Welcome to the last week of our study of the book of Daniel!

When we began our journey back on September 7th, the goal wasn’t for you to master this complex book of history, poetry, prayer, and prophecy in one go, but to equip you for the next time you return to the book days, weeks, months, or years from now. 

Daniel isn’t just about lions’ dens, fiery furnaces, or mysterious prophecies. It’s a book that speaks directly to our chaotic and uncertain world today as much as then. Daniel reminds us that even amid turmoil, God is always on the throne and always at work. 

As we wrap up this series, remember this isn’t the end – we encourage you to make this a beginning. Studying Daniel helps us understand a broader world, apply Old Testament truths to our lives, engage with apocalyptic literature in a meaningful way, and points us to our Savior.

Over the past 12 weeks, we pulled out these six themes:

1. God Is in Control 

Daniel and his friends lived in exile under foreign rulers, yet God’s sovereignty shines throughout the book. Even the prophecies point to a God who is present and victorious. In the end, God wins. 

2. Human Leaders Come and Go 

King Nebuchadnezzar, Belshazzar, Darius, and Cyrus rose and fall, but God remains in control. This truth speaks powerfully to us in today’s world.  

3. The World Is Beastly 

Dreams and visions reveal the brokenness of a world marred by sin. Violence and chaos are real, but Daniel reminds us that hope persists even in the darkest times. 

4. Apocalyptic Literature Reveals Deeper Truth. 

Daniel 7–12 might feel intimidating, but its purpose is clear: God is in control. Before diving into details like “seventy weeks,” remember the big picture, God will make all things right. 

5. Prayer Is More Powerful Than We Realize. 

From start to finish, Daniel models a life of prayer. It’s not just a ritual, it’s a lifeline. How often do we underestimate the privilege of speaking with God? 

6. Daniel Points to Jesus. 

Throughout the book, we catch glimpses of Christ. The Son of Man, the ultimate King, who brings freedom through His death and resurrection. Daniel 12 gives one of if not the only pictures of a resurrection of the dead to the Old Testament people of God.  Daniel reminds us consistently that the Old Testament is always pointing forward to Jesus, the only one who can save and bring us home.

Let’s keep going. 

Here are some next steps you can take to deepen your time with God through the story and writings of Daniel, even after the Sunday morning series ends.

• Read or listen to Chapter 12 of Daniel in one sitting
• Download and listen to the Understanding the Book of Daniel Podcast
• Click here to grab the Small Group Guides 
• Click here to grab the Prayer Experience Guide