WELCOME

Welcome to our first ever sermon aligned devotional guide! Over the past few months a group of people from The Chapel - both staff and non-staff - have worked together to develop this study just for you. As we dive into the book of on Sunday mornings, we want to provide an extra resource to help you go deeper in your understanding of the book and the life of its main character. In this study you will not only explore the life of Daniel, the exile in , and interesting characters like Nebuchadnezzar, you will also see what it looks like to “live sent” in a world that is hostile to God. We have much in common today with Daniel and his friends! Our bottomline for the series is this: We can have courage in the chaos of life because of our confidence in God. We pray as you interact with this incredible book and this devotional, your confidence in God will grow and give you the courage to “live sent.”

Kevin McKee Andrew Bates

How to UsE THE DEVOTIONAL GUIDE

CHAPTER SUMMARY - Background information designed to help you understand the chapter better.

BIBLE DISCOVERY - Biblical questions prompting you to read various passages and make connections.

LIFE APPLICATION - Personal questions challenging you to apply what you have learned to your life.

LIVE SENT - Intentional questions aimed at fulfilling our mission to help people meet, know, and follow Jesus. See passage on page 28. These will be noted with this icon:

PRAYER - A written prayer designed to spark a conversation with Jesus about what you have learned and want to apply to your life.

1 INTRODUCTION The opens in the middle of a crisis. It was the summer of 605 BC, in the heart of the Ancient Near East. The Jewish holy city of Jerusalem was attacked by Nebuchadnezzar, king of the Babylonian Empire, and 10,000 Jews were shackled into slavery and marched 900 miles from their home to the empire’s capital city of Babylon. What a heartbreaking scenario. How had God’s chosen people arrived here?

To answer that question, flashback 1500 years. God selected Abraham and promised him a large family and a special land that, together, would bless the world. Several hundred years later, Abraham’s family, numbering around two million, found themselves enslaved in Egypt. In dramatic fashion, God rescued them, gathered them to Mt. Sinai, and initiated an agreement that required adherence to a certain set of laws. Contingent upon their obedience, they were either blessed or cursed, with curses including being exiled from their promised land. After establishing that covenant, God ushered them into Canaan, and they became the nation of Israel.

Soon, the nation fractured into a northern kingdom and a southern kingdom (Judah) and consistently failed to follow God and His laws. Prophets warned, but to no avail. After centuries of unfaithfulness, God brought to fruition the curses of exile.

Leading up to that fateful event, the Assyrian Empire had been defeated on the world stage and the Babylonian Empire had gained control of much of the known world. So, when they attacked Jerusalem in 605 BC, God gave them victory and allowed King Nebuchadnezzar to carry out the exile God had promised. Judah’s defeat resulted in the best and the brightest being hauled away to Babylon. This would be the first of three large deportations of Jews; the second would be in 597 BC, and the third in 586 BC when Nebuchadnezzar’s army razed Jerusalem to the ground, destroyed their beloved temple and carried the final group of Jews into exile.

City of Babylon At that time, the city of Babylon was considered the largest in the world and Nebuchadnezzar took great pains to transform it into an empire of magnificence. Surrounded by 56 miles of walls, eight horses wide, Babylon had at least three palaces and over 40 temples to different gods. Towering above was a 650-foot glimmering enamel ziggurat, which was a pyramid-type temple believed to connect their gods to the earth. The city was also famed for the mysterious Hanging Gardens, considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. ASSIMILATION The Babylonians strategically conquered their captives through a process called assimilation. They began by transporting the leaders, scholars and royals, along with their families, to Babylon. Next, they would indoctrinate them into all facets of Babylonian culture, including, of course, their religion. This method would rebrand their identity and sense of loyalty. Then these leaders, having become steeped in Babylon’s world view, would lead their home nation to remain subject to the empire. With Judah specifically, Nebuchadnezzar aimed to alter their monotheistic (one God only) view to include their polytheistic (many gods) view, thus destroying the Biblical worldview of the Jewish elite class. DANIEL THE MAN When Daniel was taken from Jerusalem, he was probably in his mid-teens, or possibly early twenties, and almost certainly of royal blood. He lived about 70 years as a captive in Babylon and never saw his home again. He served in the court of four different kings in two different empires. THE BOOK OF DANIEL Uniquely written, it is divided into two distinct parts. Chapters 1 through 6 include historical narrative accounts of Daniel and his friends. Chapters 7 through 12 are apocalyptic literature (see below) that describe a string of unusual visions. In addition, six of the chapters are written in pairs with parallel themes: 2 and 7, 3 and 6, and 4 and 5. Also, this book is written in two different languages. Chapter 1 and chapters 8 through 12 are in Hebrew, the language of God’s people. In chapters 2 through 7, however, the story is told in , the Persian people’s common language and the international language at that time. 2 APOCALYPTIC LITERATURE This unique genre is foreign to many of us. The word means “to uncover or reveal” and this style of writing is full of visions and striking symbolic images. In the , God uses these signs and illustrations to pull back the curtain and unveil His divine perspective on a worldly situation. (To learn more, watch this 7-minute video from the Bible Project: https://bibleproject.com/explore/ video/apocalyptic-literature/)

ORIGINAL AUDIENCE SCAN HERE! The book of Daniel was written to deported Jews in Babylon, who were likely spiritually weary after the defeat and exile of their nation. PURPOSE The purpose of the book is to provide hope that God is still in control. THEMES 1. The Sovereignty of God - Daniel beautifully displays God’s supreme power and authority over all nations, history, and people as the loving King of creation and redemption. 2. Kings and Kingdoms - Daniel illustrates God’s design to establish His own everlasting King, Jesus, and His kingdom. Through Him, salvation was brought to the world. 3. Living as a Believer in an Unbelieving World - God uses Daniel and his friends to model a “live sent” mentality, amidst persecution, in a culture that does not follow God.

JESUS CONNECTION Clearly, Jesus highly valued the writings of Daniel. The New Testament records numerous examples of Jesus referencing Daniel. Jesus even adopted His most frequent title for Himself, “Son of Man,” from this book. As we read Daniel, we’ll find that God’s plan for Jesus as Savior and King are woven throughout the book, as well as His unveiling of Jesus’ Second Coming. TIMELINE (by chapter) 605-604 B.C. 602 B.C. 556 B.C. 554 B.C. 539 B.C. 538 B.C.

CH. 3 | Nebuchadnezzar’s image CH. 5 |’s feast—Babylon falls

CH. 1 | Captivity CH. 4 | Nebuchadnezzar’s tree dream CH. 9 | Vision of Seventy Weeks CH. 2 | Dream of the Image CH. 8 | Ram and the Goat Vision CH. 10-12 | Closing Visions CH. 7 | The Vision of the Four Beasts CH. 6 | The Lions’ Den

3 Daniel spent the majority of his life in Babylonian exile. Ushered into it as a teenage boy, he very quickly had to decide if he would stay true to God or bow to the pantheon of gods within his new culture. It was quite a choice to make at such a young age. But he chose well.

