Daniel 7:13
Verse
Context
Daniel’s Vision of the Son of Man
12As for the rest of the beasts, their dominion was removed, but they were granted an extension of life for a season and a time. 13In my vision in the night I continued to watch, and I saw One like the Son of Man coming with the clouds of heaven. He approached the Ancient of Days and was led into His presence. 14And He was given dominion, glory, and kingship, that the people of every nation and language should serve Him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that will not pass away, and His kingdom is one that will never be destroyed.
Sermons
Chuck Smith
Stephen KaungStephen Kaung
Arno Clemens Gaebelein Chuck SmithSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Keil-Delitzsch
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
One like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven - This most certainly points out the Lord Jesus, בר אנש bar enosh, the Son of miserable man; who took our nature upon him that he might redeem us unto himself. To prove himself to be the Messiah he applies, before the high priests, these words of the Prophet Daniel to himself Mat 24:30. Near before him - The Ancient of days.
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
The giving of the kingdom to the Son of Man. - The judgment does not come to an end with the destruction of the world-power in its various embodiments. That is only its first act, which is immediately followed by the second, the erection of the kingdom of God by the Son of man. This act is introduced by the repetition of the formula, I saw in the night-visions (Dan 7:7 and Dan 7:2). (One) like a son of man came in the clouds of heaven. ענני עם, with the clouds, i.e., in connection with them, in or on them as the case may be, surrounded by clouds; cf. Rev 1:7, Mar 13:26, Mat 24:30; Mat 26:64. He who comes is not named, but is only described according to his appearance like a son of man, i.e., resembling a man (אנשׁ בּר as אדם בן = אנושׁ or אדם). That this was a man is not implied in these words, but only that he was like a man, and not like a beast or some other creature. Now, as the beasts signify not beasts but kingdoms, so that which appeared in the form of a man may signify something else than a human individuum. Following the example of Aben Ezra, Paulus, and Wegscheider, Hofmann (Schriftbew. ii. 1. 80, and 2, p. 582f.), Hitzig, Weisse, Volkmar, Fries (Jahrbb.f. D. Theol. iv. p. 261), Baxmann, and Herzfeld (Gesch. des V. Isr. ii. p. 381) interpret this appearance in the form of a man not of the Messiah, as the Jewish and Christian interpreters in general do, but of the people of Israel, and adduce in support of this view the fact that, in the explanation of the vision, Dan 7:27, cf. Dan 7:24, the kingdom, the dominion, and the power, which according to Dan 7:14 the son of man received, was given to the people of the saints of the Most High. But Dan 7:27 affords no valid support to this supposition, for the angel there gives forth his declaration regarding the everlasting kingdom of God, not in the form of an interpretation of Daniel's vision, as in the case of the four beasts in Dan 7:17 and Dan 7:23, but he only says that, after the destruction of the horn and its dominion, the kingdom and the power will be given to the people of the saints, because he had before (Dan 7:26, cf. 22) spoken of the blasphemies of the horn against God, and of its war against the saints of the Most High. But the delivering of the kingdom to the people of God does not, according to the prophetic mode of contemplation, exclude the Messiah as its king, but much rather includes Him, inasmuch as Daniel, like the other prophets, knows nothing of a kingdom without a head, a Messianic kingdom without the King Messiah. But when Hofmann further remarks, that "somewhere it must be seen that by that appearance in the form of a man is meant not the holy congregation of Israel, but an individual, a fifth king, the Messiah," Auberlen and Kranichfeld have, with reference to this, shown that, according to Dan 7:21, the saints appear in their multiplicity engaged in war when the person who comes in the clouds becomes visible, and thus that the difference between the saints and that person is distinctly manifest. Hence it appears that the "coming with the clouds of heaven" can only be applied to the congregation of Israel, if we agree with Hofmann in the opinion that he who appeared was not carried by the clouds of heaven down to the earth, but from the earth up to heaven, in order that he might there receive the kingdom and the dominion. But this opinion is contradicted by all that the Scriptures teach regarding this matter. In this very chapter before us there is no expression or any intimation whatever that the judgment is held in heaven. No place is named. It is only said that judgment was held over the power of the fourth beast, which came to a head in the horn speaking blasphemies, and that the beast was slain and his body burned. If he who appears as a son of man with the clouds of heaven comes before the Ancient of days executing the judgment on the earth, it is manifest that he could only come from heaven to earth. If the reverse is to be understood, then it ought to have been so expressed, since the coming with the clouds of heaven in opposition to the rising up of the beasts out of the sea very distinctly indicates a coming down from heaven. The clouds are the veil or the "chariot" on which God comes from heaven to execute judgment against His enemies; cf. Psa 18:10., Psa 97:2-4; Psa 104:3, Isa 19:1; Nah 1:3. This passage forms the foundation for the declaration of Christ regarding His future coming, which is described after Dan 7:13 as a coming of the Son of man with, in, on the clouds of heaven; Mat 24:30; Mat 26:64; Mark 18:26; Rev 1:7; Rev 14:14. Against this, Hofmann, in behalf of his explanation, can only adduce Th1 4:17, in total disregard of the preceding