Prophecy 5 & Epilogue - Wars Between the North & South

Wars Between the North & South – Daniel 10:1-12:13

Beginning Point in Time: 538 B.C.
Ending Point in Time: Second Coming of Jesus

Summary:
This vision contains two stories. The first story describes a series of battles that conclude with the destruction of Jerusalem in A.D. 70 and the second story describes a battle that concludes with the destruction of the world at the Second Coming. Two stories are told in this vision because there are important parallels between them.

Using repetition and enlargement, the second story amplifies the appearing of the horn described in Daniel 8. Remember the horn in Daniel 8 appears out of nowhere. We will discover in Prophecies 8 and 11 that Lucifer will be released from the Abyss (spirit realm). He will physically appear and establish a worldwide kingdom on Earth. To do this, he must destroy the religions and governments of the world. Jesus will permit the devil to do this for a minimum of two reasons. First, Jesus wants the universe to witness the nature of government that any sinner would establish if given the opportunity and absolute power to acomplish it. Second, Jesus enables the devil to destroy the religions and governments of Earth so that religious heritage and patriotism will not hinder any person from accepting salvation. In other words, when Satan is allowed to abolish patriotism and religious heritage, he will eliminate the two cherished refuges of all mankind. Suddenly, each person will find himself in a very difficult “no-man’s land.” Each wicked person will have to rethink the basis for his rebellion against the gospel of Christ. Whom will he now worship and obey – the visible despot who gloriously masquerades as God or the unseen Creator of Heaven and Earth that dwells in Heaven?

Introduction:
The last vision in the book of Daniel is important to two groups of Christians. The first group lived around A.D. 70 and the second group will live at the time of the end. This vision contains two stories because both groups of Christians face the same dilemma, that is, both groups are caught in the middle; trapped between hostile forces.

During the final days of Christ’s ministry on Earth, Jesus directed His followers to the first part of this vision because it foretold the upcoming destruction of Jerusalem.^[1] Vespesian set siege to Jerusalem in A.D. 66 and the siege was temporarily lifted in A.D. 68 when Nero committed suicide. Vespesian returned to Rome and became the next Caesar. Later, Vespasian’s son, Titus, resumed the siege of Jerusalem. It has been said that no Christians remained in Jerusalem when Titus resumed the siege in April, A.D. 70. If this is true, it would be the result of early Christians understanding the first segment of this prophecy because once the siege was set, no one escaped. Titus and his army totally destroyed the city and the temple in September.

The second part of this vision begins with Daniel 11:36. The King of the North is Lucifer. He will physically appear during the fifth trumpet and will be successful until the time of wrath (the Great Tribulation) is completed.^[2] Lucifer will conquer the world and destroy everyone who stands in his way. God has given this information to the final generation because He does not want His people to give up or lose faith in Him. During the Great Tribulation, God will permit the forces of evil to kill most of His saints. This is not as horrible as it may sound because God will give His people the grace and strength to die a martyr’s death when grace is needed. Even more, sleeping in Christ while the remainder of the Great Tribulation plays out will be a merciful release from suffering and deprivation.

When Lucifer physically appears, he will masquerade as Almighty God, demand an end to religious and political diversity, and order that a one world theocracy be established. He will demand, “There cannot be any religious or political diversity when God lives among men!” Many people on Earth will resist the devil’s attempt to establish his theocracy because they do not want to obey him. The devil and his forces (represented in the second portion of this prophecy as the King of the North) will destroy the opposition^[3] (represented in this prophecy as the King of the South). God’s saints will be trapped in the middle of this war because, like the opposition, they will refuse to worship the devil, but for different reasons.

Even though the first portion of this vision has been fulfilled, it is good to study it and understand it. The first story reveals a salient fact: God overrules. He manages the nations of the world. He sets up kings and takes them down when their cup of sin is filled. As you follow the back and forth wars described in the first segment of this prophecy, remember that Israel was trapped in the middle of what must have seemed like endless fighting.

The Sequence:

Daniel 10:1

In the third year of Cyrus king of Persia a thing was revealed unto Daniel, whose name was called Belteshazzar; and the thing was true, but the time appointed was long: and he understood the thing, and had understanding of the vision.

{1} When Babylon fell to the Medes and Persians, the Medes took control of the province of Babylon. Even though I was about 85 years of age, King Darius appointed me to serve in his court as an advisor. Like myself, the king was an elderly man and he died shortly after God rescued me from the lion’s den. After he died, the province of Babylon was given over to Cyrus, king of Persia. During Cyrus’ third year as king over Babylon, I received another vision. I knew the message was true because it came from God, but even so, it made me sick. I was shown a great war that seemed to have no end. Two great opponents struggled for supremacy and power, but there was no apparent winner.

Daniel 10:2-3

In those days I Daniel was mourning three full weeks. I ate no pleasant bread, neither came flesh nor wine in my mouth, neither did I anoint myself at all, till three whole weeks were fulfilled.

{2} After watching the vision, I was depressed for three weeks because I suspected that my people would likely squander the seventy weeks of grace extended to them. I wondered about my people because Gabriel had said that wars and desolations were decreed upon Jerusalem until the end of the world.^[4] I did not want to believe that my people would violate God’s covenant again, but I knew that my people had a long history of rebellion. Many times, we had refused to honor the God of our forefathers, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. As a result, God used King Nebuchadnezzar to drive us out of the Beautiful Land.^[5]
{3} I petitioned the Most High God for an understanding of this vision, hoping that my worries were misdirected. To show God my sincerity and desire for understanding, I did not eat delicious food; no meat or wine touched my lips; and I used no cologne until the three weeks were over.

Discussion

Daniel 10:4-6

And in the four and twentieth day of the first month, as I was by the side of the great river, which is Hiddekel; Then I lifted up mine eyes, and looked, and behold a certain man clothed in linen, whose loins were girded with fine gold of Uphaz: His body also was like the beryl, and his face as the appearance of lightning, and his eyes as lamps of fire, and his arms and his feet like in colour to polished brass, and the voice of his words like the voice of a multitude.

