MPV Commentary

The eighth chapter of Daniel is a pivotal passage that reveals God's plan for the future, particularly in relation to the Gentile kingdoms and the Jewish people. The vision presented here is a continuation of the one given in chapter 7, where four beasts emerged from the sea, representing the successive empires that would dominate the world.

The little horn, which symbolizes the Antichrist, emerges from one of the four divisions of the Grecian empire and becomes mighty through deceitful arts. This horn is described as having eyes like a man, and a mouth speaking great things (v. 8). Its power will be so great that it will make war against the saints and prevail until the Ancient of Days intervenes (vv. 9-14).

The little horn's rise to power is facilitated by its ability to deceive others through craft and cunning. It gains control over Egypt and Jerusalem, two powerful empires at the time, by using its artifices (v. 24). This characteristic will be fully realized in Antichrist, who will act with the power of Satan, working through him in unrestricted license.

The vision also highlights the importance of understanding the times we live in. The prophet Daniel is told that the vision is for "the time of the end" (v. 17), a phrase that refers to the period when God's people are living in the last days before Christ's return. This era will be marked by great tribulation and suffering, but also by the ultimate triumph of God over His enemies.

The chapter concludes with Daniel expressing his grief at the calamities that are coming upon God's people (v. 27). Despite not fully understanding the vision, he is assured that it will be fulfilled in due time. The passage ends with a note of hope and encouragement, reminding us that God is sovereign over all events and that His plan for humanity will ultimately prevail.

The twenty-three hundred days mentioned in verse 24 are often interpreted as referring to a period of time when the Antichrist's power will be exercised over the world. Some have suggested that this period corresponds to the seven years' excess above the twenty-three hundred days, which may refer to the preparations needed for setting up the temple-worship with Antichrist's permission.

The chapter also contains several allusions to the events of history, including the conquests of Alexander the Great and the rise of the Roman Empire. The mention of Philip as the first king (v. 21) refers to his role as a precursor to Alexander, who would go on to conquer the Persian empire.

Throughout the passage, we see the theme of God's sovereignty over human history unfolding. Despite the rise and fall of empires, God remains in control, working out His plan for humanity through the ages. The vision presented here serves as a reminder that our times are in God's hands, and that He will ultimately triumph over all His enemies.