· web viewopening prayer: god most high, you are the sovereign king of the universe. no one can...

GOD RULES(O.T. Book of Daniel)

Proposed Kairos 2-Day Retreat

TALKSNOTE: It is suggested, but not required, that six (6) talks be given the first day and four (4) the second.

TALK ONE: THE BEGINNING/THE HOSTAGES (Daniel, Ch. 1)

Suggested Talk Song: Seek Ye First

Scripture passage to read: Daniel 1:17-20

Opening Prayer: God Most High, You are the sovereign king of the universe. No one can stand against You. We kneel before You in humble awe and reverence. In your majestic name we pray. Amen

TALK

The story of Daniel begins in 605 B.C.in the 3rd year of the reign of Jehoiakin of Judah, when King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon besieged Jerusalem and deported many Jews to Babylon. They would remain in captivity there for 70 years. Besides the people, the king carried off the furnishings from Solomon’s temple and placed them in the temple of the pagan god Marduk.

Daniel and his three friends were among the elite young men taken to Babylon. As it says in Daniel 1:4, these should young men without any physical defect, handsome, showing aptitude for every kind of learning, well informed, quick to understand, and qualified to serve in the king’s palace.” The Bible continues, “He [that is the chief of the king’s court officials] was to teach them the language and literature of the Babylonians. The king assigned them a daily amount of food and wine from the king’s table.” Finally they were to be trained for three years prior to entering the king’s service. His goal was to make them externally and internally “Babylonian.” As an example, he changed their Hebrew names to Babylonian ones. Daniel became Belteshazzar. His three friends, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah became Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. These youth had to be physically fit and handsome, as well as intelligent, knowledgeable, and quick to learn.

Almost immediately after their arrival, Daniel and his friends encountered enormous pressure to turn their backs on their God and to succumb to the king’s indoctrination. The primary issue facing these four Hebrews was that the food and wine which was served to them had previously been offered to idols, a practice which their scriptures prohibited. Daniel decided to oppose the king’s dietary requirements. He resolved not to defile himself and suggested to the court official

1

that he and his friends eat only vegetables for 10 days and then be compared to the young men who ate the royal food. Despite the objections of the court official to giving Daniel and his friends only vegetables, Daniel’s convictions won out, so the official agreed to do this.

At the end of that 10-day period, these four young men surpassed all the other hostages in every category of comparison. They were healthier and more physically fit than the others. (The primary reason that this was so was that God accelerated the positive effects of their diet.) Second, they had greater intelligence than their peers. God gave them knowledge and understanding of all kinds of literature and learning. God also gave Daniel the ability to understand and interpret visions and dreams of all kinds.

Application: The story of Daniel’s arrival in Babylon contains three ways that our Godly life can influence the world.

First, it takes C onviction . Daniel made up his mind that he would not defile himself. The lesson for us is not to dilute our influence as Christians by compromising with a fallen society. Instead stand on the truths of the word of God.

Second, we must choose the right C ompanions . Daniel’s three friends believed the same way he did. If you ask Him, God will provide friends like that for you. Take the lead in this endeavor by finding a friend or two for whom to pray.

Thirdly, it takes C almness . Notice that Daniel never overreacted when facing a difficult decision. He remained calm and trusted in God. Always remember the verse in Psalms, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” With this in mind, we can be at peace.

DARE TO BE A DANIEL!

(End of Talk)

Closing Prayer: Lord, may we, like Daniel, resolve to obey Your Word above all else. In Your name we pray. Amen.

Discussion Question What are some ways that you can stand for Biblical principles in the face of opposition?

Creative Activity: Each table works on a poster, skit, radio commercial, song, reading, etc. about the lessons learned from the Book of Daniel.

2

NOTE: Only 1 Creative Activity each day, not 1 per talk

TALK TWO: THE INSOMNIAC (Daniel, Ch. 2)

Suggested Talk Song: How Great is Our God

Scripture passage to read: Daniel 2:19-23

Opening Prayer: God Most High, You are the sovereign king of the universe. No one can stand against You. We kneel before You in humble awe and reverence. In your majestic name we pray. Amen.

TALK

Daniel 2 is the story of God’s speaking to Nebuchadnezzar in a dream. We can almost consider this chapter a 3-Act play.

Act 1: Nebuchadnezzar is alone on stage, so troubled by a dream that he is unable to sleep. His security as King cannot bring him rest because of the message God has for him. Determined to uncover the meaning of the dream, he summons his “magicians, enchanters, sorcerers, and astrologers” to tell him the dream (in other words to read his mind) and then to interpret it. He threatens them with horrible punishment if they do not do as he asks. They respond by telling Nebuchadnezzar to relate the dream to them, and then they will tell its meaning. After he orders them three times, the wise men in an exasperated tone tell the King that no one on earth can do what he asks. Finally he orders the execution of all the “wise men” of Babylon. Thus ends Act 1.

