Daniel 9
BSB1 In the first year of Darius son of Xerxes, a Mede by descent, who was made ruler over the kingdom of the Chaldeans — 2 in the first year of his reign, I, Daniel, understood from the sacred books, according to the word of the LORD to Jeremiah the prophet, that the desolation of Jerusalem would last seventy years. 3 So I turned my attention to the Lord God to seek Him by prayer and petition, with fasting, sackcloth, and ashes. 4 And I prayed to the LORD my God and confessed, “O, Lord, the great and awesome God, who keeps His covenant of loving devotion to those who love Him and keep His commandments, 5 we have sinned and done wrong. We have acted wickedly and rebelled. We have turned away from Your commandments and ordinances. 6 We have not listened to Your servants the prophets, who spoke in Your name to our kings, leaders, and fathers, and to all the people of the land. 7 To You, O Lord, belongs righteousness, but this day we are covered with shame—the men of Judah, the people of Jerusalem, and all Israel near and far, in all the countries to which You have driven us because of our unfaithfulness to You. 8 O LORD, we are covered with shame—our kings, our leaders, and our fathers—because we have sinned against You. 9 To the Lord our God belong compassion and forgiveness, even though we have rebelled against Him 10 and have not obeyed the voice of the LORD our God to walk in His laws, which He set before us through His servants the prophets. 11 All Israel has transgressed Your law and turned away, refusing to obey Your voice; so the oath and the curse written in the Law of Moses the servant of God has been poured out on us, because we have sinned against You. 12 You have carried out the words spoken against us and against our rulers by bringing upon us a great disaster. For under all of heaven, nothing has ever been done like what has been done to Jerusalem. 13 Just as it is written in the Law of Moses, all this disaster has come upon us, yet we have not sought the favor of the LORD our God by turning from our iniquities and giving attention to Your truth. 14 Therefore the LORD has kept the calamity in store and brought it upon us. For the LORD our God is righteous in all He does; yet we have not obeyed His voice. 15 Now, O Lord our God, who brought Your people out of the land of Egypt with a mighty hand, and who made for Yourself a name renowned to this day, we have sinned; we have acted wickedly. 16 O Lord, in keeping with all Your righteous acts, I pray that Your anger and wrath may turn away from Your city Jerusalem, Your holy mountain; for because of our sins and the iniquities of our fathers, Jerusalem and Your people are a reproach to all around us. 17 So now, our God, hear the prayers and petitions of Your servant. For Your sake, O Lord, cause Your face to shine upon Your desolate sanctuary. 18 Incline Your ear, O my God, and hear; open Your eyes and see the desolation of the city that bears Your name. For we are not presenting our petitions before You because of our righteous acts, but because of Your great compassion. 19 O Lord, listen! O Lord, forgive! O Lord, hear and act! For Your sake, O my God, do not delay, because Your city and Your people bear Your name." 20 While I was speaking, praying, confessing my sin and that of my people Israel, and presenting my petition before the LORD my God concerning His holy mountain— 21 while I was still praying, Gabriel, the man I had seen in the earlier vision, came to me in swift flight about the time of the evening sacrifice. 22 He instructed me and spoke with me, saying: “O Daniel, I have come now to give you insight and understanding. 23 At the beginning of your petitions, an answer went out, and I have come to tell you, for you are highly precious. So consider the message and understand the vision: 24 Seventy weeks are decreed for your people and your holy city to stop their transgression, to put an end to sin, to make atonement for iniquity, to bring in everlasting righteousness, to seal up vision and prophecy, and to anoint the Most Holy Place. 25 Know and understand this: From the issuance of the decree to restore and rebuild Jerusalem, until the Messiah, the Prince, there will be seven weeks and sixty-two weeks. It will be rebuilt with streets and a trench, but in times of distress. 26 Then after the sixty-two weeks the Messiah will be cut off and will have nothing. Then the people of the prince who is to come will destroy the city and the sanctuary. The end will come like a flood, and until the end there will be war; desolations have been decreed. 27 And he will confirm a covenant with many for one week, but in the middle of the week he will put an end to sacrifice and offering. And on the wing of the temple will come the abomination that causes desolation, until the decreed destruction is poured out upon him. “
Study Notes — Daniel 9
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from Daniel 9
- Themes from Daniel 9
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on Daniel 9
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
The chapter begins with Daniel's prayer of confession and intercession for his people, based on his understanding of the prophecy in Jeremiah 29:10, which stated that the Babylonian captivity would last for 70 years. As Daniel prays, the angel Gabriel appears to him and provides an interpretation of the prophecy, which includes the prediction of the coming Messiah and the destruction of Jerusalem. The chapter concludes with a vision of the future, including the 70 weeks of years, which will culminate in the redemption of God's people. Key verses include Daniel 9:2, where Daniel understands the prophecy of Jeremiah, and Daniel 9:24, where the angel Gabriel provides the interpretation of the 70 weeks.
