WEBVTT 00:00:00.000 --> 00:00:11.439 Thursday evening, April the 22nd, 1915. 00:00:13.519 --> 00:00:17.980 We had just fought our first big action in the fight for Hill 60. 00:00:19.140 --> 00:00:23.980 We had had a gruelling time and left many of our comrades on the slopes. 00:00:25.820 --> 00:00:29.480 Some of us now were stretched out asleep on the grass. 00:00:30.739 --> 00:00:39.420 As the sun was beginning to sink, this peaceful atmosphere was shattered by the noise of heavy shellfire coming from the northwest. 00:00:40.659 --> 00:00:49.299 Fall in! We expected that cry, and soon we moved across the fields in the direction of the line for about a mile. 00:00:50.560 --> 00:00:54.659 Shrieks of agony and groans all around me. 00:00:54.659 --> 00:01:01.699 Colonel Shipley stands in the centre of the road, blood streaming down his face. 00:01:02.939 --> 00:01:06.099 The gallant Fleming lies at his feet. 00:01:06.099 --> 00:01:09.619 This way, follow me through the gate. 00:01:10.759 --> 00:01:18.859 As we dash through the gate, I catch a glimpse of our medical officer working in an empty gun pit like a butcher in his shop. 00:01:18.859 --> 00:01:25.180 Once through the gate, we charge madly across a field of young corn. 00:01:26.219 --> 00:01:30.379 Shrattnel and machine gun bullets are cracking and hissing everywhere. 00:01:30.379 --> 00:01:37.399 That was the testimony of one brave soldier. 00:01:38.659 --> 00:01:44.739 Listening to that, I don't think any of us would ever want to go to war. 00:01:44.739 --> 00:01:50.379 But that's exactly what Daniel chapter 10 and 11 is all about. 00:01:51.379 --> 00:01:52.799 It's about a war. 00:01:53.659 --> 00:01:56.959 But not the kind of war we would expect. 00:01:56.959 --> 00:02:02.419 And it's there to prepare us for this war. 00:02:02.679 --> 00:02:04.439 Look at chapter 10, verse 1. 00:02:05.879 --> 00:02:09.519 In the third year of Cyrus, king of Persia. 00:02:10.219 --> 00:02:15.759 So remember, the Babylonian Empire has now been taken over by the Persian Empire. 00:02:15.759 --> 00:02:25.560 So this little note about Cyrus, king of Persia, is there to remind us that the 70 years of exile are now over for God's people. 00:02:26.979 --> 00:02:31.500 Cyrus has given them permission to return home to their own land. 00:02:32.479 --> 00:02:38.340 So the expectation for God's people at this time is that the future is going to be bright. 00:02:38.780 --> 00:02:41.239 They've lived in captivity for 70 years. 00:02:41.239 --> 00:02:42.659 Now they're going home. 00:02:42.659 --> 00:02:46.719 It's going to be a life of peace, prosperity and security. 00:02:47.340 --> 00:02:50.079 A happy, everlasting life. 00:02:51.539 --> 00:02:54.060 But that's not the future. 00:02:55.120 --> 00:02:57.079 As Daniel's vision will make clear. 00:02:58.060 --> 00:03:02.219 We are told what will happen in all its terrifying reality. 00:03:02.579 --> 00:03:06.800 So that we can be prepared and ready for the fights. 00:03:07.560 --> 00:03:10.379 So first of all, the promise of war. 00:03:11.199 --> 00:03:12.439 A frightening vision. 00:03:12.659 --> 00:03:14.460 Let's read verse 1 again. 00:03:14.680 --> 00:03:20.840 In the third year of Cyrus, king of Persia, a revelation was given to Daniel, who was also called Belshazzar. 00:03:21.319 --> 00:03:22.659 Its message was true. 00:03:23.219 --> 00:03:26.900 And it concerned a great war. 00:03:28.060 --> 00:03:31.939 An unimaginable conflict is going to take place. 00:03:32.240 --> 00:03:37.460 A war that is so frightening, it leaves Daniel in absolute fear. 00:03:37.939 --> 00:03:38.840 Look at verse 2. 00:03:38.840 --> 00:03:43.860 At that time, I, Daniel mourned for three weeks. 00:03:44.500 --> 00:03:45.599 He couldn't sleep. 00:03:46.659 --> 00:03:48.400 I ate no choice food. 00:03:48.780 --> 00:03:51.319 No meat or wine touched my lips. 00:03:51.580 --> 00:03:53.080 He couldn't even eat. 00:03:53.080 --> 00:03:59.280 And I used no lotions at all until the three weeks were over. 00:03:59.280 --> 00:04:03.000 He hadn't even got the energy to get up and wash himself. 00:04:03.000 --> 00:04:15.580 But what makes this vision so frightening is this great war that he sees in the vision is a war that is against the people of God. 00:04:15.580 --> 00:04:17.240 Look at verse 14. 00:04:19.160 --> 00:04:21.139 Now I have come to explain to you. 00:04:21.220 --> 00:04:22.860 So this is the man he sees in the vision. 00:04:23.360 --> 00:04:32.000 I have come to explain to you, Daniel, what will happen to your people, that is, God's people, in the future. 00:04:32.800 --> 00:04:36.900 For the vision concerns a time yet to come. 00:04:36.899 --> 00:04:40.620 No wonder Daniel is terrified. 00:04:41.879 --> 00:04:43.279 Let's read verse 15. 00:04:43.279 --> 00:04:49.079 While he was saying this to me, I bowed with my face towards the ground and was speechless. 