Act 2: The act begins with Daniel on stage. He heard that he and his friends are to be included in this mass slaughter, even though they were not a part of the failed attempt to interpret Nebuchadnezzar’s dream. Rather than panic, Daniel remains calm and approaches Arioch, commander of the king’s guard, “with wisdom and tact.” The commander explains the situation to Daniel, who then goes to the king and asks for time to interpret the dream for him. The king gives him one day to do so. Daniel and his three friends pray for mercy from God for solving this mystery, so that they might not be executed. That very night God reveals the secret to Daniel in a vision. Daniel responds by worshiping God for who He is, then expresses his confidence that God is still sovereign over the affairs of life, and finally exalts God for His knowledge and for revealing the king’s dream. He asks Arioch to bring him to the king, and says that he will interpret his dream for him.

Act 3: The final act of this drama occurs in the royal palace. Both Nebuchadnezzar and Daniel are on stage. When asked by king if it is true that he can tell him the dream and its interpretation, Daniel demonstrates both honesty and humility. He states that no human can do what the king asks. He tells Nebuchadnezzar that there is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries. This mystery has been revealed to him (Daniel), not because he has greater wisdom than other living men but so that the king may know the dream and its interpretation. (The meaning of this dream will occur in the next talk.)

3

APPLICATION: What can the story of King Nebuchadnezzar, the insomniac, teach us today?

1. Since God is awake all night, we humans can sleep. God wants to give his children rest to allow them to cultivate quiet, trusting minds, resting in His sovereign control.

2. Even though we may not know what the future holds, we know Who holds the future. God almighty alone can solve our problems, guide our paths, shape our futures, and accomplish His decrees by His invincible power.

3. Finally, since the whole wide world is in God’s hands, so is each of our own little worlds. When we feel overwhelmed by our problems and daily pressures, we need to remember that we can leave those with God and then rest on His promises.

(End of Talk)

Closing Prayer: Lord, You reveal deep and secret things. You know what is in the darkness and light dwells with you. Amen

Discussion Question: What does it mean to you to let God solve your problems.

Creative Activity: Each table continues working on its Daniel-related activity.

4

TALK THREE: THE COLOSSUS AND THE CONQUERORS (Daniel, Chs. 2, 7, 8)

Suggested Talk Song: God of Wonders

Scripture Passage: Daniel 2:44-47


TALK

The last talk concluded with Daniel “on stage,” about to reveal Nebuchadnezzar’s dream and its interpretation. The dream was as follows:

Nebuchadnezzar stood before a huge, very impressive statue, with a head of gold, chest and arms of silver, a belly and thigh of bronze, legs of iron, and feet of iron and clay. As the king looked, a giant stone was cut out but not by human hands,” (this word is important) appeared, landed on the statue’s feet, crushed the entire statue to dust, and then became a mountain which filled the whole earth.

The first four of the five components of the statue—the head, the chest and arms, the belly and thighs of bronze, and the legs of iron—symbolize four world empires. Daniel’s interpretation was thus:

1. The first kingdom, the head of gold, symbolizes Nebuchadnezzar’s Babylon. 2. The second kingdom, the chest and arms of silver, is one that would conquer

Babylon in 539 B.C., the Medo-Persian empire.3. The third is the Greek empire. This was the statue’s thighs and belly of bronze. Led

by Alexander the Great, the Greeks defeated the Persians in 334 B.C. and ultimately conquered most of the known world in a mere 12 years.

4. The fourth world empire, Rome, was represented by the statue’s legs of iron. Rome conquered the Greeks in 146 B.C.

At this point, you are probably asking, “What about the feet of iron and clay?” The 10 toes on these two feet stand for 10 kings who will come from the old Roman Empire (#4 above) to form a revived Roman Empire, with 10 world divisions (according to Daniel). This empire is yet to come. It will be the Antichrist’s world empire during the tribulation, described in Talk #8.

In Chapters 7 and 8, Daniel has two additional visions, both of which underscore the one of the statue. In other words, he sees the same events three times. In Chapter 7, he sees four beasts, a lion (Babylon), a bear (the Medo-Persian empire), a leopard (Greece), and a terrifying beast with 10 horns (Rome). The dream in 7 was interpreted by Daniel the same way as before, with each

5

beast devouring the one before it. The 10-horns on the “terrifying” beast stand for the same kings as did the 10 toes on the statue.

In Chapter 8, his vision now includes a ram with two horns of unequal length (the Medo-Persian Empire) and a goat with a large horn in the middle of its head (Greece under Alexander the Great). The goat defeated the ram and became exceedingly powerful. At the height of its power, its large horn was broken. In its place, four horns grew.

Daniel’s interpretation of this vision was as follows:

The two-horned ram represents the two kings of the kingdoms of Media and Persia. The goat’s horn, Alexander the Great, defeated the Medes and the Persians and eventually became the most powerful ruler in the whole world. At the height of his power, Alexander suddenly died in 332 B.C. His empire was divided into four sub-kingdoms (the four horns).

