In the latter part of their reign, when the rebellion has reached its full measure, an insolent king, skilled in intrigue, will come to the throne. In the latter part of their reignThis phrase refers to the period towards the end of the rule of the four kingdoms that emerged after the division of Alexander the Great's empire. Historically, these are the Hellenistic kingdoms, specifically the Seleucid Empire, which is relevant to the context of Daniel 8. The "latter part" suggests a time when these kingdoms are nearing their decline, setting the stage for significant changes and events. when the rebellion has reached its full measure an insolent king skilled in intrigue will come to the throne Persons / Places / Events 1. The Latter Part of Their ReignThis phrase refers to the end times of a particular kingdom or series of kingdoms, often interpreted as the Greek Empire's division after Alexander the Great's death. 2. Rebels These are individuals or groups who have turned away from God's ways, becoming completely wicked. This can be seen as a moral and spiritual decline in society. 3. Fierce-Looking King This is a prophetic figure characterized by a formidable appearance and demeanor, often associated with Antiochus IV Epiphanes, a historical figure who persecuted the Jews. 4. Master of Intrigue This describes the king's cunning and deceitful nature, indicating his ability to manipulate and deceive others for his gain. 5. Arise This signifies the emergence or coming to power of this king, suggesting a sudden or unexpected rise in influence and authority. Teaching Points Understanding ProphecyRecognize the importance of studying biblical prophecy to discern the times and remain vigilant in faith. Moral Decline Be aware of the signs of moral and spiritual decline in society and strive to uphold God's standards in personal and communal life. Deception and Intrigue Guard against deception by grounding oneself in Scripture and seeking wisdom and discernment from the Holy Spirit. Rise of Oppression Prepare for potential persecution by strengthening one's faith and community, knowing that God ultimately prevails. Hope in God's Sovereignty Trust in God's control over history and His promise to bring justice and restoration in His perfect timing. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the description of the "fierce-looking king" in Daniel 8:23 compare to other prophetic figures in the Bible, such as the "man of lawlessness" in 2 Thessalonians 2?2. In what ways can we identify and resist the moral and spiritual decline in our society today, as suggested by the term "rebels" in this passage? 3. How can understanding the historical context of Antiochus IV Epiphanes enhance our interpretation of Daniel 8:23 and its application to future events? 4. What practical steps can we take to guard against deception and intrigue in our personal and spiritual lives? 5. How does the assurance of God's sovereignty in prophetic passages like Daniel 8:23 provide comfort and hope in times of uncertainty and oppression? Connections to Other Scriptures Daniel 7The vision of the four beasts, particularly the fourth beast, connects to the rise of powerful and oppressive rulers. 2 Thessalonians 2 The description of the "man of lawlessness" parallels the fierce-looking king, highlighting themes of deception and rebellion against God. Revelation 13 The beast from the sea shares characteristics with the fierce-looking king, emphasizing the end-times persecution of God's people.
People Belshazzar, Daniel, Elam, Gabriel, JavanPlaces Babylon, Elam, Greece, Media, Persia, Susa, UlaiTopics Arise, Bold, Complete, Completed, Completely, Countenance, Course, Dark, Doings, Evil, Expert, Face, Fierce, Full, Hidden, Insolent, Intrigue, Kingdom, Later, Latter, Master, Measure, Perfecting, Period, Pride, Reached, Rebels, Reign, Riddles, Rule, Run, Sayings, Sentences, Skilled, Stand, Stern-faced, Stratagems, Transgression, Transgressors, Understanding, Understands, WickedDictionary of Bible Themes Daniel 8:15-26 8703 antinomianism Library Abram's Horror of Great Darkness. "And when the sun was going down, a deep sleep fell upon Abram; and lo, an horror of great darkness fell upon him." If we consider the sketch, given us in scripture, of the life of this patriarch, we shall find that few have had equal manifestations of the divine favor. But the light did not at all times shine on him. He had his dark hours while dwelling in this strange land. Here we find an horror of great darkness to have fallen upon him. The language used to describe his state, on this occasion, … Andrew Lee et al—Sermons on Various Important Subjects Questions. Watching the Horizon The Angel of the Lord in the Pentateuch, and the Book of Joshua. The Apocalypse. The Harbinger Daniel Links Daniel 8:23 NIVDaniel 8:23 NLT Daniel 8:23 ESV Daniel 8:23 NASB Daniel 8:23 KJV Daniel 8:23 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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