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A Study Of The Prophetic Visions Of DanielLesson Ten-Chapter 7 – The Little Horn – Part Two
Daniel 7:7-8 After this I saw in the night visions, and behold a fourth beast, dreadful and terrible, and strong exceedingly; and it had great iron teeth: it devoured and brake in pieces, and stamped the residue with the feet of it: and it was diverse from all the beasts that were before it; and it had ten horns. [8] I considered the horns, and, behold, there came up among them another little horn, before whom there were three of the first horns plucked up by the roots: and, behold, in this horn were eyes like the eyes of man, and a mouth speaking great things.
Daniel 7:20-27 And of the ten horns that were in his head, and of the other which came up, and before whom three fell; even of that horn that had eyes, and a mouth those spake very great things, whose look was more stout than his fellows. [21] I beheld, and the same horn made war with the saints, and prevailed against them; [22] Until the Ancient of days came, and judgment was given to the saints of the most High; and the time came that the saints possessed the kingdom. [23] Thus he said, The fourth beast shall be the fourth kingdom upon earth, which shall be diverse from all kingdoms, and shall devour the whole earth, and shall tread it down, and break it in pieces. [24] And the ten horns out of this kingdom are ten kings that shall arise: and another shall rise after them; and he shall be diverse from the first, and he shall subdue three kings. [25] And he shall speak great words against the most High, and shall wear out the saints of the most High, and think to change times and laws: and they shall be given into his hand until a time and times and the dividing of time. [26] But the judgment shall sit, and they shall take away his dominion, to consume and to destroy it unto the end. [27] And the kingdom and dominion, and the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven, shall be given to the people of the saints of the most High, whose kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and all dominions shall serve and obey him.
Before we get into the verse-by-verse discussion of the 7th Chapter of Daniel let us look more closely for a minute at the book that bear’s Daniel’s name itself.
Both Orthodox and Messianic Judaism rank the book of Daniel in that division of their Bible called the Hagiographa. It consists of two distinct parts. The first part, consisting of the first six chapters, is chiefly historical; and the second part that is the focus of this study, consisting of the remaining six chapters, is chiefly prophetical.
The historical part of the book deals mainly with the period of the Captivity. Daniel is "the historian of the Captivity, the writer who alone furnishes any series of events for that dark and dismal period during which the harp of Israel hung on the trees that grew by the Euphrates,” as one commentator beautifully put it.
His narrative may be said in general to intervene between Kings and Chronicles on the one hand and Ezra on the other, or (more strictly) to fill out the sketch which the author of the Chronicles gives in a single verse in his last chapter: 'And them that had escaped from the sword carried he [i.e., Nebuchadnezzar] away to Babylon; where they were servants to him and his sons until the reign of the kingdom of Persia'" (2 Chr. 36:20).
The prophetical part consists of three visions and one lengthened prophetical communication.
As stated in an earlier lesson, the genuineness of this book has been much disputed, but the arguments in its favor fully establish its claims. (1.) We have the testimony of Christ (Matt. 24:15; 25:31; 26:64) and his apostles (1 Cor. 6:2; 2 Thess. 2:3) for its authority; and (2) the important testimony of Ezekiel (14:14, 20; 28:3). (3.) The character and records of the book are also entirely in harmony with the times and circumstances in which the author lived. (4.) The linguistic character of the book is, moreover, just such as might be expected. Certain portions (Dan. 2:4; 7) are written in the Chaldea language; while the portions written in Hebrew are in a style and form having a close affinity with the later books of the Old Testament, especially with that of Ezra.
The writer is familiar both with the Hebrew and the Chaldea, passing from the one to the other just as his subject required. This is in strict accordance with the position of the author and of the people for whom his book was written. That Daniel is the writer of this book is also testified to in the book itself (7:1, 28; 8:2; 9:2; 10:1, 2; 12:4, 5).
This seventh chapter gives us our first full look at the rise of Antichrist and the characteristics of both his character and reign according to Daniel.
This lesson is more of a verse-by-verse commentary of this 7th chapter and will help lend more light on each minute statement made by Daniel concerning the end times.
Daniel 7:1 In the first year of Belshazzar king of Babylon Daniel had a dream and visions of his head upon his bed: then he wrote the dream, and told the sum of the matters.
Two visions of Daniel were seen in the reign of Belshazzar (Daniel 7 and Daniel 8), while Nebuchadnezzar saw two dreams during his reign.(Daniel 2 and Daniel 4). This vision in the 7th chapter was seen about three years before the events of Daniel 6 (cp. Daniel 6:1 with Daniel 8:1). This chapter, which was in Aramaic, completes the whole Aramaic section of Daniel (Daniel 2:4-7:28). Because of the difference in the Aramaic and Hebrew sections of the book, some have sought to make one section concern Israel and the other to the Gentiles. There is no ground for such a theory. The whole of the visions of Daniel concerns both Jews and Gentiles in the latter days, as we have seen in Daniel 2, and will yet see in the following studies.
Daniel 7:2 Daniel spake and said, I saw in my vision by night, and, behold, the four winds of the heaven strove upon the great sea.
The seventh chapter of Daniel is the 10th prophecy in Daniel (Daniel 7:2-14; Daniel 7:2-7,12 are fulfilled; Daniel 7:8-11,13-14 are unfulfilled). Here in verse two we have the beginning of the vision in symbols. The interpretation is given in Daniel 7:17-27 and concerns the same kingdoms as symbolized by the great image in Daniel 2, with some additional facts.
In Daniel 2 Nebuchadnezzar is shown the Gentile world kingdoms from his day to the second coming of Christ. They are pictured there, from man's standpoint, as a great and beautiful metallic image. In Daniel 7 God shows Daniel the same kingdoms from God's standpoint - as ferocious wild beasts (Daniel 7:17).
Daniel 7:3 And four great beasts came up from the sea, diverse one from another.