In Chapter 1, Daniel immediately comes face-to-face with Nebuchadnezzar’s strategy for assimilating his new Israelite captives (see introduction). Instead of forcing them into submission, the king chooses to wine and dine them, while subtly giving them a new identity. Daniel’s quick response to the king’s tactics is the beginning of his legacy of bold faith. A legacy we still draw from today. Let’s look at this process more carefully.

Daniel and his fellow deportees were assigned to an administrator that put them on a schedule. A variety of goals were established to transition these new residents into Babylonian culture. Through the reading, you will discover several of them, but for now let’s look closely at one of them: establishing new names. The chief official intentionally renamed each of them. Can you imagine suddenly being referred to differently? Couple that awkward feeling with the emphasis that names had in this time and culture. A name was intended to define and describe you as a person.

Note the name changes and compare the meanings that were intended to redefine their beliefs and purpose:

HEBREW NAME BABYLONIAN NAME Daniel - God is my judge Belteshazzar - Bel protects his life Hananiah - Yahweh is gracious Shadrach - companion of Aku Mishael - Who is what God is? Meshach - command of Aku Azariah - Yahweh is a helper Abednego - servant of Nebo

By changing their names, Nebuchadnezzar had hoped to change their hearts. But Daniel and his friends were not fooled. Instead, they took a stand. By choosing to abstain from the royal meals, they chose to abstain from the culture. Theories differ over whether they were adhering to a Levitical diet or avoiding food sacrificed to idols. No matter the reason, they refused to allow the culture to distract and lure them away from God. They chose, three times a day, to be reminded this was not their home, these were not their gods, and this was not their purpose. That daily decision reinforced their devotion to God and prevented the message of their new names from penetrating their hearts.

CONCLUSION

The goal was for Hebrew nobility to one day “stand before the king” in allegiance (v.5) and though Daniel and his friends did stand before the king (v.19), they did so with greater allegiance to the true King. That feat was only accomplished because they were diligent to guard their hearts. May we follow suit, knowing conformity to our culture will cost us our identity.

4 READ DANIEL CHAPTER 1

MAKE THE CONNECTION Daniel 1:2 and 2 Kings 20:12-18

QUESTIONS Who delivered Judah into captivity? (v.2) How does that shape your view of Nebuchadnezzar’s power?

List the four tasks the chief official was ordered to carry out by the king (v.4-7) and describe how each one contributed to the ultimate goal (v.5).

LIVE SENT | The king’s goal was for the Israelites to stand before him (v. 5). Consider the lives Daniel directly influenced because he was ushered into this elite club. In what ways has God opened up similar doors for you? List three names of people you can invest in more deeply and pray specifically for them.

Glance back at the chart that details the change of names. Pick one and contrast the two meanings below. How would the new name create a new system of belief? List some practical situations where this new name would play out.

New names were intended to create new identities. How has the world attempted to rename you? (i.e. Not Good Enough, A Failure, Ugly, Unloved) Write down any names our culture has given you. How do you see yourself operating out of those names? What decisions, assumptions, and actions stem from them?

What indoctrinates you to our culture? What forms of entertainment or actions subtly turn your attention away from God?

Is there anything God is asking you to abstain from in order to strengthen your allegiance to Him? Choose to fast from it all week and note any differences in your heart and mind. Share those differences with your Community Group, D-Group, or trusted friend.

LIVE SENT | Daniel and his friends had a live sent mentality. Their effectiveness was based on what they did and what God did in partnership with them. Note their actions (v.8) and God’s actions in this story (v.9, 17). What was the result? (v.20) How do God’s actions in this story encourage you to live sent?

PRAYER Father, please capture my heart this week. Help me get in Your Word daily so I can stand boldly against any ungodly currents within our culture. 5 In Chapter 1, we read of Nebuchadnezzar, the commander of a conquering empire, the king who crushed Jerusalem. Next, in Chapter 2, we meet the man himself.

At this point, Nebuchadnezzar was around 30 years old. He was the most powerful leader of an empire that had taken over much of the known world. One could say he essentially was “the king of the world.” Yet Chapter 2 opens with this man restless and troubled, unable to even sleep. Why is that?

History tells us that Nebuchadnezzar was a very religious man. He was named after the Babylonian god of wisdom, Nabu, and was deeply pious (devout; having deep respect toward deities). In the British Library in London, there is an inscription of the reverent prayer he offered to Marduk, the main Babylonian deity, on the day of his coronation. In his culture, dreams and visions were considered a common way that the gods communicated truths about the future. Thus, understanding the content of a dream would be critical. Perhaps the gods were warning him of something ahead? No wonder this king couldn’t sleep!

The chapter reads of a vivid contrast between Nebuchadnezzar and Daniel. These two men could scarcely have been more different. Whereas the king ruled the world’s most powerful empire, Daniel, despite his government post, was essentially a foreign prisoner of war. Nebuchadnezzar was on edge and sleepless, while Daniel remained poised and self-assured. Responding to this crisis, the king made unrealistic demands and rash decisions. Daniel, on the other hand, spoke truth. Rather than being self-reliant, he turned to God in prayer, enlisting his friends to pray with him, also.

In reading Daniel’s prayer, note verses 20-23, which are probably indented in your Bible. In many Old Testament narratives, there are times when the characters erupt in poetry or song, also indented. These poems and songs often highlight main points or themes, so pay special attention to these.

Also worth noting is the line, “a rock was cut out, but not by human hands” (v. 34). Daniel was not the first in the Old Testament to write of such a rock or a stone. Centuries earlier, the rock was used as an to depict one who would come from Jacob’s offspring to save God’s people (Genesis 49:24). Later, a psalmist wrote of a stone that would be rejected but later become the foundational cornerstone (Psalm 118:22). Then, the prophet Isaiah preached about a stone that would be a foundation upon which God’s people could rely (Isaiah 28:16). What’s going on with all this stone imagery?

CONCLUSION The book of Daniel set out to instill in its original Israelite readers, as well as in us modern believers, that in whatever kingdom God’s people find themselves living, it is only temporary. The true goal of history, and where it is headed, is the full realization of God’s kingdom, the true rock. This coming kingdom is where Daniel could find his identity and hope, and where we find ours as well.

6 READ DANIEL CHAPTER 2

MAKE THE CONNECTION Daniel 2:31 (see ESV translation) and Genesis 1:27

QUESTIONS List the four parts of the statue/image, including body part and material (vv. 31-33). What do you notice about the value of the materials going down the statue?

*For additional information see The Bible Project’s video on Daniel on page 29. Starting in verse 36, Daniel interprets the dream. What does he say the parts of the statue represent?

The climax of the dream is at its conclusion. How does it end (vv. 34-35)? What does Daniel say this represents (vv. 44-45)? How long will it last?

What do you think God is teaching Nebuchadnezzar through this dream about earthly kingdoms and God’s kingdom? How does this relate to Daniel’s poem (vv. 20-23)? How is this good news?

LIVE SENT | God placed Daniel in that place and time to speak through him. What difference would it make in the next month for you to see yourself as being placed by God in this time and place for Him to speak through you? Be specific.

