Daniel

Introduction to Daniel

Download mp3 teachings on Daniel from James

Authorship and Date

The book claims to have been written by the prophet Daniel (Dan. 7:28; 8:1, 15, 27; 9:2; 10:2, 7; 12:5; see “Authorship of Daniel”), probably around the year 530 BC.

Major themes in Daniel

The sovereignty of God. Archer writes, “The basic theme of this work is the overruling sovereignty of the one true God, who condemns and destroys the rebellious world power and faithfully delivers His covenant people according to their steadfast faith in Him.” Miller concurs, “Without doubt the principal theological focus of the book is the sovereignty of God. Every page reflects the author’s conviction that his God was the Lord of individuals, nations, and all of history.”

God’s concern for the faithful remnant. Even though Israel is exiled, God still shows concern for the people. He answers Daniel’s prayer in chapter 9 by promising to bring the Jewish people back from conquest after Jeremiah’s predicted 70 years (Dan. 9:2).

God’s promise of the Messiah. We see this in Daniel 7:13-14 and 9:24-27.

Spiritual warfare. In Daniel, we see a window into the spiritual battles that surround us between angels and demons.

Prayer. Daniel’s prayers show a deep closeness with God. This might account for how Daniel has such a strong faith over the years.

Teaching Rotation

We are going to teach the narrative portions of Daniel as a unit. Then, we are finished, we will return to teach the prophetic portions.

Week 1: Read “Introduction to Daniel,” “Authorship of Daniel,” and Daniel 1.

Week 2: Daniel 2, 7, and 8. Consider using relevant chapters from Endless Hope or Hopeless End (ch.5 and ch.15).

Week 3: Daniel 3 and 4.

Week 4: Daniel 5 and 6.

Week 5: Daniel 9. Read chapters 7 & 8 from Evidence Unseen, or prepare your own study.

Week 6: Daniel 10-12.