Beasts in symbolic passages represent kingdoms (Daniel 7:17,23-24; Daniel 8:20-23; Rev. 17:8-11) and their rulers (Rev. 11:7; Rev. 13:18; Rev. 17:8). Three of these four beasts represented future world empires – Mede-Persia, Greece and Rome. The first beast was Babylon, the world power in place when Daniel had the vision.
Daniel 7:4 The first was like a lion, and had eagle's wings: I beheld till the wings thereof were plucked, and it was lifted up from the earth, and made stand upon the feet as a man, and a man's heart was given to it.
There are 35 aspects to the vision of the four great beasts. They are: 1. The four winds strove upon the great sea, the Mediterranean (Daniel 7:2). 2. Four great beasts came up out of the sea, diverse from one another (Daniel 7:3). 3. The first beast was like a lion (Daniel 7:4). 4. The second beast like a bear (Daniel 7:5). 5. The third beast like a leopard with four wings and four heads (Daniel 7:6). 6. The fourth beast was non-descript, dreadful and terrible, and exceedingly strong (Daniel 7:7). 7. It broke in pieces and stamped the rest of the beasts with its feet. 8. It was different from all others that were before it. 9. It had ten horns. 10. Another little horn grew on its head among the ten horns (Daniel 7:8). 11. In its growth it plucked up three of the ten horns by the roots. 12. In it came eyes like a man's and a mouth speaking great things. 13. Thrones were set and the Ancient of days did sit (Daniel 7:9). 14. His garment was white as snow. 15. His hair was like pure wool. 16. His throne like a fiery flame. 17. His wheels as burning fire. 18. A fiery stream shot out from before Him (Daniel 7:10). 19. Innumerable persons helped Him judge and innumerable others stood before Him to be judged. 20. The judgment was set. 21. The books were opened. 22. The little horn spoke great words. 23. The beast was finally slain (Daniel 7:11). 24. His body was destroyed and given to the burning flame. 25. The rest of the beasts had their dominion taken away (Daniel 7:12). 26. Before they were destroyed they continued a short time. 27. The Son of man came with the clouds of heaven (Daniel 7:13). 28. He came to the Ancient of days. 29. He was brought before Him. 30. The Son of man was given dominion. 31. And the Son of man was given glory. 32. And the Son of man was given a kingdom. 33. That all nations should serve Him. 34. His dominion is eternal. 35. And His kingdom shall never be destroyed (Daniel 7:14). The king of Babylon is compared to a lion (Isaiah 5:29; Jeremiah 4:7; Jeremiah 50:17,44-46). Isaiah 5:29 Their roaring shall be like a lion, they shall roar like young lions: yea, they shall roar, and lay hold of the prey, and shall carry it away safe, and none shall deliver it.
Jeremiah 4:7 The lion is come up from his thicket, and the destroyer of the Gentiles is on his way; he is gone forth from his place to make thy land desolate; and thy cities shall be laid waste, without an inhabitant.
Jeremiah 50:17 Israel is a scattered sheep; the lions have driven him away: first the king of Assyria hath devoured him; and last this Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon hath broken his bones.
Jeremiah 50:44-46 Behold, he shall come up like a lion from the swelling of Jordan unto the habitation of the strong: but I will make them suddenly run away from her: and who is a chosen man, that I may appoint over her? for who is like me? and who will appoint me the time? and who is that shepherd that will stand before me? [45] Therefore hear ye the counsel of the Lord, that he hath taken against Babylon; and his purposes, that he hath purposed against the land of the Chaldeans: Surely the least of the flock shall draw them out: surely he shall make their habitation desolate with them. [46] At the noise of the taking of Babylon the earth is moved, and the cry is heard among the nations.
The eagle's wings also identify Babylon, for the kingdom is compared to an eagle (Jeremiah 48:40; Ezekiel 17; Habakkuk 1:6-8). Jeremiah 48:40 For thus saith the Lord; Behold, he shall fly as an eagle, and shall spread his wings over Moab.
Habakkuk 1:6-8 For, lo, I raise up the Chaldeans, that bitter and hasty nation, which shall march through the breadth of the land, to possess the dwelling places that are not theirs. [7] They are terrible and dreadful: their judgment and their dignity shall proceed of themselves. [8] Their horses also are swifter than the leopards, and are more fierce than the evening wolves: and their horsemen shall spread themselves, and their horsemen shall come from far; they shall fly as the eagle that hasteth to eat.
The wings denote the swiftness of the conquests of Nebuchadnezzar. In just a few years he made a vast empire. The wings being plucked and the lion standing upon its feet as a man with a man's heart being given to it symbolize the conquests of Nebuchadnezzar coming to an abrupt end by his insanity and his becoming sane again—as a man (Daniel 4:33,36).
Daniel 4:33 The same hour was the thing fulfilled upon Nebuchadnezzar: and he was driven from men, and did eat grass as oxen, and his body was wet with the dew of heaven, till his hairs were grown like eagles' feathers, and his nails like birds' claws.
Daniel 4:36 - At the same time my reason returned unto me; and for the glory of my kingdom, mine honor and brightness returned unto me; and my counselors and my lords sought unto me; and I was established in my kingdom, and excellent majesty was added unto me.
Daniel 7:5 And behold another beast, a second, like to a bear, and it raised up itself on one side, and it had three ribs in the mouth of it between the teeth of it: and they said thus unto it, Arise, devour much flesh.
This is a fitting symbol of Mede-Persia because of their cruelty, thirst after blood, robberies, and love of spoil (Isaiah 13:16-18; Jeremiah 51:48-56). Isaiah 13:16-18 Their children also shall be dashed to pieces before their eyes; their houses shall be spoiled, and their wives ravished. [17] Behold, I will stir up the Medes against them, which shall not regard silver; and as for gold, they shall not delight in it. [18] Their bows also shall dash the young men to pieces; and they shall have no pity on the fruit of the womb; their eye shall not spare children.
