THE SEVENTY WEEKS OF DANIEL

LESSON  #3
Scripture References:  Daniel 9:24-27

INTRODUCTION:  Daniel chapter 9: vv. 1,2 take place during the reign of Darius the Mede.  By studying the book of Jeremiah, Daniel realized that the seventy years of captivity were almost at an end.  (VV. 3-19)  He confessed his sins and the sins of his people (he used the word our) and asked the Lord to fulfill his promises concerning Jerusalem and the people of Judah.  In an answer to his prayers God granted the prophet the very important revelation of "The Seventy Weeks", which has been called, "The Backbone of Bible Prophecy."  I know that you probably have heard of the 70 weeks of Daniel found in chapter 9: 24-27 of his book and have never truly understood this prophecy.  So today I will explain the missing key that will unlock the mystery for you.
    First I will explain the backbone of this prophetic portion of God's word.  The first thing we will learn today is that Israel had a week of years (Genesis 29: 18, 20, 27, 28, 30).
(V.18)  And Jacob loved Rachel; and said I will serve thee seven years for Rachel, thy younger daughter.  (V.20)  And Jacob served seven years for Rachel; and they seemed unto him but a few days, for the love he had to her.  (V.27) Fulfull her week, and we will give thee this also for the service which thou shalt serve with me yet seven other years.  (V.28)  And Jacob did so, and fulfilled her week: and he gave him Rachel his daughter to wife also.  (V.30)  And he went in also unto Rachel, and he loved also Rachel more than Leah, and served with him yet seven other years.  (See Genesis 29: 16).
   Daniel's petitions were based on the character of God (His greatness, awesomeness, righteousness, forgiveness and mercy and his interests (your people, your city, your sanctuary).
In Daniel 9: 20-23, while he was praying, Gabriel, being caused to fly swiftly, reached Daniel about the time of the evening sacrifice.  He told him that he was greatly beloved, a tremendous tribute coming as it did from God.  He then gave him the future history of the Jewish nation under the figure of the 70 weeks.  Since each week represents 7 years and since the future history is so important to understanding God's entire program, we will go more in depth with the entire prophecy.
   Seventy weeks have been determined upon thy people (Israel) and upon thy holy city (Jerusalem).  The historical fulfillment of the first part of the prophecy shows that the 70 weeks are weeks of years and equals 490 years.  We will see that the 70 weeks are divided into 7 weeks (7x7=49 years plus 62 weeks = 434 years, then a time gap, and then one final week of 7 years.  At the end of the final week of 7 years six things will take place:  1)  The Transgression (or rebellion) Will Be Finished.  2)  To Make An End of Sins. 
While these statements may refer to Israel's sins, they have special reference to the nations rejection of the Messiah.  3)  To Make Reconciliation For Iniquity.  The basis for reconciliation was laid at Calvary but this refers to the time still future when the believing portion of the nation will come into the benefit and the enjoyment of the finished work of Christ.  4)  To Bring In Everlasting Righteousness.  This also points forward to the second advent and the Millennium, when the King will reign in everlasting righteousness.  It is everlasting righteousness in the sense that it will still continue on into the eternal state.  5)  To Seal Up The Vision and Prophecy.  The main body of OT prophecy centers on the glorious return of Christ to earth, and his subsequent kingdom.  Therefore, the bulk of prophecies will be fulfilled at the end of the 70 weeks.
6)  To Anoint The Most Holy Place.  At the beginning of the thousand year reign, the temple described in Ezekiel chapters 40-44 will be anointed or consecrated in Jerusalem.  The glory will return in the person of the Lord  (Ezek. 43: 1-5).
WILL BE CONTINUED IN LESSON #4.
As I close this wonderful message about the coming soon of King Jesus Christ of Nazareth, I ask you, dear reader, are you ready to meet Him?  If not, let me help you to come to Him this very moment.  Just say, Jesus, I am a sinner.  My life is in shambles and my heart is broken in many pieces.  I confess that I am a sinner and need You to save me.  To You, Lord Jesus, I now confess my sins.  I denounce my sins and right now I turn away from my sins.  Come into my heart Lord Jesus and save me.  Now, dear reader, just thank Him for saving you and praise him for the joyful feeling that's in your heart.
Until He Comes Again,