Daniel

God is My Judge

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Part Part Part Part Part 1 2 3 4 5 Daniel Daniel Daniel Daniel Daniel 1 .........................................................................................1 2 .........................................................................................4 7 .........................................................................................6 8 ....................................................................................... 10 9 ....................................................................................... 13

Daniel 1
Daniel 1:1. In the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim king of Judah came Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon unto Jerusalem, and besieged it. 2 Kings 20:14-18. Isaiahs prophecy that Babylon would overtake Jerusalem; because King Hezekiah showed off his treasures to the Babylonian ambassadors. Jeremiah 25:7-12 Prophecy-70 years of captivity

Review and Herald, May 2, 1899 par. 1 The children of Israel were taken captive to Babylon because they separated from God, and no longer maintained the principles that had been given to keep them free from the methods and practices of the nations who dishonored God. The Lord could not give them prosperity, he could not fulfill his covenant with them, while they were untrue to the principles he had given them zealously to maintain. By their spirit and their actions they misrepresented his character, and he permitted them to be taken captive. Because of their separation from him, he humbled them. He left them to their own ways, and the innocent suffered with the guilty. Prophets and Kings p. 453. The remnant of Judah were to go into captivity, to learn through adversity the lessons they had refused to learn under circumstances more favorable. 2 Kings 24. Nebuchadnezzar besieged Jerusalem Prophets and Kings, p. 515. An idolater by birth and training, and at the head of an idolatrous people, he had nevertheless an innate sense of justice and right, and God was able to use him as an instrument for the punishment of the rebellious and for the fulfillment of the divine purpose. Verses 2 & 3 Prophets and Kings, p.487. God brought Daniel and his associates into connection with the great men of Babylon, that in the midst of a nation of idolaters they might represent His character. How did they become fitted for a position of so great trust and honor? It was faithfulness in little things that gave complexion to their whole life. They honored God in the smallest duties, as well as in the larger responsibilities. 6 Testimonies, p. 219. Every institution established by Seventh-day Adventists is to be to the world what Joseph was in Egypt and what Daniel and his fellows were in Babylon. Christs Object Lessons, p. 357. As God called Daniel to witness for Him in Babylon, so He calls us to be His witnesses in the world today. Verse 4 Bible Echo, March 1, 1887 par. 9. Reform should begin with the mother; her responsibility is great. Mothers should without delay place themselves in right relations to their Creator, that by his assisting grace they may build around their children a bulwark against dissipation and intemperance. If they would but follow such a course, if the instructions which
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God is My Judge God has given were faithfully obeyed, intemperance would cease to exist, and they might see their children, like the youthful Daniel, reach a high standard in moral and intellectual attainments; they would be firm and decided for the right, and would become a blessing to society and an honor to their Creator. Signs of The Times, May 13, 1889. We have found it difficult to find persons qualified to fill responsible positions in our institutions; for men have not received an education from their childhood that fitted them for the work of God. They have not labored as though the eye of God was upon them. They were not as Joseph in Egypt, and Daniel in Babylon. Youth Instructor, Ocober 29, 1907. If an idolatrous king should demand such excellence in those who were to stand before him, should not those who have a knowledge of the true God reach perfection of character and capability in his service? Verses 5 & 6 4 Testimonies, p. 570. Daniel was but eighteen years old when brought into a heathen court in service to the king of Babylon, and because of his youth his noble resistance of wrong and his steadfast adherence to the right are the more admirable. His noble example should bring strength to the tried and tempted, even at the present day. Education, pp. 54-55. a portion having been offered to idols, the food from the king's table was consecrated to idolatry; and in partaking of the king's bounty these youth would be regarded as uniting in his homage to false gods. Verse 7 - Definition of names Daniel = God is my judge. Hananiah = Jehovah is gracious. Mishael = who belongs to God? Azariah = Jehovah helps Belteshazzar perhaps = Bel protect his [the kings] life. Shadrach and Meshach = ? (inexplicable in Babylonian). Abed-nego = servant of Nabu Verse 8 4 Bible Commentary, p. 1166. As Daniel and his fellows were brought to the test, they placed themselves fully on the side of righteousness and truth. They did not move capriciously, but intelligently. They decided that as flesh-meat had not composed their diet in the past, it should not come into their diet in the future, and as wine had been prohibited to all who should engage in the service of God, they determined that they would not partake of it. Counsels on Health, p. 66. The life of Daniel is an inspired illustration of what constitutes a sanctified character. Wherever they may be, those who are truly sanctified will elevate the moral standard by preserving correct physical habits, and, like Daniel, presenting to others an example of temperance and self-denial. What if Daniel and his companions had made a compromise with those heathen officers, and had yielded to the pressure of the occasion by eating and drinking as was customary with the Babylonians? That single instance of departure from principle would have weakened their sense of right and their abhorrence of wrong. Indulgence of appetite would have involved the sacrifice of physical vigor, clearness of intellect, and spiritual power. One wrong step would probably have led to others, until, their connection with Heaven being severed, they would have been swept away by temptation.... Verses 9 & 10 Youth Instructor, November 12, 1907. But the prince of the eunuchs hesitated to grant the request of Daniel, fearing that such rigid abstinence as he proposed would cause the Hebrews to become less ruddy in health than those who ate of the kings dainties. Verses 11-15 Youth Instructor, Nov. 12, 1907. But it was not the luxuries of the king that would give to these youth a clear countenance and bright eye. It was the consciousness of having the approval of God. And Daniel knew that if he and his