There is one final kingdom, of course, the Kingdom of our Lord. No human kingdom is permanent, no matter how powerful. Every kingdom will fall before the Kingdom of God. Nebuchadnezzar’s dream depicted this future eternal kingdom in the graphic images of the stone that turned into a mountain after annihilating the statue. The stone which crushed the statue is Jesus Christ. The mountain that filled the whole earth is the kingdom of God, which is above all and over all.

APPLICATION

Daniel concluded his interpretation by saying to the king that “the dream is true and the interpretation is trustworthy.” In summary, the lesson to learn from the story of Nebuchadnezzar’s dream and its interpretation is this: Be confident that God is still sovereign, no matter what the political landscape or stability of the world may be. When you think that all is lost, think again. God has NEVER left his throne!

(End of Talk)

Closing Prayer: God, no matter what Kings or Kingdoms may arise in this world, You are greater than them all. In Your name we pray. Amen.

Discussion Question: What does it mean to you that God is sovereign over all the rulers of the world?


6

TALK FOUR: THE FIRE MEN (Daniel, Ch. 3)

Suggested Talk Song: Come, Now is the Time to Worship


Opening Prayer: God Most High, You are the sovereign king of the universe. No one can sand against You. We kneel before You in humble awe and reverence. In your majestic name we pray. Amen.

TALK

Daniel 3 tells the familiar story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, whom we first encountered in Chapter 1. Some scholars believe that there is at least a 20-year gap between the events of Daniel 2 and 3. It is clear that something has changed drastically in Nebuchadnezzar’s mind and heart in that time period. He apparently (or conveniently) forgets that he had praised the God of Israel not long ago and so elevates a golden idol to a place of prominence. This image is grotesque and oddly proportioned, measuring 90 feet high by 9 feet wide.

To dedicate this image (possibly of the Babylonian god Nebo) King Nebuchadnezzar sends an invitation to all the officials of the Babylonian empire, all of whom attend the royal unveiling. Nebuchadnezzar decrees that all the leaders of the empire bow before the statue when they hear the instruments of the royal orchestra. The occurrence of the word “worship” 11 times in the chapter indicates that this was to be a religious act. The demand of the king is simple: Worship the idol or be thrown into a fiery furnace. It has been estimated that as many as 300,000 gather on the plain of Dura, all of whom bow down to the image, all that is but 3.

The godly defiance of the three Hebrews becomes evident. The same Babylonian officials who were spared from death 20 years ago by Daniel’s interpretation of the king’s dream of the statue turn on Daniel’s friends. They accuse them of disrespecting the king, not serving the king’s gods, and not worshiping the king’s image. The 3 Hebrews are brought before the king to answer for their actions. In the dialogue that follows, Nebuchadnezzar is troubled because he respects Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, whom he promoted 20 years earlier. Before the Hebrews can even answer the charges brought against them, Nebuchadnezzar shows his loyalty to them by offering them a second chance to comply with his demands. He warns them, however, that another refusal will result in their being thrown into the furnace. As 3:15 puts it, “Then what God will be able to rescue you from my hand?”

Without hesitation they reply that they don’t need to defend themselves before him in this matter. If they are cast into the furnace, their God can deliver them if he chooses to. But even if he chooses not to, they will not serve his gods or worship the image. These Hebrew men stood for God, prepared to glorify Him even in death. They asked for no miracle and expected none. There was no questioning of God’s ability to deliver them but were placing themselves in submission to His will.

7

Full of rage, Nebuchadnezzar does what many do when angry, he overreacts and heats the furnace 7 times hotter than its usual temperature. This would instantly incinerate anyone cast into it rather than slowly burning him to death. As a result, the soldiers who are ordered to throw the Hebrews into the furnace die instantly because of the intense heat.

As Nebuchadnezzar looks into the furnace, he expects to see charred corpses. Instead he sees the 3 men quite alive, joined by a 4th man, whom the king deems “a son of the gods.” The appearance of the 4th man is known as a theophany, or a physical manifestation of the Lord in the Old Testament. In this case, it is the pre-incarnate Jesus Christ.

The Hebrews emerge from the furnace completely unharmed, with no smell of smoke on them. The king is so amazed at what transpired that he issues this decree: “Anyone who speaks against the God of Israel shall be cut into pieces and have his house destroyed, because there is no other God who can deliver like this.” He then promotes Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego again, since he receives the answer to his previous question, “What God can deliver you?” The answer is quite clear, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

APPLICATION

The story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego yields one very important point for Christians today, determine in advance how you will respond in times of trial or temptation. Resolve beforehand to stand firm on the Word of God, so that you may be able to withstand the devil’s schemes. Don’t wait until you are in a trying situation. Resolve never to defy the God of Israel.

