WEBVTT 00:00:00.480 --> 00:00:05.940 Well, turn with me in your Bibles to Daniel chapter 11 as we come to the Word of God. 00:00:07.140 --> 00:00:15.200 And He has promised that when we come to His Word, that His Spirit is with us to speak 00:00:15.200 --> 00:00:15.620 to us. 00:00:15.679 --> 00:00:18.140 Daniel chapter 11, page 748. 00:00:18.339 --> 00:00:23.059 This morning we come to the last, longest, and most detailed of Daniel's visions. 00:00:24.039 --> 00:00:28.339 Now if you've been coming to Trinity for some time, you've probably noticed that normally 00:00:28.339 --> 00:00:33.399 we preach through entire books of the Bible, chapter by chapter, section by section. 00:00:34.140 --> 00:00:38.659 And one of the consequences of that is that we come to a chapter like this one, which I 00:00:38.659 --> 00:00:44.039 probably wouldn't dare to tackle if it simply were up to me to choose a different Bible passage 00:00:44.039 --> 00:00:44.620 each week. 00:00:46.359 --> 00:00:51.120 Daniel 11 covers 400 years of history, including 13 major rulers. 00:00:51.780 --> 00:00:58.240 And unless you're doing a PhD in Second Temple Judaism or Hellenistic political history, reading 00:00:58.240 --> 00:01:04.140 this chapter may feel like riding a roller coaster through uncharted territory, dizzying 00:01:04.140 --> 00:01:05.500 and sometimes terrifying. 00:01:06.540 --> 00:01:12.260 But over the years, one of the things that has most increased my confidence in God's Word 00:01:12.260 --> 00:01:18.719 is looking into passages that initially may seem difficult or strange and finding in these 00:01:18.719 --> 00:01:22.659 passages vitally important truths that we need to hear today. 00:01:23.620 --> 00:01:26.879 So that's what we're going to do today by God's grace. 00:01:26.879 --> 00:01:27.500 Read with me. 00:01:27.619 --> 00:01:28.459 This is a long chapter. 00:01:28.640 --> 00:01:31.659 I won't read every verse, but I do want us to get into the text. 00:01:32.099 --> 00:01:33.399 We're going to start at verse 2. 00:01:35.159 --> 00:01:35.920 So here we go. 00:01:35.959 --> 00:01:37.399 Daniel 11, starting at verse 2. 00:01:37.780 --> 00:01:39.939 And now I will show you the truth. 00:01:40.739 --> 00:01:45.120 Behold, three more kings shall arise in Persia, and a force shall be far, far richer than all 00:01:45.120 --> 00:01:45.459 of them. 00:01:46.159 --> 00:01:50.719 And when he has become strong through his riches, he shall stir up all against the kingdom of Greece. 00:01:50.719 --> 00:01:56.799 Then a mighty king shall arise, who shall rule with great dominion and do as he wills. 00:01:57.200 --> 00:02:01.680 And as soon as he is arisen, his kingdom shall be broken and divided toward the four winds 00:02:01.680 --> 00:02:07.019 of heaven, but not to his posterity, nor according to the authority with which he ruled. 00:02:07.099 --> 00:02:11.039 For his kingdom shall be plucked up and go to others besides these. 00:02:11.900 --> 00:02:16.079 Then the king of the south shall be strong, but one of his princes shall be stronger than 00:02:16.080 --> 00:02:19.180 he and shall rule, and his authority shall be a great authority. 00:02:19.960 --> 00:02:24.140 After some years they shall make an alliance, and the daughter of the king of the south shall 00:02:24.140 --> 00:02:28.560 come to the king of the north to make an agreement, but she shall not retain the strength of her 00:02:28.560 --> 00:02:30.800 arm, and he and his arm shall not endure. 00:02:30.939 --> 00:02:35.920 But she shall be given up, and her attendants, he who fathered her and he who supported her 00:02:35.920 --> 00:02:36.680 in those times. 00:02:37.140 --> 00:02:38.520 Let's go down to verse 14. 00:02:39.320 --> 00:02:44.520 In those times many shall rise against the king of the south, and the violent among your own 00:02:44.520 --> 00:02:48.520 people shall lift themselves up in order to fulfill the vision, but they shall fail. 00:02:49.240 --> 00:02:53.580 Then the king of the north shall come and throw up siege works and take a well-fortified city, 00:02:53.980 --> 00:02:58.300 and the forces of the south shall not stand, or even his best troops, for there shall be 00:02:58.300 --> 00:02:59.620 no strength to stand. 00:03:00.060 --> 00:03:04.280 But he who comes against him shall do as he wills, and none shall stand before him, and 00:03:04.280 --> 00:03:08.219 he shall stand in the glorious land with destruction in his hand. 00:03:08.719 --> 00:03:13.439 He shall set his face to come with the strength of his whole kingdom, and he shall bring terms 00:03:13.439 --> 00:03:14.939 of an agreement and perform them. 00:03:15.439 --> 00:03:19.780 He shall give him the daughter of women to destroy the kingdom, but it shall not stand, 00:03:20.120 --> 00:03:21.180 or be to his advantage. 00:03:21.960 --> 00:03:26.359 Afterwards he shall turn his face to the coastlands, and shall capture many of them, but a commander 00:03:26.359 --> 00:03:27.740 shall put an end to his insolence. 00:03:28.280 --> 00:03:32.099 Indeed he shall turn his insolence back upon him, then he shall turn his face back toward 00:03:32.099 --> 00:03:36.979 the fortresses of his own land, but he shall stumble and fall, and shall not be found. 00:03:37.800 --> 00:03:41.659 Then shall arise in his place one who shall send an exactor of tribute for the glory of 00:03:41.659 --> 00:03:45.560 the kingdom, but within a few days he shall be broken, neither in anger nor in battle. 00:03:46.680 --> 00:03:51.939 In his place shall arise a contemptible person, to whom royal majesty has not been given. 00:03:52.039 --> 00:03:55.079 He shall come in without warning and obtain the kingdom by flatteries. 00:03:55.159 --> 00:04:00.159 Armies shall be utterly swept away before him and broken, even the prince of the covenant. 00:04:00.800 --> 00:04:04.859 And from the time that an alliance is made with him, he shall act deceitfully, and he shall 00:04:04.859 --> 00:04:07.000 become strong with a small people. 00:04:07.000 --> 00:04:08.800 Let's go down to verse 29. 00:04:09.020 --> 00:04:14.080 At the time appointed, he shall return and come into the south, but it shall not be this 00:04:14.080 --> 00:04:15.419 time as it was before. 00:04:16.079 --> 00:04:20.600 For ships of Kittim shall come against him, and he shall be afraid and withdraw, and shall 00:04:20.600 --> 00:04:24.019 turn back and be enraged and take action against the holy covenant. 00:04:24.579 --> 00:04:27.860 He shall turn back and pay attention to those who forsake the holy covenant. 00:04:28.560 --> 00:04:33.180 Forces from him shall appear and profane the temple and fortress, and shall take away the 00:04:33.180 --> 00:04:37.079 regular burnt offering, and they shall set up the abomination that makes desolate. 00:04:37.840 --> 00:04:42.600 He shall seduce with flattery those who violate the covenant, but the people who know their 00:04:42.600 --> 00:04:46.400 God shall stand firm and take action. 00:04:47.079 --> 00:04:50.899 And the wise among the people shall make many understand, though for some days they shall 00:04:50.899 --> 00:04:54.360 stumble by sword and flame, by captivity and plunder. 00:04:54.720 --> 00:04:56.800 When they stumble, they shall receive a little help. 00:04:56.800 --> 00:05:02.379 And many shall join themselves to them with flattery, and some of the wise shall stumble, 00:05:02.520 --> 00:05:08.420 so that they may be refined, purified, and made white until the time of the end, for it 00:05:08.420 --> 00:05:10.220 still awaits the appointed time. 00:05:11.080 --> 00:05:11.660 Let's pray. 00:05:13.800 --> 00:05:15.360 Lord, we come to your word this morning. 00:05:16.080 --> 00:05:21.199 We thank you that you bid us come to you and listen and hear what is good. 00:05:21.860 --> 00:05:24.379 We pray that you would help us to understand this difficult passage. 