Context for the Chapter
Daniel chapter 9 is situated in the context of the Babylonian captivity, where Daniel and his people are living in exile. The chapter is a continuation of the story of Daniel, which began in Daniel 1, where Daniel and his friends were taken captive by the Babylonians. The chapter also points to the larger biblical narrative, which includes the prophecy of Jeremiah and the coming of the Messiah. The context of the chapter highlights the sovereignty of God, who is able to fulfill His plans and prophecies despite the circumstances of His people.
Heart Application
The chapter encourages believers to pray with humility and sincerity, confessing their sins and interceding for the restoration of God's people. The chapter also points to the importance of understanding and trusting in the prophecy of God, which is a key aspect of the Christian faith. As believers, we can apply the principles of this chapter by praying with faith and trust, and by seeking to understand and fulfill the plans and prophecies of God in our lives.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
Daniel chapter 9 is about the prophet Daniel's prayer for his people and the interpretation of the prophecy of the 70 weeks. The chapter highlights the importance of prayer, the fulfillment of prophecy, and the redemptive plan of God. As Daniel prays, the angel Gabriel appears to him and provides an interpretation of the prophecy, which includes the prediction of the coming Messiah and the destruction of Jerusalem. The chapter encourages believers to pray with humility and sincerity, and to trust in the prophecy of God.
Voices from the Church
“The prayer of Daniel is a model of humble and sincere prayer, as he confesses the sins of his people and intercedes for their restoration. This highlights the importance of prayer in the life of the believer.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“The fulfillment of prophecy is a key aspect of the Christian faith, as it points to the reliability and trustworthiness of God's Word. The chapter highlights the fulfillment of prophecy, as Daniel understands the prophecy of Jeremiah and the angel Gabriel provides an interpretation of the 70 weeks.”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- Introduction to the Chapter (Daniel 9:1-2) — The chapter begins with Daniel's understanding of the prophecy in Jeremiah 29:10, which stated that the Babylonian captivity would last for 70 years.
- Daniel's Prayer (Daniel 9:3-19) — Daniel's prayer is a model of humble and sincere prayer, as he confesses the sins of his people and intercedes for their restoration.
- The Interpretation of the Prophecy (Daniel 9:20-27) — The angel Gabriel appears to Daniel and provides an interpretation of the prophecy, which includes the prediction of the coming Messiah and the destruction of Jerusalem.
- The 70 Weeks (Daniel 9:24-27) — The prophecy of the 70 weeks is a key aspect of the chapter, as it points to the redemptive plan of God, which includes the finishing of transgression, the putting an end to sin, and the atonement for iniquity.
- Conclusion (Daniel 9:27) — The chapter concludes with a vision of the future, including the 70 weeks of years, which will culminate in the redemption of God's people.
Core Doctrines
- The Sovereignty of God
- The chapter highlights the sovereignty of God, who is able to fulfill His plans and prophecies despite the circumstances of His people. This is seen in the fulfillment of the prophecy in Jeremiah 29:10 and the interpretation of the 70 weeks.
- The Importance of Prayer
- The chapter encourages believers to pray with humility and sincerity, confessing their sins and interceding for the restoration of God's people. This is seen in Daniel's prayer, which is a model of humble and sincere prayer.
- The Fulfillment of Prophecy
- The chapter highlights the fulfillment of prophecy, as Daniel understands the prophecy of Jeremiah and the angel Gabriel provides an interpretation of the 70 weeks. This points to the reliability and trustworthiness of God's Word.
