The first part of Daniel’s dream vision was the stuff of night terrors. The four apocalyptic beasts were fierce predators, each more terrifying than the previous one. The four parts of the statue in chapter two represented four kingdoms; now Daniel saw their true nature. These rapacious creatures embodied the four brutal super-powers under which God’s people would suffer—repeatedly. While the stationary image signified the idolatrous world views of the dark kingdoms, the violence of these beasts exposed the lawless end product of idolatry, no matter what form it takes. God’s people should rightfully quail at the prospect.
For that reason, the second part of the vision is of utmost importance—for Daniel’s audience and for us.
The Almighty God is on His throne. What words can possibly capture God’s radiant and holy presence? God is surrounded by fire and flaming wheels, with an accompanying river of fire. Fire purifies. Woe to us indeed, if we fail to bow our faces to the ground in appropriate fear and dread; “our God is a consuming fire” (Hebrews 12:28–29).
What can convey God’s absolute and everlasting rule of the universe? That’s the point of “Ancient of Days” and blindingly white hair and clothing (see Psalm 104:2). We must linger on these words and images that catapult us to the vaults of heaven. Far above all else that we may find tumultuous and terrifying, God reigns supreme, and God will judge. Daniel saw the books opened and those utterly fearsome beasts either subdued or destroyed.
Then, the Son of Man arrived with the clouds of heaven, was ushered into the presence of the Ancient of Days, and was given dominion, glory, and power (Daniel 7:13–14). Everyone would serve Him, and His kingdom would never end. In other words, the Son of Man is God.
Jesus intentionally chose this title for Himself (Matthew 8:20; 11:18–19). His audiences might first have thought of Ezekiel, whom God repeatedly summoned with the words, “son of man,” affirming the prophet’s human nature, entirely given over to serving God. But they would also be familiar with this passage. Daniel’s “Son of Man” was invested with all the accoutrements of deity. By consistently calling Himself “Son of Man,” Jesus was affirming and declaring that He is both fully God and fully human.
That culminated in the exchange between Caiaphas and Jesus (Matthew 26:57–67). When Caiaphas put Jesus under oath, Jesus declared they would “see the Son of Man seated at the right hand of Power and coming on the clouds of heaven” (v.64). This one bold statement drew together this passage from Daniel 7 and King David’s words from Psalm 110:1—two key passages Caiaphas would have been well acquainted with, both of which unquestionably point to God and no one less. No wonder those religious leaders at Jesus’s trial tore their robes!
Make no mistake, Jesus was declaring Himself God before those religious leaders who should have been anxiously awaiting His arrival. Their human judgment of Jesus is an ironic contrast with the image of God’s coming judgment in Daniel 7:9–10. Nevertheless, in God’s cosmic judicial proceedings, those events affected true justice—for eternity.
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41 thoughts on "The Ancient of Days and the Son of Man"
The Ancient of Days – that says it all. HE IS ON THE THRONE.
read isaiah 44:24 and daniel 7:13-14 read john jesus tells you that he is the son of god thats the title god gave him they are two different people look every spirit that god creates he gives a title and a position and skills and so forth so know one can claim to be god or make anyone think they are god read isaiah 42:8 thank god bless in jesus name amen
Wow. This dream vision is just incredible – to get a glimpse like that! What an incredible thing to see. Completely epic!
God is in control and we must trust him in all things daniel rested in the lord and was obedient to him in a things
We must love boldly and live a bold right life for Christ.
I really enjoy reading the posts here after reading His Word and a little Commentary work :) I personally struggle to see past the words (literal person) and relating one part of the Bible to another. So far this study allowed me to actually write in my Bible for the first time in my life and be happy about it :) (like clean books and of course my Bible)
My Bible is something I treasure and know what I’m able to put in the side notes is something I can carry with me for such a very long time and something I can teach my kiddos (something more than kid version) .
The world is scary and I know God will always be there with me no matter what situation comes my way and Daniel is proof of just how Wonderful God is :)
The picture of God her reminds me of one in Revelation: you have to keep in mind that mere words cannot describe to contain the majesty and power of God.
Sarah
Praying that you will find a way to put God in the pause when those thoughts enter your head and find true surrender with a quick and honest prayer “I give these thoughts to you Lord and will rest in your plan for me.” True surrender leaves you With peace. Live one day at a time and be present for the moments….enjoying each one rather than be focused on the future. Peace, sister!
The Ancient of Days is in control!!! No matter how frightening He has our backs. Praise Him
I found that Daniel seeing Jesus, our savior, in his visions so exciting and hopeful. He saw past all the different nations in power and saw Jesus, who wouldn’t be born for a very long time, saw him in his glory and power and dominion! I felt very comforted. I’m learning so much, especially because all of this is so new to me.
Hallelujah! Praise the name of the Lord!!
I am so thankful for these daily readings. Prayers to you all! <3
Praise be to God’s dominion. Blessed by His Son. Today’s readings hit home ❤️
God is so good!
