Overview

Through the study of the book of Daniel, we learn how to trust God in the midst of challenging times. The first half of Daniel contains stories about Daniel and his Hebrew friends, in which the kings of Babylon threaten to bring the faithful Jews to an end. In each case, however, God overrules the human rulers with amazing interventions that protect the Hebrews. The second half of Daniel contains visions of the end that unveil the deeper dimensions of God's present and future sovereign rule. The visions show that just as God ruled over the life and times of Daniel, God continues to rule over every earthly kingdom. Ultimately, God will bring all human kingdoms to an end, and He will establish His eternal kingdom with Jesus the Messiah as king. Daniel's visions assure us that God is in control and that we can trust in Him. The visions of the end give us vibrant hope so that we can fulfill our mission as faithful witnesses of Jesus Christ until He returns. Even in the face of difficult challenges and persecution, we can live faithfully in the light of the end. This study guide will lead you through an easy six-step process of inductive Bible study: 1. Reading for First Impressions, 2. Reading for Discovering the Facts, 3. Marking the Text, 4. Reading for Transformation, 5. Reading for Interpretation, and 6. Hearing and Obeying God's Word. Through these six steps, you will be guided into deeper discoveries that will enrich your relationship with God and strengthen your faith.