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God is My Judge companions were permitted to adopt a simple diet, by the time they were called to appear before the king, the advantages of health reform would be apparent in their physical health. Verses 16-21 Prophets and Kings, p. 485. At the court of Babylon were gathered representatives from all lands, men of the highest talent, men the most richly endowed with natural gifts, and possessed of the broadest culture that the world could bestow; yet among them all, the Hebrew youth were without a peer. In physical strength and beauty, in mental vigor and literary attainment, they stood unrivaled. The erect form, the firm, elastic step, the fair countenance, the undimmed senses, the untainted breath--all were so many certificates of good habits, insignia of the nobility with which nature honors those who are obedient to her laws. Importance of Health Reform in the Last Days Counsels on Health, p. 453. Those who proclaim the message should teach health reform also. It is a subject that we must understand in order to be prepared for the events that are close upon us, and it should have a prominent place. 3 Testimonies, p. 561. God has permitted the light of health reform to shine upon us in these last days, that by walking in the light we may escape many dangers to which we will be exposed. 1 Testimonies, p. 619. God requires all who believe the truth to make special, persevering efforts to place themselves in the best possible condition of bodily health, for a solemn and important work is before us. Health of body and mind is required for this workAll those who are indifferent and excuse themselves from this workwill be found wanting when the meek of the earth, who wrought His judgments, are hid in the day of the Lords angerThe refreshing or power of God, comes only on cleansing themselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God. Counsels on Health, p. 443. The work of health reform is the Lords means for lessening suffering in our world and for purifying His church. Counsels on Heatlh, p. 22. He who cherishes the light which God has given upon health reform has an important aid in the work of becoming sanctified through the truth, and fitted for immortality. But if he disregards that light, and lives in violation of natural law, he must pay the penalty; his spiritual powers are benumbed, and how can he perfect holiness in the fear of God? Counsels on Diet and Food, p. 69. December 10, 1871, I was again shown that the health reform is one branch of the great work which is to fit a people for the coming of the Lord. It is as closely connected with the third angel's message as the hand is with the body. Counsels on Diet and Food, p. 50. The sin of intemperate eating, eating too frequently, too much, and of rich, unwholesome food, destroys the healthy action of the digestive organs, affects the brain, and perverts the judgment, preventing rational, calm, healthy thinking and acting. And this is a fruitful source of church trials. Counsels on Diet and Food, p. 57. It is impossible for those who indulge the appetite to attain to Christian perfection. Counsels on Diet and Food, p. 161. God demands that the appetites be cleansed, and that self-denial be practiced in regard to those things which are not good. This is a work that will have to be done before His people can stand before Him a perfect people. 6 Testimonies, pp. 370, 371. The subject of health reform has been presented in the churches: but the light has not been heartily receivedIf the churches expect strength, they must live the truth which God has given themThe Lord does not now work to bring many souls into the truth, because of the church members who have never been converted and those who were once converted but who have backslidden.

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God is My Judge

Daniel 2
Fundamentals of Christian Education, p. 410. A most interesting and important history is given in Daniel 2. Verses 1-5 The Sanctified Life, p. 34. The king knew that if they could really tell the interpretation, they could tell the dream as well. The Lord had in His providence given Nebuchadnezzar this dream, and had caused the particulars to be forgotten, while the fearful impression was left upon his mind, in order to expose the pretensions of the wise men of Babylon. The monarch was very angry, and threatened that they should all be slain if, in a given time, the dream was not made known. Verse 6-12 Fundamentals of Christian Education, p. 412. The lessons taught in it [the dream] were given by God for those who live in our day. The inability of the wise men to tell the dream, is a representation of the wise men of the present day, who have not discernment and learning and knowledge from the Most High, and therefore are unable to understand the prophecies. The most learned in the world's lore, who are not watching to hear what God says in His word, and opening their hearts to receive that word and give it to others, are not representatives of His. It is not the great and learned men of the earth, kings and nobles, who will receive the truth unto eternal life, though it will be brought to them. Verse 13 Fundamentals of Christian Education, p. 411. Hearing of this decree, "Daniel went in, and desired of the king that he would give him time, and that he would show the king the interpretation. Then Daniel went to his house, and made the thing known to Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, his companions: that they would desire mercies of the God of heaven concerning this secret." The Spirit of the Lord rested upon Daniel and his fellows, and the secret was revealed to Daniel in a night vision. As he related the facts, the dream came fresh to the king's mind, and the interpretation was given, showing the remarkable events that were to transpire in prophetic history. The Lord was working in the Babylonian kingdom, communicating light to the four Hebrew captives, that He might represent His work before the people. He would reveal that He had power over the kingdoms of the world, to set up kings and to throw down kings. The King over all kings was communicating great truth to the king of Babylon, awakening in his mind a sense of his responsibility to God. He saw the contrast between the wisdom of God and the wisdom of the most learned men in his kingdom. Verses 19-23 Education, p. 175. To understand these things,--to understand that "righteousness exalteth a nation;" that "the throne is established by righteousness" and "upholden by mercy" (Proverbs 14:34; 16:12; Proverbs 20:28); to recognize the outworking of these principles in the manifestation of His power who "removeth kings, and setteth up kings" (Daniel 2:21),--this is to understand the philosophy of history. In the word of God only is this clearly set forth. Here it is shown that the strength of nations, as of individuals, is not found in the opportunities or facilities that appear to make them invincible; it is not found in their boasted greatness. It is measured by the fidelity with which they fulfill God's purpose. Verses 24-30 7 Testimonies, p. 151. Consider the experience of Daniel. When called to stand before King Nebuchadnezzar, Daniel did not hesitate to acknowledge the source of his wisdom. Did that faithful recognition of God detract from Daniel's influence in the king's court? By no means; it was the secret of his power; it secured for him favor in the eyes of the ruler of Babylon. In God's name Daniel made known to the king the heaven-sent messages of instruction, warning, and rebuke, and he was not repulsed. Let God's workers of today read the firm, bold testimony of Daniel and follow his example. (Read Verses 31-35) Prophets and Kings, p. 497. This is the dream, confidently declared Daniel; and the king, listening with closest attention to every particular, knew it was the very dream over which he had been so troubled. Thus his mind was prepared to receive with favor the interpretation. The King of kings was about to communicate great truth to the Babylonian monarch. God would reveal that He has power over the kingdoms of the world, power to enthrone and to dethrone kings. Nebuchadnezzar's mind was to be awakened, if possible, to a sense of his responsibility to Heaven. The events of the future, reaching down to the end of time, were to be opened before him.
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God is My Judge Verses 37-42 Babylon 605-539 BC Daniel 2:32 This images head was of fine gold Daniel 2:37 Thou, O king, art a king of kings Daniel 2:38 Thou art this head of gold Daniel 1:1 Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon Medo-Persia 539-331 BC Daniel 2:32 his breast and his arms of silver Daniel 2:39 After thee shall arise another kingdom Daniel 5:30, 31 Belshazzar king of the Chaldeans <was> slain. And Darius the Median took the kingdom Greece 331-168 BC Daniel 2:32 his belly and his thighs of brass Daniel 8:3 there stooda ram which had two horns Daniel 8:5 an he goat came from the west Daniel 8:7 and smote the ram, and brake his two horns there was none that could deliver the ram Daniel 8:20, 21 The ramhaving two horns are the kings of Media and Persiathe rough goat is the king of Grecia Rome 168 BC-476 AD Daniel 2:33 his legs of iron 168 BCThrough the conquest of Macedonia, Rome emerged and grew into an immense empire, but Rome would not be able to hold its kingdom for ever. The Roman Empire was eventually pulled apart as its conquered regions fought for independence. Divided World/ Church & State 476-Present Day Daniel 2:41 the kingdom shall be divided After the fall of the Roman Empire the world is never to see another kingdom rule with such political and military dominance as did Babylon, Media-Persia, Greece and Rome. The world is in a divided state and of a crumbling material. 1 Testimonies, p. 361. We need not, and cannot, expect union among the nations of the earth. Our position in the image of Nebuchadnezzar is represented by the toes, in a divided state, and of a crumbling material, that will not hold together. Prophecy shows us that the great day of God is right upon us. It hasteth greatly. Daniel 2:41 And whereas thou sawest the feet and toes, part of potters clay, and part of iron Part of iron iron represented Rome in the legs, so here we see a continuing of Romes influence in a new phase. Part of potters clay - the first non-metal element, suggesting that there is something different about this power than the previous kingdoms. Isaiah 64:8; Romans 9:21 these verses show potters clay as a symbol of Gods people Iron mixed with miry clay when the element of pure, smooth potters clay is shown to be mixed with iron it becomes as Daniel put it miry clay or common dirt clay found in the ground which cannot be used to make pots unless refined. Psalms 40:2 David uses the same word, miry clay, to describe an experience away from God Conclusion: In the feet and toes of iron mixed with miry clay we see a divided world not unified under one World Empire. We may also see a new power that mingles the influences of the Roman Empire with Gods people, or a mingling of church and state. Historically this was fulfilled in the Roman Catholic church, which held an oppressive influence over the nations of Europe for over 1000 years after the fall of Rome, which still has an influence on the world today and as seen in this prophecy will have influence through to the end of time. Those apostate churches which mingle