(End of Talk)

Closing Prayer: Lord, may we never choose to worship an “Idol” over You, our one true desire We love you, Lord. Amen.

Discussion Question: What “idols’ might prevent you from giving God 100% of your heart?


8

TALK FIVE: THE “HUMAN COW” (Daniel, Ch. 4)

Suggested Talk Song: Here I Am, Lord

Scripture Passage: Daniel 4:17, 34-37


TALK

In Daniel 4, Nebuchadnezzar’s second dream is recorded. Once again it predicts a downfall of sorts for the king, as we shall see shortly. This story contains both a universal testimony, as all men are subject to pride and its consequences, and a personal one also, as Nebuchadnezzar is telling his own story. The introductory verses, 1-3, tell us Nebuchadnezzar’s own conclusions to the events that follow in the chapter.

As before, Nebuchadnezzar has a troubling dream. Again he consults his trusted advisors to give him an interpretation. Also as before, they fail to do that. Finally, again, the king turns to Daniel, asking him to interpret the dream, because “no mystery is too difficult for you.”

This dream is in two parts, the magnificent tree and the messenger/s (also called “holy one/s”) from heaven. He first saw a giant tree in the middle of the land, visible to all the ends of the earth. It had vast branches, abundant leaves and fruit, and food and shelter for all animals. He continued looking in his vision and saw a “holy one coming down from heaven.” This person commanded that the tree be cut down and its foliage scattered, causing the animals to flee. However, the tree’s stump was to remain in the ground. (This implied that the tree would later be revived.)

The heavenly messenger then personified the tree, giving it the qualities of a human being. He goes on to pronounce judgement on the tree, as follows:

1. He is to be drenched with the dew of heaven.2. He is to live with animals among the plants of the earth.3. His mind will be changed from that of a man to that of an animal.4. This will last until “seven times pass by for him.”

According to Scripture, the “tree” (now referring to Nebuchadnezzar) was to be judged “so that the living may know that the Most High is sovereign over the kingdoms of men and gives them to anyone he wishes.”

As before, Daniel’s initial response is one of patience. “He was greatly perplexed for a time, and his thoughts terrified him,” possibly how to state his interpretation in an appropriate way. He even tells Nebuchadnezzar that he wishes the dream would apply to his enemies and not to him.

9

Daniel then restates the king’s dream, exactly as he explained it. He says that both portions, the tree and the messengers, apply to him. Daniel interprets the dream like this:

1. Nebuchadnezzar will be driven from his palace into the fields.2. He will live with the wild animals and eat grass like cattle.3. Seven times will pass for him until he realizes that God is in charge, and he is not.4. However, if Nebuchadnezzar acknowledges that Heaven rules, his kingdom will be restored

to him.

At the end of Daniel’s interpretation, he gives the king a warning: Repent of your pride, and perhaps God will change His mind. However, Nebuchadnezzar does not heed this warning.

Twelve months later, while walking on his palace roof, he begins to boast of the greatness of the Babylon which he had built with his mighty power, and of his personal majesty. While he is still speaking, a voice comes from Heaven. God now pronounced His verdict: Nebuchadnezzar will not experience the judgements that he could have avoided, had he humbled himself.

Immediately what had been predicted about Nebuchadnezzar is fulfilled. He is driven away from people and eats grass like a cow. His body is drenched with the dew of Heaven; his hair grows like the feather of an eagle; and his nails are like the claws of a bird. This condition may be a mental disorder known as boanthropy, in which the sufferer assumes the appearance, habits, and posture of a cow.

At the end of God’s appointed time period, the “seven times” referred to earlier, Nebuchadnezzar does humble himself and is returned to his right mind. He praises the God of Daniel and proclaims the Most High’s greatness and majesty. With his dominion restored, the king acknowledges the justice of the Most High God and reaffirms that God humbles the proud.

APPLICATION

This last statement leads to the message for us. We need to show humility in heart, deed, and word. Humility in heart means thinking less of yourself. Humility in deed means not acting out of selfishness or vanity, but rather considering others’ needs before your own. Humility of word can be demonstrated by listening and asking questions when in a conversation. When you hear the Holy Spirit prompting you, listed. Don’t become a cow!

(End of Talk)

Closing Prayer: Lord, may we never grow so arrogant that we think we don’t need Your guidance. In Your name we pray, Amen.

Discussion Question: How can you “humble yourself in the sight of the Lord?”

Creative Activity: Each table will present its creative activity to the community.TALK SIX: THE FINGERS OF GOD (Daniel, Ch. 5)

10

Suggested Talk Song: Mighty to Save



TALK

The year is now about 539 B.C. Sixty-six years have passed since Daniel was taken as a captive to Babylon. He is now in his early 80s, and Belshazzar, grandson perhaps of Nebuchadnezzar, is now on the throne.