{4} On the twenty-fourth day of Nisan, I received a follow-up vision. In this vision, I was standing on the bank of the Tigris.
{5} I looked up and saw a glorious man dressed in brilliant linen, wearing a belt of finest gold around his waist.
{6} His body was as bright as the Sun shining on polished gold, His face was brilliant like lightning, his eyes like flaming torches, His arms and legs like gleaming polished bronze, and His voice sounded like the roar of a great multitude because it could be heard for miles around.

Daniel 10:7-12

And I Daniel alone saw the vision: for the men that were with me saw not the vision; but a great quaking fell upon them, so that they fled to hide themselves. Therefore I was left alone, and saw this great vision, and there remained no strength in me: for my comeliness was turned in me into corruption, and I retained no strength. Yet heard I the voice of his words: and when I heard the voice of his words, then was I in a deep sleep on my face, and my face toward the ground.And, behold, an hand touched me, which set me upon my knees and upon the palms of my hands. And he said unto me, O Daniel, a man greatly beloved, understand the words that I speak unto thee, and stand upright: for unto thee am I now sent. And when he had spoken this word unto me, I stood trembling. Then said he unto me, Fear not, Daniel: for from the first day that thou didst set thine heart to understand, and to chasten thyself before thy God, thy words were heard, and I am come for thy words.

{7} I was the only one who saw Him; the men with me did not see the glorious man, but when the vision began they were terrified and fled for safety.
{8} I was left alone, gazing at this glorious being, my body had no strength and my face turned deathly pale.
{9} Then I heard Him speak, and as I listened, I fell unconscious falling face first into the dirt.
{10} An angel touched me and helped me get up on my hands and knees. I was trembling and had no strength.
{11} The angel reassured me saying, “Daniel, you are highly esteemed; carefully consider the words I am about to speak to you. Stand up, for Michael/Jesus, the brilliant man you just saw, has sent me.” After the angel said this, my strength returned enough to stand up, even though I was trembling and shaking.
{12} Then the angel continued, “Do not be afraid, Daniel. Since the day you received the vision about the great war and began humbling yourself with fasting and prayer for understanding, God heard your words, and He sent me to you.

Daniel 10:13-14

But the prince of the kingdom of Persia withstood me one and twenty days: but, lo, Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me; and I remained there with the kings of Persia. Now I am come to make thee understand what shall befall thy people in the latter days: for yet the vision is for many days.

{13} “But, the prince of this world, the devil, thwarted my efforts for the past twenty-one days. Warlords from Judea have been trying to turn the heart of Cyrus against your people. The squatters around Jerusalem do not want your people to rebuild Jerusalem or the temple. As the devil was strongly urging Cyrus to stop the rebuilding process, Michael/Jesus, the Archangel, the glorious man you saw in the sky above the river, came to my aid.
{14} Now that Michael has overcome Lucifer, rebuilding will continue.^[6] So listen carefully, for I have come to explain what will happen to your people in the future, for this vision reveals what will happen during and after the seventy weeks. . . .”

The Sequence

Daniel 10:20-11:1

Then said he, Knowest thou wherefore I come unto thee? and now will I return to fight with the prince of Persia: and when I am gone forth, lo, the prince of Grecia shall come. But I will show thee that which is noted in the scripture of truth: and there is none that holdeth with me in these things, but Michael your prince. Also I in the first year of Darius the Mede, even I, stood to confirm and to strengthen him.

{20} “Soon, the kingdom of Persia will fill up its cup of iniquity. The kingdom of Grecia will overtake Persia and rise to power.
{21} Michael, the Prince of Heaven, manages the rise and fall of earthly kingdoms.
{1} For example, during the first year of Darius the Mede, I was assigned to protect him according to the plans of the Most High. Now that Darius has died, the Most High has determined that his territory shall be given to the Persian king, Cyrus. This transition will resolve two difficult problems. First, as king of Babylon, Cyrus can set your people free from Babylon. Second, as king of the Trans-Euphrates territory, Cyrus can give the land of Judea back to your people.

Daniel 11:2

I show thee the truth. Behold, there shall stand up yet three kings in Persia; and the fourth shall be far richer than they all: and by his strength through his riches he shall stir up all against the realm of Grecia.

{2} “Three more kings after Cyrus will rule over Persia: Cambyses, Darius I Hystaspes, and False Smerdis (also called Bardiya). Then, a fourth king, Xerxes (also called Ahasuerus, the husband of the future Queen Esther) will come to power. Xerxes will be far richer than the other three. When Xerxes has gained much power by his wealth, he will irritate the newly developing kingdom of Grecia with his conquests. This will later prove to be the undoing of Persia.

Daniel 11:3-4

And a mighty king shall stand up, that shall rule with great dominion, and do according to his will. And when he shall stand up, his kingdom shall be broken, and shall be divided toward the four winds of heaven; and not to his posterity, nor according to his dominion which he ruled: for his kingdom shall be plucked up, even for others beside those.

{3} “About one hundred years after the reign of Xerxes, another mighty king, Alexander the Great, will rise to power in Grecia. The four wings on the leopard beast in Daniel 7 represent the amazing speed of his conquest. The great horn on the goat in Daniel 8 represents this unstoppable king. He will rule with impunity and do as he pleases.
{4} He will conquer western civilization in a period of ten years and die an untimely death. Remember how the great horn on the goat was broken off at the height of its power. Alexander will die when he is strongest and his empire will not go to his descendants. His empire will be divided toward the north, south, east and west. His generals will not have the military might that Alexander exercised. Years later, the Grecian Empire will fall into the hands of the Romans. They will rise up and rule a large territory with an iron hand.”

To appreciate the contents of this vision, three matters must be kept in mind:

First, after Noah died, God called Abraham out of Ur (which was near Babylon) and directed him to relocate to Canaan. God did this because in the future, He planned to put the descendants of Abraham in a highly strategic location.

