In my vision at night I looked, and there before me was one like a son of man, coming with the clouds of heaven. He approached the Ancient of Days and was led into His presence. He was given authority, glory and sovereign power; all peoples, nations and men of every language worshiped him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that will not pass away, and his kingdom is one that will never be destroyed. Daniel 7:13-14 (NIV)
I cannot pretend to understand the full context of this vision. Whether the destruction of the fourth beast is to be understood as a parallel with the fourth kingdom in Daniel 2 or is referring to a future event, I am not quite sure. However, I am quite sure that this passage is speaking of Christ, and what a splendid description of Him it is!
It is no coincidence that Jesus refers to Himself as the ‘Son of man’ throughout the gospels. While it is true that He is partly emphasizing His humanity, He is also alluding to this passage which speaks strongly of His divinity.
The Ancient of Days is none other than God the Father. He is from eternity past, the one who has seen and foreordained every day. The Ancient of Days gives the Son of Man authority, glory, and power, and then everyone worships Him. This is a strong passage for the Deity of Christ.
I believe this vision was fulfilled at the ascension of Christ after His death and resurrection. Prior to Christ’s incarnation, He could not be called the ‘son of man’ because He had not yet ‘taken on flesh’. Also this parallels neatly with some New Testament passages:
God has raised this Jesus to life…exalted to the right hand of God he has received from the Father the promised Holy Spirit…God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ. Acts 2:32-36 (NIV)
Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Philippians 3:9-11 (NIV)
Whatever your take on the timing of Daniel’s prophecy, we must all agree on the Lordship of Christ, and His eternal kingdom. Praise God for His promises!
Bible and Coffee 