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God is My Judge themselves with the state will ultimately meet their judgment along with the nations of the world at the second coming of Christ. This biblical interpretation is supported by the following reference by Ellen G. White: 15 Manuscript Releases, p. 39. The mingling of churchcraft and statecraft is represented by the iron and the clay. This union is weakening all the power of the churches. This investing the church with the power of the state will bring evil results. Men have almost passed the point of God's forbearance. They have invested their strength in politics, and have united with the papacy. But the time will come when God will punish those who have made void His law, and their evil work will recoil upon themselves. Kingdom of God Coming Soon Daniel 2:34 a stone was cut out without hands, which smote the imageand brake them to pieces. Daniel 2:35 the stone that smote the image became a great mountain, and filled the whole earth. Daniel 2:44 the God of heaven <shall> set up a kingdom whichshall stand forever. Youth Instructor, September 22, 1903. The image revealed to Nebuchadnezzar, while representing the deterioration of the kingdoms of the earth in power and glory, also fitly represents the deterioration of religion and morality among the people of these kingdoms. As nations forget God, in like proportion they become weak morally. Babylon passed away because in her prosperity she forgot God, and ascribed the glory of her prosperity to human achievement The Medo-Persian kingdom was visited by the wrath of heaven because in this kingdom God's law was trampled under foot. The fear of the Lord found no place in the hearts of the people. The prevailing influences in MedoPersia were wickedness, blasphemy, and corruption. The kingdoms that followed were even more base and corrupt. They deteriorated because they cast off their allegiance to God. As they forgot Him, they sank lower and still lower in the scale of moral value. Verses 44-49 Prophets and Kings, p. 499. Nebuchadnezzar revoked the decree for the destruction of the wise men. Their lives were spared because of Daniel's connection with the Revealer of secrets. And "the king made Daniel a great man, and gave him many great gifts, and made him ruler over the whole province of Babylon, and chief of the governors over all the wise men of Babylon. Then Daniel requested of the king, and he set Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, over the affairs of the province of Babylon: but Daniel sat in the gate of the king." In the annals of human history, the growth of nations, the rise and fall of empires, appear as if dependent on the will and prowess of man; the shaping of events seems, to a great degree, to be determined by his power, ambition, or caprice. But in the word of God the curtain is drawn aside, and we behold, above, behind, and through all the play and counterplay of human interest and power and passions, the agencies of the All-merciful One, silently, patiently working out the counsels of His own will. For further study: Prophets and Kings chapter 40 Nebuchadnezzars Dream

Daniel 7
Verses 1-3 Prphets and Kings, p. 553.2. Shortly before the fall of Babylon, when Daniel was meditating on these prophecies and seeking God for an understanding of the times, a series of visions was given him concerning the rise and fall of kingdoms. Biblical references for symbols: four winds = strife - Jeremiah 49:36 & Zech. 2:6 the great sea = peoples, multitudes, nations, tongues - Isaiah 17:12; Jeremiah 46:7; Revelation 17:15 the beasts = kingdoms upon the earth Daniel 7:15-17, 23 Verse 4. The first was like a lion, and had eagle's wings: I beheld till the wings thereof were plucked, and it was lifted up from the earth, and made stand upon the feet as a man, and a man's heart was given to it.

