DANIEL 9:1 – 12:13 and REVELATION 9:13–21
Dan 9
To try and help bring Daniel 9 into some overall perspective I have included a brief study that I taught in a recent Bible Study class. The title of this portion of teaching was the 70th week. This is taken from the last verse of Daniel 9. It has great meaning for the last days but it also helps to bring perspective to Daniel’s day as well. It is hoped that this study will prove to be informative .
Lesson 3
The 70th Week
A. Completing the Cycle
Psa 90:10 The days of our years are threescore years and ten; and if by reason of strength they be fourscore years, yet is their strength labour and sorrow; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away.
The number 70 has considerable significance in the Word of God. We see that man has been given a period of 70 years and if strength is found his life can be extended longer. We already established the importance of the number 7 which speaks of completion and perfection. The subject of the 70th week is in fact an allegory of the last seven years of the church age. So how do we come to this conclusion?
The key in understanding the 70th week is found in Daniel chapter 9. This chapter can be broken into three different categories:
- Dan 9:1-23 Relates to the days of Daniel at the time of the Babylonian exile
- Dan 9:24-26 Relates to the time period of the Restoration till the time of Christ
- Dan 9:27 Relates to the last 7 year period of the church age.
There are two sets of “seventy” to consider in chapter 9. Daniel makes reference to the 70 year captivity that was designated to Israel in verse 2. Daniel will then speak to a 70 week period of years that lead up to the end of the church age in verses 24-27.
The Babylon Connection
God designated the captivity of Babylon for Israel because of their idolatry and sin. The fruit of the work of Babylon was a cleansing of idolatry from Israel and an opportunity to come into a new Restoration period of God’s purposes. This 70 year captivity is a mini picture of redemption and restoration that will later take place on a grander scale. Daniel will catapult from the 70 year period of Babylon to a 70 week period (of years) that will not only usher in Restoration but will also be the period when Christ comes forth both at His birth and at the 2nd coming. We will see hints of this as we look at the 70 week period which is broken down into three parts. Let’s consider the following:
In verse 25 Daniel begins the breakdown by stating that there will be seven weeks from the time of the commandment to restore in addition to another 62 weeks. The first question to ask is when did the commandment to restore first take place? There were several different returns of the captives from exile. The command to rebuild and restore Jerusalem would have come from Artaxerxes in around 456 BC. This would have been around the time of Ezra/Nehemiah. Now let’s do a little math. If you take 69 weeks (7 plus 62) you come to 483 years. If you subtract the 483 years from the time the command to rebuild took place it would bring you to around 26 AD. It can be difficult pinpointing the exact timing of the Lord’s birth and death but the period above would be in line when he began his last 3 ½ year ministry. There are other factors to consider. Why is there a distinction between the numbers 7 and 62? Let’s look at Daniel 9:26:
Dan 9:26 And after threescore and two weeks shall Messiah be cut off, but not for himself: and the people of the prince that shall come shall destroy the city and the sanctuary; and the end thereof shall be with a flood, and unto the end of the war desolations are determined.
Why didn’t Daniel just say 69 weeks? Daniel was having this revelation at the time of Darius, king of the Medes (vs 1. Darius took the kingdom at the age of 62 (Dan 5:31). He represents a type of the Lord Jesus Christ who came on the scene at the fall of Babylon. At the time of the 2nd coming it will be the Lord Jesus Christ who will restore His kingdom soon after the fall of both mystery Babylon and Babylon itself (Rev 17-18). Can we see here the Babylon connection between the two events surrounding the number 70?
There is further significance that can be extracted from the number 62. There are twenty generations from Adam to Abraham and 42 generations from Abraham to Christ which makes a total of 62 generations. It appears the distinction between the 7 and 62 number is for the purpose of emphasizing Christ as well as emphasizing the number 7. We now come to the last week that is mentioned in verse 27. This is a totally different period because Daniel is now jumping about 2000 years when speaking of verse 27. Let’s look at the verse:
Dan 9:27 And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate.
