The last section of the book begins. Now we will read of the visions that Daniel has and the revelations he receives from God. Chapters 7 and 8 actually took place before chapter 6. In chapter 2 we read of the 4 world empires, here we read of the same four, this time as 4 different beasts.
V.1-8 In chapter 2 we saw the 4 empires as man sees them, as a huge monument to his pride. Here we see these empires as God sees them, as beasts — dreadful. The first represents the Babylonian empire, as a lion. The second empire as a bear, the Medo-Persian. The third, as a leopard, the Grecian. The fourth, which was like no living animal, the Roman empire. It had 10 horns or 10 kings (v. 24).
V.9-10 Somewhat a description of what is written in Revelation 19:11-17 and refers to when the Roman Empire is restored, but finally utterly destroyed by the Lord Jesus at His appearing. You may remember reading in chapter 2:44-45 of the stone. We’re close to it now, because the 10 kingdoms of Europe are being formed before our eyes into the revived Roman Empire.
V.11 Refers to this revived Roman Empire (Rev. 19:20). Doesn’t this stir you into realizing that the Lord is coming any day?
V.13-14 The Lord’s appearing (“B” on your chart). Not the rapture.
V.17-22 The people who believe this “gospel of the kingdom,” to be preached after we are gone to glory.
V.23-28 The dreadful days ahead. But when the Lord appears, all these unsaved people shall be cast into hell. Then the Lord Jesus begins His reign over the earth for 1,000 years, the Millennium (“E” to “F” on chart).