Read Psalm 118:22-23; at the time of Jesus, this was already known to speak of the coming Messiah, or Savior. Now, look at Isaiah 28:16. Then consider where Peter quotes these scriptures in 1 Peter 2:4-8. Who is this living Stone? (Hint: Luke 20:9-18)

LIVE SENT | In what ways are you living with this Stone as your foundation? In what ways would you like to live more like that?

PRAYER Father, we praise You that You are the true ruler of history, the One in control of where this world is headed. We thank You for making Jesus the King of Your forever Kingdom.

7 DANIEL 3 Chapter 3 opens with Nebuchadnezzar constructing a 90-foot statue with one objective in mind: at the sound of music, everyone was to worship it. Obviously, anyone living to honor the one true God couldn’t do this in good faith. Therefore, Shadrach and his friends had a decision to make. Thus far, they had complied with much of the culture. Agreeing to new names and a new language, they also accepted positions of leadership within the kingdom. They had chosen to serve this nation where God had placed them, but this was a line they couldn’t cross. So, they defied the decree and got caught.

The story is captivating and action-packed. After the three friends refuse to worship the statue, the king, furious at their defiance, cranks up the heat in the fiery furnace and throws them into it. Suddenly, an is seen walking with them through the flames. Those outside the blazing kiln witnessed all of this through the window. There was only one explanation: God had saved them.

Consider the story through the eyes of the king. Nebuchadnezzar clearly saw three men bound and thrown into the flames. Without warning, he suddenly witnessed four in the furnace, unbound and unhurt. Though Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego willingly served within the culture, they refused to be bound and imprisoned to the gods around them. As a result, when the flames came and the persecution raged, they found themselves unbound in the presence of God.

Due to this miraculous rescue, King Nebuchadnezzar embarked on an evangelistic campaign. This pagan king witnessed the power of God and was compelled to let “every people, nation, and language” know about it. God’s mission has always been to use His people to reveal Himself to the nations. Even at this point, after Israel had disobeyed and was now in exile, God was still advancing His purposes.

We don’t live in a culture that is threatening death if we don’t worship the gods around us, but the draw to bow down to one is just as powerful. At the sound of certain music, we bow down to the next device, promotion, accolade, or accomplishment. We easily opt to compromise our convictions. Our fear is not a fiery furnace, but rather isolation, ridicule, and ostracism. Those who strive to follow God still struggle to be like everyone else. Why? Because it’s easier and more comfortable to conform.

Though this story centers on Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, the main point is not about them. It is not a story of how faith conquers all or if we promise to stand for God, we will be safe from harm. This is a story about God continuing to accomplish His purposes in the world even after His original and primary means for reaching the world was taken into exile.

CONCLUSION No matter how crazy life becomes, God is still on the move, intending to use His people to accomplish His purposes. Our job is to love and serve others while not bowing to anyone but God alone. As we do this, we might lose our comfort, our freedom, or possibly our lives, but we will still stand for God, unbound, and in His presence.

8 READ DANIEL CHAPTER 3

MAKE THE CONNECTION Genesis 12:1-3 and Daniel 3:28-29 and Revelation 7:9

QUESTIONS What “statues” tempt you to bow down to them? What do you find yourself worshiping other than God?

What consequences or “fiery furnaces” do you fear as a result of worshiping only God?

What area of your life right now requires a bold faith? What would it take for you to say, like Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, that you will not compromise your faith, no matter what trials may come? (v.17-18) Spend a few minutes in prayer asking God to empower you with boldness in that area.

Ask God to reveal to you any areas that are, or are starting to, resemble “statues.” This week, what is one way you can choose to look different from the world by worshiping God instead of the statues that surround you?

LIVE SENT | God’s response to the faith of these three men caused the pagan king to praise Him, maybe even for the first time (“Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego...” - v.26). Who would be impacted most in your life if you chose to set yourself apart and stand for God? What is one tangible way you can demonstrate your faith to this person?

PRAYER God, give me the grace and courage to worship and honor You and You alone in the midst of people worshiping other things. Help me to stand with You even when it’s uncomfortable, unpopular, or even if there are adverse consequences. Let me live for the glory and honor of Jesus.

9 The story of King Nebuchadnezzar peaks and concludes in this chapter with God reminding us of His control over all things and His deep desire to save the lost. Nebuchadnezzar had spent years in isolation, living among wild animals, and it was not until he humbled himself before the one true God that his sanity was restored.

In Chapter 4, King Nebuchadnezzar had a dream of a tree that “grew large and strong and its top touched the sky. Its leaves were beautiful, its fruit abundant, and on it was food for all. Under it the wild animals found shelter, and the birds lived in its branches, from it every creature was fed” (v. 10 – 12). In the dream, the tree is chopped down, with just the stump left and preserved.

Only Daniel could interpret the dream for Nebuchadnezzar; as he did in Chapter 2. It was clear Nebuchadnezzar had forgotten God’s power as he proclaimed Daniel as one who had the “spirit of the holy gods” in him (v.9). Babylon’s belief in many gods was still his mindset, but get ready -- God had a plan for King Nebuchadnezzar.

Daniel, unafraid to be the bearer of bad news, explained that the king, himself, represented the tree. He challenged Nebuchadnezzar to repent of his sins and be kind to the oppressed. He emphasized that those changes were necessary in order to maintain any prosperity in his life. In short, God was after the posture of his heart. After all, God was the one who put him on that .

Time goes by and King Nebuchadnezzar forgets this instruction. Twelve months after hearing his dream interpreted, he gazed over the grandeur of Babylon and gave himself all the credit. His words were hardly out of his mouth when God fulfilled his dream and Nebuchadnezzar was cut down.

CONCLUSION

All of us are redeemable and that’s exactly what God intended for King Nebuchadnezzar. God promised grace by preserving his stump so that one day he could be restored. And when he was, Nebuchadnezzar returned to civilization praising, exalting, and glorifying the King of Heaven. We don’t know if Nebuchadnezzar was truly saved but we know he experienced God’s authoritative power and abundant grace. And he proclaimed it!

10 READ DANIEL CHAPTER 4

MAKE THE CONNECTION Daniel 4:22-27 and John 15:1-7

QUESTIONS God often links the fall of men and nations with the cutting down of trees. Read the following passages; which types of trees and nations is God chopping down?

TREES NATIONS Isaiah 2: 12-13 Isaiah 10: 33-34

What do these verses teach you about God’s character?

No one is immune to pride. Certainly Nebuchadnezzar wasn’t after he gave himself the credit for Babylon’s success (v.30). What part(s) of your life do you assume has been the work of your own hands? Record them below. Spend time searching your heart and giving God the appropriate credit He is due.

Read Daniel 4:24-34. God is repeatedly described as the “Most High” in this passage. Write down the verse where it’s located and who says it in the lines below:

What is significant about who said it the fourth time?