Look at the first portion of the verse. Who is the “he” that is being referred too? It is speaking of the antichrist. The term “in the midst of the week” speaks of a period of 3 ½ years; in other words it speaks of the middle of the 7 year tribulation period. This last week is futuristic. The first 69 weeks of the 70 weeks has already been fulfilled and we see that the Messiah (Jesus) has already been cut off. The 70th week speaks of the last 7 years of the church age; the very days that we may well be living in. In this lesson we want to see some key events that will take place during this period. It will help us to have some understanding as to what is coming and how we can prepare for it. This study is by no means exhaustive but there are certain keys that will help us.
B. Major on Forgiveness
Mat 18:21 Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times?
Mat 18:22 Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven.
What would a subject like forgiveness have anything to do with the 70th week? I think we all would agree that it is important that we learn how to forgive since we have been forgiven a debt we could never repay. The theme of forgiveness is also included in the Lord’s Prayer (Math 6:12). Perhaps, it is a subject of greater importance than we realize. Peter asks the Lord how many times that he should forgive, up to seven times? Jesus responded by saying not seven times but seventy times seven. Is this just a randomly given number by the Lord? Let’s again do some math! 70×7=490. I personally feel that the Lord was making this statement to tie into Daniel 9:24-27. If you take the 70 weeks of years you would come up with the number 490 years. Let’s do some more digging in this equation.
Jesus (Messiah) was cut off or died after the completion of 69 weeks (Dan 9:26). What was one of the last words that Jesus uttered while on the Cross?
Luk 23:34 Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots.
The power of forgiveness should never be minimized. The very ones that Jesus was dying for were reviling, mocking and torturing him; yet He could still forgive. This was the ultimate purpose of Babylon for the children of Israel. It was a place where God could bring a fresh cleansing and restoration for His beloved nation. They would be planted and not plucked up and be a people who are given a heart that knows the heart of God (Jer 24:6-7). True forgiveness is rooted in forgetfulness.
Jesus was cut off in the 69th week yet he mentioned to Peter that man should forgive 70×7 times. This speaks of the premium we need to place upon forgiveness in these last days. If Jesus majored on forgiveness in His final moments upon the Cross at the end of 69 weeks then we need to be likewise in our day as we come to the close of the 70th week. How can we better appropriate forgiveness in our lives?
a. The Communion Table
At the last supper Jesus broke bread and served wine to His brethren speaking of Himself as the Passover Lamb. It is a time when we can examine our lives and our relationships with one another and if necessary put things right. There is a tremendous power in forgiveness.
b. Forgiveness is rooted in forgetfulness
When Jesus forgives us of our sins does that mean He has no ability to recall them or bring them back to remembrance? Of course not; He chooses to forget and not bring the issue back to the light. How often have we said to someone that we forgave them only to then bring that issue back up in the future? This is not true forgiveness. We can even pray for a “Manasseh” or a holy forgetfulness (Gen 41:51).
c. The Power of Unforgiveness
One of the biggest strangleholds in churches today is unforgiveness. It can be subtle and often undetected but it cripples relationships. The Apostle Paul exhorted the Colossian church to “put on” several different kinds of spiritual garments that helps to produce holiness. He mentions “forgiveness” as being one of them (Col 3:13). The message of Babylon that pertained to Israel is about cleansing, atonement and forgiveness. The message of Babylon that we see at the close of the 70th week is about atonement, restoration and forgiveness. Jesus said that we are to forgive men up to 70×7 times. When we forgive as God forgave us there is a release of tremendous power and the body becomes whole and strong. True forgiveness is the finishing of the cycle that eradicates and destroys sin.
C. The Two Witnesses
Rev 11:3 And I will give power unto my two witnesses, and they shall prophesy a thousand two hundred and threescore days, clothed in sackcloth.
Who are these two witnesses? The Bible provides many clues which helps to easily give identity to these two men. The two witnesses will be Elijah and Moses: Let’s examine a few of the references:
a) Elijah The prophet Elijah is alluded to in James 5:17 where he prayed that it would not rain for a period of 3 ½ years. This took place during the reign of King Ahab of Israel. (1 Kings 17:1, 18:1)
Rev 11:6 These have power to shut heaven, that it rain not in the days of their prophecy: and have power over waters to turn them to blood, and to smite the earth with all plagues, as often as they will.
b) Moses He had the ability to turn water into blood in addition to smiting the earth with plagues (Exo 7-12).
c) Two Olive Trees Moses and Elijah are the two Olive Trees that are mentioned in both Rev 11:4 and Zech 4:3, 12-14. It is very clear that these two will be resurrected to have a ministry during the last 7 year period.
