Join us as Ben Stuart walks us through the details of the fulfilled prophesies of Daniel 11 and teaches what the Bible says is still yet to come in our future.

Click here to listen to this week’s episode of Further In, in which members of the Passion City Church DC team discuss the passage of scripture we’re studying and consider how to apply the truths of God’s word to our lives.     This Week’s Reading: Daniel 10, Revelation 1, Acts 9, Ephesians 6   Daniel 10 offers a rare and breathtaking glimpse into the connection between our earthly struggles and the spiritual reality behind the scenes. As Daniel mourns, prays, and fasts for his people, he is drawn into a divine encounter that shakes him to his core. This chapter reminds us that God sees, hears, loves us and moves Heaven on our behalf.   1. Fasting & Prayer – Read Daniel 10:1-4 –    The chapter begins with Daniel (around 85 years old) burdened by the challenges facing his people, committing himself to three weeks of mourning and prayer. He abstains from rich food, wine, and personal comforts, choosing instead to focus entirely on seeking God. This act of fasting and prayer reveals Daniel’s intense desire to align his heart with God’s purposes during a season of discouragement.     Daniel’s example invites us to deny our everyday comforts and wholeheartedly seek God in our moments of uncertainty. His disciplines of prayer and fasting remind us that intimacy with God often requires setting aside our pleasures to pursue Him more deeply.     Reflection: Is there something weighing on your heart that you need to bring before God in focused prayer?     2. A Radiant Encounter – Read Daniel 10:5-9 –  While standing by the Tigris River, Daniel has a vision of a heavenly figure whose appearance radiates divine majesty. Dressed in linen (a symbol of purity and priestly service), with a golden belt (denoting royalty or judgment), this figure’s description emphasizes both holiness and authority. Most scholars suggest this figure is an angel, perhaps Gabriel, given his role in earlier visions. Others note how the overwhelming effect on Daniel and the description of this man closely relate to the description of Christ Jesus in Revelation 1:12-16.   Only Daniel sees the vision. But his companions feel the supernatural presence so strongly that they flee in terror. This encounter echoes Paul’s encounter on the Damascus Road, where only Paul saw Christ, while others experienced his power indirectly (Acts 9:1–7).     This moment reminds us of the vastness of God’s glory. His presence–as well as his messengers’ presence–shake us, humble us, and leaves no room for pride. Yet, it also reveals the beauty of encountering a God who is beyond our comprehension.     Reflection: How does the majesty of God inspire awe and reverence in your relationship with Him?     3. Loved & Heard – Read Daniel 10:10-14 –  As Daniel lies face down, a heavenly messenger touches him and reassures him that he is “greatly loved.” The messenger reveals to Daniel that from the very first day he began praying, his words were heard in Heaven. Daniel is not only loved by God, he is also heard. Yet God’s response to his prayers took time—spiritual opposition resisted the messenger for 21 days until Michael, the leading angel, intervened.     This behind-the-scenes glimpse into the spiritual realm highlights the significance of our prayers. Even when we don’t see immediate results, our persistent prayer does two things: (1) moves the heart of Heaven and (2) moves both the earthly and spiritual realms.     Reflection: You, too, are “greatly loved” and heard by God. How does that reality change your prayer life?   4. Strength in Weakness – Read Daniel 10:15-19 –  As the vision continues, Daniel feels utterly overwhelmed and drained. But the messenger gently reassures him, saying, “Fear not, peace be with you; be strong and of good courage.” With this encouragement and a second touch, Daniel finds his strength restored and his spirit renewed. Heaven’s response to Daniel’s weakness is tender care. Daniel is not left to struggle on his own, but is provided the strength and peace he needs to endure.    Reflection: Reflect on a time when you experienced God’s peace and strength lifting you out of exhaustion or discouragement.   5. The Unseen Battle – Read Daniel 10:20-21 –  The chapter closes with the messenger explaining that the spiritual battle is far from over. He must return to confront the “prince of Persia” and later deal with the “prince of Greece.” These are not worldly princes, these are spiritual forces of darkness. However, Daniel is reassured that the angel Michael, Israel’s protector, stands with God’s people. While spiritual forces may influence events, God’s purposes will always prevail.     This entire passage reveals several key truths about angels. Angels are real and play an active role in both the spiritual and earthly realms. There are both good and evil angels: good angels serve God and accomplish His will, while demonic forces oppose God and oppress His people.    This all points to the reality of spiritual warfare. As unbelievable as it may sound: angels, demons, and believers are engaged in an ongoing battle– which explains why life can always feel conflicting. This is what Paul meant when he wrote in Ephesians 6:12, “We do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm.”    That can seem discouraging and intimidating. The good news is that “you are from God and have overcome them, for he who is in you is greater than he who is in the world” (1 John 4:4). The Stronger One–Jesus–is here and alive and able to fight off the darkness in your own life.   Reflection: We exist in a spiritual war. How can you trust Jesus in this battle and stand firm in Him?   Prayer Lord,  Thank You for loving me and hearing me.  Would you give me the kind of spirit That is desperate for you in discouragement. Remind me that even in unseen battles,  You are fighting for me and accomplishing Your purposes.  I rest in your sovereign care and glory.  Amen.