context, Dan 7:16. (Note: The force of these considerations is also recognised by Hitzig. Since the people of the saints cannot come from heaven, he resorts to the expedient that the Son of man is a "figure for the concrete whole, the kingdom, the saints - this kingdom comes down from heaven." The difficulties of such an idea are very obvious. Fries appears to be of opinion, with Hofmann, that there is an ascension to heaven of the people of the saints; for to him "clear evidence" that the "Son of man" is the people of Israel lies especially in the words, "and came to the Ancient of days, and they brought him near before Him," which necessitates the adoption of the opposite terminus a quo from Mat 24:30; Mar 14:62; Rev 1:7; and hence makes the direct parallelism of Dan 7:13 with the passages named impossible (?).) With all other interpreters, we must accordingly firmly maintain that he who appears with the clouds of heaven comes from heaven to earth and is a personal existence, and is brought before God, who judges the world, that he may receive dominion, majesty, and a kingdom. But in the words "as a man" it is not meant that he was only a man. He that comes with the clouds of heaven may, as Kranichfeld rightly observes, "be regarded, according to current representations, as the God of Israel coming on the clouds, while yet he who appears takes the outward from of a man." The comparison (כ, as a man) proves accordingly much more, that this heavenly or divine being was in human form. This "Son of man" came near to the Ancient of days, as God appears in the vision of the judgment, Dan 7:9, and was placed before Him. The subject to הקרבוּהי is undefined; Kran. thinks that it is the clouds just mentioned, others think it is the ministering angels. Analogous passages may be adduced in support of both views: for the first, the νεφέλη ὑπέλαβεν αὐτόν in Act 1:9; but the parallel passages with intransitive verbs speak more in favour of the impersonal translation, "they brought him" = he was brought. The words, "dominion, and glory, and a kingdom were given to him," remind us of the expression used of Nebuchadnezzar, Dan 2:37., but they are elevated by the description following to the conception of the everlasting dominion of God. God gave to Nebuchadnezzar, the founder and first bearer of the world-power, a kingdom, and might, and majesty, and dominion over all the inhabitants of the earth, men, and beasts, and birds, that he might govern all nations, and tribes, and tongues (Dan 5:18-19), but not indeed in such a manner as that all nations and tribes should render him religious homage, nor was his dominion one of everlasting duration. These two things belong only to the kingdom of God. פּלח is used in biblical Chaldee only of the service and homage due to God; cf. Dan 7:27; Dan 3:12-13, Dan 3:17., Ezr 7:19, Ezr 7:24. Thus it indicates here also the religious service, the reverence which belong to God, though in the Targg. it corresponds with the Heb. עבד in all its meanings, colere Deum, terram, laborare. Regarding the expression "nations, tribes, and tongues," see under Dan 7:3, Dan 7:4. The eternity of the duration of the dominion is in this book the constant predicate of the kingdom of God and His Anointed, the Messiah; cf. Daniel 3:33; Dan 4:31; Dan 2:44. For further remarks regarding the Son of man, see at the close of this chapter.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Son of man--(See on Eze 2:1). Not merely Son of David, and King of Israel, but Head of restored humanity (corresponding to the world-wide horizon of Daniel's prophecy); the seed of the woman, crushing Antichrist, the seed of the serpent, according to the Prot-evangel in Paradise (Gen 3:15). The Representative Man shall then realize the original destiny of man as Head of the creation (Gen 1:26, Gen 1:28); the center of unity to Israel and the Gentiles. The beast, which taken conjointly represents the four beasts, ascends from the sea (Dan 7:2; Rev 13:1); the Son of man descends from "heaven." Satan, as the serpent, is the representative head of all that bestial; man, by following the serpent, has become bestial. God must, therefore, become man, so that man may cease to be beast-like. Whoever rejects the incarnate God will be judged by the Son of man just because He is the Son of man (Joh 5:27). This title is always associated with His coming again, because the kingdom that then awaits Him in that ch belongs to Him as the Saviour of man, the Restorer of the lost inheritance. "Son of man" expresses His VISIBLE state formerly in his humiliation hereafter in His exaltation. He "comes to the Ancient of days" to be invested with the kingdom. Compare Psa 110:2 : "The Lord shall send the rod of thy strength (Messiah) out of Zion." This investiture was at His ascension "with the clouds of heaven" (Act 1:9; Act 2:33-34; Psa 2:6-9; Mat 28:18), which is a pledge of His return "in like manner" in the clouds" (Act 1:11; Mat 26:64), and "with clouds" (Rev 1:7). The kingdom then was given to Him in title and invisible exercise; at His second coming it shall be in visible administration. He will vindicate it from the misrule of those who received it to hold for and under God, but who ignored His supremacy. The Father will assert His right by the Son, the heir, who will hold it for Him (Eze 1:27; Heb 1:2; Rev 19:13-16). TREGELLES thinks the investiture here immediately precedes Christ's coming forth; because He sits at God's right hand until His enemies are made His footstool, then the kingdom is given to the Son in actual investiture, and He comes to crush His so prepared footstool under His feet. But the words, "with the clouds," and the universal power actually, though invisibly, given Him then (Eph 1:20-22), agree best with His investiture at the ascension, which, in the prophetic view that overleaps the interval of ages, is the precursor of His coming visibly to reign; no event of equal moment taking place in the interval.