Now that their identities are known what are some of the additional details that can be given regarding their role and timing of their ministry? First, let’s consider the uniqueness of their respective departures from the earth. Moses died but the Bible said that God buried him. His burial ground was never to be discovered (Deu 34:6). Elijah was caught up to God in a whirlwind to heaven (2 Kings 2:11). Both Moses and Elijah appeared alongside Jesus at the time of the transfiguration to help strengthen and encourage the Lord (Math 17:1-7). In much the same way Moses and Elijah will be going through what Jesus Himself experienced.
Moses and Elijah will have their ministry in the first 3 ½ year period of the last seven years. We know that they will prophesy for a 3 ½ year period from Rev 11:3. We also see that they will be slain by the antichrist when they finish their testimony (Rev 11:7). It is also interesting to note that there will be a battle between two sets of resurrected beings. You will have Moses and Elijah as those who witness for Christ as opposed to the beast and false prophet who will be serving as agents for Satan. Both groups will perform miracles and demonstrate great authority to those who have opportunity to observe. The beast (antichrist) will make war against them and prevail (Rev 11:7). Sadly, the people will be rejoicing at their death which again will include the Jews. It will not just be the Jews but there will be many others who will be celebrating as well. The primary ministry of Moses will be the administration of God’s Law which the world and many in the church will find offensive (Mal 4:4). The primary ministry of Elijah will be similar to that of John the Baptist in seeking to bring about Restoration (Mal 4:5-6). These messages will not go down well with the people of the earth so they will be happy when these two witnesses are put to death and silenced. Does this sound familiar when considering what happened to Christ? It should because after 3 ½ days their dead bodies will resurrect and be caught up to heaven.
The next sequence of events will happen quickly and they need to be understood in their context.
D. The Abomination of Desolation
Mat 24:15 When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso readeth, let him understand:)
Jesus gave many keys to help us understand end time events. This particular event that will take place during the 70th week will act as a trigger. Let’s ask a few questions? What is the Abomination of Desolation? Will there be a literal temple in the last days? When will this event actually occur? What should we do when it does occur? We will begin by seeking to answer the above questions in the order presented:
a) What is the Abomination of Desolation?
It is an act which resembles the initial rebellion that took place in heaven when Lucifer sinned (Isa 14:13-14). This time it will be the man of sin (antichrist) who will be empowered by Satan who will sit in the temple of God seeking to show himself as being God (2 Thes 2:4, Rev 13:2).
2Th 2:4 Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God.
It is a futuristic event that will take place during the 70th week, the last 7 years of the church period.
b) Will there be a literal temple in the last days?
Yes, this temple is referred to in several places. First, there is a temple mentioned in Revelation 11:1-2. The instruction is given to not include the outer court in the measurements that are taken. There would be no “outer court” in a spiritualized heavenly temple so we can conclude this is a literal temple. The verse cited above in 2 Thessalonians makes reference to a temple. There have been many news items which clearly indicate the plans for a temple to be erected in Jerusalem. By the way, there is a spiritual heavenly temple referred to in the Book of Revelation that is distinct from the literal temple of the last days (Rev 7:15, 11:19).
c) When will The Abomination of Desolation Occur?
Daniel the prophet indicates that the abomination will take place in the midst of the 70th week (Dan 9:27). It will take place soon after the death and resurrection of the bodies of Moses and Elijah. It will be at this time when the man of sin is revealed. There will be many simultaneous events taking place at this time. It is important to bear in mind what has already taken place at this point. Moses and Elijah are the two witnesses who will be on the scene during the first 3 ½ years of the 70th week. Their ministry will feature the teaching of God’s Law and Ministry of Restoration (Mal 4:4-6). There will be many who will reject their ministry and the forces that martial against them will be headed by the antichrist. It appears that his identity will not yet be known as the people of the world celebrate the deaths of Moses and Elijah. It appears that the events of Revelation chapters 11 and 12 are closely linked. We will look more into this a bit later.
d) What should we do at the time of the Abomination of Desolation?