Jeremiah 51:48-50 Then the heaven and the earth, and all that is therein, shall sing for Babylon: for the spoilers shall come unto her from the north, saith the Lord. [49] As Babylon hath caused the slain of Israel to fall, so at Babylon shall fall the slain of all the earth. [50] Ye that have escaped the sword, go away, and stand not still: remember the Lord afar off, and let Jerusalem come into your mind.
A large species of bear is found in the mountains of Media. The term “one side,” symbolizes the strength of the Persians compared to the Medes. It is the same thought as the higher horn of the ram in Daniel 8:3—Cyrus the Persian who was greater than Darius the Mede (Daniel 5:31) and who came up last (2 Chron. 36:20-23; Ezra 1:1-8; Ezra 3:7; Ezra 4:5; Isaiah 44:28; Isaiah 45:1). This kingdom is mentioned in Daniel 5:24-31; in Daniel 6:1-28; in Daniel 7:5,17; in Daniel 8:1-4,20; in Daniel 10:1-20; in Daniel 11:1-2; Isaiah 13:17-22; Isaiah 21:2; 2 Kings 17:6; 2 Kings 18:11; Esther 1:1-9:3. The term “three ribs in the mouth of it between the teeth of it” symbolizes the conquest of Babylon, Lydia, and Egypt by the Medes and Persians. The bear devoured "much flesh."
Daniel 7:6 After this I beheld, and lo another, like a leopard, which had upon the back of it four wings of a fowl; the beast had also four heads; and dominion was given to it.
A leopard is a fit symbol of the Grecian Empire founded by Alexander the Great. The leopard is known for its swiftness. This, together with the four wings of a fowl, symbolizes the swiftness of Alexander's conquests. Previously, the two wings of the lion symbolized swiftness, but here the four wings symbolize double swiftness of Alexander over Nebuchadnezzar's conquests. None of the conquests of other beasts equaled those of Alexander. The four heads symbolize the four divisions of the Grecian Empire after the death of Alexander, as do the four horns of Daniel 8:8,22-23. To state an important point again, heads always symbolize kingdoms (Daniel 8:20-23; Rev. 17:9-11). This kingdom is mentioned in Daniel 2:32,35,39,45; Daniel 7:6,17; Daniel 8:5-25; Daniel 10:20; Daniel 11:3-45; Zech. 8:13.
Daniel 7:7After this I saw in the night visions, and behold a fourth beast, dreadful and terrible, and strong exceedingly; and it had great iron teeth: it devoured and brake in pieces, and stamped the residue with the feet of it: and it was diverse from all the beasts that were before it; and it had ten horns.
The phrase "after this" indicates that the fourth kingdom would follow the preceding one—Greece (Daniel 7:6,7). The fourth beast is a symbol of the old Roman Empire, the fourth of four kingdoms in succession. It is mentioned by name only in the N.T. (John 11:48; Acts 2:10; Acts 16:21) This is a nondescript beast for there is nothing on earth to compare it with. It is a dreadful, terrible, strong beast with great iron teeth symbolizing the same as the iron on the image of Daniel 2:40-43. Daniel 2:40-43 And the fourth kingdom shall be strong as iron: forasmuch as iron breaketh in pieces and subdues all things: and as iron that breaketh all these, shall it break in pieces and bruise. [41] And whereas thou sawest the feet and toes, part of potters' clay, and part of iron, the kingdom shall be divided; but there shall be in it of the strength of the iron, forasmuch as thou sawest the iron mixed with miry clay. [42] And as the toes of the feet were part of iron, and part of clay, so the kingdom shall be partly strong, and partly broken. [43] And whereas thou sawest iron mixed with miry clay, they shall mingle themselves with the seed of men: but they shall not cleave one to another, even as iron is not mixed with clay.
In fulfillment it devoured the other beasts and stamped upon them with its feet, meaning it conquered all the territories of the first beasts—Babylon, Mede-Persia, and Greece. It was different from all beasts before it, not only in a republican form of government, but also in power, greatness, extent of dominion, and length of duration. The ten horns symbolize ten kingdoms in the latter days, the last form of the old Roman Empire (Daniel 7:7-8,23-24; Rev. 13; Rev. 17:8-17). Horns always symbolize kings (Daniel 7:7-8,23-24; Daniel 8:8-9,20-23; Rev. 17:8-17).
Daniel 7:8 I considered the horns, and, behold, there came up among them another little horn, before whom there were three of the first horns plucked up by the roots: and, behold, in this horn were eyes like the eyes of man, and a mouth speaking great things.
The horns were the last parts of the beast seen by Daniel, and are therefore considered last here (Daniel 7:8,23-24; Rev. 17:12-17). The little horn came up last after the ten horns were fully-grown. It plucked up three of the ten by the roots, symbolizing the Antichrist coming in the days of the formation of Rome into ten kingdoms. He will overthrow three of them and the others will submit to him without further war (Daniel 7:8,23-24; Rev. 17:11-17). The term “speaking great things,” indicates this little horn is a man who speaks blasphemies against God (Daniel 7:8,25; Daniel 11:36)
Daniel 7:9-10 I beheld till the thrones were cast down, and the Ancient of days did sit, whose garment was white as snow, and the hair of his head like the pure wool: his throne was like the fiery flame, and his wheels as burning fire. [10] A fiery stream issued and came forth from before him: thousand thousands ministered unto him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him: the judgment was set, and the books were opened.
Daniel said he beheld till “all the thrones were cast down,” indicating a time from the days of the beginning of the Babylonian Empire until the judgment of Daniel 7:9-10, the defeat of Antichrist and the second coming of Christ of Daniel 7:11-14.
The term “cast down,” indicates that thrones of judgment were set or placed in the counsels of the Almighty. This refers to the judgment of the nations (Daniel 7:26; Matthew 25:31-46) that will take place we believe immediately upon the Lord’s return to earth at the end of the Great Tribulation.