John Gill Bible Commentary
I saw in the night visions,.... Very probably the same night in which he had the dream and vision of the four beasts; but this that follows, being a new object presented, is introduced and prefaced after this manner; as well as, being something wonderful and worthy of attention, has a "behold" prefixed to it: and, behold one like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven; not Judas Maccabaeus, as Porphyry; nor the Roman people, as Grotius; nor the people of Israel, as Aben Ezra; nor the people of the saints of the most High, as Cocceius; but the Messiah, as most Christian interpreters, and even the Jews themselves, both ancient and modern, allow. In the ancient book of Zohar (u) it is said, "in the times of the Messiah, Israel shall be one people, to the Lord, and he shall make them one nation in the earth, and they shall rule above and below; as it is written, "behold, one like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven"; this is the King Messiah of whom it is written, "and in the days of these kings shall the God of heaven, set up a kingdom which shall never be destroyed", &c. Dan 2:44'' So in the Talmud (w) this prophecy is thus reconciled with another, concerning the Messiah, in Zac 9:9, to what R. Alexander said, R. Joshua ben Levi objects what is written, and, behold, one like to the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven; and it is written, "poor, and riding upon an ass": which is thus adjusted, "if they (the Israelites) are worthy, he (the Messiah) comes with the clouds of heaven; but if they are not worthy, he comes poor, and riding on an ass;'' and so it is interpreted in their ancient Midrashes (x), or expositions, as well us in more modern ones: Jarchi on the text says, "he is the Messiah;'' and so R. Saadiah Gaon and Jacchiades, this is Messiah our righteousness; and Aben Ezra observes, that this is the sense R. Jeshua gives, "that one like to the Son of man" is the Messiah; and he adds, it is right, only along with him must be joined the holy people, who are the Israelites: and, with the Jews, Anani, which signifies "clouds", is the name of the Messiah, founded upon this text, in the Targum of Ch1 3:24, where mention is made of the name of a person, Anani, it is added, "who is the Messiah that is to be revealed;'' so in an ancient book called Tanchuma (y), speaking of Zerubbabel, it is asked, from whence did he spring? it is answered from David, as it is said, Ch1 3:10 "and Solomon's son was Rehoboam", &c.; and so all in the line are mentioned unto Anani, Dan 7:24 and then it is asked, who is this Anani? this is the Messiah, as it is said, Dan 7:13, and I saw in the visions of the night, and, behold, one like to the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven. He is said to be "as", or "like the Son of man", in agreement with the style of these visions, Dan 7:4, or because as yet he was not really incarnate, only appeared in a human form; or this as is not a note of similitude, but of truth and reality, as in Joh 1:14 or because he was more than a man: and his coming with the clouds of heaven denotes the majesty, visibility, and swiftness, with which he came to take open possession of his kingdom and glory. Saadiah interprets them of the angels of heaven, with which he will be attended: and came to the Ancient of days; his divine Father, from whom, as man and Mediator, he receives his mediatorial kingdom, is invested with it, and insisted it, to it; see Rev 5:7 this is not to be understood of his first coming in the flesh, which was from his Father, and not to him; nor of his ascension to heaven, exaltation and session at the right hand of God, when he indeed received the kingdom from the Father, and was made and declared Lord and Christ; but this seems to respect what shall be upon the destruction of the fourth beast, when Christ shall receive and take to himself his great power, and reign, and more visibly appear by his Father's designation and appointment, and his open glory, to be King and Lord over all: and they brought him near before him; not Elijah the prophet, as Jacchindes; rather the angels, as others; or the saints by their prayers, who hasten to, and hasten thereby, the coming and kingdom of Christ in a more spiritual and glorious manner; or it may be rendered impersonally, "he was brought near before him,'' as by the Septuagint, Syriac, and Arabic versions. (u) In Gen. fol. 85. 4. Ed. Sultzbac. (w) T. Bab. Sanhedrin, fol. 98. 1. (x) Bemidbar Rabba, sect. 13. fol. 209. 4. Midrash Tillium apud Galatin. de Arcan. Cathol. ver. l. 10. c. 1. (y) Apud Yalkut Simeoni, par. 2. fol. 85. 2.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
7:13-14 This being like a son of man, unlike the arrogant little horn, did not boast and was not violent. He did not violently overthrow other kings, and he received God’s favor and blessing. He was led into God’s presence and was presented to him. God gave him kingship and a kingdom. This figure is the Messiah, God’s chosen and anointed King. 7:13 like a son of man: He was like a human being (cp. 3:25). • His coming with the clouds of heaven suggests that he was a divine being (cp. Pss 68:4; 97:2; Matt 24:30; 26:64; Mark 13:26; 14:62; Luke 21:27; 1 Thes 4:17; Rev 1:7).
Daniel 7:13
Daniel’s Vision of the Son of Man
12As for the rest of the beasts, their dominion was removed, but they were granted an extension of life for a season and a time. 13In my vision in the night I continued to watch, and I saw One like the Son of Man coming with the clouds of heaven. He approached the Ancient of Days and was led into His presence. 14And He was given dominion, glory, and kingship, that the people of every nation and language should serve Him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that will not pass away, and His kingdom is one that will never be destroyed.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Jesus Is Coming Again
By Chuck Smith1.6K32:17PSA 22:18ISA 53:3DAN 7:13MAT 24:30JHN 3:16JHN 19:34REV 1:5REV 19:16This sermon delves into the book of Revelation, emphasizing the blessings that come from studying its prophecies. It explores the diverse prophecies regarding the Messiah's first and second comings, highlighting the importance of recognizing Jesus as the faithful witness, the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. The sermon concludes with a powerful reminder of the imminent return of Jesus, urging listeners to choose to be among those who rejoice at His coming.