00:05:24.379 --> 00:05:28.699 We pray that you would open our hearts and minds to hear what you have for us today. 00:05:28.819 --> 00:05:30.459 In Jesus' name, amen. 00:05:32.000 --> 00:05:35.719 So what I want to do today is not to give a big history lesson. 00:05:36.579 --> 00:05:41.199 Okay, I'm not going to go verse by verse and explain which king this is referring to, 00:05:41.300 --> 00:05:42.959 and which year, and which battle. 00:05:43.579 --> 00:05:48.439 If you're interested in that, I've put a brief summary in your bulletin of the major historical 00:05:48.439 --> 00:05:49.819 references in this chapter. 00:05:50.600 --> 00:05:53.560 So you can see the basic outline of what we're talking about. 00:05:53.560 --> 00:05:57.800 If you want more details, this is a great chapter to look in a study Bible. 00:05:58.560 --> 00:06:03.100 That's why there are study Bibles and other background resources. 00:06:03.220 --> 00:06:09.259 So you can see some of the historical background that will help you understand what it's referring 00:06:09.259 --> 00:06:09.480 to. 00:06:09.560 --> 00:06:13.699 But what I want to do today is to ask, why is this vision here? 00:06:14.680 --> 00:06:16.899 What is it meant to show us? 00:06:17.939 --> 00:06:19.660 And this morning, we'll see three things. 00:06:19.660 --> 00:06:22.160 We'll see first what it shows us about God. 00:06:23.220 --> 00:06:25.140 Second, what it shows us about politics. 00:06:26.540 --> 00:06:28.420 Third, what it shows us about hope. 00:06:29.340 --> 00:06:31.140 God, politics, and hope. 00:06:31.620 --> 00:06:32.660 Very relevant topics. 00:06:33.560 --> 00:06:37.340 Number one, and we're going to dig in by God's grace. 00:06:37.480 --> 00:06:41.200 So number one, God is on the throne even when it doesn't seem like it. 00:06:41.260 --> 00:06:42.640 That's what we see about God. 00:06:42.639 --> 00:06:47.479 And as we've been going through Daniel, I've become increasingly convinced that this is 00:06:47.479 --> 00:06:51.939 the main message of the book in both the stories and the visions. 00:06:53.099 --> 00:06:58.599 You know, so many times in the stories in Daniel, it seems like God is far away. 00:06:59.659 --> 00:06:59.860 Right? 00:06:59.919 --> 00:07:05.159 In chapter one, when Jerusalem is plundered and Daniel and his friends are taken away to 00:07:05.159 --> 00:07:05.519 Babylon. 00:07:05.519 --> 00:07:12.259 In chapter three, King Nebuchadnezzar mandates that everyone bow down to this golden image. 00:07:12.339 --> 00:07:14.979 Otherwise, he'll throw you into the fiery furnace. 00:07:15.659 --> 00:07:21.560 Chapter five, King Belshazzar openly mocks the name of the Lord, taking the sacred vessels 00:07:21.560 --> 00:07:24.599 from God's temple and using them at a drunken party. 00:07:24.600 --> 00:07:31.540 But what we've seen, if you look at all those stories, that in every situation where it seems 00:07:31.540 --> 00:07:35.560 like God is far away, he's still on the throne. 00:07:36.160 --> 00:07:38.060 He's still working out his purposes. 00:07:38.700 --> 00:07:40.360 He's rescuing his servants. 00:07:40.500 --> 00:07:42.320 He's vindicating his holy name. 00:07:43.620 --> 00:07:46.400 And then we come to the visions, the second half of Daniel. 00:07:47.640 --> 00:07:52.340 And Daniel's looking forward to the time when the people would return back home from exile. 00:07:52.339 --> 00:07:55.799 They'd rebuild the temple in Jerusalem and resettle the land. 00:07:56.139 --> 00:08:02.359 But what we see here in this chapter is that they would be sandwiched in between two powerful 00:08:02.359 --> 00:08:07.859 empires, which are referred to as the King of the North and the King of the South. 00:08:08.699 --> 00:08:14.759 So it's in reference to the promised land, what Daniel calls the glorious land, the land 00:08:14.759 --> 00:08:17.179 which is now around Israel. 00:08:17.180 --> 00:08:17.300 Israel. 00:08:18.019 --> 00:08:24.400 And these two empires, the Seleucid dynasty in Syria and Babylonia to the north and the 00:08:24.400 --> 00:08:28.620 Ptolemaic dynasty in Egypt were often at war with each other, going back and forth. 00:08:29.759 --> 00:08:36.980 And then at one point, one particular northern king would turn on God's covenant people for 00:08:36.980 --> 00:08:42.680 no apparent reason and attempt to completely wipe them out in a violent persecution. 00:08:42.679 --> 00:08:50.259 That's what we saw in 21 to 35, sort of that last section of the vision that we read. 00:08:50.439 --> 00:08:53.079 But what we're going to see here is what we've seen throughout the book. 00:08:54.139 --> 00:09:00.599 Even when it doesn't seem like it, God is still on the throne. 00:09:01.500 --> 00:09:07.959 Even when his kingdom seems delayed, even when his kingdom is opposed, even when his kingdom 00:09:07.960 --> 00:09:13.700 appears small and insignificant, God is still on the throne and ultimately his kingdom will 00:09:13.700 --> 00:09:15.759 survive and remain forever. 00:09:16.960 --> 00:09:18.000 How do we see this? 00:09:18.280 --> 00:09:21.259 How do we see that God is on the throne in this chapter? 00:09:22.240 --> 00:09:24.060 Well, we see it in three ways. 00:09:24.139 --> 00:09:26.280 We see it at first in how the vision is framed. 00:09:27.100 --> 00:09:34.560 If you look at chapter 10, verse 21, this is the angelic messenger who we saw last week 00:09:34.559 --> 00:09:36.299 who's speaking to Daniel. 00:09:36.919 --> 00:09:41.199 And he says, I will tell you what is inscribed in the book of truth. 00:09:42.119 --> 00:09:45.279 It could also be translated the trustworthy book. 00:09:45.939 --> 00:09:49.199 And then chapter 11, verse 2, now I will show you the truth. 00:09:49.279 --> 00:09:52.979 And if you look all the way to chapter 12, verse 4, which is actually the end of the vision, 00:09:53.359 --> 00:09:56.719 he tells Daniel, shut up the words and seal the book. 00:09:56.720 --> 00:10:05.759 So this angel, it's as if he's opening up the book of history, the book that belongs to God. 00:10:06.779 --> 00:10:09.279 And he's reading to Daniel out of it. 00:10:10.480 --> 00:10:17.440 That's how this whole vision is framed, is that it's from this book that is from heaven, 00:10:17.580 --> 00:10:18.660 from God. 00:10:18.659 --> 00:10:24.899 And so the point is, everything that's described here, chaotic as it may seem, 00:10:25.659 --> 00:10:27.740 is ultimately within God's control. 00:10:28.719 --> 00:10:29.919 God's not surprised. 00:10:30.219 --> 00:10:33.379 God's not thrown off course by what happens. 00:10:33.459 --> 00:10:36.939 He's not anxiously wringing his hands and wondering what he will do. 00:10:37.079 --> 00:10:40.740 God is sovereign over the past, present, and future. 00:10:43.039 --> 00:10:45.339 So we see God's on the throne and how the vision is framed. 00:10:45.339 --> 00:10:48.639 We also see that God is on the throne in what the vision describes. 00:10:49.439 --> 00:10:55.240 And pretty much everyone agrees that chapter 11 accurately and sometimes very precisely 00:10:55.240 --> 00:10:59.860 describes the history of this period, at least through verse 35. 00:11:00.059 --> 00:11:03.419 We'll get to 36 through 45 and what they're referring to. 00:11:04.339 --> 00:11:09.959 And in fact, scholars who don't believe that predictive prophecy is possible, 00:11:10.339 --> 00:11:15.600 they all assume that this chapter must have been written after the events that it describes 00:11:15.600 --> 00:11:18.459 because it describes them so accurately. 00:11:18.659 --> 00:11:24.980 Now, I do want to acknowledge, if you're into this, Bible-believing scholars don't all agree 00:11:24.980 --> 00:11:26.439 on when Daniel was written. 