Sermon Notes from "A Vision of the Future: Four Beastly Kingdoms and the Victory of God." Sermon by Mitch Chase.

[From the 10:45AM worship service yesterday at Kosmosdale Baptist Church.]

Daniel 7:1-14.

I. General Introduction:

A. The Bible as great literature;

B. The Bible as God's Word.

II. Introduction to Daniel 7

A. Daniel 7 as Apocalyptic Literature:
1. The details may be controversial;
2. We must grasp the main point.

B. This chapter is of utmost importance:
1. It is centrally located in the book;
2. It is quoted several times in the NT.

III. Four Beasts

A. Introduction to the Four Beasts
1. Daniel 7 does not pick up where Daniel 6 left off, but it recounts a previous event.
2. The sea in turmoil sets the stage for Daniel's strange vision.

B. The four beasts symbolize four kingdoms:
1. Lion w/wings = Babylon Empire
2. Bear w/ribs in mouth = Medo-Persian Empire
3. Four-headed winged leopard = Greek Empire
4. Terrifying beast = Roman Empire

IV. Ancient of Days

A. "Ancient of Days" refers to God's eternality.

B. Description of the Ancient of Days:
1. Clothing and hair as white symbolize His purity and wisdom;
2. Description of the throne recalls Ezekiel 1;
3. Fire may symbolize judgment;
4. God's angels are numerous;
5. Books symbolize God's extensive knowledge of our deeds.

V. Son of Man

A. The Identity of the Son of Man
1. The Son of Man is clearly depicted with divine imagery.
2. The Son of Man will reign forever.

B. The NT testimony of Jesus as the Son of Man:
1. Matt 24:30ff.
2. Luke 9:22. "Here is our hope!"