Second, because Abraham loved God to the point of sacrificing his own son, God chose the descendants of Abraham to be the trustees of His gospel. God wanted the world to learn about His laws of love, His mercy and kindness, and His promise of redemption from sin. God did not steal the land of Canaan from the Canaanites and give it to the Jews. He waited until the Cananites filled up their cup of sin,^[7] then He gave the land of Canaan to Abraham’s descendants.^[8] Incidentally, the “full cup principle” also explains why Canaan was taken from the Jews in A.D. 70.^[9]

Third, God placed Israel in the geographical center of many nations^[10] because trade caravans and armies often passed through Canaan while on their way to other destinations. This natural exposure enabled people living in other parts of the world to hear about the marvelous God who actually lived in a temple in Israel. In fact, the queen of Sheba heard about the fame and riches of Solomon and she went to see him for herself.^[11] God did these things because He wanted the world to learn about Him and His character of love. This is why He lavishly blessed the Jews. In turn, He wanted the Jews to lavishly distribute the riches of His graces, taking the light of truth to the Gentiles,^[12] showing them the quality of life that comes from serving an infinite God who loves righteousness and hates evil.

The land of Canaan lies between two natural barriers. The great sea (the Mediterranean Sea) lies to the west and the great desert (the Arabian Desert) lies to the east. For thousands of years, these natural barriers forced northbound and southbound travel through the corridor of Canaan. When the tiny nation of Israel crossed over the Jordan and entered Canaan in 1397 B.C., it unwittingly became a nation living between two giants. These giants are described in this prophecy as the “King of the North” and the “King of the South.” These titles make perfect sense when viewed from Israel’s geographical location.

Because the book of Daniel contains Plan B, God traced many well-known battles between the north and the south during the seventy weeks of Daniel 9. He did this so that if Plan B should become necessary, His people could escape the destruction of Jerusalem. Therefore, the first part of this vision contains information which early Christians could easily decipher. In fact, shortly before His death, Jesus directed His followers to this prophecy!^[13]

Evidently, early Christians understood Daniel 10:1 through Daniel 11:31 and they fled Jerusalem before it was destroyed in A.D. 70. Historians have indicated that few, if any, Christians perished. The good news is that early Christians foreknew the outcome of the Roman siege which began in A.D. 66 and they were able to escape in A.D. 68 when the siege was unexpectedly lifted. (Nero died.) Of course, the Jews were relieved when the siege was lifted, but to their peril, they did not accept Jesus’ words. They would not believe God would allow Rome to destroy His city and His temple and history reveals that their beliefs had no effect on realities that followed. The Roman army resumed its siege in April and the city fell in September, A.D. 70. The historian, Josephus, wrote that 1.1 million people were killed and 97,000 were taken as slaves.^[14]

This vision also contains a segment for people living at the appointed time of the end. God wants His saints to know and understand that they are going to be caught between the devil (the King of the North) and secular forces (the King of the South) opposed to the devil’s demands. The devil and his forces will view God’s people as part of the opposition and millions of saints will die in the process. (See fifth seal in Prophecy 6.) God has revealed this information in advance so that His people will not abandon their hope or their faith in Him. It is a great shame that a vast majority of Christians today do not know that the saints will be totally defeated during the Great Tribulation.^[15] There will be a few believers living when Jesus comes,^[16] but externally, the situation will appear hopeless for Christians during the sixth trumpet.

Now that we have briefly discussed the parallel between early Christians and Christians during the Great Tribulation, we will return to the vision. Remember, this first segment belongs to those who lived during the destruction of Jerusalem.

Daniel 11:5-6

And the king of the south shall be strong, and one of his princes; and he shall be strong above him, and have dominion; his dominion shall be a great dominion. And in the end of years they shall join themselves together; for the king’s daughter of the south shall come to the king of the north to make an agreement: but she shall not retain the power of the arm; neither shall he stand, nor his arm: but she shall be given up, and they that brought her, and he that begat her, and he that strengthened her in these times.

{5} “One of Alexander’s generals, Ptolemy I Soter, will become the king of Egypt. As the King of the South, he will become strong, but a second general from Alexander’s empire, Seleucus I Nicator, will become even greater than Ptolemy. Seleucus will extend his domain so that he will rule over the north with great power.
{6} After a few years, these two kings will die, and their descendants will become allies through marriage. Bernice, the daughter of Ptolemy II, the King of the South, will go to Antiochus II, the King of the North, to make an alliance. Antiochus II will divorce his wife, Laodice, to marry Bernice and they will produce an heir. However, this alliance will not last long. The vacillating Antiochus II will divorce Bernice and reconcile with his former wife, Laodice. After Antiochus II and Laodice reconcile, Laodice will kill Bernice, her royal escort, and her son by Antiochus II. Laodice will then kill Antiochus II because he left her to support an alliance with Bernice.

Daniel 11:7-10

But out of a branch of her roots shall one stand up in his estate, which shall come with an army, and shall enter into the fortress of the king of the north, and shall deal against them, and shall prevail: And shall also carry captives into Egypt their gods, with their princes, and with their precious vessels of silver and of gold; and he shall continue more years than the king of the north. So the king of the south shall come into his kingdom, and shall return into his own land. But his sons shall be stirred up, and shall assemble a multitude of great forces: and one shall certainly come, and overflow, and pass through: then shall he return, and be stirred up, even to his fortress.

{7} “Later on, Bernice’s brother in Egypt, Ptolemy III, will become King of the South and take her place. To revenge Bernice’s death, he will attack the army of Seleucus II, the new King of the North. Ptolemy III will fight against Seleucus II’s army and be victorious. He will plunder their fortresses.
{8} He will seize their gods, their metal images and their valuable articles of silver and gold and take them to Egypt. For a few years, Ptolemy III will leave the King of the North alone.
{9} After several years pass, Seleucus II will then invade the domain of the King of the South to retrieve the gold and silver that Ptolemy III took from him, but Seleucus II will be defeated and he will return to his own country empty-handed.
{10} To avenge the defeat of their father, Seleucus III and Antiochus III, the two sons of Seleucus II, will prepare for war and assemble a great army. They will sweep through the land of the King of the South like the damage that comes from an irresistible flood. The two sons will carry the battle as far as the area of Transjordan, which is to be the fortress of the next King of the South, Ptolemy IV.

Daniel 11:11-13

And the king of the south shall be moved with choler, and shall come forth and fight with him, even with the king of the north: and he shall set forth a great multitude; but the multitude shall be given into his hand. And when he hath taken away the multitude, his heart shall be lifted up; and he shall cast down many ten thousands: but he shall not be strengthened by it. For the king of the north shall return, and shall set forth a multitude greater than the former, and shall certainly come after certain years with a great army and with much riches.