00:04:49.939 --> 00:04:52.619 Then the one who looks like a man touched my lips. 00:04:52.739 --> 00:04:54.559 I opened my mouth and began to speak. 00:04:54.819 --> 00:04:56.699 And I said to the one standing before me, 00:04:56.839 --> 00:05:01.659 I am overcome with anguish because of the vision, my Lord. 00:05:01.779 --> 00:05:03.119 And I am helpless. 00:05:03.599 --> 00:05:07.459 How can I, your servant, talk with you, my Lord? 00:05:07.619 --> 00:05:11.639 My strength is gone and I can hardly breathe. 00:05:11.639 --> 00:05:14.039 Don't show me anything anymore. 00:05:14.199 --> 00:05:16.479 I can't bear to look into this vision. 00:05:18.379 --> 00:05:21.979 It's as if what he has seen has knocked him flat. 00:05:22.300 --> 00:05:24.620 He is completely overwhelmed. 00:05:25.079 --> 00:05:27.919 Helpless, breathless, speechless. 00:05:28.560 --> 00:05:33.939 A great war is on the horizon and it's coming against God's people. 00:05:34.300 --> 00:05:36.199 And it is frightening. 00:05:36.199 --> 00:05:41.979 But we are not to fear. 00:05:43.319 --> 00:05:45.479 We are not to fear. 00:05:47.259 --> 00:05:50.939 Look at the man who speaks to Daniel in the vision. 00:05:51.759 --> 00:05:53.680 Back in verse 5. 00:05:53.680 --> 00:05:59.699 I looked up, verse 5, 00:05:59.800 --> 00:06:03.100 And there before me was a man dressed in linen, 00:06:03.699 --> 00:06:07.000 With a belt of the finest gold around his waist. 00:06:07.680 --> 00:06:09.759 His body was like chrysolite. 00:06:10.480 --> 00:06:11.939 His face like lightning. 00:06:12.280 --> 00:06:14.300 His eyes like flaming torches. 00:06:14.300 --> 00:06:18.439 His arms and legs like the gleam of burnished bronze. 00:06:18.439 --> 00:06:21.560 His voice like the sound of a multitude. 00:06:24.120 --> 00:06:28.899 The description of this man speaks of beauty, 00:06:29.620 --> 00:06:32.819 Absolute power and supreme authority. 00:06:34.199 --> 00:06:38.399 But who is this man speaking to Daniel? 00:06:38.399 --> 00:06:42.939 Well, and there's no need to turn to it, 00:06:43.039 --> 00:06:46.060 But in Revelation, the last book in the Bible, chapter 1, 00:06:46.500 --> 00:06:48.939 The Apostle Paul has a vision, 00:06:49.599 --> 00:06:51.179 Just like Daniel has had a vision. 00:06:51.879 --> 00:06:54.579 And in his vision he sees a similar figure, 00:06:55.299 --> 00:06:56.579 With the same description. 00:06:57.399 --> 00:06:59.239 The man has eyes like fire, 00:06:59.679 --> 00:07:01.099 Gold around his waist, 00:07:02.179 --> 00:07:03.279 Feet of bronze, 00:07:03.539 --> 00:07:04.899 A thunderous voice, 00:07:04.899 --> 00:07:07.139 And then the man speaks, 00:07:07.659 --> 00:07:09.659 Revealing his identity. 00:07:10.120 --> 00:07:12.399 And here's what the man says. 00:07:12.899 --> 00:07:14.519 You can read it on the screen. 00:07:14.659 --> 00:07:15.759 Do not be afraid. 00:07:16.639 --> 00:07:18.379 I am the first and the last. 00:07:18.859 --> 00:07:20.620 I am the living one. 00:07:21.159 --> 00:07:22.419 I was dead. 00:07:23.159 --> 00:07:25.620 And behold, I am alive forever and ever. 00:07:25.620 --> 00:07:29.299 And I hold the keys of death and Hades, 00:07:29.419 --> 00:07:31.099 Or hell itself. 00:07:31.100 --> 00:07:35.300 So this man that is seen in the vision, 00:07:35.640 --> 00:07:38.420 Is the risen Lord Jesus. 00:07:39.580 --> 00:07:44.520 And this is the same man who appears to Daniel in his vision. 00:07:45.220 --> 00:07:49.160 What theologians call a pre-incarnate Jesus. 00:07:49.520 --> 00:07:53.420 The person of Jesus appearing to Daniel in a vision. 00:07:53.820 --> 00:07:57.280 And look what he says to Daniel in his vision. 00:07:57.279 --> 00:07:57.379 Daniel in his vision. 00:07:58.099 --> 00:07:59.459 Verse 18. 00:08:00.619 --> 00:08:01.479 Chapter 10. 00:08:04.059 --> 00:08:06.699 Again the one who looked like a man, 00:08:07.699 --> 00:08:08.819 Touched me, 00:08:09.719 --> 00:08:11.379 And gave me strength. 00:08:12.559 --> 00:08:14.559 Do not be afraid, 00:08:15.000 --> 00:08:15.519 O man, 00:08:15.819 --> 00:08:16.939 Highly esteemed, 00:08:17.059 --> 00:08:19.659 That is one who is treasured and loved by God. 00:08:20.759 --> 00:08:21.439 Peace. 00:08:22.799 --> 00:08:23.919 Be strong now. 00:08:25.159 --> 00:08:25.939 Be strong. 00:08:25.939 --> 00:08:28.199 When he spoke to me, 00:08:28.319 --> 00:08:29.819 I was strengthened and said, 00:08:30.240 --> 00:08:31.439 Speak, my Lord, 00:08:32.240 --> 00:08:35.059 Since you have given me strength. 00:08:37.039 --> 00:08:41.039 Daniel moves from a place of absolute fear and terror 00:08:41.039 --> 00:08:43.440 To a place of peace. 00:08:44.440 --> 00:08:47.039 From weakness to strength. 00:08:48.000 --> 00:08:51.299 There may be a great war that is on the horizon 00:08:51.299 --> 00:08:53.960 And it's frightening and it's terrifying. 