 |  |
These two points of view are maintained with some recognition of the principles of
prophetic interpretation. There are other views, but they are too far removed from the
way of truth to justify space for consideration here.
We do not propose analyzing the two methods of interpretation mentioned above, but
shall proceed at once to definite exposition, and where such exposition causes us to
depart from the views expressed in these interpretations, we shall make any necessary
criticism. All that we would say here is that we believe neither to be correct.
The latter days.
To quote the verses that record both the vision and the interpretation would occupy
more space than we can afford, but we trust that no reader will be satisfied to read these
notes without personal reference to the Scriptures themselves.
From the urgency with which he demanded the interpretation, and the extreme
measures he adopted to punish inability to comply with that demand, it is clear that
Nebuchadnezzar considered the vision to be of supreme importance. It is blessed to see
Daniel and his friends confidently laying the matter before "the God of heaven", and to
read the gracious answer given.
After a passing reference to the utter failure of the wise men of Babylon to help the
king, Daniel said:--
"But there is a God in heaven that revealeth secrets, and maketh known to the king
Nebuchadnezzar what shall be in the latter days" (Dan. 2: 28).
Evidently the king himself had been seriously thinking about the future of the
dominion committed to him, for Daniel continues:--
"As for thee, O king, thy thoughts came into thy mind upon thy bed what should come
to pass hereafter" (2: 29).
Now while, in one sense, the succession of Medo-Persia to the dominion was
something that should come to pass "hereafter", as also was that of Greece, these
successive monarchies are, nevertheless, not in mind, except as steps leading to the goal.
In 2: 45 Daniel becomes more explicit:--
"Forasmuch as thou sawest that the stone was cut out of the mountain without hands,
and that it break in pieces the iron, the brass, the clay, the silver and the gold: the great
God hath made known to the king what shall come to pass hereafter."
"The latter days" and "hereafter" have particular reference to "the days of these kings"
of verse 44, when the stone shatters the image and the kingdom of the Lord is set up.
When we come to study chapter 7: we shall find the same concentration on the
"end" and a rapid passing over of the steps leading to that end, as witness the words: "I
would know the truth of the fourth beast" (7: 19).