1. Daniel's dream (1-14)

God gave Daniel a vision of the world and of the unfolding events of history. God is the Sovereign Lord of men and nations, and he rules history. The 4 beasts are 4 mighty empires: the Babylonian, the Medo-Persian, the Greek and Roman empires. Perhaps they also symbolize all the empires of men--empires which repeatedly rise and fall. The beasts seem to become progressively more terrifying. But God, the Ancient of Days, is on his throne. And the Son of Man will come with clouds of glory. Jesus will surely come in clouds of glory to establish his everlasting kingdom. This vision is our hope.

2. The interpretation of the dream (15-28)

God told Daniel the meaning of his vision: Four worldly kingdoms will arise, but the saints of God will receive his kingdom and possess it forever. We must not be terrified, even though we live under cruel and oppressive worldly powers. The world is a spiritual battlefield, and the devil continually makes war against the saints. But God gives victory to his people.

Application: Lord, help me to be an alert soldier in this great spiritual battle.
One Word: The Son of Man will come