{11} “Later, Ptolemy IV will march out in a rage and fight against Antiochus III, the King of the North, at Raphia, and the large army of Antiochus III will be defeated.
{12} When Antiochus III is shamed with defeat, Ptolemy IV, the King of the South, will become full of arrogance and will continue with conquests. He will slaughter thousands as his army moves as far as the border of India, yet he will not remain triumphant. Both he and his wife will die mysteriously. In their place, Ptolemy V Epiphanes, their five-year-old son, will ascend to the throne of the south.
{13} Meanwhile, Antiochus III, the King of the North, will muster another army, larger than the first. After several years, his forces will plunder Jerusalem and advance toward Egypt with a huge, well-equipped army.

Daniel 11:14-15

And in those times there shall many stand up against the king of the south: also the robbers of thy people shall exalt themselves to establish the vision; but they shall fall. So the king of the north shall come, and cast up a mount, and take the most fenced cities: and the arms of the south shall not withstand, neither his chosen people, neither shall there be any strength to withstand.

{14} “During the reign of Ptolemy IV, many people will rebel against this arrogant King of the South. Zealots and violent men from among your own people will rebel against him in fulfillment of this vision, but they will not succeed.
{15} However, Antiochus III, the King of the North, will come and build siege ramps and will capture the fortified city of Sidon. The forces of the King of the South will not be able to resist; even their best troops will not have the strength to resist.

Daniel 11:16-17

But he that cometh against him shall do according to his own will, and none shall stand before him: and he shall stand in the glorious land, which by his hand shall be consumed. He shall also set his face to enter with the strength of his whole kingdom, and upright ones with him; thus shall he do: and he shall give him the daughter of women, corrupting her: but she shall not stand on his side, neither be for him.

{16} “Years later, a new group of invaders from the north will appear and they will do as they please and no one will be able to resist them. They will eventually establish a huge empire, engulfing the Beautiful Land of Canaan. They will have power to destroy anyone who rebels against them.
{17} These invaders from the north will be called Romans. The ruler, Julius Caesar, will come with the might of many legions of soldiers and he will make an alliance with Ptolemy XI, the King of the South, in an effort to keep peace. The two children of Ptolemy XI, Cleopatra and Ptolemy XII, will be placed under the guardianship of Rome. In the years to come, Cleopatra and Ptolemy XII, heirs of the throne in the south, will try to eliminate Roman control over Egypt. Cleopatra will seduce Julius Caesar and Mark Antony into illicit love affairs to gain power. But later, Julius Caesar will be assassinated and Mark Antony will be killed in battle. Therefore, Cleopatra’s plans will not succeed or help Egypt.

Daniel 11:18-20

After this shall he turn his face unto the isles, and shall take many: but a prince for his own behalf shall cause the reproach offered by him to cease; without his own reproach he shall cause it to turn upon him. Then he shall turn his face toward the fort of his own land: but he shall stumble and fall, and not be found. Then shall stand up in his estate a raiser of taxes in the glory of the kingdom: but within few days he shall be destroyed, neither in anger, nor in battle.

{18} “When an alliance is made with Ptolemy XI, Julius Caesar will subdue the people living on the islands of the coastlands of Africa. In doing so, Julius Caesar will end the rebellion of Scipio and turn his rebellion into defeat.
{19} Julius Caesar will then return home and receive many honors and titles, but remember, he is a mortal man and not a god. An assassin will kill him and he will be seen no more.
{20} Caesar’s successor, Octavius – later named Augustus – will send tax collectors all over the kingdom to maintain his royal splendor. After reigning 40 years, he will die, not in anger or in battle, but of natural causes.

Daniel 11:21-22

And in his estate shall stand up a vile person, to whom they shall not give the honour of the kingdom: but he shall come in peaceably, and obtain the kingdom by flatteries. And with the arms of a flood shall they be overflown from before him, and shall be broken; yea, also the prince of the covenant.

{21} “Tiberius, a contemptible person who will not come through the royal line, will succeed Augustus Caesar. Augustus will adopt Tiberius and thus, he will become the legal heir to the throne. Tiberius Caesar will take the throne of the kingdom without conflict. In fact, he will seize it through intrigue and the help of his manipulating mother, Livia.
{22} Tiberius will prove to be a brilliant general. He will succeed against powerful armies that oppose him in Germany, Armenia, and Parthia. During the fifteenth year of his reign, the Holy One of Israel, the Messiah, will begin His ministry, but your people will reject the Holy One. He will be cut off from His inheritance as a criminal is cut off from his inheritance. The great Prince of God’s everlasting covenant, the Messiah, will be put to death by His own people.

Daniel 11:23-24

And after the league made with him he shall work deceitfully: for he shall come up, and shall become strong with a small people. He shall enter peaceably even upon the fattest places of the province; and he shall do that which his fathers have not done, nor his fathers’ fathers; he shall scatter among them the prey, and spoil, and riches: yea, and he shall forecast his devices against the strong holds, even for a time.

{23} “The rise of the Roman Empire will mean the destruction of Israel later on. During its rise to power, Rome will offer mutual assistance pacts to various kingdoms. After these kingdoms have reached a friendly agreement with Rome, Rome will act deceitfully and betray them. With only a few people controlling its great army, Roman leaders will grasp great power and no one will be able to defend themselves against them.
{24} When the richest provinces feel secure, Rome will invade and completely dominate them. Rome’s authority will extend far beyond that of earlier empires. Rome will finance its conquests by distributing the spoils of war to mercenary soldiers. Consequently, Rome’s army will become large and its menacing power will be unstoppable. Rome will plot the overthrow of kingdoms everywhere – but only for a time. According to God’s Word, secular Rome will come to an end in due time.

Daniel 11:25-27

And he shall stir up his power and his courage against the king of the south with a great army; and the king of the south shall be stirred up to battle with a very great and mighty army; but he shall not stand: for they shall forecast devices against him. Yea, they that feed of the portion of his meat shall destroy him, and his army shall overflow: and many shall fall down slain. And both these kings’ hearts shall be to do mischief, and they shall speak lies at one table; but it shall not prosper: for yet the end shall be at the time appointed.