00:11:26.600 --> 00:11:30.939 Some argue that parts of the book may have been written later on the basis of the literary genre 00:11:30.939 --> 00:11:32.860 and parallels in Akkadian literature. 00:11:33.299 --> 00:11:34.259 Now, that's complicated. 00:11:34.379 --> 00:11:38.000 I'm not going into that now, but I'm happy to talk after the service if you want to talk 00:11:38.000 --> 00:11:38.399 about that. 00:11:38.459 --> 00:11:39.159 But here's the point. 00:11:39.159 --> 00:11:47.120 Now, this chapter refers to real people and real events that are known and discussed in 00:11:47.120 --> 00:11:49.339 other ancient historical sources. 00:11:50.439 --> 00:11:55.179 So in this way, the Bible is not like the Book of Mormon, for example. 00:11:56.319 --> 00:11:56.579 Okay? 00:11:56.580 --> 00:12:01.660 According to the Book of Mormon, in 600 BC, some of the Israelites were exiled to Babylon 00:12:01.660 --> 00:12:04.240 and others found their way to America. 00:12:05.139 --> 00:12:06.100 Never heard that, did you? 00:12:07.060 --> 00:12:12.420 The Book of Mormon then describes their life in America, mentioning horses, oxen, sheep, 00:12:12.800 --> 00:12:19.540 pigs, goats, elephants, wheat, barley, figs, silk, steel, brass, plows, swords, and chariots. 00:12:19.539 --> 00:12:21.699 But here's the problem. 00:12:22.980 --> 00:12:28.480 There's no historical or scientific evidence that any of those plants, animals, or technologies 00:12:28.480 --> 00:12:34.099 existed in America before the 16th century, when Christopher Columbus and other Europeans 00:12:34.099 --> 00:12:34.759 started coming. 00:12:35.939 --> 00:12:40.779 Or there's no other source that says that Israelites crossed the Atlantic Ocean in 600 BC. 00:12:42.519 --> 00:12:49.299 By contrast, we can identify most of the people and events referred to in this chapter and 00:12:49.299 --> 00:12:52.419 the description fits well the historical time period. 00:12:53.919 --> 00:12:58.000 So we see God is on the throne in how the vision is framed, in what it describes, and 00:12:58.000 --> 00:12:59.740 in how the vision unfolds. 00:13:00.740 --> 00:13:03.299 Notice there are several references to God's timing. 00:13:04.620 --> 00:13:05.779 Look at verse 24. 00:13:06.219 --> 00:13:11.299 The end of verse 24 says, he shall devise plans against strongholds, but only for a time. 00:13:12.259 --> 00:13:17.620 Then verse 27, end of verse 27, they shall speak lies of the same table, but to no avail 00:13:17.620 --> 00:13:21.960 for the end is yet to be at the time appointed. 00:13:23.080 --> 00:13:28.779 Verse 29, at the time appointed, he shall return and come into the south. 00:13:29.480 --> 00:13:35.139 And verse 35, the end ends by saying, until the time of the end, for it still awaits the 00:13:35.139 --> 00:13:36.360 appointed time. 00:13:36.460 --> 00:13:40.279 So there's all these references to the appointed time, God's timing. 00:13:40.279 --> 00:13:47.299 Even when the world seems chaotic, the course of history is unfolding according to God's 00:13:47.299 --> 00:13:48.620 appointed time. 00:13:49.980 --> 00:13:55.339 We see human beings here making plans, taking initiative, scheming and conniving, but ultimately 00:13:55.339 --> 00:13:56.899 God holds the reins. 00:13:57.740 --> 00:14:00.179 God is Lord over time and history. 00:14:01.319 --> 00:14:03.720 And one day he's going to blow the horn and the game will be over. 00:14:03.720 --> 00:14:09.600 But at every moment in history, God is still on the throne, even when it doesn't seem like 00:14:09.600 --> 00:14:09.759 it. 00:14:10.940 --> 00:14:13.480 So that's the first thing we see in this chapter. 00:14:13.580 --> 00:14:14.680 Now, what does this mean for us? 00:14:14.779 --> 00:14:18.980 What's, how do we, what does this truth mean for us today? 00:14:20.279 --> 00:14:25.540 Well, throughout the history of the church, many Christians have believed and hoped that 00:14:25.540 --> 00:14:28.080 Christ would come again during their lifetime. 00:14:28.080 --> 00:14:35.940 Many people in many centuries and decades have looked around at the world and said, we got 00:14:35.940 --> 00:14:36.980 to be right near the end. 00:14:38.139 --> 00:14:40.960 And we can make it because the end is right around the corner. 00:14:41.520 --> 00:14:42.320 And you know what? 00:14:42.379 --> 00:14:43.560 That may well be true. 00:14:44.860 --> 00:14:49.960 And the Bible says we should be ready now to appear before the judgment seat of Christ. 00:14:50.720 --> 00:14:54.980 Jesus said he would come like a thief in the night, suddenly and unexpectedly. 00:14:55.400 --> 00:14:57.360 And that's a good thought to meditate on. 00:14:58.080 --> 00:15:04.100 Am I longing, anticipating that day when Jesus will return? 00:15:04.160 --> 00:15:06.920 Am I living my life day to day in light of that? 00:15:08.820 --> 00:15:10.800 Or has my love grown cold? 00:15:11.660 --> 00:15:17.000 My attention shifted to pleasing other people and getting ahead in this world? 00:15:18.120 --> 00:15:26.400 Am I harboring patterns of sin, procrastinating and compromising instead of confessing and repenting? 00:15:26.399 --> 00:15:35.319 Knowing that Jesus could return at any moment should spur us on to pursue holiness and pursue the Lord without delay. 00:15:36.419 --> 00:15:37.959 But let me also ask this question. 00:15:38.919 --> 00:15:43.299 What if Jesus doesn't come back for a hundred or a thousand more years? 00:15:43.299 --> 00:15:47.539 Can you remain faithful to Christ? 00:15:48.479 --> 00:15:53.000 Can you seek to leave a legacy for future generations who will come afterwards? 00:15:53.000 --> 00:15:56.980 Even if the end still awaits the appointed time. 00:15:58.659 --> 00:16:02.139 You know, the Christian life is more like a marathon than a sprint. 00:16:02.139 --> 00:16:09.220 Daniel's writing to encourage God's people who are living in the middle of history. 00:16:11.120 --> 00:16:16.360 Who are living in troubled times that aren't yet the end times. 00:16:17.539 --> 00:16:19.819 Notice how often he says the end is still yet to come. 00:16:19.879 --> 00:16:20.939 The end is still yet to come. 00:16:21.919 --> 00:16:24.220 He's writing to encourage God's people who are in the middle. 00:16:24.220 --> 00:16:28.720 Living in war with wars and rumors of wars. 00:16:29.019 --> 00:16:32.000 A nation rising against nation and kingdom against kingdom. 00:16:32.519 --> 00:16:36.160 Times when it's easy to become discouraged and distracted. 00:16:37.460 --> 00:16:39.420 But he says God is still on the throne. 00:16:39.879 --> 00:16:41.779 Even when it doesn't seem like that. 00:16:41.840 --> 00:16:42.779 And that's an anchor. 00:16:43.680 --> 00:16:47.500 That's an anchor for our souls when we live in troubled times. 00:16:47.879 --> 00:16:50.660 Even if they last a really long time. 00:16:50.659 --> 00:16:54.459 So that's the first thing we see in Daniel's vision. 00:16:54.559 --> 00:16:55.839 God is on the throne. 00:16:56.319 --> 00:16:58.120 The second thing we see in Daniel's vision. 00:16:58.879 --> 00:17:00.199 Is that politics. 00:17:01.039 --> 00:17:02.819 Despite its grand ambitions. 00:17:03.579 --> 00:17:04.980 Is full of frustration. 00:17:05.759 --> 00:17:06.599 And futility. 00:17:08.079 --> 00:17:10.460 Notice some of the patterns and repeated words. 00:17:10.859 --> 00:17:11.519 In this chapter. 00:17:12.859 --> 00:17:13.980 Kings arise. 00:17:15.259 --> 00:17:17.500 Verse 2, 3, 4, 7, 20, 21. 00:17:17.639 --> 00:17:18.480 I won't quote all the verses. 00:17:19.059 --> 00:17:20.559 But all these appear at least three times. 00:17:20.660 --> 00:17:21.400 Kings arise. 00:17:22.500 --> 00:17:23.820 They become strong. 00:17:24.700 --> 00:17:26.759 They do as they will. 00:17:27.740 --> 00:17:29.759 They wage war and fight. 