00:08:53.960 --> 00:08:56.720 But in the presence of Jesus, 00:08:57.139 --> 00:09:00.740 And in the words that Jesus is speaking to him through the vision, 00:09:01.180 --> 00:09:03.980 There is absolutely nothing to fear. 00:09:05.560 --> 00:09:07.200 Do not be afraid. 00:09:07.200 --> 00:09:11.420 I am the first and the last. 00:09:11.420 --> 00:09:14.420 I have existed from before time began, 00:09:14.420 --> 00:09:16.940 And I exist into all eternity. 00:09:16.940 --> 00:09:18.340 I was dead, 00:09:18.700 --> 00:09:19.400 But behold, 00:09:19.600 --> 00:09:22.060 I am alive forever and forever. 00:09:22.300 --> 00:09:25.700 I face the greatest war of death and hell itself, 00:09:25.700 --> 00:09:27.840 And I have risen victoriously, 00:09:28.300 --> 00:09:31.320 To give life for all eternity. 00:09:31.320 --> 00:09:34.940 Do not be afraid. 00:09:34.940 --> 00:09:35.020 Do not be afraid. 00:09:36.160 --> 00:09:37.340 Says Jesus. 00:09:40.040 --> 00:09:41.740 But what is this war? 00:09:42.460 --> 00:09:46.700 What kind of war are God's people going to face? 00:09:48.580 --> 00:09:49.780 Well, number two, 00:09:49.960 --> 00:09:53.180 The kind of war is a spiritual battle. 00:09:54.100 --> 00:09:57.060 It's not the kind of war that we imagine. 00:09:57.059 --> 00:09:59.359 Look at chapter 10, 00:09:59.479 --> 00:10:00.319 Verse 12. 00:10:03.419 --> 00:10:04.679 Then he continued, 00:10:04.839 --> 00:10:07.159 That is the man in the vision speaking to Daniel, 00:10:07.279 --> 00:10:07.799 And he says, 00:10:08.079 --> 00:10:09.979 Do not be afraid, Daniel. 00:10:11.099 --> 00:10:14.399 Since the first day that you set your mind to gain understanding, 00:10:14.679 --> 00:10:16.619 To humble yourself before God, 00:10:16.819 --> 00:10:18.119 Your words were heard, 00:10:18.219 --> 00:10:19.959 And I have come in response to them. 00:10:19.960 --> 00:10:21.780 But, 00:10:22.120 --> 00:10:25.600 The prince of the Persian kingdom, 00:10:26.320 --> 00:10:27.240 Resisted me, 00:10:27.940 --> 00:10:29.280 21 days. 00:10:30.420 --> 00:10:31.780 This resistance, 00:10:32.639 --> 00:10:33.879 Is a conflict. 00:10:34.280 --> 00:10:34.960 It's a battle. 00:10:37.220 --> 00:10:38.639 Look at the rest of verse 13. 00:10:39.040 --> 00:10:39.960 Then Michael, 00:10:40.340 --> 00:10:41.840 One of the chief princes, 00:10:42.340 --> 00:10:43.580 Came to help me, 00:10:43.879 --> 00:10:45.440 Because I was detained there, 00:10:45.519 --> 00:10:46.940 With the king of Persia. 00:10:48.600 --> 00:10:49.900 So there's a battle. 00:10:49.960 --> 00:10:51.420 I want us to get this in our minds. 00:10:51.540 --> 00:10:53.100 There's a battle taking place, 00:10:53.100 --> 00:10:55.660 Between the man in Daniel's vision, 00:10:56.400 --> 00:10:58.820 And the prince of Persia. 00:10:59.560 --> 00:11:00.639 They're in a conflict. 00:11:01.080 --> 00:11:03.139 He's resisting against the other. 00:11:03.879 --> 00:11:06.780 Now we know the man in Daniel's vision is from God, 00:11:07.360 --> 00:11:10.639 But who is this prince of Persia? 00:11:10.639 --> 00:11:12.699 Well, 00:11:12.699 --> 00:11:12.720 Well, 00:11:12.759 --> 00:11:15.419 This prince is not Cyrus, 00:11:16.019 --> 00:11:18.199 Or any other earthly ruler, 00:11:19.199 --> 00:11:20.759 But an evil, 00:11:21.279 --> 00:11:22.399 Demonic power, 00:11:23.080 --> 00:11:24.919 Who is in opposition. 00:11:25.419 --> 00:11:26.799 He is resisting, 00:11:27.980 --> 00:11:29.319 The man from God. 00:11:30.279 --> 00:11:31.120 In other words, 00:11:31.199 --> 00:11:33.860 What we've got here in verses 12 and 13, 00:11:34.080 --> 00:11:36.539 Is a spiritual battle. 00:11:36.539 --> 00:11:40.379 A battle that Daniel can't see taking place, 00:11:40.919 --> 00:11:43.480 But one that he's being told about. 00:11:44.399 --> 00:11:47.019 And this battle seems to continue. 00:11:47.480 --> 00:11:48.299 Verse 20, 00:11:49.659 --> 00:11:50.379 He said, 00:11:51.099 --> 00:11:52.919 Do you know why I have come to you, 00:11:53.079 --> 00:11:53.339 Daniel? 00:11:53.879 --> 00:11:58.379 Soon I will return to fight against the prince of Persia. 00:11:58.379 --> 00:11:59.939 And when I go, 00:12:00.879 --> 00:12:02.939 The prince of Greece will come. 00:12:03.080 --> 00:12:06.500 Another dark power is going to take its place. 00:12:07.480 --> 00:12:08.000 You see, 00:12:08.080 --> 00:12:13.320 Behind the earthly rulers of the Persian and Greek empires, 00:12:14.759 --> 00:12:17.720 Lie dark, evil forces. 00:12:19.720 --> 00:12:23.100 The words of the Apostle Paul come to mind. 00:12:24.240 --> 00:12:25.840 You can read it on the screen. 00:12:25.840 --> 00:12:31.720 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, 00:12:32.320 --> 00:12:34.540 But against the rulers, 00:12:35.800 --> 00:12:37.540 Against the authorities, 00:12:38.560 --> 00:12:42.560 Against the powers of this dark world, 00:12:43.660 --> 00:12:47.280 And against the spiritual forces of evil 00:12:47.280 --> 00:12:50.320 In the heavenly realms. 