The story in Chapter 5 is set in Belshazzar’s massive banquet hall, as the king hosts a feast for his nobles, numbering 1,000. The king orders that the gold and silver goblets taken from the temple of Jerusalem be brought to the feast, so that he and his guests can drink wine from them. As they drink, they praise the gods of gold, silver, bronze, iron, wood, and stone.

At this point, God looks down from heaven, sees the sacrilege, and decides that Belshazzar has gone far enough. In the middle of the festivities, suddenly the fingers of a human hand appear and write on the plaster of the wall, near the lampstand in the royal palace. The fingers write a prophecy that proclaims the end of Babylon.

The king watches the hand and it writes; his face turns pale; his knees knock from fear; and his legs give way. He summons his astrologers and his wise men to interpret the handwriting on the wall. He promises to the person who interprets this writing a large reward: He will be clothed in purple, have a gold chain placed around his neck, and be the third highest ruler in the kingdom.

As before with the king’s predecessor, wise men appear, but again they are unable to interpret the writing. So King Belshazzar becomes even more terrified. His face grows more pale. His nobles are baffled.

At this point, the Queen enters the hall. She tells him to be calm, because—she says—there is a man in his kingdom who “has the spirit of the holy gods in him.” She reminds Belshazzar about Daniel’s previous “successes” at interpretation “in the time of your father.” She urges him to bring Daniel into the banquet hall. Belshazzar complies.

Daniel is brought into the banquet hall, where Belshazzar promises him the same rewards as he previously promised to his wise men, if he can read the writing and explain it to the king. Daniel, of course, refuses the king’s gifts but agrees to do as he asks. Before doing this, Daniel reviews for the king the history of Nebuchadnezzar’s fall into temporary insanity 25 years earlier, because “that king’s heart became arrogant and hardened with pride.” The account of Nebuchadnezzar’s fall from grace serves as a preamble to what Daniel will say next.

11

Daniel says that Belshazzar fell into the same prideful self-importance that caused Nebuchadnezzar’s undoing. He rebukes Belshazzar for his sin and profane sacrifice. He defied God by desecrating the sacred vessels. He praised idols instead of worshiping the living God, “who holds in His hand your life and all your ways.” He then confirms that it was God who wrote the inscription on the wall.

Here is Daniel’s interpretation of the handwriting on the wall.

God has numbered the days of his (Belshazzar’s) reign and deemed it finished. (Mene…this word is repeated)

He has been weighed on the scales and has been found wanting, according to God’s standards. (Tekel)

His kingdom will be divided between the Medes and the Persians. (Parsin)

Having accurately interpreted the writing, Daniel is rewarded as promised by the king. He is clothed in purple; a gold chain is placed around his neck; and he becomes the third highest ruler in the kingdom.

That very night, the Medo-Persian army diverts the flow of the Euphrates River, which runs through Babylon, causing the water level to decrease enough to allow the army to walk across it. The inhabitants do not even realize the army has entered the city and has blended in with the citizens, because a feast is going on. That very night Darius the Mede takes over the kingdom, and Belshazzar is slain.

APPLICATION

What lessons can we learn from this well-known story?

1. Don’t ever think that God is finished with you as long as you are still alive . Daniel was in his early 80s and likely no longer a ruler of Babylon. Yet he was still counted on to deliver God’s message of judgement.

2. Don’t worry about fame and fortune, since this world will pass away . Daniel’s response when offered riches and prestige was “You may keep your reward for someone else.”

3. Finally, don’t neglect warnings of God’s wrath and judgement . Belshazzar did and died that same night.

REMEMBER—THE HANDWRITING IS ON THE WALL!

(End of Talk)

Closing Prayer: Lord, You are the Holy One, enthroned on the praises of the saints. You deserve all of our worship, all of our hearts. Amen.

Discussion Question: What does it mean to you to set apart the Lord God as holy” in your heart?

12

Creative Activity: Each table works on a new poster, skit, radio commercial, song, reading, etc. about the lessons learned from the Book of Daniel.

13

TALK SEVEN: THE LION KING (Daniel, Ch. 6)


Suggested Talk Song: Just a Closer Walk With Thee


TALK

Our story begins as Daniel is once again promoted, this time within the Persian Empire, which, as we saw in the previous talk, conquered the Babylonians. He “so distinguished himself among the administrators and satraps that the king [Darius] plans to set him over the whole kingdom,” likely as Prime Minister.

Of course. Darius’ actions makes the 120 governors and the 2 other administrators quite jealous, so they set out to destroy Daniel. Due to his faithfulness and integrity, his enemies are unable to find any professional reasons to sabotage him, so they resort to an underhanded religious reason, “the law of his God.”

The 122 government officials approach the king, flattering him by proposing this edict: “Anyone who prays to any God or man during the next 30 days other than you…shall be thrown into a den of lions.” Obviously this edict is proposed without the approval of the chief administrator, Daniel himself.