The Results of Returning to Christ
By Stephen Kaung1.5K1:16:35ISA 9:6DAN 7:13EPH 1:9REV 5:10In this sermon, the speaker begins by praying for God to search, purify, and possess the listeners. The theme of the sermon is summed up in the phrase "summing up all things in Christ." The speaker emphasizes the importance of this theme becoming a reality in the lives of the listeners. The sermon explores the mystery and purpose of Christ, stating that everything should bear His beauty, glory, and character. The ultimate goal is for all things to be summed up in Christ, with every knee bowing and every tongue confessing that Jesus is Lord. The speaker references biblical passages such as Philippians 2:8-11 and Daniel 7:13-14 to support these teachings.
The Heavenly Vision
By Stephen Kaung8961:09:38GEN 4:4GEN 6:14EXO 25:82SA 7:13ISA 6:1DAN 7:13ZEC 4:2JHN 1:14ACT 10:11ACT 26:19EPH 1:22HEB 11:10HEB 11:26In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a heavenly vision in the spiritual realm. He explains that without a vision, people become directionless and lack purpose. The speaker references Proverbs 29:18, which states that without vision, people perish. He highlights the transformative power of the heavenly vision, stating that it kills the natural man and uplifts believers from their earthly mindset. The speaker also shares the example of Watchman Nee, who abandoned his own plans and ambitions after encountering the gospel and receiving the heavenly vision.
Major Themes in Dan. 7: God's Plan to Establish His Kingdom on Earth
By Mike Bickle241:02:21Faithfulness in TrialsGod's KingdomDAN 7:13Mike Bickle emphasizes the significance of Daniel's visions, particularly Daniel 7, which reveals God's plan to establish His kingdom on earth. He explains that the central theme is the unification of heavenly and earthly realms, where God intends to govern through faithful believers who endure trials and tribulations. Bickle encourages the church to understand these prophecies, as they are crucial for preparing a people to rule alongside Christ in the coming kingdom. He highlights the importance of living righteously now to qualify for leadership in the future, as God's justice requires faithfulness in the natural realm. Ultimately, the sermon calls believers to embrace their role in God's grand narrative and to remain steadfast in their faith amidst challenges.
The Majesty of Jesus as the Son of Man (Dan. 7; Rev. 1)
By Mike Bickle1956:28The Majesty of JesusKnowledge Of GodDAN 7:13Mike Bickle emphasizes the transformative power of knowing Jesus as the Son of Man, urging believers to pursue a deeper understanding of His magnificence beyond just His benefits. He highlights that true transformation comes from the knowledge of God, which can shift our emotions and dedication over time. Bickle encourages believers to seek the Holy Spirit's guidance to reveal the deeper truths about Jesus, as seen in Daniel 7 and Revelation 1, and to make Jesus the primary focus of their lives and ministries. He warns against superficial Christianity and calls for a fierce determination to pursue the hidden treasures of God's knowledge. Ultimately, Bickle's message is a call to obsession with the beauty and majesty of Christ.
The Glories of His Kingdom
By Arno Clemens Gaebelein0DAN 7:13Arno Clemens Gaebelein preaches about the establishment of God's everlasting Kingdom, prophesied in the book of Daniel, which will be set up at the second coming of Christ. This Kingdom will bring righteousness, peace, and justice to the nations, with Jerusalem as its center, where Jesus Christ and His Saints will reign. The sermon also delves into the deliverance of creation from the curse of sin, highlighting the future restoration of a groaning creation through the power of Christ. It concludes with the ultimate triumph of Christ, where all enemies will be subdued, leading to the creation of a new heaven and a new earth for redeemed mankind.
Daniel 7:13
By Chuck Smith0The Kingdom of GodConsequences of SinISA 11:9DAN 7:13MAT 24:30JHN 14:1ROM 5:121CO 6:9GAL 5:19EPH 5:52TI 3:1REV 21:3Chuck Smith discusses Daniel's vision of the kingdoms of man, emphasizing their violent and destructive nature, and the ultimate rebellion against God that began in the Garden of Eden. He highlights the consequences of sin and the moral decline in society, illustrating how nations that disregard God's laws face tyranny and conflict. Despite the grim outlook, Smith offers hope in the promise of Jesus' return, where He will establish a righteous kingdom free from pain and suffering. He warns that only those who trust in Jesus will inherit this kingdom, while the unrighteous will be excluded.
Who Is This Son of Man?
By H.J. Vine0DAN 7:13MAT 24:27LUK 12:8HEB 2:9REV 14:14H.J. Vine preaches about the glorious and astonishing things spoken of the Son of Man, emphasizing His wonderful works, ways, and worth as shown in the Scriptures. The Son of Man's exceeding majesty in the Old Testament and surprising humiliation in the New Testament are highlighted. The sermon delves into the Son of Man's grace, glory, relation to the assembly, Israel, nations, individuals, all things, God, and angels, showcasing His pivotal role in redemption, restoration, and universal authority over heaven and earth.