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God is My Judge Lion with eagles wings an appropriate symbol for Babylon. The lion is the king of the beasts and the eagle is king of the birds. Jeremiah described the King of Babylon as a lion in Jeremiah 50:17. Also, the winged lion is found on Babylonian objects of art (ie. walls, bricks, statues). Verse 5 The Media-Persia Empire, corresponding to the silver of the image. As silver is inferior to gold, so, in some respects at least, the bear is inferior to the lion. raised up on one side Dan. 8:3,20; This kingdom was composed of two parts, the Medes and the Persians, the latter was a more dominant force. three ribs in the mouth are seen as Lydia, Babylon, and Egypt three nations crushed by the Media-Persian power. Verse 6 What empire overthrew the kingdom of Medo-Persia? This empire is revealed in Daniel 8:21 -- the empire of Grecia, or the Greek Macedonian Empire of Alexander the Great. The leopard with four wings is symbolic of the immense speed at which Alexander the Great came into possession of the greatest empire of the world. This he accomplished in just under 10 years, but, because of intemperance he fell ill and died. Because this young king did not appoint a successor to his throne the kingdom was divided into four parts, symbolized in prophecy by the four heads. Verse 7 Fourth beast - Compare v. 19. There was, presumably, no parallel in the natural world by which to designate this hideous creature, for no comparison is made as in the case of the first three beasts. There should be no question, however, but that it represents the same power that is portrayed by the iron legs of the great image. It is clear from history that the world power succeeding the third prophetic empire was Rome. The enormous metallic teeth speak of cruelty and strength. As the animal tore to pieces and devoured its prey with these grotesque fangs, so Rome devoured nations and peoples in its conquests. Ten horns vs. 24, ten kings or kingdoms. Rome was broken up by 10 barbarian tribes. AlemanniGermany; SueviPortugal; FranksFrance; Anglo-SaxonsEngland; BurgundiansSwitzerland; VisigothsSpain; LombardsItaly; Vandals; Heruli; Ostrogoths 4 Bible Commentary, p. 1171.5. To Daniel was given a vision of fierce beasts, representing the powers of the earth. But the ensign of the Messiah's kingdom is a lamb. While earthly kingdoms rule by the ascendancy of physical power, Christ is to banish every carnal weapon, every instrument of coercion. His kingdom was to be established to uplift and ennoble fallen humanity. (Letter 32, 1899). Verses 8; 20,21; 23-25 The little horn is a power that comes directly from the fourth beast of Pagan Rome. Out of the ruins of political Rome, arose the great moral Empire in the giant form of the Roman Church - (A. C. Flick, The Rise of the Medieval Church [1900], p. 150). The Spirit of Prophecy Volume 4, p. 279.1. The prophet Daniel declared that the Roman Church, symbolized by the little horn, was to think to change times and laws, [Daniel 7:25.] while Paul styled it the man of sin, [2 Thessalonians 2:3, 4.] who was to exalt himself above God. Little Horn Characteristics 1. He Shall Subdue Three Kings The plucking up of three horns symbolizes the overthrow of three of the barbarian nations. Among the principal obstructions to the rise of papal Rome to political power were the Heruli, the Vandals, and the Ostrogoths. In 533 Justinian recognized the popes ecclesiastical supremacy as head of all the holy churches in both East and West, and this legal recognition was incorporated into the imperial code of laws (Code of Justinian, book 1, title1, p. 534). Although this legal recognition of the popes ecclesiastical supremacy was dated in 533, it is obvious that the imperial edict could not become effective for the pope so long as the Arian Ostrogothic kingdom was in control of Rome and the greater part of Italy. Not until the rule of the Ostrogoths was broken could the papacy be free to develop fully its power.
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God is My Judge In 538, for the first time since the end of the Western imperial line, the city of Rome was freed from the domination of an Arian kingdom. In that year the Ostrogothic kingdom received its deathblow. That is why 538 is a more significant date than 533. From then on the papacy was in a position to increase its ecclesiastical power. - Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, (Washington, D.C.: Review and Herald Publishing Association) 1978. 2. He Shall Speak Words Against the Most High Blasphemous claims of the papacy The Pope is of so great dignity and so exalted that he is not a mere man, but as it were God, and the vicar of God. The Pope is crowned with a triple crown, as king of heaven and of earth and of the lower regions The Pope is as it were God on earth, sole sovereign of the faithful of Christ, chief of kings, having plenitude of power, to whom has been intrusted by the omnipotent God direction not only of the earthly but also of the heavenly kingdom. The Pope is of so great authority and power that he can modify, explain, or interpret even divine laws. The Pope can modify divine law, since his power is not of man but of God, and he acts as vicegerent of God upon earth with most ample power of binding and loosing his sheep.
(translated from Lucius Ferraris, a Roman Catholic divine of the 18th century, Papa II, Prompta Bibliotheca, Vol. VI, pp. 2529).

3. Made War with the Saints The papacy acknowledges that it has persecuted, and defends such acts as a legitimate exercise of power presumably granted her by Christ. Throughout the Dark Ages, millions of Bible believing Christians were regarded as heretics by the Roman Church, and were persecuted, tortured, and killed for their faith. 4. Think to Change Times and Laws In the great apostasy of the early Christian centuries numerous doctrines and practices were introduced contrary to the will of God as revealed in the Holy Scriptures. The most audacious change was in the matter of the Ten Commandments and the Sabbath. The Ten Commandments as posted in the Catholic catechism have the 2nd commandment forbidding idol worship deleted, and the 10th commandment split into two so there remains still ten. Also, the papacy lays hold of the claim that they changed the Sabbath Day from Saturday to Sunday as seen in this statement: The Catholic Church for over one thousand years before the existence of a Protestant, by virtue of her divine mission, changed the day from Saturday to Sunday. The Catholic Mirror, September 23, 1893. 5. Ruling power for Time, and times, and the dividing of time The Aramaic iddan, here translated time, occurs also in ch. 4:16, 23, 25, 32. In these passages the word iddan undoubtedly means a year. The Aramaic form of iddan, translated times, is really a dual form verses a plural form, and should be rightfully translated two times. The word translated dividing, pelag, may also be translated half. Hence the more acceptable translation of the RSV, a time, two times, and half a time. Time = 2 Times = 360(2) = Half a time =360/2 = Total time prophecy = 360 days 720 days 180 days 1260 days