- The Redemptive Plan of God
- The chapter points to the redemptive plan of God, which includes the finishing of transgression, the putting an end to sin, and the atonement for iniquity. This is seen in the prophecy of the 70 weeks, which culminates in the redemption of God's people.
Lessons from Daniel 9
- The Importance of Humility in Prayer — Daniel's prayer is a model of humble and sincere prayer, as he confesses the sins of his people and intercedes for their restoration. This highlights the importance of humility in prayer, as we acknowledge our sin and dependence on God.
- The Fulfillment of Prophecy — The chapter highlights the fulfillment of prophecy, as Daniel understands the prophecy of Jeremiah and the angel Gabriel provides an interpretation of the 70 weeks. This points to the reliability and trustworthiness of God's Word.
- The Redemptive Plan of God — The chapter points to the redemptive plan of God, which includes the finishing of transgression, the putting an end to sin, and the atonement for iniquity. This is seen in the prophecy of the 70 weeks, which culminates in the redemption of God's people.
- The Sovereignty of God — The chapter highlights the sovereignty of God, who is able to fulfill His plans and prophecies despite the circumstances of His people. This is seen in the fulfillment of the prophecy in Jeremiah 29:10 and the interpretation of the 70 weeks.
- The Importance of Prayer — The chapter encourages believers to pray with humility and sincerity, confessing their sins and interceding for the restoration of God's people. This highlights the importance of prayer in the life of the believer.
Themes from Daniel 9
- The Theme of Prayer — The chapter highlights the importance of prayer, as Daniel prays with humility and sincerity, confessing the sins of his people and interceding for their restoration.
- The Theme of Prophecy — The chapter highlights the fulfillment of prophecy, as Daniel understands the prophecy of Jeremiah and the angel Gabriel provides an interpretation of the 70 weeks.
- The Theme of Redemption — The chapter points to the redemptive plan of God, which includes the finishing of transgression, the putting an end to sin, and the atonement for iniquity.
- The Theme of Sovereignty — The chapter highlights the sovereignty of God, who is able to fulfill His plans and prophecies despite the circumstances of His people.
- The Theme of Messiah — The chapter predicts the coming of the Messiah, who will bring in everlasting righteousness and anoint the Most Holy Place.
Questions for Meditation
- What can we learn from Daniel's prayer in Daniel 9:3-19 about the importance of humility and sincerity in prayer?
- How does the fulfillment of prophecy in Daniel 9:20-27 point to the reliability and trustworthiness of God's Word?
- What does the prophecy of the 70 weeks in Daniel 9:24-27 reveal about the redemptive plan of God?
- How can we apply the principles of Daniel's prayer and the interpretation of the prophecy in our own lives and prayers?
- What does the chapter teach us about the sovereignty of God and His ability to fulfill His plans and prophecies?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. Introduction to the Chapter (Daniel 9:1-2)
| 9:1 | The chapter begins with Daniel's understanding of the prophecy in Jeremiah 29:10, which stated that the Babylonian captivity would last for 70 years. |
| 9:2 | Daniel understands the prophecy and begins to pray for his people, confessing their sins and interceding for their restoration. |
2. Daniel's Prayer (Daniel 9:3-19)
| 9:3 | Daniel's prayer is a model of humble and sincere prayer, as he confesses the sins of his people and intercedes for their restoration. |
| 9:4 | Daniel acknowledges the sovereignty of God and the sin of his people, and he prays for their restoration. |
| 9:5 | Daniel confesses the sins of his people, including their rebellion against God and their failure to listen to His prophets. |
| 9:6 | Daniel prays for the restoration of his people, that they may be forgiven and restored to their land. |
