Daniel 11-12
Read Daniel 11-12
Helpful Background Information:
In Daniel 11, God revealed to Daniel an incredibly detailed prophecy about the future, stretching from the Persian Empire through Greece and all the way to the end times. First, Daniel was told about Persia’s kings, including Xerxes (Esther’s king) who attacked Greece (Daniel 11:2). Then came Alexander the Great (Daniel 11:3-4), whose empire split into four parts after his death. Two of those divisions, the Seleucids (north, Syria) and the Ptolemies (south, Egypt), fought for centuries, with Israel caught in between. One Seleucid ruler, Antiochus Epiphanes (Daniel 11:21), became infamous for persecuting the Jews, desecrating the temple by sacrificing a pig on the altar, and demanding worship of Greek gods (Daniel 11:31). However, the prophecy then shifts from Antiochus to a future ruler called the Antichrist (Daniel 11:36). This final evil king will exalt himself above every god, set up an abomination in the temple, and rule until God brings his reign to an end (2 Thessalonians 2:3-4; Matthew 24:15).
In Daniel 12, the angel spoke about the time of the end, when there will be a period of great trouble; worse than anything this world has ever experienced (Daniel 12:1; Jeremiah 30:7). During this time, Michael the archangel will stand up to protect God’s people, and those whose names are written in the book will be delivered. Daniel was also told about the resurrection of the dead: some will rise to everlasting life, and others to shame and everlasting contempt (Daniel 12:2). This prophecy closes by reminding Daniel that these things will happen in the last days, and though he didn’t understand it all, God promised he would rise again to receive his inheritance at the end (Daniel 12:13).
Reflection Questions:
Daniel 11 describes many human rulers rising and falling. What does this teach you about where true security is found?
Antiochus Epiphanes persecuted God’s people harshly. How might his historical example prepare us for future times when faith in God is opposed?
Daniel 12:2 teaches that everyone will rise from the dead; some to everlasting life, some to shame. How does this truth affect your priorities right now?
This chapter says “those who turn many to righteousness” will shine forever. Who in your life is God calling you to point towards Him this week?
Reflect on the overall message of Daniel 11–12. What is one thing God is teaching you about His sovereignty, justice, or your response to Him?