Furthermore, the leaders ask Darius to “issue the decree and put it in writing, so that it cannot be altered, in accordance with the laws of the Medes and Persians. Under that law, once a king signs a decree, it is etched in stone and cannot be repealed. Yielding to the flattery, Darius signs the decree.

Just as he and his friends, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, had done 60 years earlier, Daniel remains faithful to his God. For years he has prayed 3 times a day, facing Jerusalem, and continues to do so after hearing the decree.

As expected, Daniel is discovered praying and asking God for help. This pleases his enemies, who remind Darius of his signed decree, without mentioning that Daniel has broken it. The king confirms the decree and the fact that it cannot be repealed. The conspirators then tell the king that Daniel is not paying attention to the decree and is still praying to his God 3 times a day.

Upon hearing of Daniel’s actions, Darius is greatly distressed, for, even though he has high regard for Daniel, he knows that the law cannot be changed. Daniel is thrown into a den of hungry lions. The king tells Daniel, “May your God whom you serve continually rescue you.” A

14

stone is placed over the entrance of the den, and the king then seals it with his own signet ring and with the rings of his nobles. Then he returns to his palace and spends the night without eating, without entertainment, and without sleep (perhaps from a guilty conscience).

In the morning, Darius rushes to the den. He is unsure whether Daniel’s God has indeed saved him. He calls out, “Daniel, servant of the living God, has your God whom you serve continually been able to rescue you from the lions?” Daniel’s reply: “My God sent his angel, and he shut the mouths of the lions. They have not hurt me because I was found innocent in His sight.”

The king orders Daniel to be lifted from the den. He emerges with no wound found on him, because he trusted His God. “At the king’s command, the men who falsely accused Daniel are brought in and thrown into the lions’ den, along with their wives and children. And before they reached the floor of the den, the lions overpowered them and crushed all their bones.” God shut the lions’ mouths the night before. Now he opens them and restores their appetite!

King Darius now issues an edict decreeing that all men worship Daniel’s God. Daniel prospers through the reigns of Darius and his successor, Cyrus the Persian.

APPLICATION

The lessons to learn from Daniel in the lions’ den are the same ones that our persecuted brothers and sisters around the world teach us every day:

Never back down. Stand up for Jesus, no matter what governmental regulations exist, or what hatred or

persecution arise. Be willing to give your all, no matter what that may be. Jesus gave His all for us, so why

shouldn’t we give our all for Him? Even though Daniel did not die for his faith in his God, he was prepared to. His

deliverance only served to further his testimony.

May the Lord give us the courage to face the lions in our lives!

(End of Talk)

Closing Prayer: God Most High, You are the sovereign king of the universe. No one can stand against You. We kneel before You in humble awe and reverence. In Your majestic name we pray. Amen.

Discussion Question: What are some things in our life that might disrupt your prayer time?


15

TALK EIGHT: THE MADMEN (Daniel, Chs, 7, 8, 11)

Suggested Talk Song: Victory

Scripture Passage: Daniel 7:9, 10, 13, 14


TALK

This talk concerns two men about whom Daniel prophesied, one in the near future, and the other in the distant future: Antiochus IV (who took the additional name Theos Epiphanes, “God manifest”) and the Antichrist, who will appear in the End Times. They are linked in this talk, just as they are in the book of Daniel, since the actions of the first look forward to those of the second.

As we saw in Talk 3, Alexander the Great’s empire was divided among his four generals. The younger brother of one of these four, whose real name was Mithradates, later took the name of Antiochus IV. He is described by Daniel as the little horn, who would conquer lands to the south or east. He ultimately invaded Israel, “the beautiful land,” where he attacked Jerusalem and killed 40,000 Jews. Daniel’s prophesy that Antiochus would defile the sanctuary was fulfilled, as this ruler was determined to extinguish the Jewish religion forever and replace it with Greek religion and culture. He sacrificed a pig to Zeus on the altar and then spread the blood around the altar. These actions prefigured a similar abomination of desolation, also prophesied by Daniel and referred to by Jesus in Matthew 24. Antiochus also abolished the observance of the Sabbath, removed the temple’s wealth and furnishings, “and cast truth down to the ground” by outlawing the possession and reading of the Torah (i.e. the first five books of our Bible) and burning every copy he could find.

In 168 B.C., a Jewish resistance movement, led by Mattathias and his son, Judah Maccabeus, ended the foreign occupation, expelling Antiochus IV from Jerusalem. Daniel was told that it would take “2300 evenings and mornings [approximately 3 years].” Then the sanctuary would be rededicated, following its defilement. This time period probably indicated the number of morning and evening sacrifices consecutively offered on 1150 days, or the interval between the desecration by Antiochus and the reconsecration in 165 B.C.

Antiochus Epiphanes’ cruel treatment of the Jews provides a prophetic preview of the Antichrist and the persecution that this future ruler will inflict on Christians during the Tribulation. Because of the striking similarities between these two tyrants, some scholars have called Antiochus IV the Antichrist of the Old Testament.

