June 9: ROCK OF AGES

There shall arise in his place one who imposes taxes on the glorious kingdom; but within a few days he shall be destroyed, but not in anger or in battle. Daniel 11:20  

The sweep of history leading to the end of time is better understood if a view of Jesus is kept in the center, for Christ (not the Antichrist) is the central focus of prophecy as well as the Author of all Scripture. The latter section of Daniel 11 leads up to our day and time. A look back over this chapter reinforces the sequence of empires that have had a direct impact upon the people of God. Verses 1-2 refer to Media-Persia (see also 2:39a; 7:5; 8:3-4,20). Verses 3-13 refer to Greece (see also 2:39b; 7:6; 8:5-8,21). Verses 14-29 refer to pagan Rome (see also 2:40; 7:7). The last two verses of this section (vv.28&29) depict the transition from pagan to papal Rome. More on this later…

Today’s opening verse hones in on an event in history that “rocked” our world. That event is the birth of Jesus Christ, the promised Messiah. In the context of pagan Rome, there was a Caesar known particularly for raising taxes. And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered [for taxes] (Luke 2:1). This is the decree that brought Joseph and Mary to Bethlehem, the place specified in prophecy where the Messiah would be born (Micah 5:2). Caesar Augustus was very well-liked by the Romans. He enjoyed tremendous political favor among the masses. He was Caesar 27BC-14AD.

The next verse in Daniel 11 marks a contrast of Roman rulers: And in his [Augustus’] place shall arise a vile person, to whom they will not give the honor of royalty; but he shall come in peaceably, and seize the kingdom by intrigue (Daniel 11:21). This is speaking of Tiberius. The health of Augustus was failing fast. In the year 13AD Tiberius began as the adopted co-regent with Augustus; he had not been the first choice of Augustus (the preferred heirs had both died very young). Although the transition of leadership occurred without upheaval—peaceably—Tiberius was immensely disliked. His sole rule over Rome was 14 to 37AD. Neither the citizenry nor the Senate liked Tiberius, who was well on his way to developing a severe case of paranoia. He had people executed at the slightest provocation. Tiberius was in power when Jesus was crucified, which brings us to the next verse: With the force of a flood they shall be swept away from before him and be broken, and also the prince of the covenant (Daniel 11:22). Thus, in verses 20-22 we see the birth and death of Jesus that encompassed His first coming and earthly ministry.

In Daniel 2:34, He is the Rock that struck the image on its feet—the image that symbolized the kingdoms and their idolatrous religions that would consistently come against the true God. This is an explicit reference to the second coming of Christ. Beloved, you and I are assured no trace of them [will be] found (2:35) in His everlasting kingdom to come.

Then to Him was given dominion and glory and a kingdom, That all peoples, nations, and languages shall serve Him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion, Which shall not pass away, And His kingdom the one Which shall not be destroyed. Daniel 7:14