BRBC Bible Notes
Week by week, we post notes based on the theme of the Sunday service, so that people can follow them in their own personal devotions, in prayer triplets, or in the church life groups.
BRBC Bible Study Series - Daniel - Bible Study # 7
Daniel 7: The Son of Man and the Beastly Kingdoms
Main Passage: Daniel 7
Purpose of the Study To understand Daniel's vision of worldly kingdoms and the eternal reign of the Son of Man. This study helps us see history from heaven's perspective and encourages us to place our confidence not in earthly powers but in the everlasting kingdom of Jesus Christ.
Opening Prayer “Lord, help us see beyond earthly powers and trust Your everlasting kingdom. Open our eyes to Your glory and strengthen our hope in Your final victory. Amen.”
1. Read the Passage Instead of interpreting someone else's dream, Daniel receives a vision himself. Notice: The four beasts rising from the sea. The contrast between the beasts and the Son of Man. The appearance of the Ancient of Days. The promises given to God's people.
Questions
• What do the beasts represent?
• What stands out about the Son of Man?
2. Context and Summary
Daniel sees four great beasts emerge from the sea. These earthly empires appear humanly impressive, but heaven sees them as destructive and opposed to God. The Ancient of Days sits upon His throne in absolute authority and judgment. One "like a Son of Man" approaches Him and receives an everlasting kingdom. While earthly kingdoms rise and fall, God's kingdom remains forever.
OT Connections
• Psalm 2 - God's King reigning over the nations.
• Isaiah 9:6-7 - The everlasting kingdom of the Messiah.
• Daniel 2 - The stone that becomes an eternal kingdom.
• Psalm 110:1-2 - The Messiah reigning in power.
• Ezekiel 1 - A vision of God's heavenly throne.
NT Connections
• Matthew 24:30 - The coming of the Son of Man.
• Mark 14:61-62 - Jesus applies Daniel 7 to Himself.
• Revelation 1:12-18 - The glorified Christ.
• Revelation 5 - The Lamb receiving authority and worship.
• Philippians 2:9-11 - Every knee bowing before Christ.
Questions
• What does this chapter teach about God's view of power?
• How does Jesus fulfil Daniel's vision?
• How does this passage help us understand world events?
3. Key Themes and Reflections
Human Power Becomes Beastly When human authority rejects God's rule, it often becomes oppressive and destructive. Throughout history, governments, empires and leaders repeatedly demonstrate humanity's tendency toward pride, violence and self-exaltation. Daniel reminds us that political power alone cannot save the world.
Jesus Is the Son of Man The title "Son of Man" becomes Jesus' favourite description of Himself throughout the Gospels. Unlike the beasts, Jesus rules with righteousness, justice, humility and compassion. He is fully human, yet He receives worship, authority and an everlasting kingdom. Athanasius wrote: "The Son of God became man that men might become sons of God."
The Ancient of Days Reigns While earthly kingdoms appear powerful, Daniel sees that ultimate authority belongs to God alone. His throne is not threatened by elections, wars, revolutions, or global crises.
The Kingdom Belongs to the Saints One of the great surprises of the chapter is that God's people share in Christ's victory and kingdom. N.T. Wright wrote: "Jesus' kingdom is not about escaping the world but renewing it."
Questions
• What worldly powers compete for our trust today?
• How does Christ's kingdom differ from earthly kingdoms?
• Why do Christians sometimes place too much hope in politics or leaders?
• How does this vision strengthen believers facing opposition or uncertainty?
4. A Word to the Church
• Are we more excited about politics or God's kingdom?
• Do we live as kingdom citizens throughout the week?
• Are we allowing current events to create fear or strengthen our faith?
• Are we helping one another maintain an eternal perspective?
Challenge
The kingdom of Christ will outlast every earthly empire. News headlines may dominate our attention, but Daniel reminds us that history is ultimately moving toward the visible reign of Jesus Christ. The church's confidence must never rest in political systems, economic prosperity, or cultural influence, but in the risen and reigning Son of Man.
Questions
• Where do we place our confidence?
• How can BRBC display kingdom values within Horsham?
• What does it mean to live as citizens of heaven while serving on earth?
• How can we encourage one another with the hope of Christ's return?
5. Practical Action
• Pray regularly for Christ's kingdom to come.
• Read Revelation 1 and Revelation 5 this week.
• Reflect on areas where fear may be replacing faith.
• Encourage someone who is discouraged by current events.
• Look for opportunities to demonstrate kingdom values of love, truth, justice and mercy.
Areas for Prayer
• Hope and perseverance. The persecuted church.
• Kingdom witness & confidence in Christ's reign.
• World leaders and nations.
• The global church awaiting Christ's return.
Closing Scripture Meditation Daniel 7:14 "His dominion is an everlasting dominion that will not pass away and his kingdom is one that will never be destroyed."
Final Prayer “Lord Jesus, Son of Man and King of kings, help us to trust Your kingdom above every earthly power. Strengthen our hope, deepen our faith and keep our eyes fixed upon the day when every knee will bow and every tongue confess that You are Lord. May we live faithfully as citizens of Your everlasting kingdom. Amen.”
For a printable version of this, and previous editions, please click here.
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