00:12:50.320 --> 00:12:52.940 So it's a battle, 00:12:53.560 --> 00:12:54.740 Not against flesh and blood, 00:12:54.860 --> 00:12:56.360 Against human people, 00:12:56.820 --> 00:12:59.020 But against the dark powers, 00:12:59.180 --> 00:13:01.100 The spiritual forces of evil, 00:13:01.600 --> 00:13:02.680 In our world. 00:13:03.400 --> 00:13:07.220 One commentator describes it as the invisible war, 00:13:07.540 --> 00:13:08.879 An unseen battle, 00:13:09.320 --> 00:13:11.820 Satanic forces that are in our world, 00:13:12.260 --> 00:13:14.440 Influencing rulers and governments, 00:13:14.440 --> 00:13:17.700 That inflict harm and havoc on God's people, 00:13:18.200 --> 00:13:19.460 All over the place. 00:13:20.320 --> 00:13:22.040 Let me give you some examples. 00:13:23.700 --> 00:13:24.480 Our friends, 00:13:25.020 --> 00:13:25.720 You know them, 00:13:26.720 --> 00:13:27.640 Kevin and Julia, 00:13:28.280 --> 00:13:31.480 Who've been working on the China-North Korean border, 00:13:32.200 --> 00:13:34.900 Have been detained now for four months. 00:13:36.180 --> 00:13:39.040 The Chinese authorities recently gave a statement, 00:13:39.039 --> 00:13:41.199 And here's what they said, 00:13:41.199 --> 00:13:44.519 They will not be released. 00:13:47.219 --> 00:13:51.079 I received a newsletter last week from friends, 00:13:51.319 --> 00:13:55.000 Whose brother-in-law lives in Iran. 00:13:56.120 --> 00:13:57.860 He had recently become a Christian, 00:13:58.240 --> 00:14:02.719 But relatives are threatening to turn him into the authorities. 00:14:02.720 --> 00:14:05.560 If reported to the authorities, 00:14:05.560 --> 00:14:07.480 He faces imprisonment, 00:14:07.820 --> 00:14:08.980 And torture. 00:14:08.980 --> 00:14:14.000 You may have read the horrific news, 00:14:14.060 --> 00:14:17.120 About a young Christian married couple in Pakistan. 00:14:18.639 --> 00:14:20.300 Shabazz was 26, 00:14:21.139 --> 00:14:22.220 His wife Shema, 00:14:22.480 --> 00:14:23.720 Only 24. 00:14:24.720 --> 00:14:27.580 They were accused of speaking against the Quran. 00:14:27.580 --> 00:14:29.620 They were attacked, 00:14:30.240 --> 00:14:30.680 Beaten, 00:14:31.600 --> 00:14:33.400 And burnt alive, 00:14:33.920 --> 00:14:35.080 In a brick kiln. 00:14:36.680 --> 00:14:38.100 Now here's the question, 00:14:39.300 --> 00:14:42.300 Why do these things happen to God's people? 00:14:42.299 --> 00:14:45.139 Why are people detained? 00:14:45.959 --> 00:14:48.000 Why are followers of Jesus imprisoned? 00:14:48.599 --> 00:14:51.240 Why are Christians murdered? 00:14:52.079 --> 00:14:53.199 Because of their faith. 00:14:55.439 --> 00:14:56.359 Well, yes, 00:14:56.839 --> 00:14:57.959 You read the newspapers, 00:14:58.219 --> 00:14:59.639 And they say about culture, 00:15:00.019 --> 00:15:00.639 Politics, 00:15:01.059 --> 00:15:02.259 They'll talk about people, 00:15:03.299 --> 00:15:04.719 But behind it all, 00:15:05.599 --> 00:15:06.620 Lies evil, 00:15:07.099 --> 00:15:08.819 Spiritual forces, 00:15:09.639 --> 00:15:11.120 Dark powers, 00:15:11.120 --> 00:15:14.779 Influencing and inflicting harm and havoc, 00:15:15.340 --> 00:15:16.620 On God's people. 00:15:17.779 --> 00:15:19.279 We are in, 00:15:20.279 --> 00:15:22.460 A spiritual battle. 00:15:24.779 --> 00:15:26.940 Does that mean God has lost control? 00:15:28.940 --> 00:15:32.500 Does that mean that God is somehow powerless to intervene? 00:15:34.080 --> 00:15:36.779 Has Satan and his forces won the battle? 00:15:38.700 --> 00:15:40.279 Well, let's read on. 00:15:41.120 --> 00:15:43.500 Number three, 00:15:44.679 --> 00:15:46.120 The reality of life. 00:15:47.460 --> 00:15:50.639 The spiritual battle is real and intense. 00:15:50.779 --> 00:15:52.220 We cannot see it, 00:15:53.220 --> 00:15:56.019 But it is going on all around us. 00:15:57.240 --> 00:15:58.820 And like any war, 00:15:58.940 --> 00:16:00.919 It will involve a lot of suffering. 00:16:01.700 --> 00:16:04.039 And that's what we have mapped out for us, 00:16:04.279 --> 00:16:05.779 In chapters 11. 00:16:05.779 --> 00:16:08.639 As history moves along, 00:16:09.519 --> 00:16:10.839 The suffering gets worse. 00:16:12.019 --> 00:16:13.039 And in chapter 11, 00:16:13.139 --> 00:16:15.240 We see this in three big pictures. 00:16:15.500 --> 00:16:16.679 We're not going to read it, 00:16:16.740 --> 00:16:18.419 We're not going to get into all the detail, 00:16:18.519 --> 00:16:20.159 You can read it at home yourself. 00:16:20.879 --> 00:16:22.879 But let me just sketch it out to you, 00:16:23.120 --> 00:16:25.299 In three broad pictures. 00:16:25.299 --> 00:16:26.699 First, 00:16:26.699 --> 00:16:26.719 First, 00:16:27.279 --> 00:16:29.259 In verses 5 to 20, 00:16:30.139 --> 00:16:32.199 We have an ongoing battle, 00:16:32.319 --> 00:16:35.000 Between a king of the south, 00:16:35.659 --> 00:16:36.879 And a king of the north. 