This time prophecy is also seen in Dan. 12:7 and five times in Revelation: 11:2 - 42 months ! 42 x 30 = 1260 days 11:3 - 1260 days 12:6 - 1260 days 12:14 - time, and times, and half a time = 1260 days 13:5 - 42 months ! 42 x 30 = 1260 days Thus, 1 prophetic year = 360 days 1 month = 30 days

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God is My Judge Year-Day Principle The prophetic portions of the Bible (ie. Daniel and Revelation) are to be taken symbolically not literally. For example a lion with wings didnt really rule the earth at one time. Being all the figures are symbolic it would be logical then that the time element of these chapters would also be symbolic and not literal. Numbers 14:34. After the number of the days in which ye searched the land, even forty days, each day for a year, shall ye bear your iniquities, even forty years, and ye shall know my breach of promise. Ezekiel 4:6. And when thou hast accomplished them, lie again on thy right side, and thou shalt bear the iniquity of the house of Judah forty days: I have appointed thee each day for a year. The validity of the year-day principle has been demonstrated by the precise fulfillment of various prophecies calculated by this method, notably the 1260 days and the 70 weeks. A period of three and a half literal years falls absurdly short of fulfilling the requirement of the 1260-day prophecies in regard to the papacy. But when, by the year-day principle, the period is extended to 1260 years, the prophecy meets a unique fulfillment. Does a 1260-year time period fit the Roman Catholic Church? We know that in 538 A.D., the Ostrogoths, the last of the three uprooted horns, was run out of Rome, giving the papacy complete rule in the city, under the decree of Emperor Justinian made in 533 A.D. Exactly 1260 years later, in 1798, under the command of Napoleon, French General Berthier invaded Rome taking the Pope captive to die in a French prison. Summary of reasons for accepting the Year-Day Principle: Symbolic language of the chapters reveals symbolic time Biblical evidence for this principle in Numbers 14:34 and Ezekiel 4:6 Literal interpretations fall absurdly short of fulfillment Year-Day principle meets precise fulfillment Knowing this we now see the following chronological sequence in chapter 7:

Babylon

Media-Persia

Greece

Rome

Roman Catholic Church

605 BC

539 BC

331 BC

168 BC

476-538 AD

1798 AD

Now, what comes after papal Rome in the prophecy? Verses 9,10,13,14 Cast down - Aramaic remah. This word can also mean to place, or to set up, which would seem to be a more appropriate translation.

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God is My Judge Great Controversy, p. 479. [Daniel 7:9,10, quoted]. Thus was presented to the prophets vision the great and solemn day when the characters and the lives of men should pass in review before the Judge of all the earth, and to every man should be rendered according to his works. Great Controversy, pp. 479-480. [Daniel 7:13,14, quoted]. The coming of Christ here described is not His second coming to the earth. He comes to the Ancient of Days in heaven to receive dominion and glory and a kingdom, which will be given Him at the close of His work as a mediator. It is this coming, and not His second advent to the earth, that was foretold in prophecy to take place at the termination of the 2300 days in 1844. Attended by heavenly angels, our great High Priest enters the holy of holies and there appears in the presence of God to engage in the last acts of His ministration in behalf of man--to perform the work of investigative judgment and to make an atonement for all who are shown to be entitled to its benefits. Given Him dominion see also Luke 19:12-15, where Christ is represented as a nobleman who took his journey into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom, and to return. Referring to the end of the 2300 days, Ellen White wrote in Early Writings, p. 54: I saw a throne, and on it sat the Father and the Son. Verse 27 Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, p. 108. But the full establishment of the kingdom of His glory will not take place until the second coming of Christ to this world. "The kingdom and dominion, and the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven," is to be given to "the people of the saints of the Most High." Daniel 7:27. Great Controversy, p. 613. Then Jesus ceases His intercession in the sanctuary above. . Every case has been decided for life or death. Christ has made the atonement for His people and blotted out their sins. The number of His subjects is made up; "the kingdom and dominion, and the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven," is about to be given to the heirs of salvation, and Jesus is to reign as King of kings and Lord of lords. Early Writings, p. 295. The beautiful new earth, with all its glory, was the eternal inheritance of the saints. The kingdom and dominion, and the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven, was then given to the saints of the Most High, who were to possess it forever, even forever and ever. Now lets look at the sequence that we have in all of chapter 7 paralleled to chapter 2. Daniel 2 Babylon Media-Persia Greece Rome (pagan) Rome (Europe/papal) Gods kingdom 605 - 539 B.C. 539 - 331 B.C. 331 - 168 B.C. 168 BC -474 A.D. 538 - 1798 A.D. Daniel 7 Babylon Media-Persia Greece Rome (pagan) Rome (papal) Judgment in heaven Gods kingdom

So we see that a judgment in heaven occurs after 1798, yet before the second coming of Jesus.