00:17:30.580 --> 00:17:33.019 They make alliances or agreements. 00:17:33.660 --> 00:17:34.940 But in the end. 00:17:35.700 --> 00:17:38.240 Their schemes do not stand. 00:17:40.940 --> 00:17:42.400 Did you notice as I was reading. 00:17:42.580 --> 00:17:44.620 How often the word but appears. 00:17:44.619 --> 00:17:50.759 To indicate that someone's grand ambitions were frustrated. 00:17:52.259 --> 00:17:52.699 Foiled. 00:17:53.159 --> 00:17:54.099 Rendered futile. 00:17:55.799 --> 00:17:57.039 Just a few examples. 00:17:57.179 --> 00:17:57.619 Verse 6. 00:17:57.699 --> 00:17:59.979 After some years they shall make an alliance by marriage. 00:18:00.059 --> 00:18:02.519 But she shall not retain the strength of her arm. 00:18:03.239 --> 00:18:03.779 Verse 9. 00:18:04.500 --> 00:18:06.859 The king of the north shall come into the realm of the king of the south. 00:18:06.959 --> 00:18:09.039 But he shall return to his own land. 00:18:09.619 --> 00:18:10.239 Verse 12. 00:18:10.240 --> 00:18:11.200 His heart shall be exalted. 00:18:11.339 --> 00:18:12.759 He shall cast down tens of thousands. 00:18:12.880 --> 00:18:14.500 But he shall not prevail. 00:18:15.279 --> 00:18:16.140 Verse 14. 00:18:16.700 --> 00:18:20.039 The violent among your own people shall lift themselves up in order to fulfill the vision. 00:18:20.140 --> 00:18:21.559 But they shall fail. 00:18:22.200 --> 00:18:22.940 Verse 17. 00:18:23.099 --> 00:18:25.180 He shall give him the daughter of women to destroy the kingdom. 00:18:25.339 --> 00:18:26.819 But it shall not stand. 00:18:27.480 --> 00:18:28.160 Verse 18. 00:18:28.160 --> 00:18:28.640 Afterward. 00:18:28.720 --> 00:18:31.140 He shall turn his face to the coastlands and capture many of them. 00:18:31.320 --> 00:18:33.560 But a commander shall put an end to his insolence. 00:18:33.580 --> 00:18:34.440 I could go on and on. 00:18:35.700 --> 00:18:37.180 Over and over and over. 00:18:37.279 --> 00:18:42.640 The grand ambitions of human political and military leaders are frustrated. 00:18:43.120 --> 00:18:43.940 And foiled. 00:18:44.120 --> 00:18:46.380 And turned back on themselves. 00:18:47.720 --> 00:18:49.920 Notice how even the most successful leaders. 00:18:50.460 --> 00:18:54.940 The most intimidating conquerors in this passage come to a swift end. 00:18:56.380 --> 00:18:57.400 Verse 3 and 4. 00:18:57.400 --> 00:18:58.860 For a mighty king shall arise. 00:19:00.320 --> 00:19:03.380 And as soon as he has arisen, his kingdom shall be broken and divided. 00:19:05.100 --> 00:19:07.980 Verse 16 says the king of the north shall do as he wills. 00:19:08.180 --> 00:19:10.019 And none shall stand before him. 00:19:10.060 --> 00:19:12.640 But then in verse 19 it says he shall stumble and fall. 00:19:13.480 --> 00:19:14.700 And shall not be found. 00:19:15.860 --> 00:19:16.540 Verse 20. 00:19:16.640 --> 00:19:18.440 There's the one who sends an exactor of tribute. 00:19:19.480 --> 00:19:20.660 Within a few days. 00:19:21.280 --> 00:19:22.259 He shall be broken. 00:19:23.660 --> 00:19:24.440 And verse 20. 00:19:24.620 --> 00:19:25.380 Verse 45. 00:19:25.380 --> 00:19:26.840 The end of the chapter. 00:19:26.960 --> 00:19:28.660 The most intimidating ruler of all. 00:19:29.500 --> 00:19:32.180 Whose conquering fury seems to know no bounds. 00:19:33.080 --> 00:19:34.280 He shall come to his end. 00:19:35.040 --> 00:19:36.120 With none to help him. 00:19:37.200 --> 00:19:39.080 They all rise. 00:19:39.480 --> 00:19:41.000 And they all fall. 00:19:42.760 --> 00:19:43.980 Ian Dugan wrote. 00:19:44.680 --> 00:19:48.420 This chapter is the continual story of wars and rumors of wars. 00:19:48.420 --> 00:19:54.940 As one human ruler and empire after another seeks to gain power by cunning or force. 00:19:55.940 --> 00:19:59.019 Yet though the tide in the affairs of men comes in and goes out. 00:19:59.100 --> 00:20:01.860 In the end it accomplishes precisely nothing. 00:20:02.980 --> 00:20:05.820 The balance of power in earthly politics may shift. 00:20:06.360 --> 00:20:09.340 But it never comes to a permanent rest. 00:20:10.400 --> 00:20:12.279 The king of the north attacks the king of the south. 00:20:12.500 --> 00:20:13.340 And vice versa. 00:20:13.440 --> 00:20:14.039 Back and forth. 00:20:14.100 --> 00:20:14.740 And back and forth. 00:20:14.740 --> 00:20:17.259 And in the end it all seems pretty meaningless. 00:20:18.920 --> 00:20:23.200 Human political ambitions end in frustration and futility. 00:20:24.900 --> 00:20:28.339 Daniel wants us to see that leaders will rise up and become strong. 00:20:28.420 --> 00:20:30.140 And do what they want to do for a time. 00:20:31.019 --> 00:20:32.680 But none of them will last forever. 00:20:32.819 --> 00:20:35.559 In their arrogance and especially their overconfidence. 00:20:35.759 --> 00:20:37.299 They will fail and fall. 00:20:37.960 --> 00:20:39.980 Often more quickly than anyone expects. 00:20:39.980 --> 00:20:42.779 Now what does this mean for us? 00:20:44.279 --> 00:20:48.059 For one thing it's a warning not to worship political leaders. 00:20:49.380 --> 00:20:55.620 In other words not to invest our deepest hopes or our deepest fears in politics. 00:20:57.120 --> 00:21:00.220 This past year hope and fear. 00:21:00.860 --> 00:21:01.940 I think mostly fear. 00:21:02.640 --> 00:21:04.440 Have been powerful and prevalent. 00:21:05.319 --> 00:21:07.299 Both before and after the election. 00:21:07.299 --> 00:21:12.539 And there are many reasons for people's hopes and fears. 00:21:14.159 --> 00:21:15.519 Maybe some of you are hopeful. 00:21:16.119 --> 00:21:17.899 For the future of the Supreme Court. 00:21:18.980 --> 00:21:21.599 Hopeful that unborn children might one day be protected. 00:21:22.759 --> 00:21:24.019 Or maybe you're fearful. 00:21:25.299 --> 00:21:27.720 Fearful like the children of undocumented immigrants. 00:21:27.839 --> 00:21:30.180 Who are asking will my parents now be deported. 00:21:31.379 --> 00:21:32.720 I could go on and on. 00:21:33.379 --> 00:21:36.839 Listing reasons why people feel hope and fear right now. 00:21:37.299 --> 00:21:38.119 It's a long list. 00:21:39.700 --> 00:21:42.480 But when we look at our country and even at our own hearts. 00:21:43.839 --> 00:21:47.159 There's more than well founded hopes and fears. 00:21:48.659 --> 00:21:50.240 There's brash triumphalism. 00:21:51.220 --> 00:21:52.500 Not so much here in New Haven. 00:21:53.700 --> 00:21:55.220 But in some other parts of the country. 00:21:56.099 --> 00:21:57.839 There's also reactive panic. 00:21:57.839 --> 00:22:01.519 Why have our hopes and fears. 00:22:02.879 --> 00:22:04.539 I'd say not even just in this election. 00:22:04.659 --> 00:22:06.439 But in the last couple of elections at least. 00:22:06.599 --> 00:22:09.059 Why have they become such overwhelming forces. 00:22:11.059 --> 00:22:12.339 Not just out in the world. 00:22:12.439 --> 00:22:13.819 But among committed Christians. 00:22:16.919 --> 00:22:20.619 Is it at least partly because we have lost our spiritual anchor. 00:22:20.619 --> 00:22:23.799 In the fear of the Lord. 00:22:24.939 --> 00:22:27.259 And our hope in his promises. 00:22:29.159 --> 00:22:33.799 And so we've transferred our deepest hopes and fears onto human leaders. 00:22:33.799 --> 00:22:34.399 Instead. 00:22:36.659 --> 00:22:39.239 Political arrangements are temporary and tenuous. 00:22:39.719 --> 00:22:41.439 There are often surprising reversals. 00:22:41.440 --> 00:22:44.360 This election certainly wasn't the first. 00:22:44.440 --> 00:22:45.960 And it probably won't be the last. 00:22:47.440 --> 00:22:49.019 This is the message of Psalm 2. 00:22:49.120 --> 00:22:50.779 The Lord reigns. 00:22:51.440 --> 00:22:52.960 Above the kings of the earth. 00:22:54.259 --> 00:22:55.860 He who sits in the heavens laughs. 