First and foremost get out of Jerusalem (Math 24:15). The question that should be asked is what are we doing now? Jesus said when you see this event taking place be sure to be standing in the “Holy Place”. One should not assume that he or she can just enter into the Holy Place when these things occur; preparation needs to take place now. There are scriptural precedents that should be observed:
Zep 2:3 Seek ye the LORD, all ye meek of the earth, which have wrought his judgment; seek righteousness, seek meekness: it may be ye shall be hid in the day of the LORD’S anger.
There is a tendency in thinking that we can approach God by coming into the Holy Place on our terms. It is not enough to know about the 3 sections of Moses Tabernacle. If one were to carefully study the Old Testament pattern it was only the priests who could enter and function in the Holy Place. There had to be an exchange of garments before coming in and out of the Holy Place to the outer court. There is no covering in the Outer Court as seen in the following verse:
Rev 11:2 But the court which is without the temple leave out, and measure it not; for it is given unto the Gentiles: and the holy city shall they tread under foot forty and two months.
Can you see how exposed the congregations of the Outer Court will be in those last 3 ½ years? You can also link this verse with the remnant group seen in Revelation 12:17. We need to prepare now; to prepare to be people who know the position of the Holy Place; to come to an understanding of what it means to be a priest.
e) Will there be a Rapture?
Rev 12:5 And she brought forth a man child, who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron: and her child was caught up unto God, and to his throne.
There is much discussion concerning this subject. In our study on the 70th week we actually do see a “catching up” of a special group of overcomers. It seems to take place at the same time when Moses and Elijah are resurrected and called up to heaven (Rev 11:12). This special group is called the “man child” (Rev 12:5). Who will be part of this group? It appears to be an exclusive company of believers that the church is birthing forth at this period (Rev 12:4). One thing is very clear; there is great turbulence and warfare taking place. There are some insights we can glean from an Old Testament verse:
1Sa 1:11 And she vowed a vow, and said, O LORD of hosts, if thou wilt indeed look on the affliction of thine handmaid, and remember me, and not forget thine handmaid, but wilt give unto thine handmaid a man child, then I will give him unto the LORD all the days of his life, and there shall no razor come upon his head.
There is an interesting contrast between Hannah and the woman that as seen in Revelation 12. Hannah is going through a “God–ordained” barrenness (1 Sam 1:5). Why would God allow such a thing to a godly woman? The condition of Israel was in a deteriorated state. God needed a man-child who would bring a new order of king and priest into Israel; the same kind of king and priest God is looking for in the last days (Rev 1:6, 5:10). What is it that characterizes the kind of king/priest that God is looking for? God is looking for a man, a king and priest after his heart.
1Sa 2:35 And I will raise me up a faithful priest, that shall do according to that which is in mine heart and in my mind: and I will build him a sure house; and he shall walk before mine anointed for ever.
1Sa 13:14 But now thy kingdom shall not continue: the LORD hath sought him a man after his own heart, and the LORD hath commanded him to be captain over his people, because thou hast not kept that which the LORD commanded thee.
It took a godly woman who consecrated a prayer of desperation to God to bring forth a Samuel. He appears to be a picture of the last day man child company that will be caught up with Moses and Elijah at this dramatic event. There are other events going on at this time as well.
Rev 12:9 And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him.
Let’s do a quick review to try and get the sense of all of this. The two witnesses, Moses and Elijah finished their 3 ½ year testimony and have divided the people into one of two groups. There will be those who hear and embrace the message of the two witnesses as opposed to those who reject their testimony. In the midst of the 70th week they are killed by the beast (antichrist) who will ascend out of the bottomless pit (Rev 11:7). Their death brings joy and celebration to those who are aligned with the antichrist (Rev 11:10). After 3 ½ days they come back to life and immediately ascend to heaven. It is possible that this could also be the time of the rapture of the man-child (Rev 12:5). This group will displace Satan and his angels as he is now cast to the earth with great fury. It appears that one of the first events that will take place is the Abomination of Desolation that Jesus referred to (Math 24:15). It will be a time when the beast, who is energized by the dragon will position himself in the temple as God making himself out to be God (2 Thess 2:4). The Abomination of Desolation is a re-enactment of the rebellion in heaven as Satan empowers the man of sin in this offering.