The Glorious Restoration of Israel
By John F. Walvoord0PSA 2:6ISA 2:1ISA 26:14ISA 35:1JER 31:33EZK 20:34DAN 7:13DAN 12:2REV 20:1REV 20:7John F. Walvoord preaches about the remarkable event of the partial restoration of the nation Israel to their ancient land in the twentieth century, signaling the fulfillment of God's Word concerning the future of His chosen people. The return of Israel and the establishment of the state of Israel are seen as the initial steps leading to Christ's millennial kingdom on earth, following a period of great tribulation. The sermon delves into the final judgment of Israel, the resurrection of the righteous, the rule of Christ over Israel, and the general characteristics of the millennial kingdom, emphasizing the spiritual, social, economic, and physical aspects of Israel during this period.
Ezekiel 21:26
By Chuck Smith0God's PromisesThe Coming King2SA 7:161KI 2:4ISA 11:1JER 23:5EZK 21:26DAN 7:13ZEC 9:9MAT 25:31LUK 1:32JHN 7:42Chuck Smith delivers a powerful sermon on Ezekiel 21:26, emphasizing the end of the kingdom of Israel and the conditional promise made to David regarding his descendants. He explains that while the current king Zedekiah is deemed wicked, God's ultimate plan for a righteous king, the Messiah, remains intact. Smith highlights the prophetic declarations about the coming King from the lineage of David, culminating in Jesus Christ, who will establish an everlasting kingdom. He reassures the congregation that despite the current turmoil, the King is coming to fulfill God's promises and reign in justice and righteousness.
Rev. 1:13-16. the Glory of the Son of Man
By Horatius Bonar0Christ's AuthorityThe Glory of ChristPSA 89:13ISA 1:18EZK 16:14DAN 7:13HOS 6:5MAT 17:2MAT 28:20JHN 1:51HEB 4:13REV 1:13Horatius Bonar preaches on Revelation 1:13-16, emphasizing the majestic glory of the Son of Man, who stands in the midst of the seven churches. He describes Christ's royal and priestly attire, symbolizing His authority and service, and highlights His purity, power, and penetrating gaze. Bonar illustrates how Christ's voice resonates with authority and mercy, and His countenance radiates divine glory. The sermon culminates in the recognition of Christ's supremacy over all creation, affirming that all allegiance is due to Him as the Head of the Church and the King of kings.
Old Testament Work of Christ
By Arno Clemens Gaebelein0GEN 3:15DAN 7:13MIC 5:2ZEC 9:9JHN 3:162PE 2:1Arno Clemens Gaebelein preaches about the past work of Jesus Christ, emphasizing how His work was accomplished through His incarnation and finished on the cross at Calvary. The sermon delves into the foreshadowing and predictions of the Son of God's work in the Old Testament Scriptures, highlighting His redemptive work, incarnation, and final victory over the enemy. Various manifestations of Jehovah in the Old Testament, sacrificial system, historical events, and direct prophecies all pointed to the work of Christ, including His sufferings as the sin-bearer and His future glories as King.
For the Sake of the Gospel
By Thomas Reade0PSA 91:4ISA 32:17DAN 7:13ROM 8:352CO 4:82CO 6:42CO 12:91PE 2:19Thomas Reade preaches about the persecutions endured by Paul for the sake of the Gospel, drawing parallels to the trials faced by Daniel and the early Christians. He emphasizes the inevitability of persecution for those devoted to Christ and the ultimate victory of the Kingdom of Christ over the powers of darkness. Reade highlights the selfless love and endurance displayed by Paul, encouraging believers to follow in his footsteps, enduring suffering and opposition with patience and faith. He reminds the congregation of the peace and strength found in Christ amidst trials, urging them to fix their eyes on God's will and glory, imitating the humility and perseverance of Paul in the face of adversity.
Prophecy in the Old Testament
By Lewis Sperry Chafer0GEN 49:10ISA 11:1ISA 53:1JER 30:4JER 31:36DAN 7:13DAN 12:9LUK 21:241TI 4:62TI 3:16Lewis Sperry Chafer emphasizes the significance of prophecy in the Bible, highlighting that all prophecy is history pre-written and credible as God's word. He explains that a right understanding of prophecy is crucial for interpreting the Word of Truth and discerning one's divine appointments. Chafer discusses the major themes of prophecy in the Old Testament, including predictions concerning the Gentiles, Israel's early history, the nation of Israel, the last dispersion and regathering of Israel, the advent of the Messiah, the tribulation, and the Messianic kingdom and the Day of the Lord.
Part 3: Amillenniallism in the Ancient Church
By John F. Walvoord0DAN 7:13MAT 20:20LUK 22:29JHN 14:2ACT 1:61CO 15:232TI 2:152PE 1:202PE 3:8John F. Walvoord delves into the historical background of amillennialism and premillennialism, highlighting the revival of interest in millennial theology due to the decline of postmillennialism and the rise of premillennialism in recent years. The arguments surrounding the millennium have been characterized by a fresh study of ancient church literature, vigorous attacks on premillennialism, and a renewed investigation of millennialism in the early church. The sermon explores the lack of concrete evidence for amillennialism in the first and second centuries, with only disputed testimonies and a shift towards allegorical interpretations in the third century leading to the rise of amillennialism.
Christ a King.