The term “Ancient of Days,” refers to God the Father, not Christ who is seen as a separate Person from the Ancient of days in Daniel 7:13-14. Both are seen as separate Persons by the same prophet and at the same place, so there must be at least two Persons in the Godhead. The fact is, there are three.
It’s said the Ancient of Days “did sit, whose garment was white as snow, and the hair of his head like the pure wool: his throne was like the fiery flame, and his wheels as burning fire.” There are 15 facts we can draw from this passage regarding the Lord God and Judgment:
1. Judgment thrones are set (Daniel 7:9). 2. God is seen with the natural eyes. 3. God is seen sitting on a throne, which means that He has a body the same as other persons who sit (Daniel 7:9). 4. God wears clothing like others (Daniel 7:9). 5. His clothing here is white (Daniel 7:9). 6. He has a head like others (Daniel 7:9). 7. He has hair on His head (Daniel 7:9). 8. The color of His hair is white like pure wool (Daniel 7:9). If He has a head and hair and wears clothing, then He must have a body (see Anthropomorphism. 9. His throne is like a fiery flame. 10. The wheels of His chariot-throne are like burning fire (Daniel 7:9; Ezekiel 1:15-20,25-28; Ezekiel 10:9-13). 11. A stream of fire issues from before Him (Daniel 7:10). 12. Innumerable servants minister before Him (Daniel 7:10). 13. Innumerable others stand before Him (Daniel 7:10). 14. The judgment is set (Daniel 7:10). 15. The books are opened (Daniel 7:10).
Daniel 7:11I beheld then because of the voice of the great words which the horn spake: I beheld even till the beast was slain, and his body destroyed, and given to the burning flame.
Daniel listens to the words of the “horn,” and then sees the end of the Antichrist. At the end of the Great Tribulation period the beast (the angelic being behind the beast) will be slain, his BODY (the human being who he possesses) destroyed and given to the burning flame - which is the lake of fire. The Antichrist will fail in his attempt to dethrone God and His people. That is ONE thing we can be 100% sure of in regards to predicting prophetic events! Praise God.
There are four things we can draw from this passage concerning Antichrist:
1. He will speak great words (Daniel 7:8,11,20,25; Daniel 8:23-25; Daniel 11:36; Rev. 13:5). 2. He will be slain (Daniel 7:11; Daniel 8:25; Daniel 11:45; Isaiah 11:4; 2 Thes. 2:8; Rev. 19:20). To be slain at the second coming, he will need to be a mortal man of the last days—one who will die for the first and last time his own appointed death (Hebrews 9:27). He therefore will not be some historical man who has died and been resurrected as an immortal man and an incarnation of Satan, as some believe. 3. His body will be destroyed (killed) (Daniel 7:11; cp. Matthew 10:28; Luke 12:5). 4. His body will be cast into hell (Daniel 7:11; Rev. 19:20; Rev. 20:10).
Daniel 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.
The beasts or kingdoms preceding the little horn will each reign for a season and a time, then pass away, allowing a succeeding one to come, until the little horn comes whose kingdom is the eighth and last kingdom before the second coming of Christ and the establishment of the kingdom of heaven on earth forever (Rev. 19:11-21).
Daniel 7:13-14 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. [14] And there was given him dominion, and glory, and a kingdom, that all people, nations, and languages, should serve him: his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed.
This "one" is the Son of Man, the Lord Jesus Christ. He is not the Ancient of days of Daniel 7:9-10, but another one, separate and distinct from Him came with the clouds of heaven (Daniel 7:13). This is definitely the second coming of Christ pictured here (Isaiah 63:1-6; Zech. 14:1-5; Matthew 24:29-31; Matthew 25:31-46; Matthew 26:64; 2 Thes. 1:7-10; 2 Thes. 2:8; Jude 1:14; Rev. 1:7; Rev. 11:15; Rev. 19:11-21). Daniel uses the phrase “comes to the Ancient of Days,” signifying two different people he sees in this vision. If the Son of Man (JESUS) comes to the Ancient of days, then He is not the Ancient of days. If “they bring Him (the Son of man) near before Him (the Ancient of days),” then it is confirmed twice in one scripture that these are two separate Persons. The Son of man receives dominion, glory, and a kingdom composed of natural peoples of all races that they may be His subjects eternally. His kingdom is an everlasting dominion that shall not pass away, and His kingdom shall not be destroyed. We see three great bible truths illustrated in these two passages: 1. Christ will receive a kingdom at His second coming (Daniel 7:13-14; Zech. 14; Matthew 24:29-31; Matthew 25:25:31-46; Jude 1:14; Rev. 11:15; Rev. 19:11-20:10). 2. His kingdom will be an eternal one (Daniel 7:13-14,18,27; Daniel 2:35,44-45; Daniel 4:3; Daniel 6:26; Psalm 45:6; Psalm 145:13; Psalm 146:10; Isaiah 9:6-7; Obadiah 21; Micah 4:7; Matthew 25:31-46; Luke 1:32-33; Hebrews 1:8; Rev. 11:15; Rev. 22:4-5). 3. His eternal subjects will be the coming eternal generations of natural people who will continue the same program that Adam and his race would have carried out if man had not fallen (Daniel 7:13-14,18,27; Daniel 2:44-45; Genesis 8:22; Genesis 9:12; Isaiah 9:6-7; Isaiah 59:21; Rev. 11:15).
Daniel 7:15-16I Daniel was grieved in my spirit in the midst of my body, and the visions of my head troubled me. [16] I came near unto one of them that stood by, and asked him the truth of all this. So he told me, and made me know the interpretation of the things.