16

We now will shift our focus to the second leader, the Antichrist and Daniel’s recorded prophecies of him. In Chapter 7, we first read of him described as a “little horn,” just as Antiochus is in Chapter 8. The Antichrist will be a boastful, proud individual, who will wage war against the saints of God for a 3 ½-year time period, blaspheming the God of Heaven. Like Antiochus, he will subdue many opposing nations, ultimately moving into the “Beautiful Land” (Israel), just as his forerunner did centuries earlier.

As Daniel describes him (the Antichrist),

… a fierce-looking king, a master of intrigue, will arise. He will become very strong, but not by his own power. He will cause astounding devastation and will succeed in whatever he does. He will destroy those who are mighty, the holy people. He will cause deceit to prosper, and he will consider himself superior. When they feel secure, he will destroy many and take his stand against the Prince of princes. Yet he will be destroyed, but not by human power.

Without going into too specific detail, the parallels between the two—Antiochus and the Antichrist—are very similar in appearance and actions.

Just as Antiochus was defeated in his purpose by divine intervention, so too will the Antichrist meet his end at the Glorious Appearing, when Jesus Christ descends from heaven. “He [the Antichrist] will pitch his royal tents between the seas at the beautiful holy mountain. Yet he will come to his end, and no one will help him.”

In Chapter 7, Daniel again prophesies that the “court” will sit and take away the Antichrist’s power and rule, handing his kingdom over to the saints of God, to be eternally ruled by the “Ancient of Days.” The Antichrist will also be destined for punishment. “The beast was slain and his body destroyed and thrown into the burning fire.”

APPLICATION

The only conclusion to draw from this discussion comes from the words of a song, which challenges us to make our eternal “reservation”:

People get ready; Jesus is coming.Soon we’ll be going home.People get ready; Jesus is comingTo take from the world His own.

Jesus is coming back, so get right with God or get left behind.Which will YOU choose?

(End of Talk)

17

Closing Prayer: Our heavenly Victor, we cannot wait until You one day reclaim Your throne and the world that You Created. Amen.

Discussion Question: What is the difference between every earthly kingdom that has ever existed and the eternal kingdom ruled by Jesus Christ?


18

TALK NINE: THE HEAVENLY MESSENGERS (Daniel Chs. 9, 10)

Suggested Talk Song: Days of Elijah



TALK

As the aged prophet Daniel, recently delivered from the lions, reads the prophet Jeremiah, he discovers the prophecy of the 70-year exile (to Babylon), mentioned in Talk #1.

The background for this prophecy takes place hundreds of years before Daniel is even born. In Leviticus 25, God commanded Israel to set aside the seventh year of each agricultural cycle in order for the land to receive a Sabbath rest. Just as man was to receive the seventh day as a day off, known as the Sabbath, the land was to receive the seventh year off, known as a Sabbath Year or a Sabbath to the Lord. God warns Israel that punishment will follow if this commandment is not obeyed.

That is exactly what happened. Israel disobeyed God’s command. For 490 consecutive years Israel never let the land have a Sabbath Year's rest. This came to a total of 70 missed Sabbath Years of rest for the land. As a punishment to Israel for this disobedience, God allowed Israel to be taken captive for a period of 70 years, that is one year of captivity for each of the Sabbath Year's rest the land missed out on.

Daniel pours out his heart to God, confessing Israel’s sin, praising God for His greatness, begging His forgiveness, and asking Him to turn aside his righteous anger. Daniel closes his prayer with these powerful words: “O Lord, listen! O Lord, forgive! O Lord, hear and act!”

While Daniel is still praying, Gabriel comes with a message, as follows: Just as Israel ignored the Sabbath Year for 490 years, she will be given that same time period again to accomplish the following:

1. Finish the transgression2. Make an end of sin3. Atone for wickedness4. Bring in everlasting righteousness5. Seal up vision and prophecy6. Anoint the most holy

19

It is agreed that the coming Messiah, Jesus, will fulfill all of these. His coming to earth fulfilled ##1-3 above. The last 3 will be fulfilled in the end times, when Jesus returns at his Second Coming.

Gabriel’s message states that from the time that the Persian king, Artaxerxes, allows the Jews to restore and rebuild Jerusalem (perhaps 445 B.C.) until Jesus comes, a total of 483 years (that is 69 “sevens”) will pass. After the completion of the 483 years, (in 30 A.D.), “the Anointed One will be cut off” (verse 26). This was fulfilled when Jesus was crucified.

Of the 70 “sevens” (that is 490 years), 69 have been fulfilled in history. This leaves one more “seven” yet to be fulfilled. Most scholars believe that we are now living in a huge gap between the 69th week and the 70th week. The prophetic clock has been paused.

