Daniel - Introduction

The book of Daniel is the final book that is classified as 'a major prophet'. He was one of many who were taken captive to Babylon and was placed in the king's service. The Lord gave Daniel the ability to interpret dreams (which God gave) that revealed things that were 'yet to come'. Through this book we see that God has a plan for world history and His people (the Jews) that will culminate with the coming of God's final and eternal kingdom. The prophecies are so accurate that some said 'it must have been written after the fact'. However, God is sovereign over all things and He knows the end from the beginning. HE has made known what will come to pass through the prophet so that all may recognize that He is the Lord. The future is in God's hands, so is every person and every world power and nation. "The Most High is Sovereign over the kingdoms of men" (Daniel 5:21). Read this book and be humbled before the Lord, as well as, have hope in Him !
Note: Daniel deals with political matters and the answer to the question, 'who will rule the world?' (McGee)

Theme: God Rules the World (Jensen)
 God's Sovereignty over kingdoms and His unfolding plan for the future (Swindoll)

Key Verses: 2:44, 4:17

Suggested Outlines:

I.  Historic Events 1-6
II. Prophetic Events 7-12

or

I.  Daniel the Prophet 1-6
II. The Prophecies of Daniel 7-12
(Swindoll)

or

I.  Introduction 1
II. Gentile Nations 2-7
III.Hebrew Nation 8-12
(Jensen)