{25} “Consider the following information about Augustus Caesar and his reign. This information will eventually help the saints who live in Jerusalem about A.D. 70. Augustus Caesar will raise up a large army with strength and courage to attack Antony, the King of the South. At the Battle of Actium (31 B.C.), Antony will wage war with a large and very powerful army, but he will not endure because of the plots devised against him.
{26} Some who are very close to Antony, even those who eat with him, will try to destroy him. Antony’s army will be destroyed and many will fall in battle. However, Antony will remain powerful for a little longer.
{27} Augustus and Antony, with evil in each of their hearts, will sit at the same table and lie to each other, to no avail. Both men will want to control the world, but neither of them can possibly dominate the world.

Daniel 11:28

Then shall he return into his land with great riches; and his heart shall be against the holy covenant; and he shall do exploits, and return to his own land.

{28} “Augustus will return to his own country after the Battle of Actium with great wealth from Egypt. Years later (A.D. 66), your people, those who are trustees of God’s holy covenant, will revolt against the emperor, Nero. Nero will send his trusted general, Vespasian, to attack many rebellious cities, including Jerusalem. Nero will commit suicide in June A.D. 68 and Vespasian will suddenly lift the siege around Jerusalem and return to his own country to take Nero’s throne.

“Shortly after the sixth century A.D. begins, Emperor Justinian will endeavor to reunify the old Roman Empire by creating the Holy Roman Empire. To purify and unify the empire, Justinian will give special authority to the pope in A.D. 533. This authority will give the pope (and his appointed prelates) power to determine who is an orthodox Christian and who is a heretic, but three of the original ten kings will hate the church because of religious differences. The Heruli, Ostrogoths, and Vandals will show no respect for Justinian or church authorities in Rome. These tribal nations will be uprooted by A.D. 538 and the pope will begin to exercise civil authority in A.D. 538. This process explains how the eighth horn will dominate the other seven for 1,260 years. (See Additional Note at the end of this chapter.)

Daniel 11:29-31

At the time appointed he shall return, and come toward the south; but it shall not be as the former, or as the latter. For the ships of Chittim shall come against him: therefore he shall be grieved, and return, and have indignation against the holy covenant: so shall he do; he shall even return, and have intelligence with them that forsake the holy covenant. And arms shall stand on his part, and they shall pollute the sanctuary of strength, and shall take away the daily sacrifice, and they shall place the abomination that maketh desolate.

{29} “During April, A.D. 70, Titus, the inexperienced son of Vespasian, will invade the south. This time the result will be different than before.
{30} Countries with many ships from the western coastlands of Africa and Egypt will fight against him, and he will lose his desire to fight them. Instead of returning home, Titus will turn his frustration and fury towards the rebellious city of Jerusalem. Titus will need to win a battle in order to avoid shame and derision when returning to Rome. The Romans will harbor a special hatred for the Jews and Titus will set siege against Jerusalem. He will only spare the lives of Jews who renounce their religion.
{31} Titus will conquer the city. He will burn the city and the Romans will completely destroy the temple complex which the Jews will think is impregnable. Daily services will never be conducted in the temple again. Titus will bring Jerusalem and those people who live there to an end. All of Israel’s genealogical records will be destroyed in the fire. God declares this future account before it happens so the saints will know that His Word will not fail. The wrath that was promised in His covenant^[17] with Israel will surely come to pass.^[18] Rome will destroy Israel. Jerusalem will be overrun with wars and desolations until Jesus returns because Israel will violate the grace that was granted them for seventy weeks.”^[19]

This concludes the first portion of this vision – the portion that belonged to those who experienced the destruction of Jerusalem. The following four verses pertain to the Dark Ages, the 1,260 years granted to the little horn power in Daniel 7.

Daniel 11:32

And such as do wickedly against the covenant shall he corrupt by flatteries: but the people that do know their God shall be strong, and do exploits.

{32} The angel continued, “About five hundred years after Christ is born, the Roman Empire will undergo a transition. The centralized government of the caesars will be destroyed in A.D. 476, but future emperors will arise and attempt to rebuild the kingdom. These emperors will appear to embrace Christianity. Their motive will be religious and political unification. Thus, the old Roman Empire (a secular empire) will morph into the Holy Roman Empire (a religious empire) and this explains how the little horn in Daniel 7 will become powerful. With flattery and false doctrines, the Church of Rome will corrupt Christianity and consequently, false religion will enslave Europe for 1,260 years. Yet, there will be a small number of faithful people in the Christian faith who will resist the errors introduced by the Church of Rome.

Daniel 11:33-35

And they that understand among the people shall instruct many: yet they shall fall by the sword, and by flame, by captivity, and by spoil, many days. Now when they shall fall, they shall be holpen with a little help: but many shall cleave to them with flatteries. And some of them of understanding shall fall, to try them, and to purge, and to make them white, even to the time of the end: because it is yet for a time appointed.

{33} “As centuries pass, people filled with the Holy Spirit and a deep love for God’s Word will hold to the truth and keep it alive at great personal sacrifice. Men and women of God will instruct and encourage the scattered people of God for 1,260 years. The little horn in Daniel 7 will capture and torture many of God’s saints during the Dark Ages and millions of God’s saints will die.
{34} Even though many people will die for the sake of truth, God’s truth will not perish. The saints will receive strength from God to keep the torch of truth burning. Eventually, Protestantism will arise and new light shining from the Bible will separate many Christians from the errors of the Catholic Church. Protestantism will become respected in some parts of the world. Unfortunately, many insincere people will become a part of Protestantism and with time, Protestantism will eventually become as corrupt as the Catholic Church.
{35} Some of God’s people will stumble because they lack faith, but every failure refines and purifies people who are willing to grow and learn from their mistakes. This calls for patience and endurance on the part of the saints because the end is not yet. The appointed time of the end may seem indefinite, but it will surely arrive.”

The Time of the End

The final segment of this vision pertains to those who will live at the time of the end. God has provided this information because the final generation needs to understand certain things about the time of wrath. The most amazing event prior to the Second Coming will be the physical appearing of the devil. The appearing and work of Lucifer is described twice in the book of Daniel. God uses repetition and enlargement to inform His children about the future activities of the devil.

Daniel 11:36

And the king shall do according to his will; and he shall exalt himself, and magnify himself above every god, and shall speak marvellous things against the God of gods, and shall prosper till the indignation be accomplished: for that that is determined shall be done.

