What actions in Daniel 8:24 reveal the king's impact on the holy people? Setting of Daniel 8:24 “His power will be great—but it will not be his own. He will cause astounding devastation and will succeed in whatever he does. He will destroy the mighty, along with the holy people.” Actions That Reveal the King’s Impact • Possesses formidable, delegated power—enough to overwhelm earthly resistance • Unleashes “astounding devastation,” spreading violence and ruin across territories • Achieves unfailing success in each venture, giving his oppression a relentless rhythm • Targets “the mighty” and specifically “the holy people,” moving from general conquest to focused persecution Implications for the Holy People • Physical harm – many are “destroyed,” pointing to literal death or captivity • Spiritual oppression – worship practices are disrupted (compare Daniel 8:11; 11:31) • Social marginalization – their influence as “mighty” within society is stripped away • Ongoing pressure – his unbroken string of victories keeps the community under constant threat Scriptural Parallels • Daniel 7:25 – “He will speak out against the Most High and oppress the saints…” • Daniel 11:32-35 – “He will corrupt with flattery those who act wickedly against the covenant…” • Revelation 13:7 – “He was permitted to wage war against the saints and to conquer them.” • Matthew 24:21-22 – “For at that time there will be great tribulation…” Encouragement from the Word • Divine limitation: though his power is “great,” it is “not his own”—ultimately under God’s leash (Daniel 4:17). • Predicted deliverance: “The Ancient of Days came and judgment was given in favor of the saints” (Daniel 7:22). • Final victory: “The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ” (Revelation 11:15). |
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