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We are now halfway through the book of Daniel. From here on, the style changes and we move away from narrative to ‘visions’.
Chapter 1 and 6 both closed by telling us that Daniel lived throughout the whole period of the exile. These six chapters have presented us with a number of themes that it would be important both for these exiles and for later readers to know.
Firstly, we have seen that away from their land and the city of Jerusalem which symbolized God living with His people, God is still both in control and with His people. He has shown that He is the true king, as He has brought Nebuchadnezzar and Darius to praise Him and testify to His rule to the whole world. The Lord is able to humble even the proudest of people opposed to Him. Further, he has shown His rule by bringing judgement on Belshazzar and removing both him and his kingdom.
Secondly, we have seen the witness of faithful servants. In a strange land they have faced the twin pressures to do what God forbids and not do what God commands. We have seen that as they trust God, so they remain faithful to Him under these pressures. God has rescued them not as a promise that He will always rescue His people in this life, but as a demonstration that He is able to rescue, and as a shadow of the true rescue to glory for all who are faithful to Him.
Thirdly, we have seen that the promises of God, to establish an eternal kingdom, will one day be fulfilled. It looks at times in the narrative as if God’s promises teeter on the brink of being wiped out. But the God who is King is faithful to the promises He makes.
And fourthly, we see in Daniel a shadow of the Lord Jesus. Innocent, accused, condemned Daniel faces death. But when the stone is rolled away, he is alive. Yet Daniel is a mere shadow of the son of man, who is more clearly revealed in the next chapter.
Reflection
Think through the main themes of the book so far. What have been the challenges and encouragements to you as you seek to live faithfully under the rule of Jesus in a world hostile to Him and us?
About this Plan
The story of Daniel and his three friends is well known and well loved. But the account of these four men, in a far away land, is so much more than the lion’s den and a fiery furnace that we remember from Sunday school. In forty days, experienced Bible–teacher Justin Mote, shows us God’s goodness, provision and sovereignty, even when the situation seems out of control.
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