{36} “Two-thirds of the way through the Great Tribulation,^[20] the forward advancement of the gospel of Jesus Christ will come to a stand still. At that point in time, almost everyone will have heard the gospel and will have made their decision to embrace it or reject it.

Jesus became a man to save the world from sin. Lucifer will become a man to lead the world into destruction. God is fair. Jesus physically appeared and the devil will be permitted to physically appear. God allows the devil to physically appear so that sincere people can compare God’s way of love with Lucifer’s use of force, lies and manipulation.^[21] God will permit the devil to masquerade and exalt himself as Almighty God. God “sends this delusion” to complete the tyranny of evil that began thousands of years ago. The devil will make all kinds of outrageous claims and he will do as he pleases because no one can stop him. When he first appears, he will appear to be generous and benevolent.^[22] He will feed the multitudes, just as Jesus did, and perform incredible healing miracles with signs and wonders. All this will be done for one malevolent purpose; Lucifer seeks the worship and honor that belongs to Jesus. Meanwhile, the saints will be trapped in “no-man’s land.” They cannot unite with those who believe that the devil is God (the religious wicked) and they cannot unite with the non-religious wicked who want nothing to do with Lucifer. The devil will exalt and magnify himself above every god known to mankind and he will say unheard of things against the Most High God. Lucifer will eventually gain control of the whole world. However, his true identity will be exposed during the fifth bowl, for what has been predetermined by the Most High God will surely take place.

Daniel 11:37

Neither shall he regard the God of his fathers, nor the desire of women, nor regard any god: for he shall magnify himself above all.

{37} “When the devil appears, he will show no respect for any of the traditional gods (false gods) which the people of the world honor and worship.^[23] The devil will show no respect for the Holy One of Israel, the Messiah, the male child which every woman in Israel desires to have as a Son. The devil will exalt himself above them all.

Daniel 11:38

But in his estate shall he honour the God of forces: and a god whom his fathers knew not shall he honour with gold, and silver, and with precious stones, and pleasant things.

{38} “Instead of respecting the gods that the world’s different religions have known and trusted, he will denounce them all and trample them into the dirt. When the sixth trumpet sounds, the devil will abolish the religions and governments of the world and in their place, he will establish a false theocracy (a one world church-state).^[24] Everyone will be carefully monitored because promotions and extra rations of food will be given to snitches. Everyone will be required to worship according to the laws that Lucifer establishes. The world will become as one city, and the devil’s fortress will be his government. He will turn brother against brother and neighbor against neighbor. Those who worship Lucifer will be fearful because there will be secret police everywhere. No one will be able to trust anyone. Lucifer will rule the world as ‘Lord of lords and King of kings through terror.^[25] Everyone on Earth will be required to obey his laws or be killed. The devil will finance his theocracy with gold and silver, precious stones, and costly gifts.

Daniel 11:39

Thus shall he do in the most strong holds with a strange god, whom he shall acknowledge and increase with glory: and he shall cause them to rule over many, and shall divide the land for gain.

{39} “At the time of the sixth trumpet, Jesus will give the devil authority to forcibly take over the world. Lucifer will lead a fierce attack against the political powers that oppose him (the non-religious wicked) and the devil’s theocracy will be set up. The devil and his followers will destroy a third of mankind.^[26] He will greatly honor those leaders who acknowledge that he is “God.” The devil will abolish the nations and religions of the world, he will dissolve all national boundaries and divide the world into ten sectors.^[27] He will appoint ten puppet-kings to rule as taskmasters over his slaves, the people of the world.^[28] The devil will claim ownership over all real estate and he will redistribute the land to the highest bidders. He will be heartless, ruthless, and lawless. This explains to some extent why the devil must be permitted to physically appear. Jesus wants everyone in the universe to observe what any sinner would do if given sovereign authority.

Daniel 11:40

And at the time of the end shall the king of the south push at him: and the king of the north shall come against him like a whirlwind, with chariots, and with horsemen, and with many ships; and he shall enter into the countries, and shall overflow and pass over.

{40} “During the sixth trumpet, a few sincere people will come to their senses. When they observe Lucifer’s true character and his evil ways, they will repent of their rebellion and embrace Jesus and His gospel. A few people will finally see that in serving Jesus Christ, there is genuine freedom, but this truth will not become evident until they discover that Lucifer rules through slavery and bondage. Many non-religious people will refuse to embrace the gospel of Jesus and they will also hate the devil’s great authority. These people will unite (under the direction of a rebel king) and in a desperate effort to overthrow the devil, they will seal their own fate. The devil will respond with overwhelming force. He and his followers will attack his adversaries by land, air, and a great fleet of ships. He will invade and destroy many countries, and sweep through them like a tsunami, an unstoppable wall of water.^[29]

Daniel 11:41

He shall enter also into the glorious land, and many countries shall be overthrown: but these shall escape out of his hand, even Edom, and Moab, and the chief of the children of Ammon.

{41} “During the sixth trumpet, Lucifer’s army will invade many countries, including Israel. His enemies will fall, but the Most High God will keep his success within bounds. Some of the Israelites escaped the destruction of Nebuchadnezzar by fleeing to the remote areas of Edom and Moab. In a similar way, God will sustain some of His people during the end of days. People like the leaders of Ammon, who kindly protected your people when Nebuchadnezzar destroyed Jerusalem, will also be delivered from Lucifer’s hand.^[30]

Daniel 11:42-43

He shall stretch forth his hand also upon the countries: and the land of Egypt shall not escape. But he shall have power over the treasures of gold and of silver, and over all the precious things of Egypt: and the Libyans and the Ethiopians shall be at his steps.

{42} “Ultimately, the devil will impose his government on the world. Egypt will not escape his dominion.
{43} The devil will also control the wealth of the world. Even those who hate him and those who hate the Most High God will have no choice but to submit to him, for no person will be able to buy or sell unless he submits to Lucifer’s laws and wears his approval (a tattoo called the mark of the beast).^[31]

Daniel 11:44

But tidings out of the east and out of the north shall trouble him: therefore he shall go forth with great fury to destroy, and utterly to make away many.