We need to be clear that there will be no pre-tribulation rapture that so many subscribe to today. This is a dangerous doctrine seeing how it alters the way one will live. If we are to truly prepare for the last days we must be properly informed and in alignment with what the Spirit of God is saying. When you look at the sequence above you can understand why Jesus would instruct to leave Jerusalem and not look back. The above sequence should put within us the cry to be in the Ark of safety; to be in the Holy Place, the secret place of the most high (Psa 91).
The 70th week is given for our instruction and understanding. Jesus implied that this truth could be understood as we stand and take notice of the events taking shape around us (Math 24:15). The church has a role and responsibility as we head into these last days. Jesus finished His work on the Cross at the end of the 69th week but He continues to ever intercede on our behalf. The church is now given the privilege to triumph and be part of that glorious company of the bride of Christ; to ride with Him at his triumphant return to the earth. Those who are part of His army are clothed in the linen of God’s righteousness; they are a people who are prepared and positioned.
Psa 149:6 Let the high praises of God be in their mouth, and a twoedged sword in their hand;
Psa 149:7 To execute vengeance upon the heathen, and punishments upon the people;
Psa 149:8 To bind their kings with chains, and their nobles with fetters of iron;
Psa 149:9 To execute upon them the judgment written: this honour have all his saints. Praise ye the LORD.
Dan 10
The subject of spiritual warfare is vividly seen in this chapter. This revelation came to Daniel in the 3rd year of Cyrus, king of Persia. This would have been around the year 533 BC. Daniel would have been over 80 years old at this time and he is about to enter into a period of prayer and fasting for a period of 21 days. Daniel is visited by a heavenly being by the river Hiddekel (Tigris) who is dressed in linen and gold (vs 4-5). A further description is given in verse 6 where he has eyes like lamps of fire, feet like brass and a face as the appearance of lightning. It sounds very similar to the description of the Lord as seen in Revelation 1. It is clear however that this being is not the Lord. Daniel was in the midst of other men but it was only he who had this visitation. As he heard the voice of the words from this being it overwhelmed him. This man then touched Daniel and set him on his knees and conveyed the words of being a man who was greatly beloved. He was a man who was very much appreciated by all which included heavenly beings.
There is a key to spiritual warfare given in verse 12 where mention was made of Daniel’s prayer being heard from the beginning. It was hindered however over a period of days. What was the reason for the delayed answer? We are now about to be introduced to the warfare that takes place in the heavenlies. The answer is given in verses 13. Daniel was about to be given revelation concerning the end of the Persian Empire and the spiritual prince over Persia did not want this to be made known. It is interesting to note that the fulfilment of this revelation would not take place for several hundred years yet the Prince was already at work to try and thwart this revelation to Daniel. It helps us to understand Satan’s attempts in trying to circumvent the message of the end times. He knows his end yet he fights and resists this truth being made known with all he has. Though it already is determined it still is a battle. The same is true when God gives a promise. An inheritance that God would give has to be contended for just as the children of Israel had to do in possessing the land. Daniel was prompted to pray over this period and he obediently did so even though the revelation and reason for his prayer was not immediately known. He remained steadfast during this season of prayer and fasting as we will need to do in the days before us. Michael the archangel came to the assistance of this man in this battle against the Prince of Persia. This is why the man who talked with Daniel could not have been the Lord. He would not have needed anyone’s assistance. The messenger had a very specific message that he wanted to convey to Daniel. The message that the Prince of Grecia would one day come to overtake the Prince of Persia is given. This matter is determined and it will come to pass. This revelation probably helped Daniel to better understand the image that Nebuchadnezzar saw in his dream as well as getting clarity on the beasts that were shown to him in chapter 7.