LIVE SENT | Nebuchadnezzar kicks off Chapter 4 proclaiming, “It is my pleasure to tell you about the miraculous signs and wonders that the Most High God has performed for me (v. 2).” God used a pagan king to proclaim His goodness. As a believer, how can you proclaim His name this week? Consider your testimony and ask God to give you a specific opportunity to share it, or parts of it, this week.

LIVE SENT | Daniel spent years in Babylon never conforming to the culture and seeking to show others the greatness of God. For Daniel, relationships were built and opportunities were had. Who is someone you can be praying for in hopes of investing and inviting them to know more about God? Write his/her name here: PRAYER Dear Lord, You are sovereign – You give and You take away. I pray for (name above) that they might come to know You in a personal way. Thank You for Your sacrifice; for bearing our sins in Your body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By Your wounds, we are healed. 11 DANIEL 5 Chapter 5 opens with King Belshazzar holding an elaborate feast. While under the influence of wine, Belshazzar orders the gold and silver vessels Nebuchadnezzar had taken from the temple in Jerusalem to be brought in for use during the festivities. The guest list was extensive - 1000 people – including his nobles, wives, and concubines. The party goers drank out of these precious items from the house of God while they praised their false gods of gold, silver, bronze, iron, wood, and stone.

“At that moment,” verse 5 begins, the fingers of a man’s hand appear and write on the palace wall, next to the lamp stand. The king is struck with fear as he watches the hand while it writes. Extremely terrified, he turns pale, and his knees knock together.

Unable to read the inscription, the king calls for the wise men, mediums, Chaldeans, and diviners, offering them the third-highest position in the kingdom in return for the translation. With no success, a loud outcry brings in the queen (Belshazzar’s mother), and she tells him about Daniel. Having been recognized as having an extraordinary spirit, Daniel was known for interpreting dreams and solving problems.

Daniel comes before the king, refuses the gifts offered and proceeds to remind Belshazzar of what God did in the life of his predecessor, Nebuchadnezzar. Belshazzar knew of these fantastic things, yet he chose to worship false gods. The result? Well, the handwriting is on the wall.

CONCLUSION God is perfect justice and perfect love. We can see abundant grace and mercy in the way God deals with both Nebuchadnezzar and Belshazzar. They are each given knowledge of God, an opportunity to repent of their sins, and the chance to worship the one true God. The theme of God’s pursuit of our hearts can be seen throughout the Bible – as far back as Adam and Eve (Genesis 3:8-9). Even our sins don’t defer His amazing love for us, for nothing can separate us from Him (Romans 8:31-39). He died in pursuit of our hearts (John 3:16-18). The question is, how will we respond to such a gift?

HISTORICAL CONFIRMATION OF SCRIPTURE

Chapter 5 tells us of a king named Belshazzar, but there was no historical evidence to support that for centuries. Records showed Nebuchadnezzar’s successor as and listed him as the king when the Medo-Persian empire took over the Babylonian empire. This lack of official documentation led critics to question this section of text in the book of Daniel. Yet, just as God wrote a message for the king that took time to be revealed, a series of architectural finds have confirmed the truth of Scripture.

In 1854, four identical cylinders were excavated from Ur. These documents contained a prayer to the moon god on behalf of “Belshazzar, the eldest son—my offspring,” thus proving that Belshazzar existed and would have been next in line for the throne, after his father, King Nabonidus. In 1882, another ancient text was translated and confirmed that Nabonidus was primarily an absentee ruler, spending 10 of his 17-year reign 450 miles from Babylon in Arabia. Yet another discovered document was published in 1924 which stated Nabonidus entrusted the kingship to his oldest son, proving that Belshazzar would have been in a place of kingship during Daniel’s script.

12 READ DANIEL CHAPTER 5

MAKE THE CONNECTION What do you think is the significance of the drinking vessels? Note the symbolism in these Scriptures:

Daniel 5

Jeremiah 51

Revelation 17

Revelation 18

QUESTIONS Why would God choose to write His message to Belshazzar on the wall during the party?

What is significant about the timing, and why was it written next to the lamp stand?

Write about a time when God showed you something you did that was not honoring to Him. Have you repented? Take time to talk with God about it.

LIVE SENT | Our actions are simply an expression of our hearts. We see this in King Belshazzar’s life - his hardened heart resulted in bad decisions that affected himself and those around him. Who in your life is most influenced by your behavior? Consider one way you can serve him/her with the love of God today.

PRAYER Father, thank You for pursuing my heart and caring about the holiness within it. Please help me to live in a way that honors You and reveals Your heart to others.

13 DANIEL 6 As we launch into Chapter 6, we enter an entirely new empire. Nebuchadnezzar’s successor has died, and the kingdom of the Babylonians has been transferred to the Persians (modern-day Iran), a mighty empire that lasted for more than 200 years. We now find Daniel serving under this Persian king named Darius. At this point, Daniel has been living in exile for 70 years. He has remained in a foreign culture, loving and serving a people not his own, for seven full decades. And now, toward the end of his life, there was not only a leadership transition but a complete empire transition. Considering Daniel’s age, it would be understandable if he had wanted to give up serving these people. Hadn’t he already done his time? Did he now have to learn another culture and language? We live in a society that doesn’t like to finish things, but someone who follows God until the end is what the church, and the world, needs.

Daniel continues to serve with a live sent mentality among this completely new culture. Due to his faithful track record, Daniel maintains a high level of authority within this new kingdom. King Darius ranks him among his top three advisors and later promotes him to his number one leader (v.2-3).

Daniel was clear about his role. He was to love and serve the people God had placed around him. Ironically, this did not garner him many friendships. Other leaders were jealous of Daniel and the favor he received from Darius. They wanted to get rid of him but couldn’t find any fault within him.

Consider a world where those who follow Jesus are so above reproach that they are only known for loving God and loving others? People recognized for working the hardest and being the kindest, most productive, joyful, generous, and best employees around. It might evoke jealousy in others, but it would also change the world.

Returning to the story, Daniel’s adversaries devise a plan, convincing the king to punish anyone who worships a god other than the king, himself. It worked, and to the disappointment of the king, Daniel is thrown into the lion’s den. In a twist of events, God saves Daniel, and the conspirators get the penalty they were hoping to inflict on Daniel.

Let’s note a few things about the lion’s den. Daniel’s story, where he escaped suffering, is not a guarantee that followers today will also elude it. For over 2000 years, Jesus’ followers have suffered and even died. Daniel’s experience, rather, is a shadow of what’s to come. Daniel was counted not guilty because of his relationship with God, and therefore, the lions, God’s agents of judgment, didn’t harm him. Over 500 years later, Jesus would endure the cross, His own lion’s den. But He would not escape suffering and death. Instead, He would endure our suffering so that we could escape God’s judgment. After the stone was rolled away, Daniel emerged from the lion’s den, with salvation only for himself. When Jesus emerged from His den (tomb), He came with salvation for the whole world.