Daniel is grieved in his spirit as he sees the visions unfold before him, as many of us would be as well I’m sure. The 16th verse gives us encouragement though that the Lord wants us to know the interpretation of prophetic events. They are not shrouded in so much mystery and symbolism the child of God has to sit in the dark about what is ahead for Planet Earth and the Kingdom of God. Daniel asked him “the truth of all this.” When asked, the Lord will make us know the “interpretation of the things,” coming upon us. We note the statement “grieved in my spirit in the midst of my body,” shows us one of many proofs in Scripture that the spirit of man and his body are two distinct things (Matthew 10:28); that the spirit exists separate from the body (Luke 16:19-31; 2 Cor. 5:8; Phil. 1:21-24; Hebrews 12:23; James 2:26; Rev. 6:9-11), and that the spirit is immortal (1 Peter 3:4). In other words, you and I are destined for an eternal place – either heaven or hell. There is no holding tank or waiting room once we die. The life we live in the flesh is not the end game. That is why our choices and decisions we make are so terribly important. We must obey God to inherit eternal life! In addition to that, this entire passage tells us clearly that events in the natural realm of earth are controlled by events in the SPIRIT REALM, or the real world we cannot see with mortal eyes. After Daniel asks this individual (possibly Jesus Himself) the interpretation, the focus of the chapter turns to the angelic being who now gives Daniel the interpretation of the vision of the great beasts from verses 17-27.
Daniel 7:17 These great beasts, which are four, are four kings, which shall arise out of the earth.
The angel states plainly the great beasts (seen in Daniel 7:1-6) are representative of four kings that shall arise out of the earth. These were kingdoms that again had one thing in common – their persecution and treatment of Israel as a nation. The United States is not one of these four. They were Babylon, Mede-Persia, Greece and Rome. The 17th verse is the 11th prophecy in Daniel (Daniel 7:17-27; Daniel 7:17,19,23 are fulfilled; Daniel 7:18,20-22,24-27 are unfulfilled).
There are 15 statements of facts we can draw from this passage to help us interpret what Daniel saw:
1.The four beasts are four kings or kingdoms in succession (Daniel 7:17,23-24; Daniel 2:39-43; Daniel 8:20-23; Rev. 17:9-11). 2.The God of heaven will set up a kingdom in the days of the ten kingdoms and the little horn (Daniel 7:18,27; Daniel 2:44-45; Rev. 17:8-17). 3.The kingdom of heaven and of God will be given to the saints to rule over (Daniel 7:13-14,18,27; Matthew 13:41-50; Matthew 25:31-46; Romans 8:17-18; 1 Cor. 6:2; 2 Tim. 2:12; Rev. 1:6; Rev. 5:10; Rev. 11:15; Rev. 20:4-6; Rev. 22:4-5). 4.The reign of Christ and His saints will be eternal (Daniel 7:14). 5.The subjects of the eternal kingdom will be the coming eternal generations of natural people of all races (Daniel 7:14). 6.The fourth beast is the fourth kingdom, the old Roman Empire which shall devour the territories of the first three beasts (Daniel 7:7-8,19,23). 7.The ten horns are ten kingdoms out of the fourth kingdom, the old Roman Empire territory. They are yet to be formed (Daniel 7:7-8,20,23-24; Rev. 17:9-17). 8.The little horn is the Antichrist who will come up among the ten kingdoms and after they are formed (Daniel 7:7-8,20,23-24; Rev. 17:8-17). 9.The little horn shall be different in power from the ten kingdoms (Daniel 7:7-8,20,23-24; Daniel 8:20-23; Daniel 11:35-45; Rev. 13:1-18; Rev. 17:8-17). 10.The little horn shall subdue three of the ten kingdoms in his rise to power over them (Daniel 7:7-8,20,23-24; Daniel 8:20-23; Daniel 11:35-45; Rev. 13:1-18; Rev. 17:8-17). 11.The little horn shall speak great things 12.The little horn shall make war on the saints (Daniel 7:21,25; Daniel 8:23-25; Daniel 9:27; Daniel 11:35-45; Daniel 12:7; Rev. 11:7; Rev. 13:7; Rev. 14:9-11; Rev. 15:2-4; Rev. 20:4-6). He shall prevail against them, until 3 things happen: (1) Until the Ancient of Days comes to the earth with Christ at the second coming to defeat and destroy the little horn (Daniel 7:21-22,26-27; Daniel 8:23-25; Daniel 9:27; Daniel 11:40-45; Daniel 12:7; Rev. 17:8-17; Rev. 19:11-21) (2) Until judgment is given to the saints (Daniel 7:22; 2 Cor. 6:2) (3) Until the time for the saints to possess the kingdom (Daniel 7:18,22,27; Matthew 25:31-46; Luke 22:30; Romans 8:17-18; Tim. 2:12; Rev. 1:6; Rev. 5:10; Rev. 11:15; Rev. 20:4-6; Rev. 22:4-5) 13.The little horn shall change times and laws for three and a half years (Daniel 7:25; Daniel 12:7; Rev. 13:5). 14.The little horn shall come to an end when the Ancient of Days comes and the judgment is held (Daniel 7:26; Daniel 8:25; Daniel 9:27; Daniel 11:40-45; Daniel 12:7; Rev. 19:11-21). 15.The kingdom of the little horn, and all other world kingdoms shall be given to God, Christ and the saints of the Most High to become the kingdom of God on earth forever (Daniel 7:13-14,18,27; Daniel 2:44-45; Rev. 19:11-21; Rev. 20:1-10; Zech. 14).
We will deal with the coming Kingdom in the 18th verse but it needs to be stated here that at the end of the Great Tribulation the Lord will set up an Earthly kingdom for 1,000 years with Jerusalem as the world’s capital. He will sit on the throne of David and rule the nations with a rod of iron. It will not be a democratic government but a theocracy with the Lord ruling and the subjects of the Kingdom obeying Him. Not all will obey Him willingly which will be made clear at the end of the 1,000 years when Satan will be let loosed from the bottomless pit and lead one final rebellion against God and the Holy City. Of course like everything else Satan has tried to do against God – IT WILL FAIL and he will ultimately find his place with other rebels – in the lake of fire that burns with fire and brimstone
Daniel 7:18 But the saints of the most High shall take the kingdom, and possess the kingdom forever, even forever and ever.