The final “week,” the future 7-year period, which we know as the Tribulation, will begin when a charismatic world leader, known as the Antichrist, signs a peace treaty with Israel for 7 years. He allows the temple to be rebuilt. However, in the middle of these 7 years, the Antichrist will break the treaty and set up an image of himself in the temple, an abomination to the Jews. At the end of the 7 years, he will be cast into the Lake of Fire.

Let us now move to the events in Chapter 10. Daniel is still living in Babylon, again burdened for his people. He fasts and prays for 3 weeks, asking God to reveal His will for Israel. While walking along the Tigris River, he is physically overcome by the vision of a shining man and sinks into a deep sleep.

After he is aroused by another heavenly messenger, he is told that his words were heard in Heaven, but the answer was delayed for 21 days by one of Satan’s demons, called the Persian Prince. This messenger finally received help from the Archangel Michael and has now come to tell Daniel what will happen to his people in the future.

Daniel is overcome with anguish, needing further strength from the messenger to hear what is to come. The vision, recorded in Chapter 11, foretells the rise and fall of many world leaders, with the Most High God sovereign over them all.

APPLICATION

1. Daniel’s visits from heaven come after Daniel is prompted to pray by his study of the prophet Jeremiah. He recalls God’s promises to His people and again asks Him to hear and answer his (Daniel’s) prayers. This was not an act of ego on Daniel’s part. He knew that God has given His children many promises and delights in their reminding Him of these promises.

2. These chapters also show us that God’s delays are not always God’s denials. Even though Daniel’s prayer in Chapter 10 takes 21 days to be answered, it was answered! Though we

20

may become discouraged at seemingly unheard prayers, we must be persistent in praying, because the answer is often closer than we think.

GOD’S TIMING IS ALWAYS PERFECT!

(End of Talk)

Closing Prayer: Jesus, we praise You that You will return for us one day so that we do not have to experience the “70th week” described in Daniel. Amen.

Discussion Question: While you await patiently the Lord’s return what are some things that you can be doing to prepare yourself?


21

TALK TEN: THE END-THE ARCHANGEL (Daniel, Ch. 12)

Suggested Talk Song: Will the Circle be Unbroken?



TALK

The vision of the shining man, clothed in linen, first given to Daniel in Chapter 10, picks up again in Chapter 12. This unnamed messenger now describes the coming time of trouble (The Tribulation) for Israel. (The Tribulation is described in Daniel as a time of distress such as has not happened from the beginning of nations until then.)

Two other heavenly messengers appear, making three altogether. One of them asks the one clothed in linen (the “shining” one) how long it will be before the events of The Tribulation are fulfilled.

The answer is 3 ½ years, or 1,290 days from the time that the Antichrist takes over the temple at the midpoint of The Tribulation. The total length of The Tribulation will be 7 years altogether. This will start the 70th week. (Remember that the prophecy “clock” of 70 “weeks” was paused at the coming of Christ, the 69th week. until it starts again at the time of The Tribulation.)

Daniel does not understand this prophecy so he asks how all these events will turn out. The messenger orders him to seal up the book, for he has told him all that he needs to know. He adds that he should go on about his life. After he dies, at a certain point in the future he will be resurrected. He concludes his commands by saying that the wise will understand and be saved, but the wicked, who do not understand, will not be saved.

The messenger tells Daniel that many of his people—that is Jews—will be saved during The Tribulation, that is have their names written in God’s Book of Life. These names belong to the believing remnant of Israel, saved during The Tribulation. These believers—Jews and non-Jews alike—who are alive at the end of The Tribulation will move into the Millennium (which follows The Tribulation) and reign with Christ for a thousand years on earth.

At the end of The Tribulation, Old Testament “saints,” that is those believers before Jesus appeared on earth, and any believers martyred during The Tribulation, will be resurrected.

Finally, anyone who has ever failed to give his life over to God, regardless of when he or she may have lived or died (before or after the “cross”), will be resurrected at the end of the Millennium. They, however, will stand at the Great White Throne and receive eternal damnation.

22

Yes, everyone will have eternal life, some with Christ in heaven and some in a place of eternal torment, apart from Him. (Contrary to what we all have heard, the latter group will just not sleep forever!!)

APPLICATION

Just like Daniel, it is clear that for us the best is yet to come! We must study these future events so we can prepare ourselves and others as well for it. How do we do this? By studying God’s word, applying it to our lives, and pointing others to Christ.

Daniel was told that he would arise one day to receive his inheritance at an appointed time in the future, as will we if we put our trust in the Lord and persevere.

Let us close this last talk with words from the Archangel Michael: “Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness [will shine] like the stars forever and ever.”

Closing Prayer: Jesus, in response to Your declaration of “Surely I am coming quickly,” we pray as John did in Revelation, “Amen. Come, Lord Jesus.”

Discussion Question: Whom are you looking forward to meeting in heaven?

Creative Activity: Each table will present its creative activity to the community.

CLOSING PRAYER FOR THE RETREAT

23

· web viewopening prayer: god most high, you are the sovereign king of the universe. no one can...

Documents