CONCLUSION The life of Daniel, and the whole story of the Bible, gives us no guarantee that we will live lives free of hardship. Instead, Daniel models for us a man who trusted God to be good no matter what happened. That trust led him to love and serve the people that God placed around him. Most likely, Daniel never returned to his homeland (v.28). He never got what he longed for on earth, but that didn’t stop him from living sent and serving God. Daniel’s example reminds us that despite any circumstances we face, God can be trusted. As a result, we, too, can choose to live sent.

14 READ DANIEL CHAPTER 6

MAKE THE CONNECTION Daniel 6 and 1 Peter 5:8-11 QUESTIONS Compare and contrast Daniel’s experience in the lion’s den with Jesus’ experience on the cross and resurrection. (Matthew 27-28, Mark 15-16, Luke 23-24, John 19-20). Record your observations.

Daniel was in exile for over 70 years, never returning home and experiencing what he longed for the most. Consider something your heart has longed to receive or experience. In what ways have you trusted God with the wait and in what ways have you not? List your answers below.

TRUSTED HAVE NOT TRUSTED

Spend a few minutes worshiping God, despite your circumstances. Use your answers from the question above to generate both a thankful heart and a heart of surrender as you continue waiting and trusting.

LIVE SENT | What is one way you can serve someone this week that will leave others noting your obedience to Jesus? Something that stands out with obvious integrity?

LIVE SENT | What is difficult about serving the culture, the city, and the people you find yourself in? As the world around us continues to change, how can you continue to serve and love people instead of fighting for the version of the culture that you prefer?

PRAYER Father, give me the grace I need to love the culture and the city where You have placed me, even if it’s hard or if I have to suffer.

15 Welcome to the second half of Daniel. Starting in Chapter 7, a significant shift occurs. The narrative accounts are now replaced with apocalyptic visions (see introduction). Remember, this genre pulls back the curtain on an unseen transcendent world and its role in bringing this present world to an end. Watch for the many symbolic images in these verses.

This chapter introduces the first of four visions that make up the rest of the book. Note the vision is given to Daniel, himself. Before this, God spoke through visions to the leaders, with Daniel interpreting. Now God’s audience is Daniel himself, and he’s the one that needs an interpreter. This chapter also breaks the chronological sequence of the book, as Daniel returns to the first year of Belshazzar’s reign.

Daniel’s vision opens with a series of startling images. From the churning sea arose a train of four mutant beasts, each representing arrogant kingdoms. The last beast was particularly evil. Its head was full of horns, symbolizing kings, with one specific horn representing an especially boastful king who exalted himself above God and persecuted God’s people.

Into this chaotic scene, God Himself, “the Ancient of Days,” enters and seats Himself on the throne. Daniel, peering into this courtroom setting, watches God sweep through history, administering justice and sentencing the beast to destruction.

Next, Daniel’s vision turns from judgment to salvation. From among the people who have been trampled by the beast appears “one like the son of man, coming with the clouds of heaven” (v.13). God crowns this figure, exalting him to share in His rule. So, who is this figure? Nearly 600 years later, Jesus of Nazareth would choose the phrase “Son of Man” to describe Himself. Though others called Him Christ (which means “Messiah”), Jesus never referred to Himself that way, but instead preferred the title we read in this chapter.

This vision marks the moment in history when the kingdoms of this world are defeated, God crowns Jesus as King and Jesus begins His forever reign. Surely this vision fostered hope among God’s people living in exile. Having lived among this persecuted minority, Daniel is reassured that the beasts that defy God’s rule will not roam the earth forever. At a set time, God will bring justice and Jesus will reign.

As is common with apocalyptic literature, committed Christ-followers differ on how to interpret this vision. Some see it as already fulfilled in the past, while others look for it in the future second coming of Jesus. Another interpretation understands its fulfillment to be in Jesus’ death and resurrection. Let’s look more closely at this one.

In this view, the beast represents the human condition of rejecting God’s rule, a type that has both past and future fulfillments. Thus, human history is one long sequence of beasts, occurring as both individuals and nations who defy God’s authority and choose self-rule. As a result, Jesus came to earth as God incarnate to conquer this beast of sin. He defeated the beast ultimately by allowing the beast to kill Him, thereby paying the penalty for our sins on the cross. Jesus’ sacrificial death is what led to His exaltation by the “Ancient of Days,” as seen in Chapter 7.

Note how Jesus spoke of Daniel’s vision to the high priest and Jewish religious leaders the night before the crucifixion. “You will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One and coming on the clouds of heaven” (Mark 14:62). Jesus died the next day, confident that His death would overcome the ultimate beast - sin. Then, after defeating death through His resurrection, He was crowned King and sits eternally at the right hand of God the Father.

16 READ DANIEL CHAPTER 7

MAKE THE CONNECTION Daniel 7:13-14 and Psalm 2 QUESTIONS Remember Chapters 2 and 7 are considered parallel chapters. What similar messages do you find between these two chapters?

Compare Daniel 7:14 with 2:44. What do you find?

Looking around you, is it difficult to believe that Jesus is King? How is this chapter helpful?

Read Romans 8:34 and Hebrews 12:2. Where is Jesus today? What does that mean for how you live? How can others see this truth through you?

The concept of “already, but not yet” can describe how the end of the storyline of the Bible informs the beginning and the middle. In other words, the promises God made to His people are already beginning to be fulfilled through Jesus the Savior. At the same time, these promises are not yet complete. Reflecting on Daniel 7, what parts of Jesus’ kingdom are “already?” What aspects are “not yet?”

LIVE SENT | If Jesus has already conquered “the beast,” how would you explain this to someone who is not a believer? Practice sharing this out loud.

PRAYER Father, thank You for providing us the reassurance through this vision that You will prevail over all earthly kingdoms. Jesus, thank You for laying down Your life to pay the price for the beast of sin in each of us. We are so grateful that You are, at this moment sitting at the Father’s right hand, interceding for each of us.

17 Two years after Daniel’s first vision, God again pulled back the curtain of seen reality to reveal something new. In this dream, Daniel was transported to the citadel of , a Persian city 225 miles east of Babylon. The vision predicted both a defiling and later a reconsecration of Israel’s beloved temple. This revelation left Daniel overwhelmed and physically ill for multiple days. What could Daniel, God’s prophet who would survive the lions’ den, have possibly seen that affected him so?

The vision opens with a two-horned ram. The angel, , explains to Daniel that this represents the future Medo- Persian Empire. Soon the ram is trampled and replaced by a goat, symbolizing the Greek Empire. Most scholars agree that the goat’s large horn was the Greek leader, Alexander the Great. The horn’s breaking off in the height of its power was the untimely death of Alexander at just 33 years old, in 323 BC, just after he had conquered all of the known world. The four horns that grew up in its place represent the division of his empire into four regions led by four generals. Out of this horn grew another horn that started small but grew powerful. Many scholars concur this, at least in part, was Antiochus IV Epiphanes, the eighth king of this Syrian dynasty, who reigned 175-164 BC. It was the devastating work of Antiochus that left the hero Daniel suddenly weak and ailing.