00:16:37.939 --> 00:16:40.039 So the period of history this is, 00:16:40.039 --> 00:16:42.699 Is just after Alexander the Great has died, 00:16:43.079 --> 00:16:44.879 Which is about 323 BC, 00:16:44.879 --> 00:16:47.320 You can check all this up yourself, 00:16:47.439 --> 00:16:48.379 In the history books. 00:16:49.559 --> 00:16:52.240 And the kingdom of Greece was split into four, 00:16:52.679 --> 00:16:55.879 Two of those regions became more powerful than the others. 00:16:56.279 --> 00:16:57.039 In the north, 00:16:58.220 --> 00:17:00.820 There were what called the Seleucids of Syria, 00:17:01.200 --> 00:17:02.439 And in the south, 00:17:03.259 --> 00:17:05.299 Were the Ptolemies of Egypt. 00:17:06.119 --> 00:17:07.400 So Syria in the north, 00:17:07.500 --> 00:17:08.660 That's all you need to remember, 00:17:09.039 --> 00:17:09.960 Syria in the north, 00:17:10.299 --> 00:17:11.299 Egypt in the south, 00:17:11.680 --> 00:17:13.339 Around 323 BC. 00:17:13.339 --> 00:17:18.279 They fought six major wars against each other, 00:17:18.419 --> 00:17:20.459 Over 150 years. 00:17:20.779 --> 00:17:21.659 Six wars, 00:17:21.939 --> 00:17:23.480 Over 150 years. 00:17:23.919 --> 00:17:25.859 And that's what's crammed in, 00:17:26.159 --> 00:17:28.500 Between verses 5 and 20. 00:17:29.259 --> 00:17:30.619 One battle after another. 00:17:31.559 --> 00:17:33.039 What's the point of all of that? 00:17:34.159 --> 00:17:34.519 Well, 00:17:35.220 --> 00:17:36.339 Stuck in the middle, 00:17:37.359 --> 00:17:40.919 On the main road between Egypt and Syria, 00:17:41.740 --> 00:17:42.139 Was, 00:17:42.140 --> 00:17:44.040 Jerusalem, 00:17:45.000 --> 00:17:46.400 The city of God's people. 00:17:47.400 --> 00:17:49.259 So year after year, 00:17:49.860 --> 00:17:51.840 For 150 years, 00:17:52.240 --> 00:17:55.480 God's people are stuck in this intense war, 00:17:55.840 --> 00:17:57.440 Facing hardship and struggle, 00:17:57.759 --> 00:18:00.640 As they're squeezed between these fighting nations. 00:18:01.220 --> 00:18:02.259 Look at verse 15, 00:18:02.340 --> 00:18:03.540 We're told what happened. 00:18:04.220 --> 00:18:05.040 Verse 15, 00:18:05.039 --> 00:18:08.759 Then the king of the north will come and build up siege ramps, 00:18:08.759 --> 00:18:10.799 And will capture a fortified city. 00:18:10.799 --> 00:18:14.099 The forces of the south will be powerless to resist. 00:18:14.539 --> 00:18:17.639 Even their best troops will not have the strength to stand. 00:18:18.399 --> 00:18:21.779 The invader will do as he pleases. 00:18:21.779 --> 00:18:25.019 No one will be able to stand against him. 00:18:25.019 --> 00:18:30.460 He will establish himself in the beautiful land. 00:18:30.899 --> 00:18:33.619 That's a reference to the place of God's people. 00:18:34.619 --> 00:18:38.019 And he will have the power to destroy it. 00:18:38.839 --> 00:18:42.920 Read up your history books and see what happens. 00:18:42.920 --> 00:18:45.539 So that's the first big picture. 00:18:46.220 --> 00:18:49.039 The second big picture moves on in time. 00:18:49.600 --> 00:18:51.660 It's around 176 BC. 00:18:52.340 --> 00:18:55.220 And this is from verses 21 through to 35. 00:18:55.740 --> 00:18:58.539 Here we have the rise of another ruler. 00:18:58.539 --> 00:19:04.799 And he's going to inflict even more suffering on God's people. 00:19:05.879 --> 00:19:08.480 We already met this ruler back in chapter 8. 00:19:09.879 --> 00:19:12.920 He was called Antiochus Epiphanes. 00:19:14.500 --> 00:19:17.359 And at one point in his rulership, 00:19:17.500 --> 00:19:19.399 He's ruler of one of these regions. 00:19:20.039 --> 00:19:21.759 He attacks the southern king. 00:19:22.420 --> 00:19:24.940 Only to discover he's on a hiding to nothing. 00:19:25.879 --> 00:19:28.319 And he's so frustrated that he got nowhere. 00:19:28.539 --> 00:19:30.240 On his way back home again, 00:19:30.779 --> 00:19:36.559 He takes out all his frustration on God's people. 00:19:37.559 --> 00:19:39.879 It's recorded for us here in verse 29. 00:19:42.019 --> 00:19:43.839 At the appointed time, 00:19:44.039 --> 00:19:46.759 He, that's Antiochus Epiphanes, 00:19:46.839 --> 00:19:48.259 Will invade the south again. 00:19:48.599 --> 00:19:50.899 But this time, the outcome will be different 00:19:50.899 --> 00:19:52.159 From what it was before. 00:19:53.139 --> 00:19:55.299 Ships of the western coastlands. 00:19:55.420 --> 00:19:56.579 So for you historians, 00:19:57.180 --> 00:19:58.519 That was the Romans. 00:19:58.539 --> 00:20:01.019 They will oppose him. 00:20:01.019 --> 00:20:03.379 And he will lose heart. 00:20:04.299 --> 00:20:08.720 Then he will turn back and vent his fury 00:20:08.720 --> 00:20:12.579 Against the holy covenant. 00:20:13.159 --> 00:20:14.899 Against God's people. 00:20:16.000 --> 00:20:18.220 He will return and show favour 00:20:18.220 --> 00:20:22.740 To those who forsake the holy covenant. 