Scripture Reading: Daniel 2
Review and Explanation: God has a plan for restoring the earth as a place where His rule is fully honored and obeyed, as it is everywhere else in the universe. His plan centers on the establishment of an earthly kingdom ruled by the Savior/King promised in Genesis 3:15. This general character of this earthly kingdom was framed for Noah after the Flood (see Genesis 8:20-9:17). Then God promised Abraham that both the future King and the nation over which His earthly rule would be established would come from him. God also promised Abraham the land that would become the geographical center of the future King's rule (see Genesis 12:1-3). Years later, God actually established the beginning of this earthly kingdom through Moses with the giving of the Law to Israel. However, over time, Israel proved to be a stiff-necked people, and eventually because of their sin, the earthly kingdom was temporarily suspended in history (see Ezekiel 10). That brings us to Daniel 2. In Daniel 2, the Lord reveals His plan for the nations during the time the earthly kingdom centered on Israel is suspended. This period of time is known in the Bible as "the times of the Gentiles."
Reflection Questions: What indications in Daniel 2 do you see that God is in control of human history and of His plan to restore the earth as a place where His rule is fully honored and obeyed? How might you reflect in your life the realities of God that Daniel calls attention to in his prayer of 2:20-23?
Additional Resource: A very helpful resource for understanding the Book of Daniel and its contribution to the teaching on the Kingdom of God in history is "The Prophet Daniel" by Arno Clemens Gaebeliein. This book can be downloaded for free through Google. It is a classic and well-worth the time to read and study.
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