THE ANCIENT OF DAYS

Daniel 7:9-14
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.

Daniel’s Vision of Four Beasts

9 I watched as thrones were put in place and the Ancient One sat down to judge. His clothing was as white as snow, his hair like purest wool. He sat on a fiery throne with wheels of blazing fire, 10 and a river of fire was pouring out, flowing from his presence. Millions of angels ministered to him; many millions stood to attend him. Then the court began its session, and the books were opened.

11 I continued to watch because I could hear the little horn’s boastful speech. I kept watching until the fourth beast was killed and its body was destroyed by fire. 12 The other three beasts had their authority taken from them, but they were allowed to live a while longer.

13 As my vision continued that night, I saw someone like a son of man coming with the clouds of heaven. He approached the Ancient One and was led into his presence. 14 He was given authority, honor, and sovereignty over all the nations of the world, so that people of every race and nation and language would obey him. His rule is eternal—it will never end. His kingdom will never be destroyed.

The Book of Daniel underscores the temporary nature of earthly kingdoms in contrast to the everlasting kingdom that will be ushered in by a man who receives authority, glory and sovereign power (v. 13-14) from the Ancient of Days. The affairs of people and nations may appear to be independent of God’s divine control, but regardless of how people rebel against the plan and purposes of God, He remains sovereign over the kingdoms of men. God will, one day, set up a kingdom that will never be destroyed. It will endure forever, bringing all other kingdoms to an end. And the One who will reign over it … none other than Jesus Christ.