00:20:22.740 --> 00:20:28.779 So he will show favour to any who turn their back on God's. 00:20:29.839 --> 00:20:34.059 History records for us that Antiochus enforced pagan worship. 00:20:35.180 --> 00:20:38.420 Religious observance was prohibited on pain of death. 00:20:39.220 --> 00:20:42.460 Anyone who was found with a portion of scripture was put to death. 00:20:42.700 --> 00:20:45.680 This happened over an intense period of ten years. 00:20:45.680 --> 00:20:47.779 And on top of it all, 00:20:47.779 --> 00:20:49.820 He destroyed the place of sacrifice. 00:20:49.820 --> 00:20:51.279 Look at verse 31. 00:20:51.440 --> 00:20:55.860 His armed forces will rise up to desecrate the temple fortress 00:20:55.860 --> 00:20:59.259 And abolish the daily sacrifice. 00:20:59.700 --> 00:21:03.440 They will set up the abomination that causes desolation. 00:21:03.440 --> 00:21:10.100 Which is actually a reference to where he sacrificed pigs to the pagan god Zeus. 00:21:10.099 --> 00:21:13.419 Look at verse 33. 00:21:14.459 --> 00:21:16.679 Those who are wise will instruct many, 00:21:17.019 --> 00:21:20.639 Though for a time they will fall by the sword, 00:21:21.319 --> 00:21:22.659 Or be burned, 00:21:23.379 --> 00:21:24.119 Or captured, 00:21:24.639 --> 00:21:26.079 Or plundered. 00:21:27.319 --> 00:21:28.240 This ruler, 00:21:28.719 --> 00:21:31.079 And you can check it out in history, 00:21:31.779 --> 00:21:33.819 Inflicted great suffering 00:21:33.819 --> 00:21:37.200 On the followers of God. 00:21:40.539 --> 00:21:41.859 Thus the second picture, 00:21:41.960 --> 00:21:42.839 The third picture, 00:21:43.240 --> 00:21:46.119 From verses 36 to the very end of the chapter, 00:21:46.939 --> 00:21:49.659 Introduces us to an earthly king 00:21:49.659 --> 00:21:53.399 That the world has never ever seen before. 00:21:54.519 --> 00:21:57.119 He's going to be like Antiochus, 00:21:58.259 --> 00:22:00.039 Hating Christians, 00:22:00.879 --> 00:22:02.059 But only worse. 00:22:02.659 --> 00:22:03.639 Verse 36. 00:22:04.779 --> 00:22:06.439 The king will do as he pleases. 00:22:06.819 --> 00:22:10.279 He will exalt and magnify himself over every god, 00:22:10.559 --> 00:22:14.119 And will say unheard of things against the god of gods. 00:22:14.119 --> 00:22:19.000 He will be successful until the time of wrath is completed. 00:22:19.159 --> 00:22:22.319 That is, until God's or Christ's return. 00:22:23.619 --> 00:22:28.019 For what has been determined must take place. 00:22:29.200 --> 00:22:31.079 So here's Daniel's vision. 00:22:31.799 --> 00:22:33.740 Takes a look way into the future. 00:22:34.720 --> 00:22:38.299 Even to a time beyond our present time. 00:22:38.500 --> 00:22:39.839 So at the end of the vision, 00:22:39.960 --> 00:22:41.819 It looks way into the future. 00:22:42.539 --> 00:22:46.799 To a time just before God's final judgment. 00:22:46.799 --> 00:22:49.419 Just before the Lord Jesus returns. 00:22:49.419 --> 00:22:52.500 And it's telling us what will happen. 00:22:52.940 --> 00:22:54.079 Verse 37. 00:22:54.940 --> 00:22:58.000 He will show no regard for the gods of his fathers, 00:22:58.599 --> 00:23:01.480 Or for the one, for that is, for the gods desired by women. 00:23:01.859 --> 00:23:04.700 Whatever anybody followed, he didn't. 00:23:04.700 --> 00:23:07.480 Nor will he regard for the gods, nor will he regard any gods, 00:23:07.480 --> 00:23:11.720 But will exalt himself above them all. 00:23:12.880 --> 00:23:18.900 Instead of them, he will honour a god of fortresses. 00:23:18.900 --> 00:23:25.240 Now the god of fortresses is a god of war. 00:23:25.240 --> 00:23:31.840 In other words, this ruler will worship war. 00:23:31.839 --> 00:23:34.599 He will thrive on war. 00:23:34.599 --> 00:23:38.559 He will use war to gain power and control. 00:23:38.559 --> 00:23:40.179 Look at verse 39. 00:23:41.399 --> 00:23:45.879 He will attack the mightiest fortress with the help of a foreign god, 00:23:46.139 --> 00:23:48.819 And will greatly honour those who acknowledge him. 00:23:49.059 --> 00:23:51.459 He will make them rulers over many people, 00:23:51.819 --> 00:23:56.119 And will distribute the land or reward people with land, 00:23:56.119 --> 00:23:58.539 Who follow his way. 00:24:00.119 --> 00:24:02.319 And in his hunger for war, 00:24:03.399 --> 00:24:04.399 Look what he will do. 00:24:04.479 --> 00:24:05.219 Verse 41. 00:24:07.319 --> 00:24:11.479 He will also invade the beautiful land. 00:24:13.079 --> 00:24:14.239 In other words, 00:24:14.819 --> 00:24:17.259 He is going to be against the people of God. 00:24:17.859 --> 00:24:20.819 He is going to be against the church. 00:24:21.719 --> 00:24:22.679 God's people. 00:24:23.379 --> 00:24:25.139 And will do all that he can 00:24:25.140 --> 00:24:26.900 To destroy them. 00:24:29.800 --> 00:24:31.300 So who is this king? 00:24:31.640 --> 00:24:34.500 How will we be able to identify him? 00:24:35.780 --> 00:24:40.440 Well, we might think of the many rulers there are in the world today. 