We will not get into a discourse here too deeply about this verse because it’s an entire study by itself. The important thing to note here is this: there will come a day when the Saints of God do take over the earth and kingdom to possess it forever and forever. Some teach that the Kingdom of God is already come to earth in physical form and until we subdue the earth the Lord Jesus cannot return. That is false doctrine and serious doctrinal error. It puts the emphasis on man and not God. That is a fallacy.
Jesus does not need man to subdue the earth to return to earth. At the end of the Great Tribulation period, there will certainly come a time and place when man WILL subdue the earth and be given rulership over nations, kingdoms and I believe entire celestial territories for intercession, worship and prayer. The nations of the world are being influenced by fallen powers right now in the heavenlies. During the Millennium, they will be influenced by heavenly powers.
Daniel 7:19-21 Then I would know the truth of the fourth beast, which was diverse from all the others, exceeding dreadful, whose teeth were of iron, and his nails of brass; which devoured, brake in pieces, and stamped the residue with his feet; [20] And of the ten horns that were in his head, and of the other which came up, and before whom three fell; even of that horn that had eyes, and a mouth that spake very great things, whose look was more stout than his fellows. [21] I beheld, and the same horn made war with the saints, and prevailed against them;
The teeth of iron picture the Roman Empire element as revealed in the legs of iron and the feet, part of clay and iron, of Daniel 2:40-43. The term “nails of brass,” is something added by the one giving the interpretation, and not mentioned in the description of the beast in Daniel 7:7-8. They symbolize the Grecian Empire element of the image of Daniel 2:39,45. There would no doubt be ten claws corresponding to the ten toes of Daniel 2:40-43 and the ten horns of Daniel 7:7-8,23-24; Rev. 17:8-17. During the Great Tribulation period, the Revised Roman Empire will give way to the Revised Grecian Empire ruled in totality by the Antichrist.
Daniel 7:20-22 And of the ten horns that were in his head, and of the other which came up, and before whom three fell; even of that horn that had eyes, and a mouth that spake very great things, whose look was more stout than his fellows. [21] I beheld, and the same horn made war with the saints, and prevailed against them; [22] Until the Ancient of days came, and judgment was given to the saints of the most High; and the time came that the saints possessed the kingdom.
The term “until the Ancient of days came,” gives us pause to look at the fact that the Bible not only teaches the first and second comings of Jesus Christ to the earth, but also two comings of the Father:
1. The first coming of God the Father will be at the second coming of Jesus Christ to the earth (Daniel 7:9,13-14,22; Zech. 14:5; Titus 2:13). At this time God will come to help Christ defeat and destroy the Antichrist kingdom (Daniel 7:21-22). He will then give the kingdom over to the Son (Daniel 7:13-14) and the saints (Daniel 7:18,27). Christ will then be King over all the earth (Daniel 7:13-14,27; Zech. 14:9; Matthew 25:31-46; Rev. 11:15; Rev. 20:1-10; Rev. 22:4-5). The Father will go back to heaven to remain for the first 1,000 years of the eternal reign of Christ and until He has rid the earth of all rebellion (1 Cor. 15:24-28; Ephes. 1:10).
1 Cor. 15:24-28 Then cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father; when he shall have put down all rule and all authority and power. [25] For he must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet. [26] The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death. [27] For he hath put all things under his feet. But when he saith, all things are put under him, it is manifest that he is excepted, which did put all things under him. [28] And when all things shall be subdued unto him, then shall the Son also himself be subject unto him that put all things under him that God may be all in all.
Ephes. 1:10 That in the dispensation of the fullness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him:
2. The second coming of God the Father to the earth will be at the end of the Millennium when Christ has rid the earth of all rebels. God will then become "all in all" on earth as before rebellion was started by Lucifer and later by Adam (1 Cor. 15:24-28; Ephes. 1:10). He will then move His capital city from the planet heaven to the planet earth to be among men forever (Rev. 21:1-7,9-10; Rev. 22:1-5).
Daniel 7:23 Thus he said, The fourth beast shall be the fourth kingdom upon earth, which shall be diverse from all kingdoms, and shall devour the whole earth, and shall tread it down, and break it in pieces.
The term the "whole earth" means the revised Roman Empire, the civilized world that will be in existence at that time.
Some people teach the Antichrist will rule the entire world with an iron grip. He will try but in reality his scope of direct rule will be limited to the region of the world known in that day as the Revised Roman Empire.
We are not being adamant about that, no one really knows. But from reading the scripture it is evident that the while the world at large will “wonder after the beast,” there will be much bloodshed because of those who will oppose the Antichrist and his bid for world dominion.
Even when it looks like he has succeeded in that bid – Christ returns to Earth and destroys the Antichrist with the brightness of His coming.
Having said that let us make it clear that the Antichrist’s influence will be felt worldwide without a doubt and the outpouring of God’s wrath will be felt worldwide as well. The Great Tribulation period will not be a good time to be alive and well on Planet Earth. It pays to be getting ready for the rapture of the Church.
Daniel 7:24 And the ten horns out of this kingdom are ten kings that shall arise: and another shall rise after (not from) them; and he shall be diverse from the first, and he shall subdue three kings.
The term “ten horns” is used quite a bit in this 7th chapter of Daniel. The 10 horns symbolize ten kings who will rule ten kingdoms that are yet to be formed inside the old Roman Empire.
If, as many Bible students teach, there will be a revived Roman Empire, we are to expect only one king over one kingdom formed inside the old Roman Empire territory. This is not what is stated here though. It is not one horn on the beast symbolizing one king reigning from Rome over one kingdom, as was true of the old Roman Empire, but ten kings out of this kingdom. This means that there will be a revised Roman Empire, not a revived empire.