Daniel’s vision depicted Antiochus’ seizing power over Israel, known as the “Beautiful Land,” and persecuting the starry “host of the heavens,” likely the Jewish people (vv. 9-10). History records specific ways Antiochus fulfilled these predictions. He waged a ruthless war over the Jews inhabiting Israel during his 11-year reign. He sought to impose Greek culture on their Jewish ways, prohibited circumcision, stopped the twice-daily sacrifices in the temple, and filled the holy temple with debauchery and prostitution. He also massacred thousands who resisted his regulations. In December 167 BC, Antiochus’ irreverence reached its apex when he constructed an altar to the Greek god Zeus on the temple grounds and offered a pig on it.

In 166 BC, a Jew named Judas Maccabees led a rebellion against Antiochus and won. This paved the way for the restoration of the temple. This victory is still celebrated by Jews today as Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights. Tradition describes that during this Maccabean revolt the candles of the Menorah stayed miraculously lit for eight days.

Certainly, we can see much to make Daniel ill in these prophecies. The twice-daily sacrifices were the Jews’ path to atonement for their sins and the way for them to be in a relationship with God. Antiochus ending their ability to offer these sacrifices would have been catastrophic.

As Christians, we need not fear such a tragic interruption in our relationship with God. Even though many scholars view the tiny horn in this vision as having a double fulfillment (meaning it was partially fulfilled by Antiochus and will be further fulfilled by a future lawless world leader that the New Testament writers call the Antichrist), in Jesus, we have an everlasting connection to the temple. Jesus Himself is the temple, forever allowing believers access to approach and be present with God. No future Antiochus can ever threaten that.

18 READ DANIEL CHAPTER 8

QUESTIONS What will the “horn” do in the “Beautiful Land?” (vv. 11-12, 23-25) How will things end? (vv. 14, 25)

The Jewish people living in exile in Babylon were looking for deliverance soon. How might this vision, and the previous vision in Chapter 7, have reshaped their expectations?

How might these two visions reshape our expectations? What might they suggest that “living sent” entails?

What helps you to persevere through hard times, as the second century Jews did? How can you help others persevere?

Read John 2:19-22 and Hebrews 10:11-14. How was Jesus of Nazareth the fulfillment of Daniel 8:14?

LIVE SENT | Author David Helm wrote, “The final word is not had by the ram, or the goat, but by the Lamb.” How does this comfort you? How could you share this truth with those who don’t know Jesus? What might it mean to them?

PRAYER Father, thank You for giving Your Son Jesus to be the once-for-all sacrifice for our sin, to allow us to be reconciled to and live in a relationship with You.

19 DANIEL 9 As we noted in Chapter 7, Daniel is not written chronologically. The events in this chapter occur approximately 11 years after Chapter 8, but only months after Chapter 5. Nonetheless, Daniel is now 80 years old and though he has lived in Babylon long enough to call it home, he never does.

After reading Scripture one day, Daniel connects the truth of a particular prophecy to his current life situation. According to the prophet Jeremiah, the Israelite exile was predicted to last 70 years. A spark of hope ignited in his heart. Soon, they would reside in Jerusalem again.

Instead of packing his bags with anticipation, though, Daniel responds differently. He turns to God in prayer and confession. With utter humility, he pleads for mercy on behalf of his people. He recognizes God’s supreme authority and righteousness and contrasts these with Israel’s failure to measure up. Not only had the Israelite people disobeyed God through not keeping His laws, but their lifestyles had also failed to make His name great among the nations. Daniel speaks of the shame of their actions, yet begs for God to end the exile and allow them to return home.

In the midst of Daniel confessing and pleading for mercy, God speaks. For the second time in Daniel’s life, the angel Gabriel delivers him a message. It is specific, yet cryptic and ends without further explanation to us, as readers. Though only four verses long, it has become one of the most studied Bible prophecies in all of Scripture.

Gabriel’s tidings, later titled “The Seventy Weeks,” announces this word of hope: after an allotted amount of time, the people will “finish transgressions, put an end to sin, atone for wickedness and bring in everlasting righteousness” (v.24). Though Daniel’s prayer centers on finding restoration after 70 years, God’s answer centers on finding ultimate restoration after 70 weeks of years. Thus the restoration after the exile was a small part of a bigger, more complete restoration. These “weeks” are broken down into sections with mention of a prince, wars, covenants, and disasters. It is mysterious and obscure, resulting in a wide variety of interpretations.

Though we cannot extract the exact time when these events will occur, we can understand the main point. The end- times are coming, and they have been planned in advance. There will be a ruler (the New Testament refers to as an antichrist) who will be defeated but not before the world experiences much trial and tribulation. It may be tempting to get lost in the “how” and the “when” of this prophecy, but the point lies in the hope it offers. Thus, the theme of God’s sovereignty continues. He is orchestrating when He will reign supremely and bring the effects of sin to an end. Hallelujah!

CONCLUSION

Daniel continues to model for us a life devoted to God. One aspect worth noting is Daniel’s spiritual habits. He read Scripture and used that knowledge to keep him connected to God. After reading Jeremiah’s words, Daniel’s knee- jerk reaction was to respond in prayer (v.2-3). He didn’t want to know only about God, he wanted to know Him relationally and the Scriptures, coupled with prayer, were the pathways to that relationship.

Also, due to his habit of prayer, Daniel made himself available to hear from God. Can you imagine being the one with whom God shared this message? A message that has been and will continue to be researched, discussed, and debated until the end-times literally come to fruition! While connecting in prayer, Daniel received so much in return. What does God want to tell you? Have you made yourself available to Him?

20 READ DANIEL CHAPTER 9

MAKE THE CONNECTION Daniel 9:2 and :11 and Ezra 1:1 QUESTIONS Daniel discovers the exile has been prophesied to last 70 years. Why does Daniel respond to that information with repentance and pleas for mercy? (v.13)

In Scripture we read God’s name as both Lord and LORD. The former refers to God in a relational manner, while still recognizing His authority over us. The latter refers to God in all His fullness, as supreme Creator and Master. Record how many times you read each in this chapter:

Lord LORD

This is the only chapter in Daniel that God is referred to as LORD. How does Daniel’s use of it give us a glimpse into his heart as he prays? Cite a couple of verses and describe Daniel’s heart behind his words.

Use verses 4-19 to list how Daniel describes/contrasts God and Israel. After completing the chart, circle the descriptions of God of which you need to be regularly reminded. Put a star next to the descriptions of Israel that resonate in your own heart.

DESCRIPTIONS OF GOD DESCRIPTIONS OF ISRAEL

Confession, in our culture, is primarily done on a personal basis. Daniel, however, includes Israel’s sins with his. Spend a few minutes in prayer following Daniel’s example. Include the sins you starred from the question above and when applicable, include your family, our church, our nation, or our world. After praying, record what you experienced. Did your view of God or yourself change? How does corporate confession affect you differently than personal confession?

LIVE SENT | As we are reminded of God’s supreme authority and control in our lives, it affects how we handle our relationships. How can you choose to respond to someone differently today due to God’s holiness and supreme authority in your life? List that person’s name below and pray for him/her to see God in your actions today.

