Bible Study on Daniel

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Bible Study on Daniel

Author: Daniel
Date: sixth century B.C.

Daniel's name means "God is my judge." He was either of royal descent or from a distinguished family of Jerusalem. He was taken into captivity by Nebuchadnezzar during the reign of Jehoiakim, which would make it before the fall of Jerusalem in 587 B.C. Because his potential was recognized, he was allowed to study in Babylon along with other Babylonian youths. His course of study consisted of language and science, probably in preparation for royal service. During that time of training he was allowed by his adviser to live on vegetables and water, rather than eating rich food and wine. Daniel's dedication made him a better student than his Babylonian counterparts.

In the second year of his reign, Nebuchadnezzar had a dream that only Daniel was able to interpret. As a result, Daniel was given a position of authority over the Babylonian scientists (magicians). After Nebuchadnezzar's death (562 B.C.), Daniel apparently lost his job because of the change of government. During Belshazzar's reign, however, Daniel was restored to government as Third Chief Governor after interpreting some mysterious handwriting on the wall during a banquet. Daniel held that post during the subsequent reigns of Darius and Cyrus the Persian. Daniel was obviously an intelligent, righteous person, trusted even by pagans in high places. He was protected by God in miraculous ways and was in a position to write a book such as this. About his later years and death we know nothing.

The Book of Daniel consists primarily of a series of prophetic dreams and visions. Some historical material is also there, but as background for the prophetic material. Daniel interpreted Nebuchadnezzar's first dream (2:1-49) to mean that four great kingdoms would fall. Nebuchadnezzar's second vision (4:1-37) pointed out his vanity and pride.

Daniel's dream (7:1-28) in many ways parallels Nebuchadnezzar's first dream, only fantastic beasts represent the kingdoms of the world, rather than different metals in a gigantic statue. In this dream a figure called the "son of man" appears (v. 13). (In the New Testament, Jesus used this term with reference to himself.)

Daniel had another vision (9:24-27), perhaps the most important in the book. It speaks of a time when God's work would be completed. Many Christians see this prophecy as fulfilled in Christ, the one who atoned for iniquity and will bring in everlasting righteousness. Daniel had other visions (8:1-27; 11:2-12:3), also prophetic, dealing with the events of world history.

Theological Themes in the Book of Daniel

We can see four elements in the message of Daniel. First, God is all-knowing. He can predict future events, and he revealed some of those secrets to the prophets. Second, God rules over human affairs. This does not mean that we are not free to act, but it does mean that God works in and through our choices. This gives us confidence to live because ultimately no one can defy God and get away with it. God is still on the throne. Third, evil will ultimately be overcome. Although God's enemies may get the upper hand at times in history, the final chapter has not yet been written. When it is, God will come out the victor, along with those who have chosen to live for him. Finally, God's Messiah, Jesus, is vital in his plan for the world; Daniel had an intimation of that redemptive mystery.

Outline for the Book of Daniel

1.Life in Babylon DANIEL 1:1-21
2.Early visions in Babylon DANIEL 2:1-6:28
3.Daniel's visions of world empires DANIEL 7:1-8:27
4.Daniel's visions about history and salvation DANIEL 9:1-12:13
Hosea

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