Daniel 8
Verses 1-4 A ram which had two horns In verse 20, the angel identifies the ram as representing the kings of Media and Persia. One was higher than the other - Although it rose later than Media, Persia became the dominant power when Cyrus defeated Astyages of Media in 553 or 550 B.C. The Medes, however, were not treated as inferiors or as a subjugated people, but rather as confederates. SDA Bible Commentary
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God is My Judge Notice the similarities of the bear in chapter 7 and this ram: the bear was lifted up on one side and one of the rams horns was higher the bear had 3 ribs in his mouth believed to be Babylon, Egypt, and Lydia three nations crushed by MediaPersia. The ram in ch. 8 conquers in three directions: westward (Babylon), southward (Egypt), and northward (Lydia). Verses 5-8 He-Goat In verse 21, the angel identifies this beast as the King of Greece. a notable horn According to verse 21, this notable horn represents the first great Grecian king, that is, Alexander the Great, who brought the empire to its pinnacle. when he was strong - Prophecy predicted that Alexander would fall while his empire was at the height of its power. At the age of 32, still in the prime of life, the great leader died of a fever aggravated, no doubt, by his own intemperance. four notable ones - the four Macedonian (or Hellenistic) kingdoms (vs. 22) into which Alexanders empire was divided, see on 7:6. Notice also the parallels between the he-goat of chapter 8 and the leopard of chapter 7: Both come up after Media-Persia. The leopard had 4 wings of a bird on its back (7:6), while the he-goat flew across the face of the earth without touching the ground (8:5). The leopard had 4 heads (7:6), while the he-goat produced 4 horns after the chief horn was broken (8:8). The Little Horn Verses 9-12; 23-25 Ram is described as great vs. 4 He-goat is described as very great vs. 8 Little horn is described as exceeding great vs. 9 In Daniel 2, after Media-Persia and Greece, the next power was Rome, symbolized by the hardest of all metals, iron. In Daniel 7, after Media-Persia and Greece, came pagan and papal Rome, symbolized by the fiercest of all the beasts. In Daniel 8, after Media-Persia and Greece, another power appears, one that is greater than either of the first two. That power, of course, must be Rome! toward the south,east,and the pleasant land The Roman Empire pushed its way south, making Egypt a Roman Province, east, towards the Seleucid Empire, and Palestine. Host of heaven the angel helps provide the interpretation of this verse in vs. 24. The host and stars here obviously represent the mighty and the holy people. Stamped upon them - This has reference to the fury with which Rome persecuted the early Christian church through tyrants such as Nero, Decius, and Diocletian. (It is possible that this verse also introduces Papal Romes persecution of Gods faithful ones.) He magnified himself compare with verse 25 of chapter 7 & 8. Here we see a clear reference to Papal Rome, thus, shedding light that the little horn power of chapter 8 is referring not only to the pagan phase of Rome, but, Papal as well. Parallels between the little horn of chapter 7 and the little horn of chapter 8: Both are described by the same symbol: a horn. Both are persecuting powers. See 7:21,25; 8:10,24
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God is My Judge Both are self-exalting and blasphemous. See 7:8,20,25; 8:10,11,25 Both target Gods people. See 7:25; 8:24 Both are supernaturally destroyed. See 7:11,26; 8:25 What follows the Little Horn? In the vision itself, what followed the little horn was the sanctuary being cleansed Daniel 8:14. In the explanation of the vision, the little horn is followed by a reference to the cleansing of the sanctuary as well. Verses 26, 27 At first glance, these verses dont seem to have anything to do with the sanctuary of verse 14 being cleansed. Yet, the literal rendition of Daniel 8:14 is, Until 2300 evening morning; then shall the sanctuary be cleansed. The vision of the evening and the morning of verse 26 therefore refers to the sanctuary being cleansed. But, what does it mean that the sanctuary shall be cleansed? (See Leviticus 16:15-21,29-30) One time each year, on the Day of Atonement, the sins that had been collected in the sanctuary were cleansed from the sanctuary, that the people may be clean from all their sins before the Lord. Jews still celebrate this cleansing of the sanctuary or day of atonement now called Yom Kippur, as the great judgment day. It is a type of the actual judgment day. This cleansing is a shadow of things to come - (See Hebrews 9:7,11,12 & 10:1) In Daniel 8:17 we saw that the vision was for the time of the end, and the sanctuary being cleansed came at the end of the vision. Obviously, the only sanctuary that it could be referring to is the sanctuary in heaven (so vividly portrayed in the book of Hebrews) because the last Jewish sanctuary was destroyed in 70 A.D. 5 Testimonies, p. 520.1. We are in the great day of atonement, and the sacred work of Christ for the people of God that is going on at the present time in the heavenly sanctuary should be our constant study. We should teach our children what the typical Day of Atonement signified and that it was a special season of great humiliation and confession of sins before God. The antitypical day of atonement is to be of the same character. Everyone who teaches the truth by precept and example will give the trumpet a certain sound. You need ever to cultivate spirituality, because it is not natural for you to be heavenly-minded. The great work is before us of leading the people away from worldly customs and practices, up higher and higher, to spirituality, piety, and earnest work for God. It is your work to proclaim the message of the third angel, to sound the last note of warning to the world. May the Lord bless you with spiritual eyesight. I write this in love, seeing your danger. Please consider these things carefully and prayerfully. Notice also, in the explanation and in the vision the reference to the sanctuary being cleansed comes after Rome. Parallels of Chapters 2, 7, and 8: 605 - 539 B.C. 539 - 331 B.C. 331 - 168 B.C. 168 BC - 476 A.D. 538 - 1798 A.D. Daniel 2 Babylon Media-Persia Greece Rome (pagan) Rome (papal) / (Divided World) Gods kingdom Daniel 7 Babylon Media-Persia Greece Rome (pagan) Rome (papal) Judgment in heaven Gods kingdom Daniel 8 ----------Media-Persia Greece Rome (pagan) Rome (papal) Sanctuary Cleansed ------------

Daniel 9 will help us get the exact date for the prophecy in Daniel 8:14. For further study: Great Controversy, Chapter 23 and 24; Last Day Events, chapter 5.