| 9:7 | Daniel acknowledges the righteousness of God and the sin of his people, and he prays for their restoration. |
| 9:8 | Daniel prays for the restoration of the temple and the city of Jerusalem, that they may be rebuilt and restored to their former glory. |
| 9:9 | Daniel prays for the forgiveness of his people, that they may be restored to their land and to their God. |
| 9:10 | Daniel prays for the restoration of his people, that they may be obedient to God's Word and follow His commands. |
| 9:11 | Daniel acknowledges the curse of the law, which has been pronounced against his people for their disobedience. |
| 9:12 | Daniel prays for the restoration of his people, that they may be forgiven and restored to their land. |
| 9:13 | Daniel acknowledges the sin of his people and the righteousness of God, and he prays for their restoration. |
| 9:14 | Daniel prays for the restoration of his people, that they may be obedient to God's Word and follow His commands. |
| 9:15 | Daniel prays for the restoration of the temple and the city of Jerusalem, that they may be rebuilt and restored to their former glory. |
| 9:16 | Daniel prays for the forgiveness of his people, that they may be restored to their land and to their God. |
| 9:17 | Daniel prays for the restoration of his people, that they may be obedient to God's Word and follow His commands. |
| 9:18 | Daniel prays for the restoration of the temple and the city of Jerusalem, that they may be rebuilt and restored to their former glory. |
| 9:19 | Daniel prays for the forgiveness of his people, that they may be restored to their land and to their God. |
3. The Interpretation of the Prophecy (Daniel 9:20-27)
| 9:20 | The angel Gabriel appears to Daniel and provides an interpretation of the prophecy, which includes the prediction of the coming Messiah and the destruction of Jerusalem. |
| 9:21 | The angel Gabriel explains the prophecy of the 70 weeks, which will culminate in the redemption of God's people. |
| 9:22 | The angel Gabriel provides an interpretation of the prophecy, which includes the prediction of the coming Messiah and the destruction of Jerusalem. |
| 9:23 | The angel Gabriel explains the prophecy of the 70 weeks, which will culminate in the redemption of God's people. |
| 9:24 | The prophecy of the 70 weeks is a key aspect of the chapter, as it points to the redemptive plan of God, which includes the finishing of transgression, the putting an end to sin, and the atonement for iniquity. |
| 9:25 | The angel Gabriel provides an interpretation of the prophecy, which includes the prediction of the coming Messiah and the destruction of Jerusalem. |
| 9:26 | The prophecy of the 70 weeks is a key aspect of the chapter, as it points to the redemptive plan of God, which includes the finishing of transgression, the putting an end to sin, and the atonement for iniquity. |
| 9:27 | The chapter concludes with a vision of the future, including the 70 weeks of years, which will culminate in the redemption of God's people. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the prophecy of the 70 weeks in Daniel 9:24-27?
The prophecy of the 70 weeks is a key aspect of the chapter, as it points to the redemptive plan of God, which includes the finishing of transgression, the putting an end to sin, and the atonement for iniquity. The prophecy predicts the coming of the Messiah and the destruction of Jerusalem.
What is the significance of Daniel's prayer in Daniel 9:3-19?
Daniel's prayer is a model of humble and sincere prayer, as he confesses the sins of his people and intercedes for their restoration. The prayer highlights the importance of humility and sincerity in prayer, and it points to the sovereignty of God and the sin of His people.
How does the chapter point to the coming of the Messiah?
The chapter predicts the coming of the Messiah, who will bring in everlasting righteousness and anoint the Most Holy Place. The prophecy of the 70 weeks is a key aspect of the chapter, as it points to the redemptive plan of God, which includes the finishing of transgression, the putting an end to sin, and the atonement for iniquity.