{44} “During the sixth trumpet, the 144,000 will announce three messages to the world: (a) the approaching end of salvation’s offer, (b) that everyone who worships the devil will be punished during the seven bowls, and (c) that Jesus’ return is imminent. These announcements will make the devil very angry. In a rage, he will attempt to kill everyone he can find who worships the Creator of Heaven and Earth.

Daniel 11:45

And he shall plant the tabernacles of his palace between the seas in the glorious holy mountain; yet he shall come to his end, and none shall help him.

{45} “Lucifer will establish his throne ‘in the middle of mankind’ and he will rule over human beings as Almighty God. His achievement will be short lived because the seven bowls will immediately begin. During the fifth bowl, the devil will be unmasked and the wicked will clearly see that the glorious being they have been worshiping is the devil himself. During the seventh bowl, the devil and his angels will be returned to the Abyss. His defeat will surely come, but not by human hands.

Daniel 12:1

And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which standeth for the children of thy people: and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation even to that same time: and at that time thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book.

{12:1} “When the devil finally sits down to rule the world from his throne, a sovereign Jesus (Michael), who rules from God’s throne in Heaven, will stand up. When Jesus stands up, 6,000 years of intercession for sinners will come to an end. On that day, Jesus will pronounce condemnation upon all who refused His offer of salvation and received the mark of the beast. The wicked will be doomed to receive the wrath of God (the seven bowls) which will be poured out without mercy. The pain and suffering inflicted on the wicked cannot be described, but everyone who has faith like Daniel, everyone whose name is found written in The Book of Life, will be delivered from the suffering which the seven bowls contain. When Jesus stands up, the persecution of the saints will cease and there will never be another Christian martyr, ever!

Daniel 12:2-3

And many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt. And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever.

{2} “A few days before the Second Coming, all of the martyrs who died during the fifth seal will be resurrected to everlasting life. Those who crucified Jesus will also be resurrected so that they can see the Son of Man coming in clouds of glory.^[32] Their shame will never end and they will perish with the wicked who will be destroyed a few days later when Jesus appears in clouds of glory.
{3} “Those who love righteousness will shine with the radiant glory of God. In fact, the 144,000 will shine like stars forever and ever.”

Epilogue

Daniel 12:4

But thou, O Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book, even to the time of the end: many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased.

{4} “But you, Daniel, close up and seal the words of this book. This information is reserved for the final generation. There will be enormous advances in travel and knowledge, but the Most High God has sealed up this book until the final generation arrives.”

Daniel 12:5-6

Then I Daniel looked, and, behold, there stood other two, the one on this side of the bank of the river, and the other on that side of the bank of the river. And one said to the man clothed in linen, which was upon the waters of the river, How long shall it be to the end of these wonders?

{5} Then I looked and saw two glorious angels, one stood on this side of the river and the other stood on the opposite bank.
{6} One of the angels said to Jesus, the glorious man clothed in bright linen who I saw earlier standing above the waters of the Tigris, “How long will it be before the astonishing events in these visions are fulfilled?”

Daniel 12:7

And I heard the man clothed in linen, which was upon the waters of the river, when he held up his right hand and his left hand unto heaven, and sware by him that liveth for ever that it shall be for a time, times, and an half; and when he shall have accomplished to scatter the power of the holy people, all these things shall be finished.

{7} Jesus lifted His right and left hand toward Heaven, and I heard him say, I swear by myself, who lives forever and ever,^[33] “This gospel of the kingdom shall be preached throughout the whole world during the 1,260 days granted to my Two Witnesses.^[34] After my 144,000 servants have been killed, all of these things will be completed.”^[35]

Daniel 12:8

And I heard, but I understood not: then said I, O my Lord, what shall be the end of these things?

{8} I heard these words, but I could not understand why God’s servants will be killed. So I asked the angel, “My lord, what will be the outcome of these events?”

Daniel 12:9

And he said, Go thy way, Daniel: for the words are closed up and sealed till the time of the end.

{9} He replied, “Do not worry about these matters, Daniel, because the words of this prophecy are closed up and sealed until the time just before the end. The saints living at the time of the end will understand this vision as it pertains to them, just like the saints living at the destruction of Jerusalem will understand the portion of this vision that pertains to them.

Daniel 12:10

Many shall be purified, and made white, and tried; but the wicked shall do wickedly: and none of the wicked shall understand; but the wise shall understand.

{10} “Many years will come and go. God’s people will be purified, made spotless and refined, and the wicked will continue to be wicked. None of the wicked will understand these things because spiritual things are spiritually understood. At the appointed time of the end, people who are spiritually awake will be able to understand the importance of these things.

Daniel 12:11-12

And from the time that the daily sacrifice shall be taken away, and the abomination that maketh desolate set up, there shall be a thousand two hundred and ninety days. Blessed is he that waiteth, and cometh to the thousand three hundred and five and thirty days.

{11} “Daniel, write down everything that you have seen and heard because God’s people will need to know these things during the Great Tribulation. A time is coming when the corporate intercession of Jesus on behalf of the world will end. On that day, Jesus will cease from His daily corporate intercession. He will no longer stand between the wrath of God and sinners. The end of the daily, that is, His corporate ministry in Heaven’s temple, will be marked by peals of thunder, rumblings, flashes of lightning, and a great worldwide earthquake.^[36] These events will announce the beginning of the Great Tribulation. From this somber worldwide event, the saints will count down the days to the return of Jesus. From the day the daily service at the Altar of Incense in Heaven ends until the devil establishes a universal death decree for all of God’s people (an abomination that causes desolation), there will be 1,290 days.
{12} Blessed is the person who waits for and reaches the 1,335th day, for he shall see Jesus and hear His voice saying, ‘My grace is sufficient for you!’^[37]

Daniel 12:13

But go thou thy way till the end be: for thou shalt rest, and stand in thy lot at the end of the days.

{13} “As for you Daniel, go on with your business until the end of your life. You will rest in sleep, and then at the end of the 1,335 days you will rise to receive your allotted inheritance with all the other saints. You will be rewarded beyond your wildest imagination for your faithfulness.”