Ben Stuart is back to walk us through Daniel 10 to discuss the powers that exist in the supernatural realm and how they affect us here on Earth.

Click here to listen to this week’s episode of Further In, in which members of the Passion City Church DC team discuss the passage of scripture we’re studying and consider how to apply the truths of God’s word to our lives.     This Week’s Reading: 1 Peter   The New Testament often draws on the Old Testament to help us understand the Christian life, and Peter’s letter to “exiled” and persecuted Christians is a powerful example. His letter mirrors the themes found in Daniel’s story, showing us what it means to live faithfully as God’s people in a foreign land that does not honor Him.  As you study 1 Peter, you’ll uncover surprising connections between Daniel’s exile in Babylon and Peter’s encouragement to exiled Christians living in Rome—which Peter symbolically refers to as “Babylon.”   – Read 1 Peter 1 –    Peter opens his letter by addressing believers as “elect exiles” (1:1)—a term that would have instantly reminded readers of Daniel’s story. Just as Daniel lived as an exile in Babylon, Christians are described as resident aliens, living in this world but ultimately belonging to the kingdom of Heaven. Despite their hardships and persecution, Peter reminds believers that their true identity in Jesus is unshakable. They are “born again to a living hope” through the resurrection of Jesus (1:3), and their inheritance is “imperishable, undefiled, and unfading” (1:4). While Rome sought to compromise their identity, Peter called them to remember their true belonging in Christ. From this identity flows their activity. Just as Daniel remained secure in his identity and faithful to God in Babylon, Peter calls Christians to do the same: to hope (1:13), to pursue holiness (1:15-16), to live reverently (1:17-19), and to love one another earnestly (1:22). Reflection: How does knowing your unshakable identity in Christ—chosen, beloved, born to a new hope and redeemed by the blood of Jesus—shape the activity of your day-to-day life?   –Read 1 Peter 2 –    In chapter 2, Peter continues highlighting the believers’ collective identity as the family of God. They are being “built up as a spiritual house” with Jesus as the cornerstone (2:5-6). They are a “chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for His own possession” called to proclaim God’s great grace to the watching world (2:9-10).  Although he was an exile in other kingdoms, Daniel’s life reflected God’s kingdom. Similarly, Christians are called to live as exiles reflecting God’s kingdom: by abstaining from sin and refusing to be shaped by the world’s values (2:11), by serving faithfully (2:12), and by honoring others, even those in authority who may not honor God (2:13-17). Having laid the foundation of their identity, Peter moves to address the believers’ suffering. As seen in Daniel’s life and the life of Christians addressed by Peter, persecution and suffering are a part of following Christ. In order to persevere through persecution, believers need encouragement and hope.  To uplift exiled believers, Peter points to Jesus as the great example of a suffering servant. Jesus suffered for his own people. He did not revile, nor threaten, but entrusted himself to God and bore our sins so that we might be healed by his own wounds. His persecution had a purpose: it was for us! Daniel’s story also includes suffering for the glory of God and the service of others—even those who opposed him! Reflection: Does your life reflect God’s kingdom, or the world’s values? Does your life honor those who live around you, even those you disagree with or who don’t honor you in return? Who could you choose to honor today?   –Read 1 Peter 3-4 –    In chapters 3 and 4, Peter shifts his focus to how Christians should live in community and endure suffering together. He calls for unity, humility, and love (3:8-9), encouraging believers to respond to persecution with gentleness and respect, always pointing to their hope in Jesus (3:15). Daniel exemplified this as he endured persecution with perseverance, conviction, and kindness. Peter reminds believers that they suffer similarly, and that their suffering strengthens them and makes them more like Jesus (4:1-2). The fuel that helps the exile engine run for both Daniel and for Peter is…hope. Hope is confidence that God will come through for his people in the future. As the prophecies of Daniel point to the future, so does the instruction of Peter: “the end of all things is at hand” (4:7). The believer has a confident expectation that glory awaits them when Jesus returns (4:13). Reflection: How do both Jesus’ example of suffering and the hope we have of future glory encourage you in your own suffering?    –Read 1 Peter 5 –    Peter concludes his letter with encouragement to church leaders and all believers. Leaders are to lead people with humility and a servant’s heart (5:2-3). And all Christians are to “clothe yourselves with humility” (5:5). With confidence in God’s care for them, believers are to cast their anxieties on Him and resist the devil, who prowls like a roaring lion (5:7-8). Peter’s closing words echo Daniel’s story. Daniel was humble before others and faithful toward his God who continually sustained him in Babylon. The same was true for Christians in Rome and is true for Christians everywhere today. Peter reminds believers that God is the one who ultimately restores, strengthens, and establishes them through His grace (5:10). It is that powerful grace that we are to stand in now as God’s chosen, holy, and dearly loved people. Reflection: How can humility and trust in God’s care sustain you as you face challenges in your life?   Prayer Father, Thank you for giving me a new, unchanging identity in Jesus. I am your beloved child, holy and redeemed by the blood of Christ.  Help me walk in this identity, reflecting your kingdom as I exist in the world’s kingdoms.  Teach me to hold fast to Jesus and the hope I have in Him in suffering. Grant me humility and trust in your sovereign, loving care  as I follow You and await Christ’s return. Amen

In this talk, Pastor Ben Stuart walks us through Daniel 9 and its prophecy. He reminds us of what has already happened in history and what is yet to come in our future, revealing what happens when we repent.

Click here to listen to this week’s episode of Further In, in which members of the Passion City Church DC team discuss the passage of scripture we’re studying and consider how to apply the truths of God’s word to our lives.     This Week’s Reading: Daniel 8, 2 Thessalonians 2, Revelation 13 & 17 Before you read…   Daniel 8 takes us deeper into Daniel’s prophetic visions, this time with more specific focus. Unlike the broad, sweeping panorama of world empires in Daniel 7, this chapter zooms in on two significant kingdoms: Persia and Greece. The vision in Daniel 8 occurred in the third year of King Belshazzar’s reign, roughly two years after the vision of the four beasts in Daniel 7. At this moment, Daniel is around 70 years old, serving faithfully despite the turbulent shifts in political power around him.    – Read Daniel 8 –   What did I just read? In Daniel 8, Daniel receives a vision that unfolds while he is at the fortress of Susa, a significant center for the Persian Empire (8:2). This vision centers around a ram and a goat, representing specific kingdoms that will dominate the scene of history.   The Ram (8:3-4). Daniel sees a ram with two horns, one longer than the other, symbolizing the Medo-Persian Empire. The longer horn indicates Persia’s dominance over Media. This ram charges west, north, and south, conquering with unstoppable force—a picture of the expansive power of the Medo-Persian Empire.   The Goat (8:5-8). Suddenly, a goat with a prominent horn between its eyes charges swiftly from the west. The goat is so fast that it never touches the ground. This goat represents Greece, with the prominent horn symbolizing Alexander the Great. The goat’s swift movement speaks to Alexander’s rapid and decisive victories over Persia. But at the height of its power, the horn breaks, symbolizing Alexander’s sudden death. In its place, four smaller horns arise, indicating the division of Alexander’s empire into four regions led by his generals.   The Little Horn (8:9-12; 22-25). From one of these four horns, another “little horn” emerges, growing exceedingly great toward the south, the east, and the “glorious land” (that is Israel). This horn represents a future ruler who will defy God, attack His people, and desecrate His temple. Historians agree that this figure is Antiochus IV Epiphanes– the Greek king who brutally persecuted the Jewish people and desecrated the temple in 167 BC. While this prophecy was fulfilled in Antiochus IV Epiphanes, it also foreshadows a future figure, often seen as a precursor to the figures described in the New Testament (2 Thessalonians 2, Revelation 13). Meditations God Foresees History Daniel 8 reveals God’s precise knowledge of future events. He knows the rise and fall of empires and the actions of kings long before they happen. The LORD is never surprised by the twists of history or the schemes of rulers– He sees it all and works through it all to accomplish His purposes.   