acknowledges their deserved judgment (vv. 11-14), and supplicates God for His mercy (vv. 15-19).

(Dan 9:1-19) In the first year of Darius son of Xerxes (a Mede by descent), who was made ruler over the Babylonian kingdom– {2} in the first year of his reign, I, Daniel, understood from the Scriptures, according to the word of the LORD given to Jeremiah the prophet, that the desolation of Jerusalem would last seventy years. {3} So I turned to the Lord God and pleaded with him in prayer and petition, in fasting, and in sackcloth and ashes. {4} I prayed to the LORD my God and confessed: “O Lord, the great and awesome God, who keeps his covenant of love with all who love him and obey his commands, {5} we have sinned and done wrong. We have been wicked and have rebelled; we have turned away from your commands and laws. {6} We have not listened to your servants the prophets, who spoke in your name to our kings, our princes and our fathers, and to all the people of the land. {7} “Lord, you are righteous, but this day we are covered with shame–the men of Judah and people of Jerusalem and all Israel, both near and far, in all the countries where you have scattered us because of our unfaithfulness to you. {8} O LORD, we and our kings, our princes and our fathers are covered with shame because we have sinned against you. {9} The Lord our God is merciful and forgiving, even though we have rebelled against him; {10} we have not obeyed the LORD our God or kept the laws he gave us through his servants the prophets. {11} All Israel has transgressed your law and turned away, refusing to obey you. “Therefore the curses and sworn judgments written in the Law of Moses, the servant of God, have been poured out on us, because we have sinned against you. {12} You have fulfilled the words spoken against us and against our rulers by bringing upon us great disaster. Under the whole heaven nothing has ever been done like what has been done to Jerusalem. {13} Just as it is written in the Law of Moses, all this disaster has come upon us, yet we have not sought the favor of the LORD our God by turning from our sins and giving attention to your truth. {14} The LORD did not hesitate to bring the disaster upon us, for the LORD our God is righteous in everything he does; yet we have not obeyed him. {15} “Now, O Lord our God, who brought your people out of Egypt with a mighty hand and who made for yourself a name that endures to this day, we have sinned, we have done wrong. {16} O Lord, in keeping with all your righteous acts, turn away your anger and your wrath from Jerusalem, your city, your holy hill. Our sins and the iniquities of our fathers have made Jerusalem and your people an object of scorn to all those around us. {17} “Now, our God, hear the prayers and petitions of your servant. For your sake, O Lord, look with favor on your desolate sanctuary. {18} Give ear, O God, and hear; open your eyes and see the desolation of the city that bears your Name. We do not make requests of you because we are righteous, but because of your great mercy. {19} O Lord, listen! O Lord, forgive! O Lord, hear and act! For your sake, O my God, do not delay, because your city and your people bear your Name.”

Recognizes Punishment period of Jerusalem- Sees need of repenting of NATIONAL Sins

vs 4- Describes God- Great and Dreadful, Keeping Covenant and Mercy: Love, Keep his commands

5-6- Acknowledges Sin- Sin, Iniquity, Wickedness, Rebellion, failure to hear

7=15 Acknowledges Justice of God- Righteousness belongs to God/ Confusion (CURSE) to us- Deut 28

16-19 Cries for Mercy- Cease thy anger, Shine thy face on us again, extend mercy to us, honor yourself

Dan 10:- A VEXING VISION

An entire Chapter dedicated to showing how this vision was delayed by Satanic Opposition:

1) Shows the Importance of the vision

2) The revealing of behind the scenes Spiritual Workings (Very important to a people who had long been in captivity and were beginning to lose confidence in God’s Plan).

I. THE TIME OF THE VISION 1-3–3rd year of Cyrus, 3rd week of fasting

II. THE MESSENGER OF THE VISION 4-6

—Linen clothes

—Loins girded with gold

—Body the color of Beryl–A transparent to translucent glassy mineral, essentially aluminum beryllium silicate, occurring in hexagonal prisms and constituting the chief source of beryllium. Transparent varieties in white, green, blue, yellow, or pink are valued as gems

—Face as bright as lightning

—Eyes as lamps of fire

—Arms and feet resembled polished brass

—Voice loud like the roar of many people

III. THE ISOLATION OF THE VISION 7-11

Men did not see the vision (Compare to Paul’s Vision) but something caused them to fear and flee.

Left alone, Daniel lost his strength and vigor (inner drive)

Daniel was 1) On his face toward the ground, 2) set upon his hands and knees, and 3) then told to Stand (When God reveals His plan He bring you up from your fallen condition)

IV. THE WITHSTANDING OF THE VISION 12-13

Vs 12- Assured that God had heard his prayer from the beginning

Vs 13- Answer withstood by Spiritual Prince of Persia until Michael helped

V. THE REVEALING OF THE VISION 14-21

A) The Purpose of the Vision- (Dan 10:14) Now I am come to make thee understand what shall befall thy people in the latter days: for yet the vision is for many days.

B) The Pain of the Vision- (vs 16) O my lord, by the vision my sorrows are turned upon me, and I have retained no strength.

C) The Personage to explain the Vision- Second only to Michael (vs 21).

1) First helper looked like an angel (vs 16) but this one looked like a man (vs 18)

2) First helper caused him to “retain no strength” (vs 16) but this one strengthened him (vs 18)

3) First helper brought confusion to Daniel’s heart but this one spoke Peace and strength.

4) The message from this helper was a revelation of Scripture (vs 21)

When God begins to reveal His plans for your life it may cause you pain at first and lead to doubt in your ability. Get into the word and find the Strength and courage you need so you can accomplish God’s work in God’s way.