There is a message beyond the interpretations given here that we need to take note of. When our lives become more closely entwined with God, when intimacy grows stronger we will find the level of revelation concerning the things of God will also grow. As we come to know the heart of God we learn to not be so presumptive in our actions or words. Allowance is made for God to speak His mind and pleasure. As we become more acquainted with his heart we find our prayer life and priorities begin to change. This chapter helps to give a good definition to “thy kingdom come, on earth as it has been decreed in heaven”. (Math 6:10) What is taking place here is that God has determined in heaven that Persia will one day fall to the Greeks. It will be an event that will materialize one day upon earth. What has been determined in heaven is being contended over its fulfilment upon the earth. The Prince of Persia is fighting viciously in seeking to take away Daniel’s ability in having the revelation. Daniel is a man of great quality; he has been schooled through many experiences of life and it enables him now to be shown this high level of revelation. It is not something that God would commit to just any man. The greatest spiritual battles take place when God looks to establish His kingdom on earth as He has decreed it in heaven. The greatest battle of all time was when Jesus suffered at Gethsemane. That which the Father had decreed before the foundation of the world (Rev 13:8) was about to be established on earth as he had decreed it in heaven. This is the heart of true spiritual warfare and may God grant that we come to know His heart and flow accordingly.
Dan 11
In this chapter we will see a brief history of Israel given from the time of Daniel up to the time of the Maccabean period. It is a prophetic word given to Daniel that contains great detail from the time of Cyrus up to the time of Antiochus Epiphanes IV. (529-164 BC) Daniel was a vessel who had the capacity to receive clear revelation. The things that God was revealing were not to be given to ordinary men. This will also be true in the last days. If we want to be men and women who have keen prophetic insight we will need to seek to emulate Daniel. It begins with the kings of Persia in verse 2. There are three kings to come and the 4th will be richer than all of them. This is relatively easy to track seeing that Xerxes would be the 4th king of those who were mentioned. He would be the king that is seen in Esther. He also had the accumulated wealth of his predecessors. He had a vast army and it was he who stirred up animosities with the Greeks. It is Xerxes who will purge Athens which will later provoke Alexander the Great to move in great anger against the Persians (Dan 8:5-7). This is when the he-goat with the notable horn moves against the ram. After Alexander dies the kingdom amongst the Greeks was divided into 4 sections by his 4 generals.
In verse 5 one of Alexander’s generals by the name of Ptolemy began a southern dynasty in Egypt. The 2nd general who went by the name of Seleucus established a northern dynasty in Syria. There was eventual war between these two sections and generals and it is a war that will repeat in the last days. There is rivalry that can be seen between Syria and Israel. There is a detailed account of the wars between the south and the north in verses 13-20. There are constant wars, plotting’s, alliances and treachery seen in these various battles. If we view some of the events taking place in the Middle East in recent years we would gain a better understanding as to what these wars looked like.
We will now be introduced to a man by the name of Antiochus Epiphanes IV in verses 21-35. He is a vile and wicked man yet he is a man of great influence. The Bible gives much attention to him due to the similarities to the future antichrist. Antiochus Epiphanes IV is the little horn that Daniel saw in chapter 8 (Dan 8:9). In verse 21 it speaks of Antiochus obtaining the kingdom by force which explains of him not being given the honor of the kingdom. He seized the kingdom from its rightful heir which is exactly what Satan looks to do. Antiochus then breaks the covenant by murdering the high priest. He then will make a covenant with people from a position of weakness. In verse 23 it speaks of him becoming strong with just a few people. This is important and there is a truth here we can learn by way of another event in history.
Let’s begin with a news event that took place in 1993. It was at the time a peace treaty was established that became known as the Oslo accords. The treaty addressed the concerns and interests of the Israeli and Palestinian people. The chairman of the Palestinian Authority (Yasser Arafat) received considerable opposition from his own people since they felt it was not best serving their interests. The Palestinians felt that there were too many concessions being made to the Israeli’s. Apparently, Mr. Arafat answered his Palestinian detractors by making the following statement. “Remember Hudaybiyya”. What does that mean and how does this figure in to our study? Here is a portion from our summary taken from Deuteronomy 7. It is italicized below:
In 1993 there was a peace accord struck between the Palestinians and Israeli people known as the Oslo accords. Yasser Arafat, the Palestinian leader came under intense pressure from his own people for seemingly making too many concessions. In a private meeting amongst key Palestinian leaders he made a statement that helped to put this issue in perspective. He referred to the treaty of Hudaybiyya. What did this mean, especially to a Palestinian or a Muslim? It was a treaty involving Muhammad in the year 628 AD. At the time of the treaty, Muhammad was in a vulnerable position and not strong enough in being able to take Mecca. The treaty was an agreement that was to last for 10 years. After two years, when the enemies of Muhammad had their guard down, he broke the treaty and took over Mecca with over 10,000 men. Hudaybiyya was a code word to send the message that the Oslo agreement was a temporary smokescreen for a greater good. In the last days the antichrist will come in peaceably, seemingly amenable but at an appropriate time will break the agreement which will usher in the great tribulation. (Dan 11) This is why we must be very discerning in these last days.
