In our sermon series through the book of Daniel, we have been learning about the sovereignty of God over all things and the comfort which His people are to find in the midst of their tribulations and trials. If you’re interested in a simple, understandable, and clarifying explanation of Daniel 7 you might consider the following:
Key Message (vs 17-18)
Yes, there will be beast-like kings arising from the earth (aka. kingdoms of power and might and human ingenuity) but the saints of the Most High can take heart for they shall receive and possess the everlasting kingdom.
The Crisis (vs 19-21 & 23-25)
With an increase of evil intent, there will be hard times ahead for the saints lead by (a) figure(s) who blaspheme God, persecute the saints, and shall ‘think’ to change the times and the law.
This period shall last for a time, times, and half a time. This is the same period of time described in Revelation 12:14 as the period in which the serpent shall afflict the church. During this time, the witnesses of the Lord (martyrs) shall be killed and their testimony shall be hated and despised. Towards the end of this time, the faithful shall seem to succumb to the persecutors and blasphemers and the man of lawlessness shall even infiltrate the temple of God with false teachings designed to lead many astray.
The Parousia (vs 22 & 26-27)
Parousia (παρουσία) is an ancient Greek word meaning presence, arrival, or official visit. This event is described in scripture as a singular day appointed by God in which the Book of Life will be opened and the LORD shall sit in judgment. It is the coming of this time that inaugurates the saints’ possession of the everlasting kingdom. The Ancient of Days shall receive the righteousness of the Son of Man and bless the saints who have believed in Him.