PRAYER Father, You are holy. You are holy. You are holy. Help me live my life today in light of this strong truth.

21 DANIEL 10 Chapter 10 begins the closing section of the book of Daniel. Here a vision is given to Daniel that stretches across the final three chapters of the book. Originally, books of the Bible weren’t broken down into chapters and verses, so chapters 10-12 were intended to be read as a single unit of text. Chapter 10 explains how Daniel received the vision, Chapter 11 is the angel’s description of the vision, and Chapter 12 is the angel’s final instructions pertaining to it. This final vision gave the faithful remnant of Israel hope during what had been a time of hopelessness. It also provides hope for us today as we strive to trust in God’s ultimate plan.

The chapter opens with Daniel receiving a revelation that described a great conflict. Two years prior, the Jews had been given permission to return to Jerusalem (Ezra 1:1). In their attempts to rebuild the Temple and their lives in Jerusalem, the Jews had faced enormous opposition (Ezra 4). It was a period of great discouragement for them and though Daniel had not been with them physically, he identifies with their struggle. As a result, he chose to mourn and fast from all delicacies (v.3).

After three weeks of mourning, Daniel is visited by an angel who invoked great fear in him. The angel immediately sets him at ease with this powerful statement: “Do not be afraid, Daniel. Since the first day that you set your mind to gain understanding and to humble yourself before your God, your words were heard, and I have come in response to them.” Such encouragement! Daniel’s prayers had been heard and his choice to humble himself before God had not gone unnoticed.

The angel/man Daniel describes in the vision is similar to what John describes in Revelation 1, but there are some differences. The similarities and differences lead readers to wrestle with the question “who is the man?”

Differing Viewpoints:

• Angel // an angel sent to remind Daniel of God’s sovereignty and that His plan would be fulfilled • Gabriel // the angel that previously appeared to Daniel and explained visions in Daniel 8 • Christophany // physical appearance or manifestation of God the Son before His incarnation. [examples: Joshua 5:13-15, Daniel 3:25

No matter which explanation is chosen, the encounter holds the same purpose; to explain what would happen to Israel in the latter days, to strengthen Daniel, and to reveal what is inscribed in the book of Truth. CONCLUSION Throughout the book of Daniel, his faithfulness is revealed. He was faithful as he listened to the Word of God and as he sought the face of God. Though Daniel didn’t return with God’s people to Jerusalem, he was faithful in his prayers for them. He was committed to the vision that God had for the people even though he would not live to see it through to the end. The message given to Daniel, that God is sovereign, is seen throughout world history, biblical history, and the prophecy found in Revelation.

22 READ DANIEL CHAPTER 10

MAKE THE CONNECTION Daniel 10 and Ephesians 6:12 QUESTIONS What does this chapter teach you about God?

Who do you think is the man in the vision?

Compare the descriptions of the “man” in the visions in Daniel 10 & Revelation 1.

DANIEL 10 REVELATION 1

CLOTHED

ACCESSORIES

BODY

FACE

HAIR

EYES

Arms/Legs/Feet

WORDS

LIVE SENT | Where are you called to be faithful, even when the outcome doesn’t pertain to you?

LIVE SENT | How can you live with God’s kingdom in mind even when you don’t know understand it?

PRAYER Heavenly Father, I come to You to behold Your glory. Give me eyes to see the wonders of Your kingdom. Give me a heart to do Your will no matter the outcome for myself. Help me live a life that is faithful to You.

23 DANIEL 11

The first step in reading Daniel 11 is to recognize and reconcile that not all of Scripture is clear, nor will it be, this side of heaven. At the end of Chapter 8, even Daniel admits he didn’t understand it! Secondly, remember that Chapter 11 fits into the middle of a trilogy of chapters, all detailing one event. Chapter 11 is the angel’s explanation of the vision we are introduced to in Chapter 10.

There are debates over when this chapter was written. Some would argue it was written after these events happened because there was no way for a man to be this correct in advance. Biblical scholars, however, argue that it was not Daniel who knew all these things but our sovereign God who revealed them to Daniel. (Recall the story of the Wise Men looking for Jesus. They knew of the birth of Christ because God had revealed it to them.)

This chapter can be broken into two sections. Verses 1-35 were prophecies given to Daniel that have already been fulfilled. The remainder of the chapter (v. 36-45) were prophecies that have yet to be fulfilled. Thus, prophecies that include us today.

In verse 2, the angel describes four Persian kings. As mentioned in Chapter 8 of this devotional, after Alexander the Great rose to power and died, his kingdom was divided among four generals. Two of those divisions then evolved into a series of kings that are described in detail throughout the chapter. Each “king of the North” represented a Greek ruler from the Seleucid dynasty. Each “king of the South” was an Egyptian ruler from the Ptolemaic dynasty. Since Syria lay to the north of Israel and Egypt to the south, the angel refers to them as “North” and “South.”

In verses 21-35, we find prophecy fulfilled in Antiochus IV Epiphanes (175-163 BC). As mentioned in Chapter 8, his reign was terrible for the Jewish people, and his actions were seen as a precursor to the future antichrist (v.36).

Throughout Scripture, we see God reveal His characteristics. In Chapter 11, God displayed some of His mightiest attributes.

• Sovereignty // supreme power and authority • Omniscience // all-knowing • Omnipotence // all powerful • Eternality // existing outside of time • Holiness // pure; set apart

CONCLUSION

The details in Daniel 11 can be overwhelming, fascinating, and even frightening. We see rulers and earthly kingdoms rise, fall, and disappear. However, we also read that the Kingdom of God is forever. Only a sovereign God rules and reigns forevermore so we, like the Israelites, can have faith that God is in control and all He has promised will come to pass.

24 READ DANIEL CHAPTER 11

MAKE THE CONNECTION Daniel 11 and Revelation 11:16-19 QUESTIONS Which of God’s attributes do you see most plainly displayed throughout Daniel 11?

Are you struggling to truly believe that God is in control? What do you need to surrender to Him today?

God gives Daniel a look into His plan. Do you think having a peek at God’s plan would be a blessing? Would it make being obedient easier if you knew what was coming?

What are some reasons that God might allow evil kingdoms to rise?

LIVE SENT | How does Daniel 11 impact your view of God? How does this impact your willingness to be obedient?

LIVE SENT | How can you live obediently today knowing only what God has shown you?

PRAYER Lord, You are King. Help me to walk in obedience no matter what earthly kingdoms reign. Keep my eyes focused on You, Your kingdom, and the inheritance of Heaven.

25 DANIEL 12

Chapter 12 brings an end to the vision that has spanned across the final three chapters of Daniel. Here the end- times are prophesied and described, once again, in a cryptic fashion. Thankfully, Romans 15:4 reminds us that what was written in the past was designed for our instruction, so that “through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.” What an important verse to know when approaching apocalyptic literature!

While Daniel 11:36-45 describes the brazen actions of the future antichrist, Chapter 12 gives the reader a vantage point of victory. Those whose names are found in the Book of Life will be delivered. This prophecy offered hope to the original hearers and still offers hope to us today.

