Deeper ReflectionDaniel 11:2-35 is filled with human actions, decisions and reactions
of superpowers as though history is directed by them. But Daniel 11
calls us to
look at this anthropocentric picture of the world
theologically. We must look with the theological centre of Daniel 11:
God’s sovereignty “
at the appointed time” (vv.27, 29, 35).The North and South superpowers had conference talks for peace – peace
that can serve their self-interests. So, they “speak lies” to each other with
“evil intent in their hearts” and they “will not succeed” (v.27a). The cause
of the failure is not political, but theological: “for the end is still to come
at the appointed time” (v.27b). In Antiochus’ war campaign, he would
invade the South Kingdom again only “
at the appointed time” (v.29) –
not at Antiochus’ time. This theologically presupposes that every invasion
happens “at the appointed time”. The suffering of God’s people for their
purification and character development is “until the time of the end” “
at
the appointed time” (v.35).Much of world history is what Jesus says: “In the world you” – faithful
disciples – will “have tribulation” (Jn 16:33). Hence, looking at world
history theologically is a critical necessity in biblical discipleship.
“Our view of history is foundational to the way we live. If history is an
assortment of random circumstances, coming from nowhere and going
nowhere, then faithful suffering has no possible meaning. It is a wasted
life that could have been better spent on pursuing pleasure instead. But
if history is actually following God’s predetermined course to a final end,
then our actions are filled with meaning.”73
73 Christopher J. H. Wright, 206