Dan 10:- NOTES FROM OTHER SOURCES

Ryrie Study Notes: Vs. 10:4 Hiddekel. The Tigris River. Obviously Daniel was not among those who returned to build the Temple in Jerusalem in connection with Cyrus’s decree (9:25). His age (mid-80s) and governmental duties prevented him. —–

Dan 10:12

Vs. 10:12 Daniel’s prayer was heard on the first day of the three-week period, but the answer was delayed because of angelic warfare. —–

Dan 10:13

Vs. 10:13 the prince of the kingdom of Persia. A supernatural creature who tried to direct the human rulers of Persia to oppose God’s plan. Evil angels seek to influence the affairs of nations. Michael, which means “who is like God?” (v. 21; 12:1; Jude 9; Rev. 12:7), is the special guardian of the affairs of Israel (12:1) and is designated the archangel (Jude 9). one of the chief princes shows a hierarchy among the angels (cf. Eph. 1:21). I remained there with the kings of Persia. The good angel (cf. vv. 5-6), with Michael’s help, was left in a place of preeminence in influencing Persia. But the battle between good and evil angels over the control of nations continues (see v. 20 and Rev. 20:3). —–

Dan 10:14

Vs. 10:14 the latter days. Future days culminating in the events surrounding the second coming of Christ (cf. 2:28; Gen. 49:1). —

Bible Believer’s Study Notes: The third year of Cyrus was 535 B.C. Chapter 10 is a prologue of spiritual preparation for Daniel’s prophetic writing of Gentile history in ch. 11. Chapter 12 is an epilogue explaining the Jewish relationship to these events. This vision was given while Daniel was beside the great river Hiddekel or the Tigris (v. 4). The vision of Daniel in vv. 5, 6 is remarkably similar to that of John in Rev. 1:12-17. Almost certainly the greatly beloved statesman-prophet is here granted a Christophany, an appearance of the pre-incarnate Christ. Daniel’s response was to fall into a deep sleep, while those with him fled in fear (v. 9).

Dan 10:12

The angelic messenger sent to Daniel to encourage him announced to the prophet the reason for God’s response to him. Daniel’s hunger for the knowledge of God, added to his self-discipline, was rewarded not only with the wisdom sought, but also with a theophany.

Dan 10:13

The angelic messenger encountered difficulty in approaching Daniel. The prince of Persia withstood the angel. We are not to understand this “prince” as Cyrus or any other earthly ruler. The conflict here is a spiritual one (cf. Eph. 6:12). The world of the demonic is exceedingly active in the Gentile world governments. The “prince of the kingdom of Persia” refers to a malignant spirit whose assigned purpose was to frustrate the purposes of God in the lives of the rulers. However, the angelic messenger was assisted in this struggle by Michael, a prince among the angels of God. The message to be transmitted would enlighten Daniel concerning the fortunes of his own people in the last days. Further evidence of spiritual conflicts directly related to the ebb and flow of civil governments is found in 10:20-11:1.

Dan 10:11-14 DIVINE DELAYS

Sometimes the most difficult thing in our life is to wait on the workings of the Lord. Daniel faced that dilemma in today’s scripture.

It is important for you to realize, however, that sometimes your decisions can be dangerous (Art). So wait until you get the proper guidance before you make that decision.

I. DELAYS ARE NOT DENIALS

A) Because of Satanic Opposition

B) To Glory God

II. DELAYS CAN DISCOURAGE US- Abraham and Isaac, Lazarus

III. DELAYS CAN DEFEAT US- (Gal 6:9) And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.

Dan 11:35 DEFEATING THE DEFEATER

(Dan 11:35) And some of them of understanding shall fall, to try them, and to purge, and to make them white, even to the time of the end: because it is yet for a time appointed

IF SATAN CANNOT DEFEAT YOU, HE WILL ATTEMPT TO DEFEAT SOMEONE WHOSE DEFEAT WILL DEFEAT YOU!!

How many times have you seen it? A greatly loved and well respected Pastor is forced to abandon his Church or his Ministry because of attitudes or actions by his wife or children. Or you talk with a man who has tremendous potential but is stuck in a mundane, mediocre job. When you talk to him you find that every time he was given a chance to advance in his job then his wife would not move; or the children were in some kind of trouble and he had to bypass the opportunity.

And it is not just men. I know numerous women who could have had brilliant and successful careers but abusive, drunken, or lazy husbands have kept them hidden in the shadows of obscurity. The dream is still there but day by day the reality of their situation eats away at its edges as it slowly turns from a dream into a nightmare.

In the Scripture from Daniel, we see that the day will come when some people of understanding will fall. This will be a test for the faithful to determine if their faith is in a man or in God’s Faithfulness.

How does this relate to YOU today?

1) If Science finds evidence that something in the Word of God is False- Who will you Believe?

2) If People you have tremendous faith in fall will it destroy your faith? (The Prayer of every Saint should be- (Psa 69:6) Let not them that wait on thee, O Lord GOD of hosts, be ashamed for my sake: let not those that seek thee be confounded for my sake, O God of Israel.)

3) Is your Faith built on the Word of God or on the popular opinion of Society?

The good news of the Gospel is that God has made us more than conquerors through Jesus Christ (Rom 8:27). To be more than a conqueror means that you don’t just defeat a bad situation; you turn the bad situation into a good situation. That turns the defeater into the defeated.

1) Pray for and help the Fallen, Don’t use them as an excuse not to serve- (Gal 6:1) Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.

2) Build your Faith on a Personal Relationship with Christ- that can be maintained no matter what circumstances you encounter- Sickness, Failure, Jail

(1 Cor 10:12-13) Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall. {13} There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.