By Edward Payson0PSA 72:8ISA 9:6DAN 7:131CO 15:24PHP 2:6REV 19:16Edward Payson preaches about the mediatorial kingdom of Christ, emphasizing the various names and titles by which Jesus is described in the Bible, particularly focusing on His role as Ruler or King. Payson explains that Christ's kingdom is not temporal but spiritual, established in the hearts of men for righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost. He delves into the origin, design, and progress of Christ's Mediatorial kingdom, highlighting the spread of the gospel and the future glories of Messiah's reign. Payson concludes by discussing the termination of Christ's mediatorial kingdom, pointing towards the day of judgment when all enemies will be put under His feet, and Christ will deliver up the kingdom to God, signifying the end of His delegated power and authority.
Christ Exalted
By Jonathan Edwards0PRO 18:14DAN 2:34DAN 7:13MAT 16:18ROM 4:251CO 15:25COL 2:15HEB 2:14REV 19:1REV 21:4Jonathan Edwards preaches about the glorious exaltation of Jesus Christ above all evil in the work of redemption, emphasizing how Christ triumphs over Satan, guilt, corruption, affliction, and death. Edwards explains how Christ's victory is manifested in his resurrection, ascension, and sanctification of believers, ultimately leading to the complete destruction of evil and the eternal exaltation of the elect. He encourages sinners to come to Christ, assuring them that no sin or misery is too great for Christ to overcome. Believers are urged to glory in their Redeemer, who is infinitely above all evil and promises victory over every enemy.
- Adam Clarke
- Keil-Delitzsch
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
One like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven - This most certainly points out the Lord Jesus, בר אנש bar enosh, the Son of miserable man; who took our nature upon him that he might redeem us unto himself. To prove himself to be the Messiah he applies, before the high priests, these words of the Prophet Daniel to himself Mat 24:30. Near before him - The Ancient of days.
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
The giving of the kingdom to the Son of Man. - The judgment does not come to an end with the destruction of the world-power in its various embodiments. That is only its first act, which is immediately followed by the second, the erection of the kingdom of God by the Son of man. This act is introduced by the repetition of the formula, I saw in the night-visions (Dan 7:7 and Dan 7:2). (One) like a son of man came in the clouds of heaven. ענני עם, with the clouds, i.e., in connection with them, in or on them as the case may be, surrounded by clouds; cf. Rev 1:7, Mar 13:26, Mat 24:30; Mat 26:64. He who comes is not named, but is only described according to his appearance like a son of man, i.e., resembling a man (אנשׁ בּר as אדם בן = אנושׁ or אדם). That this was a man is not implied in these words, but only that he was like a man, and not like a beast or some other creature. Now, as the beasts signify not beasts but kingdoms, so that which appeared in the form of a man may signify something else than a human individuum. Following the example of Aben Ezra, Paulus, and Wegscheider, Hofmann (Schriftbew. ii. 1. 80, and 2, p. 582f.), Hitzig, Weisse, Volkmar, Fries (Jahrbb.f. D. Theol. iv. p. 261), Baxmann, and Herzfeld (Gesch. des V. Isr. ii. p. 381) interpret this appearance in the form of a man not of the Messiah, as the Jewish and Christian interpreters in general do, but of the people of Israel, and adduce in support of this view the fact that, in the explanation of the vision, Dan 7:27, cf. Dan 7:24, the kingdom, the dominion, and the power, which according to Dan 7:14 the son of man received, was given to the people of the saints of the Most High. But Dan 7:27 affords no valid support to this supposition, for the angel there gives forth his declaration regarding the everlasting kingdom of God, not in the form of an interpretation of Daniel's vision, as in the case of the four beasts in Dan 7:17 and Dan 7:23, but he only says that, after the destruction of the horn and its dominion, the kingdom and the power will be given to the people of the saints, because he had before (Dan 7:26, cf. 22) spoken of the blasphemies of the horn against God, and of its war against the saints of the Most High. But the delivering of the kingdom to the people of God does not, according to the prophetic mode of contemplation, exclude the Messiah as its king, but much rather includes Him, inasmuch as Daniel, like the other prophets, knows nothing of a kingdom without a head, a Messianic kingdom without the King Messiah. But when Hofmann further remarks, that "somewhere it must be seen that by that appearance in the form of a man is meant not the holy congregation of Israel, but an individual, a fifth king, the Messiah," Auberlen and Kranichfeld have, with reference to this, shown that, according to Dan 7:21, the saints appear in their multiplicity engaged in war when the person who comes in the clouds becomes visible, and thus that the difference between the saints and that person is distinctly manifest. Hence it appears that the "coming with the clouds of heaven" can only be applied to the congregation of Israel, if we agree with Hofmann in the opinion that he who appeared was not carried by the clouds of heaven down to the earth, but from the earth up to heaven, in order that he might there receive the kingdom and the dominion. But this opinion is contradicted by all that the Scriptures teach regarding this matter. In this very chapter before us there is no expression or any intimation whatever that the judgment is held in heaven. No place is named. It is only said that judgment was held over the power of the fourth beast, which came to a head in the horn speaking blasphemies, and that the beast was slain and his body burned. If he who appears as a son of man with the clouds of heaven comes before the Ancient of days executing the judgment on the earth, it is manifest that he could only come from heaven to earth. If the reverse is to be understood, then it ought to have been so expressed, since the coming with the clouds of heaven in opposition to the rising up of the beasts out of the sea very distinctly indicates a coming down from heaven. The clouds are the veil or the "chariot" on which God comes from heaven to execute judgment