This vision kinda scares me.. especially with what’s going on in our world. I’m surprised by how much I’m learning from Daniel. I loved the comment from yesterday that said God saved Daniel while he was IN the lions den.. he saved the 3 men while they were IN the furnace. Hard events and life’s struggles are guaranteed as well as His presence and protection during those times. I’m adding the phrase “God shut the lions mouth” to my daily prayers. Love this so much.
We in deed in perilous times but Daniel and lion den and the 3 men in the furnace show me God is always with and he will protect his people. So he will protect us. They give me hoe and comfort. Psalms also does and pleading the blood of Jesus over myself and family daily.
Jene praying thanking God for your husband and all the RN’s and medical staff out there serving and helping so many, and praying for quick healing and God’s rest for him. Sarah D, praying with you and for you to draw near to the Lord, for as you immerse yourself in the Word and His desires for you, He will tell you your value and you will find strength for the waiting and the right relationship when it comes. He has good for your heart, don’t settle for less. Rhonda Wood praying for you and all the teacher servants pouring out time and care for kids that is so needed. His grace and strength over you all. What gifts you are. May you feel Jesus joy and the Holy Spirit filling you with all you need as you trust in our loving God. Angie, praying your MRI results are good and you don’t have to have any more. I have prayed and wept in those machines twice in my life because I was required to lay flat on my back once and it was so much pain that all I could do was pray and the pain leaked out of my eyes. I thought that would be the worst of it and when I injured my arm years later tried to comfort myself with it wouldn’t be as bad as the time before, but they required I hold my injured arm raised in an awkward position and this too was such intense pain as I called upon Jesus and wept, trying not to move. He helped me through it. I do not have the fear, but can understand it. Hugs dear Angie. He is so good to us, never leaves or fails us. I read your faith daily and it encourages me. Hugs Sisters all! His incredible joy to your day!
Oh Father, help us to maintain our hope and joy and bravery from your great Might— help us to resist looking to ourselves, to culture or to man to find relief or safety. In the midst of chaos in our land and world, we pray that you would help us to find peace in you alone. Lord, please give your people wisdom and courage to defend our God given liberties, and stand in the face of evil, but also the humility to follow your lead. Thank you for being bigger than it all.
Such a great reminder of God’s sovereignty, needed in this tumultuous time! With the Ancient of Days on the throne and the Son of Man shepherding me, all is well with my soul!
Sending prayers to you, Sarah, to keep your focus on Christ. We do best to bring ourselves whole to relationships, not looking for others to fulfill what only Jesus is able to. You are wise to know this. Be confident! As a Christ follower, you are amazing. Make sure whomever is privileged enough to be on your arm knows this too!
Prayers for all educators. I truly cannot imagine the stress. You are serving our future. Take heart and know many are praying for you! Lay your stress at His feet. Know that only the power of heaven could stand in this crazy time. Take rest in Him. I know you are all doing your best in these trying times. Thank you for your service.
I am trying to help a young lad who is 8 and doing online school. I have one student an hour or two a day. It is very trying. I struggle with patience. I cannot imagine a classroom! Lord, pour out Your favor on our educators! Give them heavenly strength, wisdom and rest. Pour out Your favor on parents who are now educators! Comfort us all in Your loving embrace. We all need Your supernatural love power in this difficult time. Thank You for sending Your Son to be our healer and advocate. Draw us closer to You, the only Truth that matters.
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Powerful
This has been such a timely study in lieu of our world situation! Thank you all who are a part of the She Reads Truth sisterhood.I especially enjoyed today’s reflections. “Beasts are for a moment, Jesus is forever”. Yes, Churchmouse. As the old hymn states, “Let us keep our eyes upon Jesus. look full in His wonderful face. And the things of the world will go strangely dim, in the light of His glory and grace.” Happy Thursday, sisters!
Please pray for my husband, an RN, who is isolating in the back room as we speak , with Covid symptoms, awaiting testing. Thank you, prayer warriors!
Amen and amen
Praise God who is in control, even when kingdoms rise and fall, and rulers come in and out of power. He is still on the throne and will always be throughout eternity.
Prayer request that’s unrelated to today’s topic…I’ve been thinking a lot about relationships (many people I know are getting engaged) and I’ve been feeling conflicted. I’ve never dated anyone and it’s always been a struggle for me to act normally around guys. I feel that the past month or so I’ve been obsessing way too much over a guy I thought was cute. I talked to him yesterday, and I realized, men make horrible gods. I’ve been dangerously close to placing my worth and satisfaction in what this guy thinks of me, and thinking WAY too down the line if he could be a potential marriage partner…so I’m praying that I would have self control and constantly remind myself that only Jesus can satisfy. Nothing else will last…everything else will disappoint. I feel that I’m definitely fighting against the enemy in this area, because I feel sometimes constantly bombarded with thoughts about all of this, and I just want those thoughts to stop and for me to keep Christ above it all. Prayers appreciated to focus on the Lord and trust in his timing and plan. That I wouldn’t be nervous around guys and treat them as friends/brothers in Christ…and remember that ONLY Christ can satisfy. Sorry for the little rant…love you all!