00:22:56.539 --> 00:22:57.960 Even in the face of rulers. 00:22:58.100 --> 00:23:00.360 Who exalt themselves against God. 00:23:01.680 --> 00:23:03.320 Because God reigns supreme. 00:23:03.580 --> 00:23:06.220 And one day he will bring every one of them down. 00:23:06.220 --> 00:23:09.019 And Psalm 2 concludes. 00:23:09.120 --> 00:23:10.579 It says serve the Lord with fear. 00:23:11.779 --> 00:23:12.819 He is the one. 00:23:13.860 --> 00:23:14.480 We should fear. 00:23:14.759 --> 00:23:16.539 And stand before with reverence and awe. 00:23:17.839 --> 00:23:19.460 And rejoice with trembling. 00:23:20.680 --> 00:23:22.500 Blessed are all who take refuge in him. 00:23:22.579 --> 00:23:24.360 We have hope in his promises. 00:23:25.620 --> 00:23:27.559 This is where our deepest fears. 00:23:27.700 --> 00:23:30.720 And our deepest hopes should be directed toward the Lord alone. 00:23:33.740 --> 00:23:34.279 Now you might say. 00:23:34.360 --> 00:23:35.420 Well what does that mean practically? 00:23:36.759 --> 00:23:39.500 Does that mean Christians should just be apathetic about politics? 00:23:39.660 --> 00:23:40.839 Stop following the news. 00:23:41.500 --> 00:23:42.380 Withdraw from the system. 00:23:42.480 --> 00:23:43.200 Go off the grid. 00:23:44.980 --> 00:23:46.600 Just let things be the way they are. 00:23:46.759 --> 00:23:48.600 Because it's all in God's hands anyway. 00:23:49.980 --> 00:23:50.559 Well no. 00:23:52.180 --> 00:23:53.180 Now I will say. 00:23:53.819 --> 00:23:56.339 Some of us may spend too much time following the news. 00:23:58.000 --> 00:23:59.059 John Piper said. 00:23:59.700 --> 00:24:00.559 About a year ago. 00:24:00.559 --> 00:24:03.960 One of the great uses of Twitter and Facebook. 00:24:03.960 --> 00:24:05.779 Will be to prove. 00:24:05.779 --> 00:24:07.400 On judgment day. 00:24:07.400 --> 00:24:08.880 That our prayerlessness. 00:24:08.880 --> 00:24:11.220 Was not from lack of time. 00:24:15.220 --> 00:24:17.519 If keeping up with the news feed. 00:24:18.079 --> 00:24:21.720 Is primarily feeding your anxious fears. 00:24:22.240 --> 00:24:25.120 Rather than equipping you to live wisely. 00:24:25.119 --> 00:24:28.359 And love your neighbors more effectively. 00:24:28.359 --> 00:24:30.439 You should cut back. 00:24:31.239 --> 00:24:32.199 Pray more. 00:24:32.859 --> 00:24:34.319 Actually talk to your neighbors. 00:24:36.279 --> 00:24:38.119 If there's news you really need to know. 00:24:38.199 --> 00:24:39.879 Your friends will probably tell you anyway. 00:24:41.879 --> 00:24:45.419 And so what if you seem like the person that doesn't know everything. 00:24:45.859 --> 00:24:47.619 And hears it from other people. 00:24:47.779 --> 00:24:47.839 They'll. 00:24:48.159 --> 00:24:48.699 If you know. 00:24:48.779 --> 00:24:49.939 If your friends really care about you. 00:24:49.940 --> 00:24:51.100 They'll tell you what you need to know. 00:24:51.700 --> 00:24:52.600 Most of the time. 00:24:54.980 --> 00:24:56.440 But we shouldn't simply withdraw. 00:24:58.039 --> 00:24:59.299 And become apathetic. 00:24:59.299 --> 00:25:00.519 About politics. 00:25:01.019 --> 00:25:01.759 Daniel himself. 00:25:02.140 --> 00:25:04.000 Was a lifelong government official. 00:25:04.779 --> 00:25:08.140 And he wasn't working under wise kings who feared the Lord. 00:25:09.400 --> 00:25:10.559 For the most part. 00:25:10.700 --> 00:25:13.460 He was working under arrogant pagan rulers. 00:25:13.759 --> 00:25:16.100 Who sometimes passed terrible legislation. 00:25:16.099 --> 00:25:20.939 The first half of Daniel is an example of how God's people. 00:25:21.259 --> 00:25:22.779 Can seek to be faithful. 00:25:23.179 --> 00:25:25.719 Even in high government office. 00:25:26.759 --> 00:25:28.980 This is an important and noble calling. 00:25:30.219 --> 00:25:32.159 Some of you might be called to go there. 00:25:33.159 --> 00:25:36.159 Or to advocate for more just policies. 00:25:37.119 --> 00:25:41.079 To work in the midst of ungodly and broken systems. 00:25:41.079 --> 00:25:43.879 And seek to be a redemptive. 00:25:44.199 --> 00:25:45.159 And healing. 00:25:45.939 --> 00:25:47.619 And wise influence. 00:25:48.159 --> 00:25:49.319 With discernment. 00:25:49.699 --> 00:25:50.740 And patience. 00:25:51.079 --> 00:25:51.839 And prayer. 00:25:53.059 --> 00:25:55.599 And all of us at the very least are called to pray. 00:25:56.359 --> 00:25:57.699 For our political leaders. 00:25:57.779 --> 00:25:59.159 Whether we like them or not. 00:25:59.220 --> 00:26:00.639 Whether we agree with them or not. 00:26:02.179 --> 00:26:04.919 But however involved or distant we might be. 00:26:06.079 --> 00:26:09.460 Politics like every other part of human life under the sun. 00:26:09.460 --> 00:26:12.160 Is full of frustration and futility. 00:26:14.279 --> 00:26:18.000 Now Daniel 11 focuses on political and military history. 00:26:18.220 --> 00:26:20.200 More than a lot of other places in the Bible. 00:26:22.240 --> 00:26:25.860 Now there is plenty in the Bible about political and military leaders. 00:26:26.700 --> 00:26:27.720 Political and military history. 00:26:27.840 --> 00:26:30.559 But the Bible also contains the stories of ordinary people. 00:26:31.759 --> 00:26:34.120 People who wouldn't make the news then or now. 00:26:35.039 --> 00:26:38.799 Who God nevertheless used to build his everlasting kingdom. 00:26:39.460 --> 00:26:40.460 Right? 00:26:41.579 --> 00:26:44.019 Not just in prominent urban centers like Jerusalem. 00:26:44.220 --> 00:26:48.000 But in overlooked rural areas like Nazareth and Bethlehem. 00:26:49.279 --> 00:26:50.500 In the book of Ruth. 00:26:51.299 --> 00:26:55.700 God's plan of redemption begins with a devoted Moabite widow. 00:26:56.220 --> 00:26:59.500 An immigrant outsider who comes to a foreign land. 00:26:59.500 --> 00:27:02.500 In order to care for her disgruntled mother-in-law. 00:27:04.279 --> 00:27:07.220 In the book of Samuel it starts with a depressed woman. 00:27:08.019 --> 00:27:09.539 Crying out to God in prayer. 00:27:09.900 --> 00:27:12.140 That's how God's redemption starts. 00:27:12.640 --> 00:27:14.819 That's how God's kingdom is built. 00:27:17.359 --> 00:27:19.039 God can use anyone he wants. 00:27:20.339 --> 00:27:21.279 He can use Daniel. 00:27:21.480 --> 00:27:23.420 He can use the highest government official. 00:27:23.420 --> 00:27:27.140 And he can use the lowest and most neglected person. 00:27:29.920 --> 00:27:31.940 So let's keep politics in right perspective. 00:27:34.180 --> 00:27:36.380 And don't let it become your religion. 00:27:38.519 --> 00:27:40.279 Let's invest our fears and hopes. 00:27:40.680 --> 00:27:42.300 And bring our fears and hopes before the Lord. 00:27:42.299 --> 00:27:45.879 So even when it doesn't seem like it. 00:27:45.899 --> 00:27:46.859 God's still on the throne. 00:27:47.859 --> 00:27:49.079 Despite his grand ambitions. 00:27:49.240 --> 00:27:51.240 Politics is full of frustration and futility. 00:27:52.139 --> 00:27:53.960 And finally this chapter tells us about hope. 00:27:55.799 --> 00:27:58.440 When we're living in the middle of this world. 00:27:58.879 --> 00:28:00.119 In the middle of history. 00:28:01.440 --> 00:28:02.879 Where does our hope come from? 00:28:05.599 --> 00:28:07.119 Well starting at verse 21. 00:28:07.119 --> 00:28:07.179 Verse 21. 00:28:08.299 --> 00:28:10.000 This chapter speaks of the rise. 00:28:10.139 --> 00:28:11.859 Of someone that it calls a contemptible. 00:28:12.419 --> 00:28:14.839 That is either a vile or a despised. 00:28:15.039 --> 00:28:16.019 Or both person. 00:28:16.719 --> 00:28:19.439 Who rises to power through deception and cunning. 00:28:20.659 --> 00:28:22.819 And like the other rulers who have gone before him. 00:28:22.859 --> 00:28:23.699 He rises up. 00:28:23.759 --> 00:28:24.339 Verse 21. 