against His enemies; cf. Psa 18:10., Psa 97:2-4; Psa 104:3, Isa 19:1; Nah 1:3. This passage forms the foundation for the declaration of Christ regarding His future coming, which is described after Dan 7:13 as a coming of the Son of man with, in, on the clouds of heaven; Mat 24:30; Mat 26:64; Mark 18:26; Rev 1:7; Rev 14:14. Against this, Hofmann, in behalf of his explanation, can only adduce Th1 4:17, in total disregard of the preceding context, Dan 7:16. (Note: The force of these considerations is also recognised by Hitzig. Since the people of the saints cannot come from heaven, he resorts to the expedient that the Son of man is a "figure for the concrete whole, the kingdom, the saints - this kingdom comes down from heaven." The difficulties of such an idea are very obvious. Fries appears to be of opinion, with Hofmann, that there is an ascension to heaven of the people of the saints; for to him "clear evidence" that the "Son of man" is the people of Israel lies especially in the words, "and came to the Ancient of days, and they brought him near before Him," which necessitates the adoption of the opposite terminus a quo from Mat 24:30; Mar 14:62; Rev 1:7; and hence makes the direct parallelism of Dan 7:13 with the passages named impossible (?).) With all other interpreters, we must accordingly firmly maintain that he who appears with the clouds of heaven comes from heaven to earth and is a personal existence, and is brought before God, who judges the world, that he may receive dominion, majesty, and a kingdom. But in the words "as a man" it is not meant that he was only a man. He that comes with the clouds of heaven may, as Kranichfeld rightly observes, "be regarded, according to current representations, as the God of Israel coming on the clouds, while yet he who appears takes the outward from of a man." The comparison (כ, as a man) proves accordingly much more, that this heavenly or divine being was in human form. This "Son of man" came near to the Ancient of days, as God appears in the vision of the judgment, Dan 7:9, and was placed before Him. The subject to הקרבוּהי is undefined; Kran. thinks that it is the clouds just mentioned, others think it is the ministering angels. Analogous passages may be adduced in support of both views: for the first, the νεφέλη ὑπέλαβεν αὐτόν in Act 1:9; but the parallel passages with intransitive verbs speak more in favour of the impersonal translation, "they brought him" = he was brought. The words, "dominion, and glory, and a kingdom were given to him," remind us of the expression used of Nebuchadnezzar, Dan 2:37., but they are elevated by the description following to the conception of the everlasting dominion of God. God gave to Nebuchadnezzar, the founder and first bearer of the world-power, a kingdom, and might, and majesty, and dominion over all the inhabitants of the earth, men, and beasts, and birds, that he might govern all nations, and tribes, and tongues (Dan 5:18-19), but not indeed in such a manner as that all nations and tribes should render him religious homage, nor was his dominion one of everlasting duration. These two things belong only to the kingdom of God. פּלח is used in biblical Chaldee only of the service and homage due to God; cf. Dan 7:27; Dan 3:12-13, Dan 3:17., Ezr 7:19, Ezr 7:24. Thus it indicates here also the religious service, the reverence which belong to God, though in the Targg. it corresponds with the Heb. עבד in all its meanings, colere Deum, terram, laborare. Regarding the expression "nations, tribes, and tongues," see under Dan 7:3, Dan 7:4. The eternity of the duration of the dominion is in this book the constant predicate of the kingdom of God and His Anointed, the Messiah; cf. Daniel 3:33; Dan 4:31; Dan 2:44. For further remarks regarding the Son of man, see at the close of this chapter.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Son of man--(See on Eze 2:1). Not merely Son of David, and King of Israel, but Head of restored humanity (corresponding to the world-wide horizon of Daniel's prophecy); the seed of the woman, crushing Antichrist, the seed of the serpent, according to the Prot-evangel in Paradise (Gen 3:15). The Representative Man shall then realize the original destiny of man as Head of the creation (Gen 1:26, Gen 1:28); the center of unity to Israel and the Gentiles. The beast, which taken conjointly represents the four beasts, ascends from the sea (Dan 7:2; Rev 13:1); the Son of man descends from "heaven." Satan, as the serpent, is the representative head of all that bestial; man, by following the serpent, has become bestial. God must, therefore, become man, so that man may cease to be beast-like. Whoever rejects the incarnate God will be judged by the Son of man just because He is the Son of man (Joh 5:27). This title is always associated with His coming again, because the kingdom that then awaits Him in that ch belongs to Him as the Saviour of man, the Restorer of the lost inheritance. "Son of man" expresses His VISIBLE state formerly in his humiliation hereafter in His exaltation. He "comes to the Ancient of days" to be invested with the kingdom. Compare Psa 110:2 : "The Lord shall send the rod of thy strength (Messiah) out of Zion." This investiture was at His ascension "with the clouds of heaven" (Act 1:9; Act 2:33-34; Psa 2:6-9; Mat 28:18), which is a pledge of His return "in like manner" in the clouds" (Act 1:11; Mat 26:64), and "with clouds" (Rev 1:7). The kingdom then was given to Him in title and invisible exercise; at His second coming it shall be in visible administration. He will vindicate it from the misrule of those who received it to hold for and under God, but who ignored His supremacy. The Father will assert His right by the Son, the heir, who will hold it for Him (Eze 1:27; Heb 1:2; Rev 19:13-16). TREGELLES thinks the investiture here immediately precedes Christ's coming forth; because He sits at God's right hand until His enemies are made His footstool, then the kingdom is given to the Son in actual investiture, and He comes to crush His so prepared footstool under His feet. But the words, "with the clouds," and the universal power actually, though invisibly, given Him then (Eph 1:20-22), agree best with His investiture at the ascension, which, in the prophetic view that overleaps the interval of ages, is the precursor of His coming visibly to reign; no event of equal moment taking place in the interval.