This is essentially what Antiochus Epiphanes did in establishing this covenant. The enemy knows when he is outnumbered so he seeks ways to come in peaceably albeit with ulterior motives. The antichrist will make an agreement early on with Israel and will for all intent and purposes it will look strong in its initial phases. The world will be disarmed until the midst of the last 7 year period (The 70th week). It will be here when the antichrist will enter the temple and offer the abomination of desolation (Math 24:15). What we are about to see with Antiochus Epiphanes will be amazingly similar. One could be forgiven in thinking that he might be the future antichrist. Again, his being identified as the little horn in Daniel 8 disqualifies him from being the little horn seen in chapter 7. This also helps to clarify what we considered in Daniel 9:27.
Antiochus goes to war against the king of the south and experiences great resistance. As he returns to his own land he goes about turning against his holy covenant that he made with the Jews (vs 28). He attempts a 2nd crusade against Egypt only to be turned back once again. He is now in a rage against the Jewish people in his own land. As this narrative progresses it seems that the account of Antiochus morphs into that of the antichrist. His life is so similar to the antichrist that the Word of the Lord goes into the last day scenario of things that will take place. The life of Antiochus provides a perfect platform in being able to segue into the future ministry of the antichrist. We must understand that the antichrist will prove to be successful in leading many Christians in following him. The Lord speaks that with the pure He will show Himself pure. It will be because people will have areas of uncircumcision in their heart that many will be led astray. How will the antichrist be able to do this? In verse 32 it speaks of him corrupting many by way of flatteries. He will know what to say and to whom so as to capture their heart and attention. A flatterer has no intention of doing what is in the best interest of another person but rather does it to obtain something for himself. It is a carefully designed appeal to disarm a person by words from a person who has an ulterior motive. In the case of Antiochus or the antichrist it is for the purpose of gaining favor with the people. A flatterer says what needs to be said to get something for oneself. The antichrist will be used of God to help divide the church in the last days. As has been said on many other occasions it all comes down to the heart. We must beware of the flatterer in these last days. Sadly, it can be said that many prophetic ministries function along these lines. There are prophets who refuse to allow God to deal with their hearts and as a result bear a message to an audience of like people. Remember the words of Jeremiah regarding this truth.
Jer 5:31 The prophets prophesy falsely, and the priests bear rule by their means; and my people love to have it so: and what will ye do in the end thereof?
In reading on in verse 36 we are no longer considering this man Antiochus but the man of sin who will come on the scene in the last days. He will not regard God simply because he will see himself as god. It also mentions that there is an appointed time frame for him. This will be seen in other scriptures as well. This man will be a military leader (vs 38). He will exalt and magnify himself above all other gods (vs 36). We certainly can see the heart of Satan in these characterizations. The antichrist will also be a great orator; (like Absalom-2 Sam 15) have an economic acumen like Tyrus (Eze 28) as well as being a political and religious leader.
One final thought regarding chapter 11. We can link verse 45 with 2 Thess 2:4. It is here where the antichrist will offer the abomination of desolation. The primary purpose of chapter 11 is to help bring into a greater light the events that will lead up to the time of the antichrist and beyond. This chapter provides an instructive history lesson but more than anything else it helps to being into clear view a blueprint for what is coming.