This further underscores the events of 1989 when the fall of Communism freed many countries in the domain of the former Soviet Union (these countries were situated in the old Roman Empire territory) ten future kingdoms could be formed out of the 24 present states of the old Roman Empire territory (Daniel 7:23-24).
That these ten kingdoms are yet future will exist and reign together inside the old Roman Empire territory is clear. It’s also clear these 10 kingdoms will not include the entire world—only the then Roman Empire- which basically covered only portions of southern Europe, western Asia, northern Africa, and of course the Middle East.
Never forget the Eastern part of the Roman Empire was situated and centered in TURKEY. Constantinople was the first capital of this Empire for many years after Rome fell. Turkey is one of the nations we will discuss in detail in this study because it is one of the divisions of Alexander the Great’s former kingdom and one of the four we believe the Bible teaches that the Antichrist will spring.
Ten Kings, Not Barbarous Tribes
Some teach that the 10 toes and 10 horns of Daniel 2 and Daniel 7 are 10 barbarous tribes that overran the old Roman Empire between 351 and 474 A.D. They interpret the little horn of Daniel 7 and Daniel 8 and the beast of Rev. 13-20 to be the papacy, but the following points disprove this:
1. The 10 toes and 10 horns are explained by God to be "ten kings, which have received no kingdom as yet; but receive power as KINGS one hour with the beast. These shall make war on the Lamb . . . these shall hate the whore, and shall make her desolate . . . For God hath put in THEIR HEARTS to fulfill His will, and to agree, and give THEIR KINGDOM unto the beast, UNTIL the words of God shall be fulfilled" (Daniel 2:44; Daniel 7:24; Rev. 17:8-17). They are 10 persons who will rule 10 kingdoms for "forty and two months" or the last 1260 literal days at the end of this age, and who will help the beast fight against Christ at Armageddon—not 10 tribes of the 4th and 5th centuries A.D. (Daniel 7:24-27; Daniel 8:25; Rev. 13:5; Rev. 17:14-17; Rev. 19:19-21). 2. The 10 kings will reign over 10 kingdoms that will yet be formed inside the old Roman Empire—not 10 tribes of the past (Daniel 2:44; Daniel 7:23-24; Rev. 17:12-17; Rev. 19:19-21). 3. The God of heaven is to set up a kingdom on earth "in the days of these kings" (Daniel 2:44-45; Rev. 19:11-20:7). He did not set up such a kingdom in A.D. 351-474 and has not yet done so. 4. The 10 kings will all be in existence at the same time and place, do the same things and continue the same length of time (Daniel 2:44; Daniel 7:7-8,19-27; Rev. 13:1-3; Rev. 17:12-17). They will be in existence and be reigning over the 10 kingdoms before the beast comes (Daniel 7:7-8,19-27). They will make the 7th of the 7 kingdoms that precede the beast who forms the 8th kingdom (Rev. 17:8-11). All this is yet future, so could not be 10 tribes of the past (Rev. 17:12-17; Rev. 19:19-21). 5. The little horn of Daniel 7 and Daniel 8 is the same as the beast of Rev. 13-20 as can be seen by a comparison of them in these scriptures. See The Little Horn. Since the little horn of Daniel and the beast of Revelation are the same and are yet future, as proved by their war on Christ at His second coming (Rev. 17:12-17; Rev. 19:19-21), and since they both will have the 10 kings under them at that time, the 10 kings could not be 10 tribes of the past. 6. Not one detail of Daniel or Revelation has ever been fulfilled with the papacy or barbarous tribes outside the empire that overran the Roman Empire centuries ago. Tribes could never be 10 personal kings as is required of the prophecies of these books. No 10 tribes ever did exist at the same time and place, making agreement to give the papacy power to rule for 3 1/2 years. God did not set up His kingdom in 351-474 A.D. 7. There were 21 tribes or more, which overran the Roman Empire, and not 10, according to the Encyclopedia Britannica under the subjects "Lombards" and "Suevi." Any group of 10 of these could not exist together to fight against Christ at Armageddon, as required in Rev. 17:14; Rev. 19:19-21. 8. The papacy did not overthrow 3 of these tribes and force the others to submit, as predicted of the little horn and the beast (Daniel 7:8,19-24; Rev. 17:12-17). 9. No 10 kings have ever come from inside the Roman Empire to fulfill the prophecies, as required in Daniel 7:24. "Out of this kingdom" means from within. The tribes that overran the Roman Empire were from outside that empire. 10. No 10 tribes have ever been of one mind to give their power to the papacy, as foretold in Rev. 17:12-17 of the beast. 11. No papacy has ever come from one of the four divisions of the old Grecian Empire as will be true of the little horn of the future, as seen in Daniel 8:9-14,23. 12. No papacy has made constant war on saints as the little horn will do when he comes "UNTIL" Christ comes (Daniel 7:19-22; Rev. 13:1-7,16-18).
We can, therefore, say without reservation that the theory that the 10 kings are 10 tribes that overran the Roman Empire 351-474 A.D. is unbiblical and unhistorical. The scores of pages in some books devoted to the history of the papacy do not prove anything as far as the fulfillment of Daniel and Revelation are concerned, for these events will be fulfilled "AFTER THE CHURCHES"
Russia and the former Soviet Union’s control over Albania, Romania, Bulgaria, and Hungary, which are countries of the old Roman Empire territory was a prerequisite before ANY of these 10 nations could be formed into a confederacy of some sort. Many Bible teachers in the 1950s, 60s, and even up until the mid-1980s saw a third world war coming to Planet Earth because many believed Russia would not give up these states without war. Some thought that events would cause a tri-continent war and in the aftermath of that war these nations would be loosed from Soviet domination. Well Praise God for His mercy. God didn’t need a physical army to loose the Soviet grip. He just removed the principality that controlling Communism and as a result the Berlin Wall fell without a shot being fired.