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God is My Judge

Daniel 9
Note: Before we study Daniel 9 let us recall that Daniel 2 consisted of a vision and an interpretation, Daniel 7 consisted of a vision and an interpretation, Daniel 8 consisted of a vision and only a partial interpretation, and now Daniel 9 consists of only a prayer of Daniel for the deliverance of Israel, and an interpretation of a vision. Verses 1-3 Prophets and Kings, p. 554. Earnestly he sought for the meaning of the vision. He could not understand the relation sustained by the seventy years' captivity, as foretold through Jeremiah, to the twenty-three hundred years that in vision he heard the heavenly visitant declare should elapse before the cleansing of God's sanctuary. Still burdened in behalf of Israel, Daniel studied anew the prophecies of Jeremiah...With faith founded on the sure word of prophecy, Daniel pleaded with the Lord for the speedy fulfillment of these promises. He pleaded for the honor of God to be preserved. In his petition he identified himself fully with those who had fallen short of the divine purpose, confessing their sins as his own. Verses 4-19 Prophets and Kings, p. 556. Heaven was bending low to hear the earnest supplication of the prophet. Even before he had finished his plea for pardon and restoration, the mighty Gabriel again appeared to him, and called his attention to the vision he had seen prior to the fall of Babylon and the death of Belshazzar. Verses 20,21 When was the last time we saw Gabriel? In Daniel 8 to explain the vision to Daniel but, he didnt finish fully explaining the vision. Why is Gabriel back? (Read Verse 22) to give skill and understanding Gabriel has come to give the rest of the explanation of the 2300 days not given in the previous chapter. Verse 24 - Seventy weeks are determined determined strongs # 2852 chathak, to cut off, i.e. (fig.) to decree: determine. Great Controversy, p. 326. The word here translated "determined" literally signifies "cut off." Seventy weeks, representing 490 years, are declared by the angel to be cut off, as specially pertaining to the Jews. But from what were they cut off? As the 2300 days was the only period of time mentioned in chapter 8, it must be the period from which the seventy weeks were cut off; the seventy weeks must therefore be a part of the 2300 days, and the two periods must begin together. finish the transgressionthe final period of probation for the chosen people. to make an end of sins This phrase may be parallel in meaning to the one preceding it, to finish the transgression. Some expositors note that the word here translated sins (Heb. chattaoth or chattath) may mean either sins or sin offerings. Of the 290 occurrences in the OT chattath has the meaning sin 155 times, and sin offering 135 times. If sin offerings is the intended meaning, the following interpretation is suggested: When Christ on Calvary became the antitype of the sacrificial offerings of the sanctuary, it was no longer necessary for the sinner to bring his sin offering (see John 1:29). However, the plural form chattaoth almost invariably describes sins and only once, unless this be an exception also, denotes sin offerings (Neh. 10:33). --Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, 1978. to make reconciliation for iniquityChrists death would offer forgiveness to all. to bring in everlasting righteousnessChrists righteous life would reveal that all could be made righteous by His plan of redemption. to seal up (confirm or ratify) the vision and prophecy The fulfillment of the predictions connected with the first coming of the Messiah at the time specified in the prophecy gives assurance that the other features of the prophecy, notably the 2300 prophetic days, will be as precisely fulfilled. to anoint the most Holy The Hebrew phrase is applied to the altar (Ex. 29:37; 40:10), other vessels and furniture pertaining to the tabernacle (Ex. 30:29), the holy perfume (Ex. 30:36), specified meat offerings (Lev. 2:3, 10; 6:17;
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God is My Judge 10:12), trespass offerings (Lev. 7:1, 6), the shewbread (Lev. 24:59), devoted things (Lev. 27:28), the holy district (Num. 18:10; Eze. 43:12), and the most holy place of the sanctuary (Ex. 26:33, 34). Nowhere in the Bible does this phrase apply to a person. In view of this fact and in view of the fact that the heavenly sanctuary is under discussion in the larger aspects of the vision (see on Dan. 8:14), it is reasonable to conclude that Daniel is here speaking of the anointing of the heavenly sanctuary prior to the time of Christs inauguration as high priest. Chapter 8 made no mention of a beginning point of the 2300 day prophecy. What is the beginning point of the 70 week prophecy given? Verse 25 - from the going forth of the command Great Controversy, p. 326. The seventy weeks were declared by the angel to date from the going forth of the commandment to restore and build Jerusalem. If the date of this commandment could be found, then the starting point for the great period of the 2300 days would be ascertained. There are three decrees to restore Jerusalem recorded in the book of Ezra: the first in the first year of Cyrus, about 537 B.C. (Ezra 1:1-4); the second in the reign of Darius I, soon after 520 (Ezra 6:1-12); and the third in the 7th year of Artaxerxes, 457 B.C. (Ezra 7:1-26) In their decrees neither Cyrus nor Darius made any genuine provision for the restoration of the civil state as a complete unit, though a restoration of both the religious and the civil government was promised in the prophecy of Daniel. The decree of the 7th year of Artaxerxes was the first to give the Jewish state full autonomy (independent self-government), subject to Persian overlordship. One of the double-dated papyri found at Elephantine, Egypt, a Jewish colony, was written in Artaxerxes accession year in January, 464 B.C. From this, the only known document of that year, compared with other ancient records, it can be deduced that by Jewish reckoning his beginning of reign, or accession year, began after the Jewish New Year of 465 B.C. and ended at the next New Year in the fall of 464. Hence his first year (his first full calendar year) would be from the fall of 464 to the fall of 463. The 7th year of Artaxerxes would then extend from the fall of 458 to the fall of 457. The specifications of the decree were not carried out until after Ezra returned from Babylon, which was the late summer or early fall of 457 B.C.
-Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, (Washington, D.C.: Review and Herald Publishing Association) 1978.

Ezra 7:7, 12, 13, 25 So, now that we know that the beginning date is 457 B.C. and we also know that Biblical time prophecy uses a day equals a year principle, (see Numbers 14:34 & Ezekiel 4:4-6) we should be able to find the ending dates of these two prophecies. seven weeks, and threescore and two weeks The natural method of calculating these weeks is to consider them consecutive, that is, the 62 weeks begin where the 7 weeks end. These divisions are components of the 70 weeks mentioned in v. 24 thus: 7+62+1=70. Beginning with the autumn of 457 B.C., when the decree went into effect, 69 prophetic weeks, or 483 years, reach to the baptism of Jesus in 27 A.D. This is due to the fact that historians (unlike astronomers) never count a year zero. Some have been puzzled as to how Christ could begin His work in A.D. 27 when the record says that He was about 30 years of age when He started His public ministry (Luke 3:23). This is due to the fact that when the Christian Era was first computed, an error of about four years occurred. That Christ was not born in A.D. 1, is evident from the fact that when He was born Herod the Great was still alive, and Herod died in 4 B.C. (see Matt. 2:1320). Therefore, from the command to restore and rebuild Jerusalem (457 B.C.) unto the Messiah the Prince would be 483 years, or to 27 A.D., the year of Christs baptism. even in troublous times The city of Jerusalem would be restored and rebuilt under opposition and distressing circumstances. (For further description read Prophets and Kings pp. 635-645)