Thanks for sharing. Praying for you.
I needed this passage. To remember that my God is a consuming fire and that He is victorious . I’m having a hard time with online teaching 45 kids grade 2/3 and no support from the school. All the resources I have purchased and I sometimes feel overwhelmed getting to bed at 1:00 am and working all day . But I need to draw in him for support and peace in the middle of the storm
You are making a difference. Keep shining Gods light to your students. He has a plan
Rhonda, I’m a teacher too. I am teaching 4th graders online, but with a MUCH smaller number of students. Even with the smaller number, I can’t figure out how to do this efficiently and
Sorry my message sent before I finished. I will be praying for you. One resource that helps me is the Teach 4 the Heart podcast. I know we have NO time to listen to podcasts, but today’s was only 2 minutes long and was very encouraging to me.
I love seeing how intentional Jesus was in using the name Son of Man and how it directly points to this passage in Daniel. It’s amazing how intricately weaved together the Word of God is, both Old and New Testaments.
I love the passage because it gives me so much hope. Sometimes I get overwhelmed and scared when I think of the world, where it’s going… But God- He shows us that He’s got this, and if I focus on that powerful picture of him in white, with fire surrounding and thousands worshiping- I can calm that anxiety and fear I have and remember He is was, is, and will be in control no matter what comes.
This reading was somewhat challenging due to wanting to get everything out of it that I could. I find great comfort in knowing that God knows all and sees all, even when it means He sees all of me at all times.
Thank you, Angie for the suggestion to read HRT this morning. This image of God the Father is so powerful and beautiful: “He is the picture of strength that comes from wisdom and the power of righteousness. He doesn’t inspire fear, but worship.”
May I be inspired to worship Him today and everyday.
Beautiful prayer.
Beautiful prayer!
I’ve had terrifying dreams. I’ve learned to wake myself up so as not to be overcome with dread nor see the potential ending. Daniel’s vision is indeed terrifying but I’m so glad he stayed focus on the vision beyond the beasts’ appearing. Daniel “kept watching” and so he saw thrones set in place and the very Ancient of Days take his seat. Daniel “continued watching” and saw “one like the son of man” coming with the clouds of heaven. He saw Jesus! Daniel’s terrifying dream revealed hope for all generations! May I too keep watch, keep looking forward to the hope we have. Let’s choose to glance at the beasts but fix our gaze on Jesus. Beasts are but for a moment. Jesus’ kingdom is forever more. Let us be thankful!
Beautiful, Angie! Thank you for sharing. I am one of those teacher friends. I appreciate your prayers & am praying for you. As of next week, we will have made it through the whole first quarter in person, with some kids remote. The hybrid model, plus everything else, is exhausting & overwhelming. Friends, teachers need your prayers & your words of encouragement.
As I was adjusting to my new schedule for my clinical rotation last week, the early mornings got the better of me and I only did my devotions 2 times last week. This week I’ve been going to bed earlier so I can wake up early because I love to start my days off with time for me and God. God has sure been faithful waking me up at 5:30 (before my alarm) the last 3 mornings so I have plenty of time for Him. While I am thankful that the Son of Man is radiant, powerful, and mighty; I’m also thankful that He is the quiet gentle spirit that naturally wakes me up extra early to coax me into precious moments with Him :)
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A couple of weeks ago, when the teenage girls were here for Bible study, they asked me what would happen when we die. Specifically they asked about when we go before God in judgement and heaven. I am not a funny person but, I came back with, “I haven’t actually been there yet, but…” and we all laughed. They asked about the Bema Seat, and judgement. As they were asking I was praying for help…I am in so over my head Lord…what was I thinking, give me only Your words please Lord, nothing more, nothing less. I shared whatever God gave me at that time, which was not detailed, or eloquent (as Churchmouse would have been). Then Sunday, at church, the pastor preached on Heaven. He talked about the Bema Seat, the Great White Throne judgement, and about what scripture says Heaven will be like. He talked about the gift of salvation and that while we can do nothing to earn our salvation what we do while we are here on Earth does matter. He shared some of what God gave me that night and so much more. Last night, as the girls came again, they stayed late (for me), laughing, questioning, and talking about…so many things. Included in much of that time was conversation about Jesus return and our going to Heaven then or when we die. I was able to share some of what I learned from the sermon on Sunday. Then this morning SRT has these scriptures from Daniel. (I can honestly say I am thankful the girls didn’t ask me about these!) I thank God for bringing more learning to my heart and mind this morning. It is those details of God, the eternal past, present, and future – ness of Him that continues to astound me. I think I know Him, then He draws me in even closer. And, I am thankful.
P.S. Ladies the He Reads Truth…so awesome today again also. May you be blessed today and always. Teacher friends…you are in my thoughts and prayers heavily right now. May God’s power and strength be yours, moment by moment.
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Thank You, Almighty God, that You are on Your throne. Thank You that even though life is weird and shaky and at times terrifying I know that Your kingdom is unshakable. It cannot be moved. Help me to serve you acceptably, with reverence and awe.