The Rules of Interpretation

Please consider how the Rules of Interpretation are observed in this prophecy:

Rule One says an apocalyptic prophecy has a beginning point and ending point in time and the events within the prophecy occur in the order given. Daniel 10:1 through 12:3 contains two visions. Other than seeing a great war, Daniel says nothing further about the first vision. Three weeks later, Gabriel visits Daniel to explain the vision. From Gabriel’s visit we learn the original vision spans approximately two and a half millenniums! The events flow in chronological order and this feature proved to be very beneficial for the Christians who lived in Jerusalem just before its destruction in A.D. 70. We can be sure this vision will prove to be beneficial to Christians who live during the Great Tribulation because it offers hope on two fronts. First, the Lord and His truth will prevail over Lucifer. The Lord will deliver His people. “All Israel will be saved!”^[38] Many saints will experience death, but death is not the end of life for God’s people. Death will be a temporary release from suffering and deprivation. Second, God put several time periods at the end of this vision to encourage the saints. For example, the Great Tribulation will last 1,335 days. The gospel commission will be completed by the 1,260th day (a time, times and half a time) and most, if not all, of God’s prophets will be killed. Then, a universal death decree for all saints (which will not be carried out) will be set up on the 1,290th day.^[39] During the darkest moments of Earth’s history, this vision will offer a ray of hope. God is very much in control of the evil chaos that will sweep over planet Earth.

Rule Two says a fulfillment only occurs when all of the specifications are met, and this includes the order stated in the prophecy. This vision is still underway. We are waiting for the fulfillment of verse 36 which describes the physical appearing of Lucifer (the King of the North). Once Lucifer appears, the remainder of this prophecy will take about one year to unfold.

Rule Three says that apocalyptic language can be literal, analogous, or symbolic. No symbols, per se, are offered in this vision. The wars are literal and it is very clear that God’s people will once again be caught between two huge armies in the last days, but the outcome will be different than before. Early Christians escaped the destruction of Jerusalem. Most of the final generation will not escape Lucifer’s destruction. Most of God’s people will perish during the Great Tribulation. However, death is not defeat in God’s sight. Look at Jesus! He was resurrected and He lives forever. The same will be true for God’s saints.

Rule Four says the presence or absence of the Jubilee Calendar determines how God measures time. The time periods mentioned in the commentary are not to be translated as a day for a year because they occur after the Jubilee Calendar comes to an end (1994). For further discussion on the operation of the Jubilee Calendar, see Appendix A.

References:

Matthew 24:15-20; Luke 21:20-24 Return
The horn power in Daniel 8 appears during the appointed time of the end which is a time of wrath. Compare Daniel 8:17-25; Daniel 11:35,36 with Revelation 15:1,2. Return
Revelation 9:15,16 Return
Daniel 9:26 Return
Daniel 9:7-15 Return
Ezra 4 Return
Genesis 15:16-18 Return
Leviticus 18:24-28 Return
For a discussion on the full cup principle, please see Chapter 2 in my book, Warning! Revelation is about to be fulfilled. This item can be freely downloaded on the internet: https://www.wake-up.org/free-book-offer-from-wuas/. Return
Ezekiel 5:5 Return
1 Kings 10:1-10 Return
Isaiah 42:6; 49:6; Leviticus 25:55 Return
Matthew 24:15-20; Luke 21:20-24 Return
Josephus, The Wars of the Jews VI.9.3 Return
Daniel 12:7; Revelation 13:7 Return
1 Thessalonians 4:17 Return
Leviticus 26:38; Deuteronomy 4:26,27 Return
Luke 21:23; Deuteronomy 31:16-18 Return
Matthew 23:38; John 1:11 Return
This assertion is based on the premise that God keeps the devil in the Abyss for two-thirds of the 1,335 days allotted for the Great Tribulation. For a discussion on God’s use of one-third and two-thirds, please see pages 29 and 30 in my book titled, The Seven Trumpets in my book, Seven Trumpets, Two Witnesses, and Four Beasts. This item can be freely downloaded on the internet: https://www.wake-up.org/Revelation/RevTrumpets.pdf. Return
2 Thessalonians 2:3-12 Return
Thessalonians 2:4; 2 Corinthians 11:14; Matthew 24:23-26 Return
Revelation 13:14; Daniel 8:10; Deuteronomy 4:19; 17:3 Return
Revelation 13:14,15 Return
2 Thessalonians 2:1-12; Isaiah 14:16,17; Ezekiel 28:1-19 Return
Revelation 9:15 Return
Revelation 9:13-21; 17:12-17 Return
Daniel 2:42; Revelation 6:15; 17:12 Return
Jeremiah 47:1,2; Hosea 5:10; Isaiah 8:6-8 Return
Jeremiah 40:11,12; Joshua 6:17 Return
Revelation 13:16 See also Prophecy 11. Return
Revelation 1:7 Return
Revelation 10:6; Genesis 22;16; Isaiah 45:23; Jeremiah 49:13; Revelation 1:18 Return
Revelation 10:5,6; 11:3 Return
Revelation 11:2; 13:5-7 Return
Revelation 8:3-5 Return
Matthew 25:31-36; 2 Corinthians 12:9 Return
Romans 11:26 Return
Notes on Daniel 11:31: The abomination that causes desolation in Daniel 11:31 is not to be confused with the abomination that causes desolation in Daniel 12:11. The first abomination pertains to the destruction of Jerusalem and the second pertains to the destruction of the saints just before Jesus comes. In both cases, this Hebrew phrase describes the same thing which is’ the destruction of God’s people. For further discussion on this topic, please see pages 228-233 in my book, Daniel Unlocked for the Final Generation or you can freely download the chapter at https://www.wake-up.org/Daniel/DanChap7.htm. Return

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Larry W. Wilson

Larry Wilson, founder of WUAS, became a born-again Christian in 1972. His interest in the gospel led him on a 40+ year quest to learn more about what God has revealed to Earth’s final generation. The results of his research have been shared throughout the world in books, television & radio broadcasts, media interviews, and seminars that are publicly available on all different types of media (see our Christian Bookstore).

What is Wake Up America Seminars (WUAS)?
Wake Up America Seminars, Inc. is a nonprofit, nondenominational organization with a focus on the study of End-Time Prophecy. WUAS is not a church, nor does it endorse any denomination. Our focus is singular: We are dedicated to proclaiming the gospel of Jesus Christ and His imminent return. We are delighted that people of all faiths are diligently using the Bible study materials produced by WUAS. All study materials are based solely on the Bible alone.

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