Text: Daniel 9:20-27

Dear Young People,

DEEPENING OUR UNDERSTANDING
Imagine being instructed by an angel! However, the point of it all is NOT who instructs, but the contents. Our focus should be on the Word of God that was communicated rather than the communicator. Daniel had a part to play, and it was to "consider the matter", and to "understand the vision" (Daniel 9:23).

A SPECIAL PROPHETIC WORD GIVEN
The Angel Gabriel then began to explain to Daniel a truly profound prophecy. Let us take time to consider this prophecy.

"Seventy weeks are determined
For your people and for your holy city,
To finish the transgression,
To make an end of sins,
To make reconciliation for iniquity,
To bring in everlasting righteousness,
To seal up vision and prophecy,
And to anoint the Most Holy."
Daniel 9:24

Perhaps it will be easier to understand this prophecy if we bear in mind that this was God's answer to Daniel's prayer and supplication for Israel.

1. With reference to sin
Sin will take its course. The consequences must also be borne. There was a period of time ("seventy weeks") that had been assigned to Israel, and that would be fulfilled. Israel must of course be chastened for its many sins.

2. With reference to forgiveness
Yes, there would be forgiveness, as Daniel prayed. There would be "an end of sins". There would also be "reconciliation for iniquity". Daniel's prayer was heard indeed. His prayers and supplications had not been in vain after all.

3. A New Element
The words of the Angel must have brought a deep sense of thrill to the heart of Daniel. God was revealing something very new to Daniel. What did he mean by "everlasting righteousness"? How would that come about? What did the angel mean when he spoke about the "anointing of the Most Holy"?

Daniel of course would be familiar with the concept of the Messiah, for this word was associated with the word "anoint". What was the Angel Gabriel going to teach him further about the Messiah? What a challenge to know God's Word better!

Prayerfully,                                                                             

Pastor Charlie

First released 26th May 2002, © Bethany Independent-Presbyterian Church, Singapore