Scripture

“After the period of 62 sets of seven, the Anointed One will be killed, appearing to have accomplished nothing, and a ruler will arise whose armies will destroy the city and the Temple.”

Observation

As Daniel continues to pray, the angel Gabriel appears to him. He explains that he has come to give Daniel insight and understanding. He now explains a timeline for the salvation story.

A period of 70 times seven years has been given for the Jewish people to atone for their sins and for the Most Holy Place to be anointed.

After 62 sets of seven years, the Anointed One will be killed, appearing to have accomplished nothing. A ruler will rise whose army will destroy the city and the Temple. As a climax to his terrible deeds, he will set up a sacrilegious object that causes desecration until his fate is poured out on him.

Application

This is a very complex prophecy with definite times in view. However, it is not clear when we should start the counting of the sets of seven years.

Gabriel talks about the Anointed One who will be killed appearing to have accomplished nothing. Jesus, of course, died on the cross, and until the resurrection, it appeared His life was in vain. However, after the resurrection and at Pentecost, everything made sense.

In AD70, a ruler did arise who destroyed the city and the temple.

So what are we to make of all this? The most important thing is to recognise that God is in charge of everything, Even when governments seem unstable and rulers rage against each other, none of this takes God by surprise. He loves us and He works out all things for our good and for his eternal purpose.

Prayer

Lord, what peace comes with the knowledge that you reign over all things, Thank you for this assurance. Amen.