00:28:24.519 --> 00:28:25.500 He becomes strong. 00:28:25.599 --> 00:28:26.219 Verse 23. 00:28:26.339 --> 00:28:27.099 He wages war. 00:28:27.199 --> 00:28:27.919 Verse 25. 00:28:28.199 --> 00:28:29.500 He attempts to make an alliance. 00:28:29.599 --> 00:28:30.279 Verse 27. 00:28:30.379 --> 00:28:31.599 But he goes even further. 00:28:32.739 --> 00:28:33.639 Verse 24 says. 00:28:33.639 --> 00:28:35.239 He shall do what neither his fathers. 00:28:35.339 --> 00:28:36.839 Nor his father's fathers have done. 00:28:37.799 --> 00:28:38.899 And then in verse 28. 00:28:39.019 --> 00:28:39.279 It says. 00:28:39.439 --> 00:28:42.399 His heart shall be set against the holy covenant. 00:28:42.659 --> 00:28:43.059 Verse 30. 00:28:43.099 --> 00:28:44.219 He shall be enraged. 00:28:44.399 --> 00:28:46.939 And take action against the holy covenant. 00:28:48.000 --> 00:28:48.959 In other words. 00:28:49.019 --> 00:28:51.099 This ruler specifically targets. 00:28:51.719 --> 00:28:52.559 God's people. 00:28:52.719 --> 00:28:54.219 And attempts to destroy them. 00:28:56.279 --> 00:28:58.319 Now this section is referring to a ruler. 00:28:58.839 --> 00:29:00.959 Whose name was Antiochus Epiphanes. 00:29:01.079 --> 00:29:04.019 Who ruled from 175 to 164. 00:29:04.979 --> 00:29:07.019 I'll explain a little more about what he did. 00:29:07.119 --> 00:29:12.159 But he specifically targeted God's covenant people. 00:29:12.339 --> 00:29:13.839 And attempted to wipe them out. 00:29:14.559 --> 00:29:15.500 Now in one sense. 00:29:16.059 --> 00:29:17.539 This wasn't anything new. 00:29:17.659 --> 00:29:17.879 Right? 00:29:17.959 --> 00:29:19.199 If you read the Bible. 00:29:19.319 --> 00:29:20.859 God's people have always had opposition. 00:29:21.239 --> 00:29:22.299 They've always had enemies. 00:29:22.439 --> 00:29:24.459 Ever since they began to exist. 00:29:25.459 --> 00:29:26.619 But in another sense. 00:29:26.679 --> 00:29:30.239 This attack was an unprecedented crisis and challenge. 00:29:30.899 --> 00:29:31.839 Let me explain. 00:29:31.839 --> 00:29:36.159 Eight hundred years before Antiochus Epiphanes. 00:29:36.659 --> 00:29:39.539 King David conquered the city of Jerusalem. 00:29:40.220 --> 00:29:43.419 And then his son King Solomon built the temple in Jerusalem. 00:29:44.419 --> 00:29:47.240 Where God promised to dwell with his people. 00:29:47.240 --> 00:29:50.339 And since then. 00:29:51.160 --> 00:29:53.819 Jerusalem had only been conquered once. 00:29:54.819 --> 00:29:56.680 And it was by the Babylonians. 00:29:57.620 --> 00:29:58.859 And the prophets. 00:29:59.700 --> 00:30:03.140 Told the people of Israel exactly why it happened. 00:30:03.140 --> 00:30:09.660 They said God let the Babylonians conquer your city. 00:30:09.860 --> 00:30:13.080 And destroy the temple because of your sin. 00:30:14.440 --> 00:30:19.060 Because you didn't listen to God over and over and over and over and over again. 00:30:20.360 --> 00:30:22.720 God let everything be taken away from you. 00:30:22.720 --> 00:30:27.000 He let you hit rock bottom. 00:30:28.620 --> 00:30:29.839 It was your own fault. 00:30:31.940 --> 00:30:33.559 And then in his mercy. 00:30:33.799 --> 00:30:35.240 God didn't leave him there in exile. 00:30:35.339 --> 00:30:36.259 He brought him back home. 00:30:38.319 --> 00:30:40.039 And then they were in Jerusalem. 00:30:40.240 --> 00:30:41.660 And of course things went back and forth. 00:30:41.779 --> 00:30:44.980 But the city of Jerusalem was still belonged to the people of God. 00:30:46.860 --> 00:30:47.839 But then here. 00:30:49.680 --> 00:30:51.000 Verse 30 to 35. 00:30:51.000 --> 00:30:53.900 We see a violent attack on God's people. 00:30:55.140 --> 00:30:59.200 And it's not described as a punishment for their sins. 00:31:00.279 --> 00:31:05.500 It's simply described as an irrational, hateful, all-out attack. 00:31:05.640 --> 00:31:09.740 By an ungodly tyrant on the people and the worship and the truth of God. 00:31:10.059 --> 00:31:11.420 And it was successful. 00:31:13.140 --> 00:31:14.440 In 167 BC. 00:31:14.740 --> 00:31:16.839 This man Antiochus Epiphanes and his armies. 00:31:17.119 --> 00:31:19.119 Plundered and burned Jerusalem. 00:31:19.119 --> 00:31:21.599 They killed thousands of Jews. 00:31:21.799 --> 00:31:23.219 He invaded the temple. 00:31:23.579 --> 00:31:25.399 Halted the daily sacrifices. 00:31:25.619 --> 00:31:26.899 Their worship of God. 00:31:27.479 --> 00:31:29.819 Dedicated the temple to a pagan god, Zeus. 00:31:30.079 --> 00:31:31.059 And offered a pig. 00:31:31.399 --> 00:31:33.379 An unclean pig on the altar. 00:31:34.019 --> 00:31:35.779 He burned copies of the scriptures. 00:31:36.319 --> 00:31:38.719 Executed people who possessed them. 00:31:39.079 --> 00:31:40.219 Outlawed circumcision. 00:31:40.439 --> 00:31:43.000 And put to death mothers who had circumcised their sons. 00:31:43.639 --> 00:31:45.839 Compelled Jews to offer sacrifice to idols. 00:31:45.839 --> 00:31:48.399 And eat unclean meat on pain of death. 00:31:48.919 --> 00:31:53.639 And he offered rewards to Jews who compromised and embraced paganism. 00:31:55.459 --> 00:32:00.779 This was perhaps the most difficult trial that God's people had yet endured. 00:32:00.779 --> 00:32:03.799 The exile had been painful. 00:32:03.799 --> 00:32:05.700 But they sort of knew why they were in exile. 00:32:07.000 --> 00:32:08.160 The prophets were very clear. 00:32:08.279 --> 00:32:09.399 They were like, this is your own fault. 00:32:10.279 --> 00:32:11.759 You got yourself in this mess. 00:32:11.899 --> 00:32:13.160 Now God's going to get you out of it. 00:32:13.279 --> 00:32:14.819 But you got yourself in this mess. 00:32:14.819 --> 00:32:23.079 But now, they were being targeted and massacred for no apparent reason. 00:32:23.819 --> 00:32:25.439 Persecuted for their faithfulness. 00:32:27.019 --> 00:32:28.980 And who could know how long it would last? 00:32:30.019 --> 00:32:31.599 Why was God letting it happen? 00:32:34.359 --> 00:32:36.000 You know, suffering is always painful. 00:32:37.220 --> 00:32:38.819 But if you know why you're suffering. 00:32:39.240 --> 00:32:41.419 And if you have a sense of how long it's going to last. 00:32:41.559 --> 00:32:42.899 You can usually deal with it. 00:32:42.900 --> 00:32:46.060 But if you have no clue why it's happening. 00:32:46.780 --> 00:32:49.240 And no idea how long it's going to last. 00:32:49.380 --> 00:32:51.700 That's when we're most prone to despair. 00:32:52.120 --> 00:32:56.080 And do all kinds of other unwise things. 00:32:56.540 --> 00:32:57.519 To run away. 00:32:59.640 --> 00:33:01.320 We go into fight or flight mode. 00:33:03.920 --> 00:33:07.820 What is the hope that can sustain us through painful trials that we can't explain? 00:33:08.560 --> 00:33:10.480 When there's no apparent end in sight. 00:33:10.480 --> 00:33:14.299 What is the hope that can enable us to persevere in faith? 00:33:14.360 --> 00:33:17.360 Like the people who he describes in verse 32 to 35. 00:33:17.539 --> 00:33:19.019 Look at how he describes these people. 00:33:20.079 --> 00:33:22.099 The people who know their God. 00:33:23.099 --> 00:33:24.360 Will stand firm. 00:33:25.240 --> 00:33:26.220 And take action. 00:33:27.579 --> 00:33:29.000 The wise among the people. 00:33:29.559 --> 00:33:31.240 Will make many understand. 00:33:32.660 --> 00:33:33.599 They will stumble. 00:33:33.759 --> 00:33:34.559 That is, they'll suffer. 00:33:34.700 --> 00:33:35.360 And they'll be tempted. 00:33:35.359 --> 00:33:37.859 But in the end, they'll be refined. 00:33:38.819 --> 00:33:39.740 And purified. 