John Gill Bible Commentary
I saw in the night visions,.... Very probably the same night in which he had the dream and vision of the four beasts; but this that follows, being a new object presented, is introduced and prefaced after this manner; as well as, being something wonderful and worthy of attention, has a "behold" prefixed to it: and, behold one like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven; not Judas Maccabaeus, as Porphyry; nor the Roman people, as Grotius; nor the people of Israel, as Aben Ezra; nor the people of the saints of the most High, as Cocceius; but the Messiah, as most Christian interpreters, and even the Jews themselves, both ancient and modern, allow. In the ancient book of Zohar (u) it is said, "in the times of the Messiah, Israel shall be one people, to the Lord, and he shall make them one nation in the earth, and they shall rule above and below; as it is written, "behold, one like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven"; this is the King Messiah of whom it is written, "and in the days of these kings shall the God of heaven, set up a kingdom which shall never be destroyed", &c. Dan 2:44'' So in the Talmud (w) this prophecy is thus reconciled with another, concerning the Messiah, in Zac 9:9, to what R. Alexander said, R. Joshua ben Levi objects what is written, and, behold, one like to the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven; and it is written, "poor, and riding upon an ass": which is thus adjusted, "if they (the Israelites) are worthy, he (the Messiah) comes with the clouds of heaven; but if they are not worthy, he comes poor, and riding on an ass;'' and so it is interpreted in their ancient Midrashes (x), or expositions, as well us in more modern ones: Jarchi on the text says, "he is the Messiah;'' and so R. Saadiah Gaon and Jacchiades, this is Messiah our righteousness; and Aben Ezra observes, that this is the sense R. Jeshua gives, "that one like to the Son of man" is the Messiah; and he adds, it is right, only along with him must be joined the holy people, who are the Israelites: and, with the Jews, Anani, which signifies "clouds", is the name of the Messiah, founded upon this text, in the Targum of Ch1 3:24, where mention is made of the name of a person, Anani, it is added, "who is the Messiah that is to be revealed;'' so in an ancient book called Tanchuma (y), speaking of Zerubbabel, it is asked, from whence did he spring? it is answered from David, as it is said, Ch1 3:10 "and Solomon's son was Rehoboam", &c.; and so all in the line are mentioned unto Anani, Dan 7:24 and then it is asked, who is this Anani? this is the Messiah, as it is said, Dan 7:13, and I saw in the visions of the night, and, behold, one like to the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven. He is said to be "as", or "like the Son of man", in agreement with the style of these visions, Dan 7:4, or because as yet he was not really incarnate, only appeared in a human form; or this as is not a note of similitude, but of truth and reality, as in Joh 1:14 or because he was more than a man: and his coming with the clouds of heaven denotes the majesty, visibility, and swiftness, with which he came to take open possession of his kingdom and glory. Saadiah interprets them of the angels of heaven, with which he will be attended: and came to the Ancient of days; his divine Father, from whom, as man and Mediator, he receives his mediatorial kingdom, is invested with it, and insisted it, to it; see Rev 5:7 this is not to be understood of his first coming in the flesh, which was from his Father, and not to him; nor of his ascension to heaven, exaltation and session at the right hand of God, when he indeed received the kingdom from the Father, and was made and declared Lord and Christ; but this seems to respect what shall be upon the destruction of the fourth beast, when Christ shall receive and take to himself his great power, and reign, and more visibly appear by his Father's designation and appointment, and his open glory, to be King and Lord over all: and they brought him near before him; not Elijah the prophet, as Jacchindes; rather the angels, as others; or the saints by their prayers, who hasten to, and hasten thereby, the coming and kingdom of Christ in a more spiritual and glorious manner; or it may be rendered impersonally, "he was brought near before him,'' as by the Septuagint, Syriac, and Arabic versions. (u) In Gen. fol. 85. 4. Ed. Sultzbac. (w) T. Bab. Sanhedrin, fol. 98. 1. (x) Bemidbar Rabba, sect. 13. fol. 209. 4. Midrash Tillium apud Galatin. de Arcan. Cathol. ver. l. 10. c. 1. (y) Apud Yalkut Simeoni, par. 2. fol. 85. 2.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
7:13-14 This being like a son of man, unlike the arrogant little horn, did not boast and was not violent. He did not violently overthrow other kings, and he received God’s favor and blessing. He was led into God’s presence and was presented to him. God gave him kingship and a kingdom. This figure is the Messiah, God’s chosen and anointed King. 7:13 like a son of man: He was like a human being (cp. 3:25). • His coming with the clouds of heaven suggests that he was a divine being (cp. Pss 68:4; 97:2; Matt 24:30; 26:64; Mark 13:26; 14:62; Luke 21:27; 1 Thes 4:17; Rev 1:7).