Dan 12
This chapter opens with an immediate introduction into the time of the great tribulation. This verse can also link with a few other portions of scripture. Let’s first begin with Jer 30:3-5. The Lord will once again bring His people back to their homeland for the great tribulation. In Jer 30:7 it speaks of this event as being that of Jacob’s trouble. We learned from the last chapter and other places that the great tribulation will take place at the time of the abomination of desolation. This event occurs in the middle of the last week (7 year period) that is mentioned in Dan 9:27. It will be after the great tribulation when there will be deliverance for Israel. It is after the tribulation when the kingdom of the Lord is established upon the earth.
It is clear from verse 2 that each of us need to seek the Lord that we might qualify to rule and reign with the Lord throughout the millennium. There are several key scriptures that help to shed light on this truth.
Rom 5:17 For if by one man’s offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.)
A key is being able to receive an abundance of grace. The Apostle Paul also wrote about knowing Him and the power of His resurrection (Phil 3:10). The Bible also speaks of ruling and reigning with Christ as priests in the millennium. One of the main qualifiers that enables us to rule and reign with Christ is to know and appropriate the office of a true priest.
There will be an exclusive group of believers who will know wisdom and knowledge in helping to bring stability and perspective to the people (Isa 33:6). The people of God are destroyed for having a lack of knowledge (Hos 4:6). There will be a group of people who will turn many to righteousness (vs 3). This is a high calling and extreme privilege. This was the primary ministry of John the Baptist as he prepared the way of the Lord in his ministry (Luke 1:17). “To make ready a people prepared for the Lord”.
Daniel is told to close and seal the words of this prophesy until the end. All we have to do is look at the growth of knowledge in the natural over the past several decades. It is so difficult to keep up with the changes due to the rapid growth of new technologies. If this is true in the natural it is certainly true in the spirit. The question we need to ask ourselves is whether we are positioning ourselves to flow in this increased revelation and knowledge. It will require a deliberate and intentional pursuit of God through His Word. There is much that Daniel was shown that had to be concealed but it appears that knowledge is beginning to increase along the lines of Daniel 4.
In verses 5-6, Daniel is shown two men who are engaged in conversation. One man asks the other as to how long until the time of the end. What is seen here are two angelic beings of different rank. The time period of 3 ½ years is given in verse 7. It is a reference to a portion of the ministry of the antichrist. Daniel is now being inquisitive and asks the question in verse 8 as to how long until these things come to pass? It was here where Daniel was told to close up and seal the book until the time of the end.
In verse 10 there is a clear distinction made between those who have been purified and have made white their garments as opposed to those who are wicked and do not understand. There is another similar line of demarcation presented in Revelation 22:11.
Rev 22:11 He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still: and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still: and he that is holy, let him be holy still.
When we get to verse 11 we see three different time periods given concerning the time of the end. How can these three different timings be reconciled? The three different numbers of days are 1260, 1290 and 1335.
Do you remember earlier in our summary when the mention was made of the extension of three kingdoms for a season after the demise of the antichrist? Is there still a bit of life after the tribulation involving some of the other nations? The answer is yes. Let’s examine what the Lord says in Math 24:29-30.
Mat 24:29 Immediately after the tribulation of those days shall the sun be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light, and the stars shall fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens shall be shaken.
Mat 24:30 And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven: and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.
Let’s also look back at what Daniel was shown in chapter 7.
Dan 7:12 As concerning the rest of the beasts, they had their dominion taken away: yet their lives were prolonged for a season and time.
Dan 7:13 I saw in the night visions, and, behold, one like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven, and came to the Ancient of days, and they brought him near before him.
Do you notice in verse 12 that after the other beasts had a season of time after the tribulation when the beast is taken and judged?
The final exhortation in the Book of Daniel is that we wait and be watchful. The signs today are clearly in evidence to the end of this age but how many are really taking it seriously. We are without excuse and we must be those who awaken to the hour that is at hand. The Book of Daniel makes abundantly clear that there must be an enlightened people in the last days so as to help guide, inform and lead others (Dan 12:3). Daniel had exceptional revelation given to him and we can see why he was trusted. He took God seriously and made the most of every opportunity. The key in helping to establish Daniel and his like-minded friends can all be traced back to that familiar verse from chapter 1. It is not enough to know and quote the verse it is time to be an expression of it.
Dan 1:8 But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king’s meat, nor with the wine which he drank: therefore he requested of the prince of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself.
REVELATION 9 – Read day 342 commentary