Reflection: Are there areas in your life where you need to trust God’s foresight and sovereignty?   The Tension of Perspective Daniel’s vision exposes the tension of living between present realities and future prophecies. Heavenly perspective brings weightiness to his everyday life. Although Daniel was troubled by the vision, he faithfully continued his duties (8:27). This reminds us that while we may feel the weight of future concerns, we’re called to stay faithful in the present. God gives us glimpses of the future not to paralyze us, but to prepare us. Reflection: How can you stay focused on what God has called you to today, even as you long for His future promises? Prayer Lord, You are the One who sees the end from the beginning.   Help me trust You with the unknowns of my life.   Forgive me for doubting Your plans.  Strengthen me to stand firm, even when times are difficult.   I long for the day when all kingdoms bow before You.   Your kingdom come, Your will be done.   Amen

As the Believers in Babylon collection continues, Pastor Ben Stuart takes us through a portion of history that was prophesied about in Daniel 8. Since history often repeats itself, Ben gives us warnings to spur us to live and serve in our earthly kingdoms with God’s Kingdom in mind.

Click here to listen to this week’s episode of Further In, in which members of the Passion City Church DC team discuss the passage of scripture we’re studying and consider how to apply the truths of God’s word to our lives.     This Week’s Reading: Daniel 7, 1 John 2:18-27, 2 Thessalonians 2:1-12, Revelation 13 Before you read…   Daniel 7 stands at the center of the book of Daniel. Many believe it is one of the most important chapters in the Old Testament, especially since Daniel’s dream is referenced multiple times in the New Testament. This moment occurs during the first year of King Belshazzar’s reign, before the events of chapters 5 and 6. At this point, Daniel is around 67 years old and has served under several kings. Daniel’s dream contains apocalyptic symbols that unveil deeper truths: Heaven rules history.   –Read Daniel 7–   What did I just read? In Daniel 7, Daniel receives a dream in the first year of King Belshazzar’s reign. In this vision, he sees four beasts rise from a chaotic, stormy sea, symbolizing the turbulent world of nations (7:2).   The first beast (7:4) is a lion with the wings of an eagle, representing Babylon. Its wings are torn off, and it stands on two feet, suggesting the humbling of Babylon’s pride and the transformation of its power—possibly a reference to Nebuchadnezzar’s journey of humility (remember Daniel 4!).   The second beast (7:5), a bear, rises next. Raised on one side and holding three ribs in its mouth, it signifies Medo-Persia, with Persia as the dominant side of the alliance. The bear’s command to “devour much flesh” represents Medo-Persia’s brutal military campaigns.   The third beast (7:6) is a four-winged, four-headed leopard, symbolizing Greece. The wings emphasize Greece’s swiftness in conquest under Alexander the Great, while the four heads foreshadow the division of his empire into four parts.   The fourth beast (7:7-8) is unlike any known creature, terrifying and iron-toothed, symbolizing Rome. With its crushing power and ten horns, it represents Rome’s extensive reach. A “little horn” emerges, symbolizing a ruler who will defy God, oppress His people, and create chaos (7:19-26 expounds on this vision of the fourth beast). However, its reign will be limited, and it will be judged and destroyed. The prophecy echoes in the New Testament, where Paul (2 Thess. 2) and John in Revelation describe a future antagonist who will oppose God and His people.   The Ancient of Days (7:9-11). The scene shifts from chaos to order as Daniel sees the “Ancient of Days” taking His seat on a throne ablaze with fire. The Ancient of Days, clothed in white with hair like pure wool, represents God and his eternal authority, purity, and wisdom. Judgment flows from His throne, and thousands upon thousands attend Him. Here, ultimate justice is executed as the fourth beast is destroyed, signaling the end of its oppressive rule.   The Son of Man (7:13-14). In Daniel’s vision, “one like a son of man” comes with the clouds of heaven and is presented before the Ancient of Days. He receives authority, glory, and sovereign power, and His dominion is everlasting. In the New Testament, Jesus identifies Himself with this “Son of Man” (Mark 14:62), asserting that He is the one who will fulfill this prophecy, establishing a kingdom that will never be destroyed.   