00:33:41.259 --> 00:33:44.339 This is the kind of life that Daniel is calling us to live. 00:33:45.539 --> 00:33:47.579 It's the kind of life that Daniel lived as well. 00:33:49.279 --> 00:33:52.459 But this is the kind of life that the book of Daniel commends to us then and now. 00:33:52.599 --> 00:33:53.459 Standing firm. 00:33:55.299 --> 00:33:57.299 Leading others to understand. 00:33:57.740 --> 00:33:59.879 God's will and his word and his ways. 00:33:59.880 --> 00:34:05.400 Going through a trial and being refined and purified through it. 00:34:07.300 --> 00:34:12.700 But what is the hope that empowers that kind of present endurance even through intense suffering? 00:34:13.860 --> 00:34:14.920 We have to go on. 00:34:15.519 --> 00:34:17.019 Because I didn't read to the end of the vision. 00:34:17.180 --> 00:34:18.519 Now verse 36 to 45. 00:34:19.119 --> 00:34:20.260 Before we get to the hope. 00:34:20.880 --> 00:34:22.480 Things get even worse before they get better. 00:34:23.019 --> 00:34:25.840 So verse 36 to 45 describe the time of the end. 00:34:25.840 --> 00:34:31.240 These verses describe a king who in some ways sounds like Antiochus Epiphanes. 00:34:31.360 --> 00:34:33.240 But in other ways sounds even worse. 00:34:34.380 --> 00:34:35.660 Verse 36 to 39. 00:34:35.820 --> 00:34:36.980 He does as he wills. 00:34:37.940 --> 00:34:40.340 He exalts and magnifies himself above every god. 00:34:40.400 --> 00:34:41.860 Honoring the god of fortresses. 00:34:41.940 --> 00:34:44.980 That probably means devoting himself to conquest above all else. 00:34:46.019 --> 00:34:47.280 Verse 40 to 45. 00:34:47.660 --> 00:34:49.840 Paint a picture of the king of the north sweeping down. 00:34:50.039 --> 00:34:51.260 Overwhelming the king of the south. 00:34:51.400 --> 00:34:52.500 In a massive attack. 00:34:52.640 --> 00:34:53.840 Taking over the holy land. 00:34:53.840 --> 00:34:56.840 Conquering Egypt and other north African nations. 00:34:57.240 --> 00:35:00.120 His military conquest surpasses everyone who comes before him. 00:35:00.440 --> 00:35:01.880 But verse 45. 00:35:01.980 --> 00:35:02.860 His kingdom will fall. 00:35:03.900 --> 00:35:04.940 He will come to his end. 00:35:05.820 --> 00:35:07.220 With no one helping him. 00:35:08.220 --> 00:35:10.480 Now how do we interpret verse 36 to 45? 00:35:10.720 --> 00:35:12.200 What is it talking about? 00:35:12.480 --> 00:35:14.780 Well these verses are not a precise description. 00:35:15.360 --> 00:35:17.420 Of Antiochus further conquests. 00:35:17.780 --> 00:35:18.820 And eventual downfall. 00:35:19.980 --> 00:35:21.440 Antiochus never conquered Egypt. 00:35:21.440 --> 00:35:24.420 And he died while he was on a campaign in Persia. 00:35:26.039 --> 00:35:31.659 Some scholars understand these verses to be painting a picture in general about Antiochus' downfall. 00:35:31.780 --> 00:35:35.099 Saying that he would meet his end like other arrogant rulers who had gone before him. 00:35:35.800 --> 00:35:42.440 But I think the best way to understand these verses is that they're pointing to someone like Antiochus. 00:35:42.440 --> 00:35:44.960 But beyond Antiochus. 00:35:45.900 --> 00:35:53.220 Now many biblical prophecies are a little bit like a painting of a distant mountain range. 00:35:54.360 --> 00:36:00.700 Sometimes there's a particular event, like a particular mountain peak, that appears very clearly and distinctly. 00:36:00.699 --> 00:36:08.039 At other times, you get a vivid overall impression of what is to come. 00:36:08.699 --> 00:36:12.239 But you can't quite tell where one peak ends and where the other begins. 00:36:13.619 --> 00:36:16.000 At other times, the painting is highly symbolic. 00:36:17.079 --> 00:36:20.719 And the symbols are intentionally designed to be reapplied in multiple situations. 00:36:20.719 --> 00:36:25.819 I think something like that is going on here at the end of chapter 11. 00:36:27.079 --> 00:36:29.679 And I've explained this in more detail on your bulletin insert. 00:36:30.279 --> 00:36:32.879 The part about the abomination that makes desolate. 00:36:34.379 --> 00:36:37.879 Now that's actually in verse 31, which is clearly referring to Antiochus. 00:36:38.539 --> 00:36:38.980 Right? 00:36:39.059 --> 00:36:40.899 Who went into the temple and invaded it. 00:36:40.980 --> 00:36:43.419 And dedicated it to the worship of a pagan god. 00:36:46.899 --> 00:36:50.039 And refused to let people worship the one true god there. 00:36:50.719 --> 00:36:55.919 But Jesus quotes that phrase in Matthew 24. 00:36:56.599 --> 00:36:59.379 And says it's referring to something that would happen in the future. 00:37:00.480 --> 00:37:04.439 Probably when the Romans came and destroyed the temple in 70 AD. 00:37:05.819 --> 00:37:09.339 And Paul uses very similar language to speak about a man of lawlessness. 00:37:09.859 --> 00:37:12.480 A sort of antichrist figure who is still yet to come. 00:37:13.799 --> 00:37:14.559 Here's the point. 00:37:14.639 --> 00:37:18.099 The end of chapter 11 is partly about Antiochus. 00:37:18.099 --> 00:37:24.679 But it's also painting a picture of increasingly violent opposition to God and his people. 00:37:24.679 --> 00:37:29.360 That will arise periodically all the way until the end of history. 00:37:30.719 --> 00:37:32.719 But then we come to the end of the vision. 00:37:33.480 --> 00:37:36.299 Where we see the hope that sustains us. 00:37:37.440 --> 00:37:38.659 So go to chapter 12. 00:37:38.659 --> 00:37:42.779 Chapter 12, verses 1 to 3. 00:37:42.779 --> 00:37:48.920 At that time shall arise Michael, the great prince who has charge of your people. 00:37:49.719 --> 00:37:55.500 And there shall be a time of trouble such as never has been since there was a nation till that time. 00:37:55.579 --> 00:37:59.239 But at that time your people shall be delivered. 00:37:59.239 --> 00:38:02.379 Everyone whose name shall be found written in the book. 00:38:03.639 --> 00:38:05.519 And here's the hope in verse 2 and 3. 00:38:05.639 --> 00:38:08.559 Many of those who sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake. 00:38:09.500 --> 00:38:13.039 Some to everlasting life and some to shame and everlasting contempt. 00:38:13.159 --> 00:38:16.659 And those who are wise shall shine like the brightness of the sky above. 00:38:17.000 --> 00:38:21.159 And those who turn many to righteousness like the stars forever and ever. 00:38:21.159 --> 00:38:29.759 However, the ultimate hope of God's people then and now is what's promised here in verses 2 and 3. 00:38:30.779 --> 00:38:32.319 The resurrection from the dead. 00:38:34.299 --> 00:38:35.779 Now so far in the book of Daniel. 00:38:37.059 --> 00:38:39.359 In chapter 3 about the fiery furnace. 00:38:39.539 --> 00:38:41.039 And in chapter 6 about the lion's den. 00:38:41.119 --> 00:38:46.079 We've seen that God delivers, can deliver his faithful servants from death. 00:38:46.960 --> 00:38:47.399 Right? 00:38:49.159 --> 00:38:50.259 Daniel's friends are faithful. 00:38:50.260 --> 00:38:51.720 They don't bow down to the idol. 00:38:51.900 --> 00:38:53.320 They get thrown in the fiery furnace. 00:38:53.580 --> 00:38:55.580 And the fourth man stands in there with them. 00:38:55.680 --> 00:38:57.180 And they come out unharmed. 00:38:57.340 --> 00:39:00.480 And we see God has power even to rescue his servants from death. 00:39:05.820 --> 00:39:08.300 In chapter 6, Daniel gets thrown into the lion's den. 00:39:09.040 --> 00:39:10.240 And he's rescued. 00:39:12.440 --> 00:39:14.540 But at the end of the book we see our ultimate hope. 00:39:15.700 --> 00:39:19.520 Not just that God sometimes rescues his servants from death. 00:39:20.260 --> 00:39:24.840 But in the end, he will deliver us even through death. 00:39:29.120 --> 00:39:31.020 And that will rise to everlasting life. 00:39:32.160 --> 00:39:39.200 And this is the hope that sustained the people of God through the persecution under Antiochus Epiphanes. 00:39:39.199 --> 00:39:41.299 Many of them were martyred. 