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Daniel 9:2 → Jeremiah 29:10 | The prophecy in Jeremiah 29:10 is a key aspect of the chapter, as it predicts the Babylonian captivity and the restoration of God's people. |
| 2 | Daniel 9:24 → John 1:1 | The prophecy of the 70 weeks points to the coming of the Messiah, who will bring in everlasting righteousness and anoint the Most Holy Place. |
| 3 | Daniel 9:25 → Hebrews 1:1-3 | The prophecy of the 70 weeks is a key aspect of the chapter, as it points to the redemptive plan of God, which includes the finishing of transgression, the putting an end to sin, and the atonement for iniquity. |
| 4 | Daniel 9:26 → Matthew 24:15 | The prophecy of the 70 weeks points to the destruction of Jerusalem and the coming of the Messiah. |
| 5 | Daniel 9:27 → Revelation 19:10 | The chapter concludes with a vision of the future, including the 70 weeks of years, which will culminate in the redemption of God's people. |
| 6 | Daniel 9:2 → Genesis 15:13-14 | The prophecy in Genesis 15:13-14 is a key aspect of the chapter, as it predicts the Babylonian captivity and the restoration of God's people. |
| 7 | Daniel 9:24 → Isaiah 53:10 | The prophecy of the 70 weeks points to the coming of the Messiah, who will bring in everlasting righteousness and anoint the Most Holy Place. |
| 8 | Daniel 9:25 → Psalm 102:13-14 | The prophecy of the 70 weeks is a key aspect of the chapter, as it points to the redemptive plan of God, which includes the finishing of transgression, the putting an end to sin, and the atonement for iniquity. |
| 9 | Daniel 9:26 → Luke 21:20-24 | The prophecy of the 70 weeks points to the destruction of Jerusalem and the coming of the Messiah. |
| 10 | Daniel 9:27 → 1 Peter 1:10-12 | The chapter concludes with a vision of the future, including the 70 weeks of years, which will culminate in the redemption of God's people. |
Sermons on Daniel 9
| Sermon | Description | |
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Americas Last Days - Part 1 by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the preacher discusses four specific judgments that God inflicts on nations. He believes that these judgments have already started and will continue to accelerate u |
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Baptism of Fire by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the preacher describes a vision he had of people standing on the edge of a precipice, symbolizing their fear and despair. He emphasizes the importance of repentance |
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A Call to Anguish by David Wilkerson | This sermon is a powerful call to anguish, urging listeners to move beyond concern to a deep sense of inner pain and distress for the state of the church and society. It emphasizes |
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Jude #3 - the Angels That Sinned by Chuck Missler | In this sermon, the speaker discusses a controversial passage in the Bible, specifically verse 6 of Jude. The speaker presents three views on the interpretation of this verse. The |
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God Is Trying to Get at That Thing in You by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the preacher, inspired by the Spirit of God, reveals the reason for the ruin of the city. He explains that sin was the cause, specifically the mixing of the holy se |
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The Forbidden Chapter Isa 52-53 by Jacob Prasch | In this sermon, the speaker addresses the omission of Isaiah 52 and 53, which is often referred to as the "Forbidden Chapter," from synagogue liturgy. The speaker reads from Isaiah |
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Predictions - Housing Crash Depression by Andrew Strom | In this sermon, the speaker discusses the influence of the American gospel and Jesus on other countries. He expresses concern about how American culture, including gangs and rap so |
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From Babylon to Jerusalem - (Daniel) ch.9 & 10 by Zac Poonen | In this sermon, the preacher discusses two verses from the Old Testament that highlight God's judgment. The first verse is Genesis 15:16, where God tells Abraham that the Israelite |
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Midrash - Messiah, Son of Joseph-David by Jacob Prasch | In this sermon, Dr. Pat addresses the reasons why many Jewish people, including rabbis, struggle to accept Jesus as the Messiah. He acknowledges the history of persecution and viol |
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A Man of Discipline by Zac Poonen | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of fasting and the type of fast that God desires. He emphasizes that God is not pleased with a fast that is only outwardly observ |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Daniel 9
In this chapter, we see the prophet Daniel praying for his people, confessing their sins and interceding for their restoration. The angel Gabriel appears to Daniel and provides an interpretation of the prophecy, which includes the prediction of the coming Messiah and the destruction of Jerusalem. The prophecy of the 70 weeks is a key aspect of the chapter, as it points to the redemptive plan of God, which includes the finishing of transgression, the putting an end to sin, and the atonement for iniquity. As we reflect on this chapter, we are reminded of the importance of prayer, the fulfillment of prophecy, and the sovereignty of God. We are also pointed to the coming of the Messiah, who will bring in everlasting righteousness and anoint the Most Holy Place. May we be encouraged to pray with humility and sincerity, and to trust in the prophecy of God, which is a key aspect of the Christian faith. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
The Importance of Prayer
Daniel's prayer is a model of humble and sincere prayer, as he confesses the sins of his people and intercedes for their restoration. This highlights the importance of prayer in the life of the believer.
The Fulfillment of Prophecy
The chapter highlights the fulfillment of prophecy, as Daniel understands the prophecy of Jeremiah and the angel Gabriel provides an interpretation of the 70 weeks. This points to the reliability and trustworthiness of God's Word.
The Redemptive Plan of God
The chapter points to the redemptive plan of God, which includes the finishing of transgression, the putting an end to sin, and the atonement for iniquity. This highlights the love and mercy of God towards His people.