The Kingdom of the Saints (7:18, 27). The angel explains that the “saints of the Most High” will inherit the kingdom alongside the Son of Man, reigning with Him forever. Although earthly kingdoms rise and fall with pride and oppression, God’s people are assured a lasting kingdom filled with justice and peace. Meditations Heaven Rules History In the chaos of the world, Daniel’s vision shows us a truth we can cling to: God reigns. Empires rise and fall, but the “Ancient of Days” sits on a throne of fire, and His rule is unshakable. No matter what storms rage around you, remember: God’s authority is absolute. His justice is perfect. His kingdom will never end. Heaven rules history.   Reflection: What in your life feels out of control? What would it look like for you to trust in God’s control today?   It’s All About Jesus Heaven’s rule looks like a “Son of Man” coming to bring a kingdom. Jesus calls himself the “Son of Man” (Mark 14:62), identifying himself as the one Daniel saw in his vision. He is the true King, the center of history, that will ultimately upend evil. Jesus is the King we await, the hope we hold, and the promise that lasts forever.   Reflection: History culminates in the coming of Jesus. How focused are you on Jesus coming again?   We Rule With Him Daniel’s vision promises that the saints will reign with God in His eternal kingdom. We’re not mere bystanders; we’re invited to rule alongside Jesus, sharing in His victory forever. Though persecution will come, the Christian’s hope remains unshaken—an unending reign with Christ in a kingdom that will never fade. Reflection: In what small ways can you partake in the Kingdom of God today? Prayer Lord,  You reign over all.  Help me trust Your control. Forgive me for when I trust in my own control. Jesus, I long for Your second coming. Your Kingdom come,  Your will be done. Amen

Daniel 7 marks a pivotal shift in the book of Daniel, moving from historical accounts to powerful prophecy. Join Pastor Ben Stuart as he unpacks Daniel’s vision, revealing glimpses of the future shaping history and foretelling events still unfolding.

Click here to listen to this week’s episode of Further In, in which members of the Passion City Church DC team discuss the passage of scripture we’re studying and consider how to apply the truths of God’s word to our lives.     This Week’s Reading: Daniel 6, Acts 5:29, Psalm 55:17, Hebrews 11:33   As Daniel 6 opens, a shift of power has placed Persia in command, but Daniel, now in his 80s, continues to serve faithfully in this new kingdom. His integrity and faithfulness from past trials will soon be tested again, this time under the watchful eye of a new king and the jealousy of new co-workers.   – Read Daniel 6:1-18–   What happened? As power shifted from Babylon to Persia, Daniel, now over 80 years old, continued serving under this new empire that King Darius led. Persia had become the world’s largest empire. To manage its vast territories, Darius appointed satraps—regional officials known as “protectors of the kingdom.” He placed three administrators over those satraps, with Daniel among them (6:1-3).   Daniel’s integrity and excellence set him apart, earning the king’s favor. This success stirred jealousy among his peers, who sought to discredit him. Finding no fault in his character, they saw his faith in God as their only means to trap him. Daniel’s devotion to God was public and unwavering, making him stand out in the polytheistic Persian Empire (6:4-5).   The envious officials conspired to set Daniel up. They proposed a loyalty test: a decree forbidding prayer to any god or person but the king for 30 days. Darius, likely flattered, signed it, unaware of their true motive. Once signed, the decree couldn’t be altered—not even by the king himself (6:6-9).   When Daniel learned of the decree, he remained steadfast. As was his rhythm three times a day, Daniel went home, got on his knees, and prayed to his God. Daniel knew that the decree was out, but personal risk would not prohibit him from praying to his God (6:10). Sometimes, the believer must break the law of the land in order to obey the law of the LORD. Hence, Peter and the other apostles told Jewish authorities, “We must obey God rather than men” (Acts 5:29).   The conspirators caught Daniel praying and reported him. They emphasized that he was an “exile from Judah,” highlighting his foreign origins to distance him from Persia. Realizing he had been tricked, Darius grew distressed and sought every possible way to save Daniel, but the officials pressed for the decree’s enforcement (6:11-15).   