00:39:42.739 --> 00:39:48.319 Including probably the most gruesome and yet inspiring story of the period. 00:39:49.259 --> 00:39:50.779 And I won't give you all the details. 00:39:51.519 --> 00:39:53.059 It's in a book called Second Maccabees. 00:39:53.159 --> 00:39:54.719 That's a historical account of the period. 00:39:54.719 --> 00:39:58.579 But it includes an account of a woman and her seven sons. 00:39:59.299 --> 00:40:02.399 Who were tortured and killed one by one. 00:40:03.279 --> 00:40:04.699 With mom looking on. 00:40:04.699 --> 00:40:12.539 As they refused to bow to the tyrant's demand to forsake the Lord. 00:40:12.539 --> 00:40:14.759 And as they were tortured. 00:40:17.039 --> 00:40:19.559 They proclaimed their hope in the resurrection from the dead. 00:40:20.659 --> 00:40:22.539 One of them said as he prepared to die. 00:40:23.300 --> 00:40:25.099 You are depriving us of this present life. 00:40:25.199 --> 00:40:28.460 But the king of the universe will raise us up to live again forever. 00:40:29.259 --> 00:40:31.000 The third put forth his tongue. 00:40:31.340 --> 00:40:32.579 He would often cut out their tongues. 00:40:32.920 --> 00:40:34.420 And then cut off their hands. 00:40:34.500 --> 00:40:35.860 And bravely stretched out his hands. 00:40:35.860 --> 00:40:38.360 And said it was from heaven that I received these. 00:40:39.320 --> 00:40:41.280 For God's sake I disregard them. 00:40:41.380 --> 00:40:43.380 And from God I hope to receive them again. 00:40:43.800 --> 00:40:46.220 And finally the mother stood courageously. 00:40:46.220 --> 00:40:47.559 And said to her sons. 00:40:48.460 --> 00:40:49.519 It was not I. 00:40:49.940 --> 00:40:51.300 Who gave you life and breath. 00:40:52.500 --> 00:40:55.059 Nor was it I who arranged the elements you were made of. 00:40:55.059 --> 00:40:56.680 Therefore the creator of the universe. 00:40:56.900 --> 00:40:58.579 In his mercy will give you back. 00:40:59.680 --> 00:41:00.960 Both life and breath. 00:41:02.059 --> 00:41:04.820 Because you now disregard yourselves for his sake. 00:41:05.860 --> 00:41:08.860 See it's the hope of the resurrection. 00:41:09.800 --> 00:41:13.800 That sustains us through painful and traumatic trials. 00:41:15.160 --> 00:41:16.599 That we can't explain. 00:41:17.599 --> 00:41:19.640 When there's no apparent end in sight. 00:41:21.380 --> 00:41:23.240 That's the hope that strengthens God's people. 00:41:23.380 --> 00:41:25.380 Who are persecuted for their faithfulness. 00:41:28.400 --> 00:41:29.700 It's the hope of the resurrection. 00:41:29.700 --> 00:41:32.220 That gives us strength to love well and wisely. 00:41:32.579 --> 00:41:34.480 Even when we're not loved in return. 00:41:35.860 --> 00:41:37.480 It's the hope of the resurrection. 00:41:37.480 --> 00:41:39.320 That gives us courage to stand firm. 00:41:39.320 --> 00:41:40.680 In the ways of Jesus Christ. 00:41:40.800 --> 00:41:43.400 Regardless of where the cultural. 00:41:43.400 --> 00:41:45.000 And political winds may blow. 00:41:47.360 --> 00:41:49.420 Because you see the hope of the resurrection means. 00:41:51.160 --> 00:41:52.880 This life is not all there is. 00:41:54.320 --> 00:41:55.840 So we don't make our decisions. 00:41:55.840 --> 00:41:56.920 Simply based on. 00:41:57.160 --> 00:41:59.120 What's going to work out for us. 00:41:59.160 --> 00:41:59.840 In this life. 00:41:59.840 --> 00:42:03.420 Because we know that God has a greater promise. 00:42:03.500 --> 00:42:04.640 And a greater hope for us. 00:42:05.600 --> 00:42:07.100 The apostle Paul said this. 00:42:07.440 --> 00:42:08.320 In Philippians 2. 00:42:08.420 --> 00:42:10.780 He said live as children of God without blemish. 00:42:11.860 --> 00:42:14.300 In the midst of a crooked and twisted generation. 00:42:14.300 --> 00:42:17.880 Among whom you shine as stars in the sky. 00:42:19.380 --> 00:42:20.960 He said this is how we're called to live. 00:42:21.000 --> 00:42:21.980 Like Daniel described. 00:42:22.680 --> 00:42:23.920 Like the wise people. 00:42:24.600 --> 00:42:26.500 Who lead many others to righteousness. 00:42:26.500 --> 00:42:29.639 Shine as stars in the sky. 00:42:29.679 --> 00:42:32.619 As you hold firmly to the word of life. 00:42:36.280 --> 00:42:37.239 This is our hope. 00:42:38.380 --> 00:42:40.519 We have a savior who's gone before us. 00:42:42.119 --> 00:42:43.000 Who faced. 00:42:45.519 --> 00:42:46.599 Death on the cross. 00:42:47.659 --> 00:42:48.900 And the wrath of God. 00:42:49.300 --> 00:42:50.139 That we deserved. 00:42:51.340 --> 00:42:53.500 And the fury of the rulers of the world. 00:42:53.500 --> 00:42:55.880 Who rejected him. 00:42:56.139 --> 00:42:56.920 And mocked him. 00:42:57.000 --> 00:42:57.559 And killed him. 00:42:58.579 --> 00:42:59.460 He's been there. 00:42:59.659 --> 00:43:00.559 He's been through it. 00:43:01.739 --> 00:43:02.880 And he rose again. 00:43:04.539 --> 00:43:06.199 So that we could have eternal hope. 00:43:07.599 --> 00:43:08.800 So that we could know. 00:43:09.099 --> 00:43:11.219 That our God is still on the throne. 00:43:12.320 --> 00:43:14.019 Whether it seems like it or not. 00:43:16.119 --> 00:43:19.739 So we have a secure basis for hope in this present age. 00:43:19.739 --> 00:43:23.279 Because of the promise of the resurrection to come. 00:43:24.179 --> 00:43:24.979 Let us pray. 00:43:33.859 --> 00:43:35.299 Almighty God we pray that you would. 00:43:36.459 --> 00:43:37.519 Give us courage. 00:43:39.559 --> 00:43:40.839 And steadfastness. 00:43:42.839 --> 00:43:44.000 To live as your people. 00:43:44.000 --> 00:43:48.079 To trust that in. 00:43:51.539 --> 00:43:52.699 The back and forth. 00:43:53.400 --> 00:43:54.199 Of this world. 00:43:56.599 --> 00:43:57.900 The rise and fall. 00:43:59.739 --> 00:44:00.260 Of. 00:44:02.780 --> 00:44:03.940 Nations and powers. 00:44:06.099 --> 00:44:07.760 And our personal fortunes. 00:44:09.519 --> 00:44:11.800 Lord help us to find our hope and our strength. 00:44:11.800 --> 00:44:13.380 In you. 00:44:15.600 --> 00:44:17.400 Lord as we sang earlier in the service. 00:44:17.580 --> 00:44:18.300 May you be. 00:44:18.500 --> 00:44:19.180 Lord Jesus. 00:44:19.340 --> 00:44:20.280 Our cornerstone. 00:44:21.240 --> 00:44:22.200 Christ alone. 00:44:22.720 --> 00:44:23.200 Cornerstone. 00:44:25.100 --> 00:44:27.200 Weak made strong in the Savior's love. 00:44:27.560 --> 00:44:28.400 Through the storm. 00:44:29.280 --> 00:44:30.060 He is Lord. 00:44:30.820 --> 00:44:31.440 Over all. 00:44:31.700 --> 00:44:32.539 Lord may we live. 00:44:33.539 --> 00:44:34.440 With that hope. 00:44:35.320 --> 00:44:37.039 Because you have risen from the dead. 00:44:38.120 --> 00:44:38.920 In Jesus name. 00:44:39.080 --> 00:44:39.280 Amen. 00:44:39.280 --> 00:44:39.720 Amen. 00:44:41.440 --> 00:44:42.480 Well please stand. 00:44:42.960 --> 00:44:43.620 As we. 00:44:44.300 --> 00:44:45.180 Conclude our service. 00:44:45.280 --> 00:44:47.040 We're going to proclaim that Christ is risen. 00:44:47.820 --> 00:44:48.800 And proclaim the hope. 00:44:49.240 --> 00:44:50.019 That we have in him. 00:44:50.340 --> 00:44:51.519 As we sing our final song. 00:44:51.519 --> 00:44:52.019 Amen. 00:44:52.019 --> 00:44:52.320 Amen. 00:44:53.400 --> 00:44:53.500 Amen. 00:44:53.500 --> 00:44:53.580 Amen. 00:44:53.580 --> 00:44:54.100 Amen. 00:44:54.100 --> 00:44:54.440 Amen. 00:44:54.440 --> 00:45:04.420 Amen. 00:45:04.420 --> 00:45:04.780 Amen. 00:45:04.880 --> 00:45:04.960 Amen. 00:45:04.960 --> 00:45:05.140 Amen. 00:45:05.140 --> 00:45:05.420 Amen. 00:45:05.420 --> 00:45:06.019 Amen. 00:45:06.019 --> 00:45:06.260 Amen. 00:45:06.260 --> 00:45:06.360 Amen. 00:45:06.360 --> 00:45:06.500 Amen. 00:45:06.500 --> 00:45:06.580 Amen. 00:45:06.580 --> 00:45:06.940 Amen. 00:45:06.940 --> 00:45:09.260 Amen.