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God is My Judge Verse 26 the Messiah shall be cut off In Hebrew it reads that after the threescore and two weeks, the Messiah will be cut off. That period ends in 27 A.D. Sometime after 27 A.D. during the seven years that make up the seventieth week the Messiah would be cut off. Cut off see Genesis 9:11; Numbers 9:13; Psalm 12:3; 34:16; 37:9, 22, 28, 38; Isaiah 53:8; Galatians 3:13 The term cut off refers to the experience Jesus went through at the cross. the people of the prince People (lit. heb. nation) of the prince (lit. heb. ruler or leader) The LXX (Septuagint) reads the king of nations. A phrased used to describe Gods use of a heathen nation (Imperial Rome) to punish a rebellious nation (Jewish nation) through the destruction of Jerusalem by Roman armies in 70 A.D. (See Matt. 22:1-7) with a flood - That is, in the sense of being overwhelming (see Isa. 8:7, 8). Verse 27 "And He shall confirm the covenant with many for one week." The "week" here brought to view is the last one of the seventy; it is the last seven years of the period allotted especially to the Jews. During this time, extending from A.D. 27 to A.D. 34, Christ, at first in person and afterward by His disciples, extended the gospel invitation especially to the Jews. As the apostles went forth with the good tidings of the kingdom, the Saviour's direction was: "Go not into the way of the Gentiles, and into any city of the Samaritans enter ye not: but go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel." Matthew 10:5, 6. Great Controversy, pp. 327-328. "In the midst of the week He shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease." In A.D. 31, three and a half years after His baptism, our Lord was crucified. With the great sacrifice offered upon Calvary, ended that system of offerings which for four thousand years had pointed forward to the Lamb of God. Type had met antitype, and all the sacrifices and oblations of the ceremonial system were there to cease. The seventy weeks, or 490 years, especially allotted to the Jews, ended, as we have seen, in A.D. 34. At that time, through the action of the Jewish Sanhedrin, the nation sealed its rejection of the gospel by the martyrdom of Stephen and the persecution of the followers of Christ. Then the message of salvation, no longer restricted to the chosen people, was given to the world.

sacrifice and the oblation The sacrifices met their anti-typical fulfillment in the voluntary sacrifice of Christ. The rending of the Temple veil by an unseen hand at the instant of Christs death was heavens announcement that the sacrifices and oblations had lost their significance. See also: Lev. 7:29; Deut. 31:24-26; Col. 2:14 He shall make it desolate referring again to the sad fate of the Jewish nation and their beloved city for rejecting the hope of salvation (see Matt. 23:38). Review In Daniel 8 we saw that the 2300 days was the only part not explained by Gabriel. In Daniel 9, there is no vision, just an explanation. Gabriel, the same angel interpreter in Daniel 8, comes to him to offer him an explanation, and the only place we last saw Daniel needing an explanation was in the 2300 days of Daniel 8. Gabriel then points him back specifically to the vision of the 2300 days, a time prophecy, and then gives him another time prophecy, the seventy weeks, which he says is cut off. Obviously, it must be cut off from the 2300 days. We are dealing here with two time elements: the longer 2300 days, which by itself has no beginning and end pointand the shorter 70 weeks, which had a definite beginning and end point.

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God is My Judge The seventy weeks, which begins in 457 B.C., is cut off from the larger 2300 days. How do we know whether to cut off the 70 weeks from the beginning or the ending? Two major problems occur if we cut off the 70 weeks from the ending of the 2300 days: The 2300 days would end in 34 A.D. placing the start of the prophecy at 2267 B.C., a date far out of the picture from what we have studied so far. But, more important, cutting it off from the end would place the cleansing of the sanctuary in 34 A.D. And we saw from our previous studies, the cleansing of the sanctuary must come after the 1260-year period off the little horn, which ended in 1798. The date 34 A.D. for the cleansing of the sanctuary does not fit. Plus, three times Daniel says that the vision in Daniel 8 is for the time of the end, and 34 A.D. is not near the time of the end. So, what do we get if we cut of the 70 weeks from the beginning? 2300 + 457 B.C = 1844 (remember to delete the zero calendar year)

Notice, too, how 1844 fits our criteria for the judgment: Comes after 1798 Comes before the Second Coming of Jesus Daniel 2 Babylon Media-Persia Greece Rome (pagan) Rome (papal) / (Divided World) Gods Kingdom Daniel 7 Babylon Media-Persia Greece Rome (pagan) Rome (papal) Judgment in heaven Gods Kingdom 605 - 539 B.C. 539 - 331 B.C. 331 - 168 B.C. 168 - 476 A.D. 538 - 1798 A.D. 1844 A.D. ------Daniel 8 ------Media-Persia Greece Rome (pagan) Rome (papal) Sanctuary cleansed Gods Kingdom

Remember: The life of Jesus is our assurance that the prophecy is correct. He forms the base for it. The prophecy stands as sure as Jesus Himself. Remember, too, that ancient Israel was not prepared for Jesus first coming because, among other reasons, they didnt understand the first part of the 2300-day prophecy: the 70 weeks, which was present truth for their time. We ourselves might not be prepared for Jesus 2nd coming because, among other things, we dont understand the 2nd part of that 2300day prophecy: the cleansing of the sanctuarypresent truth for our time. The Faith I Live By, p. 208. The 2300 days had been found to begin when the commandment of Artaxerxes for the restoration and building of Jerusalem went into effect, in the autumn of B.C. 457. Taking this as the starting point, there was perfect harmony in the application of all the events foretold in the explanation of that period in Daniel 9:25-27. . . . The seventy weeks, or 490 years, were to pertain especially to the Jews. At the expiration of this period, the nation sealed its rejection of Christ by the persecution of His disciples, and the apostles turned to the Gentiles, A.D. 34. The first 490 years of the 2300 having then ended, 1810 years would remain. From A.D. 34, 1810 years extend to 1844. "Then," said the angel, "shall the sanctuary be cleansed." Our faith in reference to the messages of the first, second, and third angels was correct. The great waymarks we have passed are immovable. Although the hosts of hell may try to tear them from their foundation, and triumph in the thought that they have succeeded, yet they do not succeed. These pillars of truth stand firm as the eternal hills, unmoved by all the efforts of men combined with those of Satan and his host. We can learn much, and should be constantly searching the Scriptures to see if these things are so.

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