The eleventh chapter of Daniel goes into some very specific and historically verifiable prophecies about the comings and goings of kingdoms of this world.
What should we conclude?
Any reading of world history, even over a period of a few hundred years, will conclude that the political kingdoms of this world are under the reign of sin and given to constant conflict with one another. Austin defines their key objectives down to four: power, pleasure, land, and money.
As we examine prophecies, histories, and even current events surrounding the political realities of this world, our studies should show us the clear distinctives between the kingdoms of this world and the kingdom of God. The kingdoms of this world compete with one another over power, pleasure, land, and money, but they oppose the kingdom of God because they operate with totally distinct systems of values.
Austin gives us four distinct values of the Kingdom of God over and against the values of the kingdom of this world.
- The Kingdom of God is concerned with proclaiming the Gospel and the salvation of souls.
- The Kingdom of God is concerned with an actual relationship with God that frees us from the curse of sin.
- The Kingdom of God values giving up power over acquiring power.
- The Kingdom of God has allegiance only to God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Discussion Questions
- What parts of world history do you find to be the most fascinating from Daniel 11?
- Why do you think God would want to reveal these events to Daniel?
- What are some of the common themes amongst the four distinct prophecies of Daniel 11?
- How are all of the kingdoms of this world essentially the same?
- What values do you see driving every political movement in the world today?
- Do you think Christians have become too enmeshed in the ways of politics?
- How do you understand the Kingdom of God from a political perspective?
- What message would Jesus preach in a convention full of Republicans and Democrats today?
- Why do political parties despise the ways of Jesus?
- How can you show ultimate allegiance to Jesus in your own life?