The term “another shall arise,” refers to an 11th horn, the little horn, symbolizing an 11th king who will come out of one of the 10 kingdoms and use it to overthrow 3 others (Daniel 7:7-8,20,23-24; Daniel 8:20-25; Daniel 11:35-45). The other 6 of the 10 will then submit to him, the Antichrist, without further war. God at that time will put it into the hearts of all the 10 to agree and give their power to the beast to fulfill prophecy (Rev. 17:8-17).
The Little Horn Of Daniel 7:7-8 And Daniel 7:24
Daniel 7:24 states that, "The ten horns out of this kingdom (the 4th, Rome) are ten kings that shall arise: and ANOTHER shall arise AFTER them; and he shall be diverse from the first (the 10), and he shall subdue three kings (of the 10)." This will give him 4 of the 10 kings. The other 6 of the 10 will agree to give their power to this little horn and he will form the 8th kingdom of Rev. 17:8-17.
It is clear that the little horn arises AFTER the 10 horns and not BEFORE them and that he does not have a thing to do with causing the rise of the 10. He does not revise the Roman Empire and is not on the scene of action until after the 10 kingdoms are fully formed. These facts exclude the possibility of some ruler—the pope, or any man now prominent in world affairs—as being the Antichrist of the future.
Sensational writings declaring that some present or historical man will be the future Antichrist are unscriptural, and cause much confusion. The 10 horns are the last form of the old Roman Empire and are within the same territory. They were first seen on the beast before Daniel saw the little horn come up out of the 10 horns. Daniel said, "I considered the horns, and, behold, there came up among them another little horn" (Daniel 7:8). This "little horn" is yet in the future, and is the same as the "beast" in Rev. 13 as proved by the following:
1. Both are conquerors (Daniel 7:8,20-24; Rev. 6:1-2). 2. Both speak blasphemies (Daniel 7:8,20-26; Rev. 13:5). 3. Both prevail against saints (Daniel 7:21-25; Rev. 13:7). 4. Both control the 10 horns (Daniel 7:20-25; Rev. 13:1; Rev. 17:12-14). 5. Both change the times and laws (Daniel 7:11,21-27; Rev. 13:1-7). 6. Both are slain and are given to the burning flame by the same person and at the same time (Daniel 2:44-45; Daniel 7:9-11,18,25-27; Rev. 19:11-21). 7. Both were to reign over the 10 horns "until the Ancient of Days came ... and the saints possessed the kingdom" (Daniel 2:44-45; Daniel 7:8-11,18,21-22,25-27; Rev. 17:12-14; Rev. 19:11-21). 8. Both are destroyed at the second coming of Christ (Daniel 2:44-45; Daniel 7:9-14; Rev. 19:11-21). 9. Both continue for the same length of time (Daniel 7:25; Rev. 11:2-3; Rev. 12:6,14; Rev. 13:5; Rev. 19:11-21). 10. Immediately following both, the Kingdom of Heaven is set up (Daniel 2:44-45; Daniel 7:9-14,21-27; Luke 1:32-35; Isaiah 9:6-7; Rev. 19:11-21; Rev. 20:1-6). 11. Both come out of the 10 kingdoms and subdue 3 others (Daniel 7:7-8,23-24; Daniel 8:8-9,20-24; Rev. 6:1-2; Rev. 13:1-5; Rev. 17:12-17). 12. Both rise "after" the 10 horns (Daniel 7:7-8,23-24; Daniel 8:23; Rev. 13:1-7; Rev. 17:12-17). 13. Both are kings of fierce countenance (Daniel 7:8-25; Daniel 8:23; Rev. 13:1-18; Rev. 17:12-17; 2 Thes. 2:8-12). 14. Both cause craft to prosper (Daniel 7:8,20-26; Daniel 8:25; 2 Thes. 2:4-12; Rev. 13:1-18). 15. Both exalt themselves (Daniel 7:8,20-26; Daniel 8:25; 2 Thes. 2:4-12; Rev. 13:1-18). 16. Both fight against Christ at His coming (Daniel 7:20-25; Daniel 8:25; Rev. 17:12-17; Rev. 19:11-21; 2 Thes. 2:8-12). 17. Both shall be destroyed "without hand" (Daniel 2:44,45; Daniel 7:9-11,22-27; Daniel 8:25; Rev. 19:11-21; 2 Thes. 2:8-12). 18. Both do according to their own will for the same length of time (Daniel 7:25; Daniel 8:24; Daniel 11:36; 2 Thes. 2:8-12; Rev. 13:5-7). 19. Both will be alive at the second coming of Christ (Daniel 7:11; Daniel 8:22-25; Daniel 9:27; Daniel 11:40-45; 2 Thes. 2:8-12; Rev. 19:19-21). 20. Both will cause the great tribulation (Daniel 7:21-27; Daniel 8:23-25; Daniel 9:27; Daniel 11:40-45; Daniel 12:1,7; Matthew 24:15-31; 2 Thes. 2:1-12; Rev. 7:14; Rev. 13:1-18; Rev. 14:9-11; Rev. 15:2-4; Rev. 20:4-6). 21. Both will do away with the Jewish sacrifices in Jerusalem (Daniel 7:25; Daniel 8:24; Daniel 9:27; Daniel 11:35-45; Daniel 12:7; Matthew 24:15). 22. Both will reign from the Jewish temple in Jerusalem (Daniel 8:9-14; Daniel 9:27; Daniel 11:45; Daniel 12:7; 2 Thes. 2:4; Rev. 11:1-2; Rev. 13:1-18). 23. Both will disregard the God of their fathers (Daniel 7:11,19-25; Daniel 8:22-25; Daniel 9:27; Daniel 11:37-39; John 5:43). 24. Both will honor Satan and get their power from him (Daniel 8:24; Daniel 11:35-45; 2 Thes. 2:8-12; Rev. 13:1-4).
"After them” is a very key term in this 24th chapter denoting that it’s AFTER the ten kingdoms are formed inside the old Roman Empire territory, the little horn or Antichrist shall arise, and not before them.
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