InPerspective

Daniel 7

One consistent theme in apocalyptic biblical literature is Satan's relentless rebellion against God's Kingdom, using false prophets, false teachers, and the world's kingdoms as pawns in his cosmic treason. Thankfully, another consistent theme is the constant reminder that, no matter how badly things may seem to be going at any particular time in history, God ultimately wins.

Daniel 7

You probably know of the famous Vietnam War movie “Apocalypse Now” – but today we will go back to the time of Daniel for a look at “Apocalypse Then.” Holy Scripture contains extraordinary examples of apocalyptic prophetic literature, and one of the most noteworthy is found in chapter 7 of the book of Daniel, describing his remarkable apocalyptic visions.

Daniel 7

Daniel chapter 2 describes Nebuchadnezzar's vision of large statue of a man, comprised of four different metals from head to toe, that is smashed in pieces by a stone that grows into a mighty mountain. Chapter 7 tells of Daniel's vision of four great and terrible beasts that arise from the sea. What is the connection between these two amazing visions that may seem to have little in common?

Hebrews 12:1-2

A popular contemporary praise chorus declares, “He is exalted, the King Is exalted on High.” Indeed, the book of Hebrews tells us that Jesus endured the cross, despising its shame, and is now seated at the right hand of the throne of God. Therefore, we are to live every day with our hearts and minds fixed upon Jesus Christ, for He is our Risen Lord, Exalted King, and the author and perfecter of our faith.

Daniel 7

The first six chapters of the book of Daniel relate his memoirs – highlights of a man of God's remarkable life from his youth to his 80's. But beginning in chapter 7, we move from Daniel's memorable memoirs, to the remarkable messages that he received from the Lord. What is the historical context in which Daniel received his first astounding vision – the vision of the four beasts?

Daniel 6

You have probably known the story of Daniel in the lion's den since you were a child. But you may not realize that if you are a believer in Jesus Christ, you are in much the same situation as Daniel was. The Bible declares that Satan prowls about like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour – and that someone may be you. Do you trust in the Lion of Judah to protect and deliver you?

Daniel 6

After the fall of Babylon to the Medo-Persian empire, Daniel continued following the Lord and living as a loyal subject of the king. But his envious enemies devised a plan to use his steadfast faithful commitment and against him to get Daniel thrown into the den of lions. When you come under fire for your faith, are you like Daniel able to stand firm and steadfast in the Lord?

Daniel 5

If you can “read the writing on the wall,” it means that you know what is going to happen by looking at present circumstances and factors. The origin of this familiar saying is found in Daniel chapter 5. King Balshazzar of Babylon literally could not read the writing on the wall – but Daniel could, and it meant the imminent overthrow of Babylon by the Medes and Persians.

Daniel 5

A time of celebration can be ruined by party crashers and party poopers. With the army of the Medes and Persians closing in, King Belshazzar threw a party to lift the spirits of the Babylonians – but he didn't count on one remarkable party crasher and one noteworthy party pooper spoiling the festivities. Who were the party crasher and party pooper who truly made this a party to remember?

1 Corinthians 12

Many people feel rather ordinary, as though they are not gifted in any particular way. Join Dr. Harry Reeder on InPerspective as he reminds us every Christian is truly gifted, because each of us is indwelt by the Holy Spirit and has been uniquely blessed with at least one spiritual gift.

Daniel 4

“God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble" – a biblical maxim clearly illustrated in the life of Nebuchadnezzar. This prideful, arrogant, self-exalting king received a dream picturing him as a mighty tree that God was ready to cut down to size – and he was struck with madness that made him act like an animal. Only then did he repent of his pride and trust in the One True God.

Daniel 4

Even though King Nebuchadnezzar saw God powerfully work in the lives of Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego – and even in his own life, through them – he remained intoxicated with regal power and pride over his lofty position and abundant possessions. How did God transform this pompous pagan ruler into a contrite convert to the One true and living God?

Daniel 1-4

We admire the courageous faithfulness to God demonstrated by Daniel in the lion’s den, and Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in the fiery furnace. But such bold, steadfast commitment to the Lord in the face of death did not suddenly materialize in their moment of crisis – we see it taking root many years before, when they were four young men in the court of Nebuchadnezzar.

Daniel 1-4

Believers are not to retreat into the safety of our Christian fortresses, insulated and isolated from the world. But as we go into the world with the Gospel of Jesus Christ, we must guard against the world getting into us and conforming us to its standards and values. How can believers live by faith, and live the life of faith, in the midst of an unbelieving and even hostile world and culture?

Daniel 3

The account of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in the fiery furnace reminds us that God's people often face the fiery trials of life. Sometimes the Lord will douse the fire and spare us from passing through it. But other times, He will allow us to enter into these fiery trials – and He will be right there with us, for He has promised that he will never leave us nor forsake us.

Hebrews 10:19-25

The song "Home On the Range" describes a place "where seldom is heard a discouraging word" – but we can frequently experience discouragement as we live in a fallen world. Join us again as Dr. Reeder examines the importance of encouraging and edifying one another in the body of Christ.

Daniel 3

While Moses was receiving the Ten Commandments on Mount Sinai, the Israelites were already engaging in idolatry with a golden calf. In stark contrast, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego refused to bow down to the golden statue set up by King Nebuchadnezzar – even if it meant facing the king's wrath and a terrifying appointment with a fiery furnace.

Daniel 3

Daniel's three courageous friends faced a death sentence for refusing King Nebuchadnezzar's order to bow down to a golden image. But they boldly declared, “Be it known to you, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the golden image that you have set up." When the world pressures us to compromise our faith, we must respond with courageous commitment and boldness for the Lord.

Daniel 3

When Daniel's three courageous friends refused to bow down to King Nebuchadnezzar's golden image, their malicious enemies sought to accuse them of evil and disobedience before the king. But to the Lord's ears, these accusations were actually a testimony of their faithfulness and steadfast commitment to Him – even in the face of the persecution and hostility from an ungodly culture and society.