Reluctantly, Darius ordered Daniel into the lions’ den. As Daniel was sealed inside, the king expressed hope, saying, “May your God, whom you serve continually, rescue you.” Darius returned to his palace, fasting and unable to sleep, anxiously waiting for dawn (6:16-18).   At dawn, Darius rushed to the lions’ den and called out to Daniel, hoping for a miracle. He asked if Daniel’s God had saved him. To the king’s relief, Daniel replied, saying God had sent an angel to shut the lions’ mouths. Because of his faith, Daniel remained unharmed (6:19-22).   Darius, overjoyed, ordered Daniel’s release and cast the conspirators, along with their families, into the den. Unlike Daniel, they were devoured instantly. Darius then issued a decree, commanding all people to honor the God of Daniel, “the living God” who “rescues and saves” and whose kingdom stands forever (6:23-27).    Once again, Daniel’s faith changed a king’s heart, and he continued to prosper under Darius and beyond (6:28). What to remember?  King Darius appointed officials for Persia, and Daniel stood out (6:1-3).  Jealous officials convinced Darius to ban prayer to anyone but the king for 30 days (6:4-9).  Daniel prayed openly to God, ignoring the decree (6:10).  The officials caught him praying and reported it to the king (6:11-13).  Darius tried to save Daniel but couldn’t change the decree (6:14-15).  Reluctantly, Darius sent Daniel to the lions’ den, hoping God would save him (6:16-17).  Darius fasted and couldn’t sleep that night (6:18).  At dawn, Darius rushed to the lions’ den and found Daniel unharmed. God had shut the lions’ mouths (6:19-22).  Darius was happy and ordered Daniel’s release. He threw the conspirators to the lions, and they were devoured (6:23-24).  Darius told everyone to honor Daniel’s God, who saves and rules forever (6:25-27).  Daniel thrived under Darius and Cyrus (6:28).   Meditations “An excellent spirit was in him” (6:3) Daniel exemplified what it meant to work with excellence. His faith in God did not hinder his work; it fueled it. While others may have exploited their positions for personal gain, Daniel remained committed to serving faithfully.    A true relationship with God enhances our integrity and work ethic. We should strive to cultivate this same excellent spirit in our daily tasks. Would your coworkers say you have an excellent spirit? What is hindering you from such?   “He got down on his knees three times a day” (6:10) Daniel’s commitment to prayer was unwavering. He didn’t just pray once a day; he marked his daily schedule with several moments dedicated to God. In persecution, he continued to pray with thanksgiving. Daniel delighted in the daily office of prayer. Do you?   What would it look like for you to have this kind of prayer life? Are there moments throughout your daily schedule where you could pause to pray? Maybe you want to set some daily reminders on your phone to bring you back to this posture.   “He is the living God… he delivers and rescues” (6:26) King Darius, who was unable to save Daniel, recognized the power of Daniel’s God, who could save him. The chapter ends with Darius turning to the One who truly saves: “He is the living God, enduring forever; his kingdom shall never be destroyed, and his dominion shall be to the end. He delivers and rescues.” While he could not rescue Daniel from the lions, God could.   This chapter foreshadows Jesus. Like Daniel, Jesus faced false accusations and arrest while praying in the garden. Like Daniel, Jesus remained steadfast in the face of persecution. Like Daniel thrown and sealed in the lions’ den, Jesus was thrown to his death and sealed in a tomb. Yet, Jesus is the Son of the Living God who raised him from the dead. Why did Jesus come, live, die, and rise? For you. To deliver and rescue you. That’s your God… the living God.   Prayer Heavenly Father, Thank You for Daniel’s example of excellence.   Help me to embody an excellent spirit and integrity in my daily tasks.   Teach me to remain faithful and steadfast in my commitment to You.   Guide me to prioritize prayer throughout my day.   Thank You for being the living God who delivers.   I praise You for Jesus, our ultimate rescue and salvation.   Amen.

Ben Stuart continues through Daniel 5, where we will see God’s judgment come to pass on an arrogant king. He also emphasizes the warnings in this chapter that we can then apply to our own lives to encourage us to pursue the Kingdom of God above all else.