Through the end of this vision, God paints a clear picture of believers delivered from times of trouble into everlasting life. Physical bodies will be raised from the earth and find their places in eternity. “The wise will shine” as the people who understand these words, and the justified will “number the stars” (v.3). But none of this will happen until the knowledge of people increases and the prophecies are fulfilled. Daniel is then told to seal shut the words in this scroll, not to hide them, but to preserve them for a future time.

The vision the angel revealed to Daniel is echoed in the vision Jesus revealed to John in Revelation. Both visions explain the Second Coming of Christ. Though Daniel had not witnessed the first coming of Jesus, John had been a part of His earthly ministry and had been a witness to His death, resurrection, and ascension. God gave them both the message that according to His will, at His perfect timing, He will fulfill all of His promises.

Daniel asked the angel how long he would need to wait for these promises, which is the same question that readers of Daniel are still asking today. Though a certain number of days is given (v.11-12), their significance is not explained. However, the angel assures Daniel that he will one day rest and then rise again to receive his inheritance (v.13).

The number of days in this passage has led to a variety of end-times interpretations. , the study of end- times, varies based on the understanding of what is known as the millennium. The millennium means 1000 years and is described six times in Revelation 20. It refers to a period of time when Jesus will reign on earth. From that passage stems three eschtalogical schools of thought:

• Premillennialism - the Second Coming occurs before the millennium • Postmillennialism - the Second Coming occurs after the millennium • Amillennialism - the Second Coming occurs at the end of history, with no literal millennium

CONCLUSION

The end-times will be difficult. Jesus warned of tribulation that would be greater than anything anyone had ever seen (Matthew 24:21). Paul also described the godlessness that will be found in the last days, (see 2 Timothy 3:1-9). Yet, God has always had a plan to deliver His people. And not just from slavery, famines, and exile but from sin, this world, and everlasting contempt. As a result, we can rest in the sovereignty of God whenever we experience trials.

26 READ DANIEL CHAPTER 12

MAKE THE CONNECTION Daniel 12 and Revelation 22 QUESTIONS When you consider these prophecies, in what ways do you feel hopeful about the future? In what ways do you feel worried?

How does Daniel’s last vision give hope to believers?

When, not if, persecution intersects your life, will you be prepared to stand ready? How can you be intentionally preparing for the things promised? How have you in the past?

How does the resurrection of Jesus Christ make Daniel’s vision easier to trust?

Compare the instructions given to Daniel and John in Revelation.

DANIEL 12:4 REVELATION 22:10

LIVE SENT | How can you live out the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20) while also waiting for the return of Christ? How does Daniel 12 give us a sense of urgency in declaring the Gospel?

PRAYER Lord, You hold the world and its timeline in Your hands. Help me to trust in Your sovereignty. I am grateful for the glimpses You’ve given me of the glory that I will one day witness. I ask for the wisdom to understand the things You need me to understand and the freedom to let go of what You’d have me surrender.

27 DANIEL’s LIVE SENT MENTALITY

This is what the Lord Almighty, the God of Israel, says to all those I carried into exile from Jerusalem to Babylon: “Buildhouses and settle down; plant gardens and eat what they produce. Marry and have sons and daughters; find wives for your sons and give your daughters in marriage, so that they too may have sons and daughters. Increase in number there; do not decrease. Also, seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper.” Yes, this is what the Lord Almighty, the God of Israel, says: “Do not let the prophets and diviners among you deceive you. Do not listen to the dreams you encourage them to have. They are prophesying lies to you in my name. I have not sent them,” declares the Lord. This is what the Lord says: “When seventy years are completed for Babylon, I will come to you and fulfill my good promise to bring you back to this place. For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you,” declares the Lord, “and will bring you back from captivity. I will gather you from all the nations and places where I have banished you,” declares the Lord, “and will bring you back to the place from which I carried you into exile.” ~Jeremiah 29:4-14

Adapted from Introduction: In Exile at Babylon Theology Works article

Daniel models for us how to live faithfully within a culture that is not focused on Christ. With expert precision, he walked the fine line between embracing his new surroundings without surrendering his heart. As a result, Daniel developed relationships with people in the kingdom who witnessed his faith and experienced his God. A live sent mentality, as seen in Daniel’s life, comprisesfive practical characteristics:

Commitment to prayer and communion with God. Daniel met with God three times a day (6:10). He also sought Him during special circumstances that required His intervention (9:3-4). In short, he had an active and thriving relationship with God.

Wisdom to know which issues are non-negotiable. Daniel did not compromise his prayer times (6:10), would not eat the king’s cuisine (1:8), and was unafraid to give God the credit over certain affairs (2:27-30; 5:23b). He had solid convictions on choice issues while also letting some issues go. For example, he was a student of astrology and the various gods in his new culture, yet he chose not to take a public stand against them. Not because he believed in them, but because it wasn’t essential to do so.

Godly relationships with other believers. Daniel did not live in isolation with his faith. Together, he and his friends banded together for support and accountability (1:12-13; 2:17-18; 2:49; 3:12-18).

Respectful relationships with non-believers. Daniel had relationships with both chief officials, Ashpenaz and Arioch, that were sincere and considerate (1:9-14; 2:14-15,24-25). He was also well respected among those in authority over him (4:18; 5:10-12). Though Daniel held high spiritual standards for himself, he did not push non-believers away from him.

Boldness in faith. When Daniel was asked to interpret the king’s dream, he prayed for God to reveal it to him and then gave God the credit for the interpretation (2:27). When asked to explain the handwriting on the wall, Daniel was not afraid to speak to the king about his unholy behavior and how it had offended God (5:22-23).When Daniel heard he was not allowed to pray to God, he responded by going straight to God in prayer (6:10). 28 RESOURCES

The following resources were used in writing the devotional guide and are recommended for additional reading:

• Dallas Theological Seminary - Free Online Study: https://courses.dts.edu/daniel/

• End Times Chart - https://s3.amazonaws.com/Challies_VisualTheology/views-of-end-times-horz-v3.png

• Helm, David. Daniel forYou. Epsom, Surrey: The Good Book Company, 2015.

• Helm, David. Daniel: Staying Strong in a Hostile World. Epsom, Surrey: The Good Book Company, 2015.

• Walvoord, John. Daniel. Chicago: Moody Publishers, 2012.

• Moore, Beth. Daniel: Lives of Integrity, Words of Prophecy. Nashville: Lifeway Press, 2006.

• Mackie, Timothy. “Faithful in Exile” sermon series, Door of Hope Church, Portland, OR, 2016.

• The Bible Project - Daniel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9cSC9uobtPM

• Halley, Keaton, “How Archealogy Vindicated the Bible’s Curious Claims about King Belshazzar.” - https://creation. com/archaeology-belshazzar

A special thank you to our writing team who spent countless hours reading, writing, and praying over God’s Word. Our Daniel Series Devotional Guide has been a joy to complete and we look forward to next time!

29 THECHAPELBR.COM