00:24:41.740 --> 00:24:44.980 Authorities and governments who ban the worship of God. 00:24:45.720 --> 00:24:48.700 Who seem intent on getting rid of God's people. 00:24:49.200 --> 00:24:50.000 That happens. 00:24:50.100 --> 00:24:51.680 It might happen in this country. 00:24:51.980 --> 00:24:54.920 But in the vast majority of countries around the world, 00:24:55.140 --> 00:24:56.480 It's not allowed. 00:24:57.640 --> 00:25:01.220 People like Kim Jong-un of North Korea, 00:25:01.220 --> 00:25:05.840 Has over 50,000 believers, Christians, 00:25:06.240 --> 00:25:08.620 Crammed into their notorious prison camps. 00:25:09.780 --> 00:25:12.280 Or governments of Iraq or Eritrea, 00:25:12.640 --> 00:25:15.980 Qatar, Laos, Algeria, Indonesia. 00:25:15.980 --> 00:25:17.579 The list goes on and on and on and on. 00:25:17.579 --> 00:25:20.279 Where it's against the law to be a Christian. 00:25:21.240 --> 00:25:25.579 And you face imprisonment and torture and beatings. 00:25:26.640 --> 00:25:29.339 Or you might look to the leader of ISIS, 00:25:30.079 --> 00:25:34.400 Who violently rapes and beheads those who follow Jesus. 00:25:34.400 --> 00:25:39.880 But with all that's going on in our world right now, 00:25:39.960 --> 00:25:42.060 We still can't put a name on this king. 00:25:42.720 --> 00:25:45.420 All we know is that it will happen, 00:25:45.500 --> 00:25:46.800 And it will get worse. 00:25:48.400 --> 00:25:49.820 And it will all happen 00:25:49.820 --> 00:25:52.800 Before the end of time. 00:25:52.799 --> 00:25:56.019 You think I'm making it up? 00:25:57.259 --> 00:26:00.059 Well, the Apostle Paul actually warned us 00:26:00.059 --> 00:26:03.559 About this ruler or king to come. 00:26:04.639 --> 00:26:06.000 Look at what he says here. 00:26:07.139 --> 00:26:09.500 Don't let anyone deceive you in any way. 00:26:10.339 --> 00:26:12.159 For that day will not come. 00:26:12.240 --> 00:26:13.919 That is the day of Christ's return. 00:26:14.359 --> 00:26:17.180 Will not come until the rebellion occurs, 00:26:17.759 --> 00:26:20.579 And the man of lawlessness is revealed. 00:26:20.579 --> 00:26:24.419 That's the one that Daniel sees in his vision. 00:26:25.480 --> 00:26:26.939 A man doomed to destruction. 00:26:27.319 --> 00:26:29.699 He will oppose and will exalt himself 00:26:29.699 --> 00:26:32.339 Over everything that is called God or worshipped, 00:26:32.720 --> 00:26:34.339 So that he sets himself up, 00:26:35.019 --> 00:26:38.000 Proclaiming himself to be God. 00:26:40.839 --> 00:26:43.000 So Daniel's vision is very clear. 00:26:44.279 --> 00:26:46.519 God's people are to be prepared 00:26:46.519 --> 00:26:48.039 To face great hostility. 00:26:48.799 --> 00:26:50.039 We're in a war. 00:26:50.579 --> 00:26:51.799 It will involve suffering. 00:26:53.139 --> 00:26:55.359 But does that mean God has lost control? 00:26:55.919 --> 00:26:58.039 Has Satan and his forces won the battle? 00:27:00.639 --> 00:27:01.159 No. 00:27:02.519 --> 00:27:05.119 Victory is on our side. 00:27:06.460 --> 00:27:09.299 Look at how these three periods of history 00:27:09.299 --> 00:27:10.939 Were finished. 00:27:11.939 --> 00:27:13.199 In chapter 11. 00:27:13.200 --> 00:27:15.980 These three sections we looked at. 00:27:16.480 --> 00:27:18.680 What happened to the kings of the north and the south? 00:27:18.779 --> 00:27:19.819 Well look at verse 20. 00:27:20.420 --> 00:27:22.340 The last line of verse 20. 00:27:24.480 --> 00:27:25.680 Speaking of the kings, 00:27:26.220 --> 00:27:27.720 In a few years however, 00:27:28.680 --> 00:27:31.340 He will be destroyed. 00:27:32.480 --> 00:27:33.740 Yet not in anger 00:27:33.740 --> 00:27:35.340 Or in battle. 00:27:35.339 --> 00:27:39.959 God will make sure their end comes. 00:27:39.959 --> 00:27:42.899 What about Antiochus and his rule? 00:27:43.679 --> 00:27:45.459 Well he will do as he pleases 00:27:45.459 --> 00:27:48.659 Until, look at the very end of verse 35. 00:27:52.179 --> 00:27:54.579 Until the time of the end. 00:27:54.579 --> 00:27:58.259 For it will still come 00:27:58.259 --> 00:28:00.019 At the appointed time. 00:28:00.139 --> 00:28:01.659 So even he would come to an end 00:28:01.659 --> 00:28:02.639 And he did. 00:28:04.299 --> 00:28:06.240 Or what about this king, 00:28:06.399 --> 00:28:07.960 This ruler who is to come 00:28:07.960 --> 00:28:09.740 That Daniel sees in the future? 00:28:09.859 --> 00:28:10.599 What about him? 00:28:11.139 --> 00:28:13.519 Well look at the very last line of verse 45. 00:28:13.519 --> 00:28:19.940 Yes, he will come to his end. 00:28:21.099 --> 00:28:22.700 And no one will help him. 00:28:25.180 --> 00:28:26.960 Yes, there's the promise of war 00:28:26.960 --> 00:28:28.339 Against God's people. 00:28:29.299 --> 00:28:30.740 Yes, it will be spiritual. 