MESSAGE NOTES
Unshakeable: A Faith That Won’t Fold — Part 10
There is A Throne
Daniel 7
Introduction
In the last six chapters of the book of Daniel, God wants His people to know that there are going to be hard times of opposition and persecution, and they can still live with hope no matter what happens.
God gives Daniel a series of visions about different kingdoms that will rule that region of the world. There will be difficult seasons for God’s people during the 500 plus years leading up to the time when the Roman Empire is in power and persecuting them.
At the same time, these visions also reveal a greater reality. God reigns. Because of that, His people can live with hope.
Apocalyptic Literature
Apocalyptic literature is one of the most difficult parts of Scripture to interpret.
Our approach to Daniel 7–12:
- What the writer intended to communicate
- What the original audience would have understood
- How the early church interpreted it
Apocalyptic literature reminds us that the kingdoms, chaos, and evil of this world will ultimately be replaced by the Kingdom of God and of His Christ. Because of this, God’s people can persevere and live with hope.
PLACE FOR NOTES:
Daniel’s Vision of the Four Beasts
Daniel 7:1–8
All four kingdoms are represented by beasts of prey, warlike and aggressive.
These beasts represent four successive world powers that arise from the sea, a symbol of chaos.
- Lion with Eagle Wings
Generally interpreted as Babylon, known for speed and strength, later losing its power - Bear
Generally interpreted as Medo Persia, slow but crushing - Leopard with Four Heads and Wings
Generally interpreted as the Greek Empire under Alexander the Great, later divided into four parts - Terrifying Fourth Beast with Ten Horns
Traditionally interpreted as the Roman Empire, powerful, violent, and oppressive toward God’s people
Note: There is significant disagreement about the identity of the fourth beast, the horns, and the little horn.
Main Interpretive Approaches
- Preterist
Sees these events as fulfilled in the past, especially during the time of Antiochus IV - Futurist
Sees the fourth beast and the little horn as future, end times events - Historist
Sees a progression of world history from Babylon through Rome, with some elements extending to the end of time
PLACE FOR NOTES:
The Heavenly Reality
Daniel 7:9–14
Daniel is given a vision of the throne of God and the Ancient of Days.
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Interpretation of the Vision
Daniel 7:15–28
The vision is explained, pointing to both earthly kingdoms and God’s ultimate authority over all of them.
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What This Means for Followers of God
There are real forces in this world that are hostile to God. They are powerful, and they will bring opposition, suffering, and persecution.
God’s people should expect this. When it comes, we are not to be surprised or tempted to give up. There is a spiritual battle taking place.
But there is a greater reality.
There is a throne, and God reigns.
We can persevere knowing that God is infinite and holds all authority. The Son of Man has come and will return. His justice will set all things right, and He alone is worthy of worship forever.
PLACE FOR NOTES:
Taking It Home
We encourage you to take time this week to process the message.
- What stands out to you in these passages from the Bible or from the message?
- What is difficult for you to understand or accept?
- What is God saying about Himself, about people, and about you?
- What examples are there to follow, commands to obey, or promises to hold onto?