Click here to listen to this week’s episode of Further In, in which members of the Passion City Church DC team discuss the passage of scripture we’re studying and consider how to apply the truths of God’s word to our lives.     This week’s reading: Daniel 5   Before diving into Chapter 5, it’s helpful to recall the events of Daniel 4. Nebuchadnezzar, the proud king of Babylon, was humbled by God, living like an animal for a time until he repented and acknowledged the LORD. By the end of his life, Nebuchadnezzar was praising the one true God.   In Daniel 5, we see a new ruler on the throne. Years after Nebuchadnezzar’s reign ended, we meet… Belshazzar. The Greek historian Xenophon referred to Belshazzar as “the wicked king.” He also recorded a moment when Belshazzar murdered a governor’s son on a hunting trip out of jealousy. Pride, violence, and arrogance marked Belshazzar. Interestingly, most historians believed the records of Belshazzar to be ancient myths until archeological evidence was found supporting the existence of Belshazzar in the 19th century.    As the saying goes, “Pride comes before the fall.” It is Belshazzar’s pride that leads to the collapse of Babylon. The fall of Babylon has been recorded by many historians, but Daniel 5 tells the collapse of one of the greatest empires in history from Heaven’s perspective…   —Read Daniel 5—   What happened? Daniel 5 opens with prideful, petty, and violent King Belshazzar holding a lavish banquet for his nobles. In a drunken act of disrespect, he ordered that the sacred vessels from the temple in Jerusalem be brought out so he and his guests could drink from them (Daniel 5:1-4). These were the same vessels that Nebuchadnezzar had taken during his conquest of Jerusalem, and they were meant to be holy and set apart for God. But Belshazzar used them for a drunken party, praising false gods. The sensual party turned sacrilegious as Belshazzar mocked the LORD of heaven.   Suddenly, a hand appeared and began writing on the wall. The mysterious writing terrified Belshazzar, and none of his wise men could interpret it. His mother remembered Daniel, who had once served Nebuchadnezzar. Daniel was brought in to interpret the writing (Daniel 5:5-16).   Daniel boldly confronted Belshazzar. He reminded him of Nebuchadnezzar’s humbling experience and how God had taught Nebuchadnezzar to acknowledge His rule. Despite knowing all this, Belshazzar refused to humble himself and continued to worship lifeless objects.    What was the writing on the wall? MENE, MENE, TEKEL, PARSIN— a message of judgment. Daniel explained that Belshazzar’s days were numbered, he had been weighed and found wanting, and his kingdom would be divided and given to the Medes and Persians (Daniel 5:17-28). To be found “wanting” was to be found lacking or deficient. Because of his refusal to repent, Belshazzar lacked any sort of right standing with God and would be divided and judged.    That very night, Belshazzar was killed, and Darius the Mede took over the kingdom, fulfilling God’s judgment (Daniel 5:30-31). What to remember? King Belshazzar (the new ruler of Babylon) displays his power with a great feast (5:1-2)At the feast, King Belshazzar mocks the LORD’s vessels (5:3)The hand writes on the wall (5:5-9)Daniel recalls Nebuchadnezzar’s story and confronts Belshazzar (5:18-23)Daniel interprets the writing on the wall (5:25-28)Belshazzar is judged and killed, and the kingdom falls (5:30-31)   Meditation You have been weighed and found wanting (5:27) Belshazzar was weighed in God’s balance and found wanting… or lacking. His refusal to repent led to his downfall. Similar to Belshazzar, we all feel a sense in which we have been weighed in God’s balance and lack righteousness within ourselves. We are helpless within our own means before judgment…    However, the beauty of the Gospel is that “For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin so that in him we might become the righteousness of God” (2 Corinthians 5:21). In the world’s greatest moment of love, Jesus bore our judgment so that we could have his righteousness. Unlike Belshazzar, we do not turn inward to find righteousness within ourselves (because it’s lacking!), but we turn to Jesus, who became our righteousness on the cross.   You did not honor the God who holds your life in His hands (5:23) Daniel’s rebuke of Belshazzar hits hard: You have not honored the God who holds in His hand your life and all your ways. Belshazzar failed to recognize that his life and his kingdom were derivative from God.    We often forget that every breath we take is sustained by God’s hand. This moment reminds us that every aspect of our life is under God’s sovereign control. Do you live with an awareness of God’s constant provision in your life? Do you honor Him in the way you live, work, and interact with others?  Prayer Father, Help me to live with a heart  that is humble before you. May I live each day with a sense of your holiness and a deep desire to walk in your ways. I love you, LORD. Amen.