00:28:31.059 --> 00:28:32.819 It will be dark and evil. 00:28:33.759 --> 00:28:35.819 Yes, it will involve much suffering 00:28:35.819 --> 00:28:37.400 For many of God's people 00:28:37.400 --> 00:28:39.039 Over the course of time. 00:28:40.160 --> 00:28:41.960 No wonder Daniel was frightened. 00:28:41.960 --> 00:28:44.480 No wonder he couldn't eat or sleep. 00:28:44.779 --> 00:28:45.960 It was terrifying. 00:28:47.759 --> 00:28:49.920 But yet at the very end of the vision 00:28:49.920 --> 00:28:53.079 God says he will bring it all to an end. 00:28:53.900 --> 00:28:56.480 He will destroy those who stand against him. 00:28:57.420 --> 00:28:59.100 And he will destroy those 00:28:59.100 --> 00:29:00.660 Who stand against his people. 00:29:02.079 --> 00:29:03.120 How do we know? 00:29:05.519 --> 00:29:07.200 How do we know he'll do that? 00:29:09.299 --> 00:29:11.880 Because 2,000 years ago on the cross 00:29:11.880 --> 00:29:15.540 The forces of evil 00:29:15.540 --> 00:29:17.780 Unleashed all their power 00:29:17.780 --> 00:29:20.000 And went to war 00:29:20.000 --> 00:29:21.900 Against the Lord Jesus Christ. 00:29:21.900 --> 00:29:24.500 A cosmic battle took place. 00:29:24.840 --> 00:29:26.160 An unseen battle 00:29:26.160 --> 00:29:27.500 In the heavenly realms 00:29:27.500 --> 00:29:30.220 Between Satan and God's son. 00:29:30.580 --> 00:29:31.700 And it seemed like 00:29:31.700 --> 00:29:34.160 The dark evil forces had won 00:29:34.160 --> 00:29:35.880 As Jesus was left 00:29:35.880 --> 00:29:38.460 Bloody, beaten, dead 00:29:38.460 --> 00:29:40.400 On a cross. 00:29:40.400 --> 00:29:43.820 But three days later 00:29:43.820 --> 00:29:46.380 Jesus rose from the grave 00:29:46.380 --> 00:29:48.240 Destroying death 00:29:48.240 --> 00:29:49.860 Disarming the powers 00:29:49.860 --> 00:29:50.980 Of this dark world 00:29:50.980 --> 00:29:53.100 Defeating Satan 00:29:53.100 --> 00:29:55.560 Reigning as the glorious 00:29:55.560 --> 00:29:56.960 Risen King 00:29:56.960 --> 00:30:01.380 Yes, the war will go on 00:30:01.380 --> 00:30:04.720 Yes, we are in a spiritual battle 00:30:04.720 --> 00:30:09.640 But the war has already been won 00:30:09.640 --> 00:30:12.440 The war has been won 00:30:12.440 --> 00:30:14.160 We are on the victory side 00:30:14.160 --> 00:30:18.839 How do we stand? 00:30:20.100 --> 00:30:21.620 Well, listen to these words 00:30:21.620 --> 00:30:22.480 As we close 00:30:22.480 --> 00:30:25.220 From Ephesians chapter 6 00:30:25.220 --> 00:30:30.440 Ephesians chapter 6 00:30:30.440 --> 00:30:31.120 Verse 10 00:30:31.120 --> 00:30:35.519 Finally 00:30:35.519 --> 00:30:38.660 Be strong in the Lord 00:30:38.660 --> 00:30:41.960 And in his mighty power 00:30:41.960 --> 00:30:45.279 Put on the full armour of God 00:30:45.279 --> 00:30:47.059 So that you can take your stand 00:30:47.059 --> 00:30:48.519 Against the devil's schemes 00:30:48.519 --> 00:30:52.559 So that when the day of evil comes 00:30:52.559 --> 00:30:56.799 You may be able to stand your ground 00:30:56.799 --> 00:31:00.799 And after you have done everything 00:31:00.799 --> 00:31:03.480 To stand 00:31:03.480 --> 00:31:06.700 Stand strong 00:31:06.700 --> 00:31:09.379 In the mighty victory of God 00:31:09.379 --> 00:31:11.519 Put on his armour 00:31:11.519 --> 00:31:14.500 As we live as God's people 00:31:14.500 --> 00:31:17.319 In this difficult world 00:31:17.319 --> 00:31:19.619 Let's pray together 00:31:19.619 --> 00:31:24.019 Our Father God 00:31:24.019 --> 00:31:28.759 We thank you for the risen Lord Jesus 00:31:28.759 --> 00:31:33.299 Who has destroyed 00:31:33.299 --> 00:31:37.759 Disarmed and defeated 00:31:37.759 --> 00:31:40.379 All the darkness 00:31:40.380 --> 00:31:43.760 Satan himself 00:31:43.760 --> 00:31:47.760 And so we stand in the victory 00:31:47.760 --> 00:31:50.200 Of the risen Lord Jesus 00:31:50.200 --> 00:31:53.780 Please help us as we live in this world 00:31:53.780 --> 00:31:57.620 And please help our many brothers and sisters 00:31:57.620 --> 00:31:58.620 Around the world 00:31:58.620 --> 00:32:02.760 Who face such terrible opposition and persecution 00:32:02.760 --> 00:32:06.840 To stand strong in Jesus 00:32:06.839 --> 00:32:10.220 To be able to be faithful 00:32:10.220 --> 00:32:10.740 To be faithful 00:32:10.740 --> 00:32:13.619 When they face death 00:32:13.619 --> 00:32:17.079 To stand strong in their witness 00:32:17.079 --> 00:32:18.740 When imprisoned 00:32:18.740 --> 00:32:22.720 To go on following the Lord Jesus 00:32:22.720 --> 00:32:24.220 When they are detained 00:32:24.220 --> 00:32:27.699 We pray for us 00:32:27.699 --> 00:32:29.939 That you would strengthen us in our lives 00:32:29.939 --> 00:32:33.959 In all the difficulties and struggles that we face 00:32:33.960 --> 00:32:36.960 That we would go in your power 00:32:36.960 --> 00:32:39.340 The power of the risen Jesus 00:32:39.340 --> 00:32:42.860 We pray this in his name 00:32:42.860 --> 00:32:44.279 Amen 00:32:44.279 --> 00:32:45.039 Amen 00:32:45.039 --> 00:32:49.339 Amen 00:33:05.660 --> 00:33:07.759 Amen