What does "change set times and laws" mean in today's context? The Prophetic Setting • Daniel 7:25: “He will speak out against the Most High and oppress the saints of the Most High, intending to change the set times and the laws; and the saints will be given into his hand for a time, and times, and half a time.” • The verse depicts the final world ruler—commonly called the Antichrist—who rises just before Christ’s return (cf. 2 Thessalonians 2:3-4; Revelation 13:5-8). • His goal: undermine every God-ordained structure that preserves truth and restrains evil (2 Thessalonians 2:7-8). Understanding “set times” • Hebrew word (“zeman”) points to appointed seasons, sacred festivals, and God-given rhythms (Genesis 1:14; Leviticus 23:2). • Practically, it includes: – Weekly Sabbath rest and corporate worship (Exodus 20:8-11) – Annual feasts that rehearse redemption history (Leviticus 23) – Prophetic timelines established by God (Daniel 9:24-27) Understanding “laws” • Refers to moral directives God has revealed (Deuteronomy 6:1-2; Psalm 19:7-9). • Embraces absolute standards governing life, family, sexuality, justice, and worship (Romans 1:18-32; James 4:12). How might this manifest today? • Redefining the calendar to erase Christian influence – Replacing “B.C./A.D.” with secular alternatives – Marginalizing Christmas, Easter, or weekly Lord’s Day observance • Legislating morality contrary to Scripture – Normalizing practices God calls sin (Isaiah 5:20) – Restricting parental rights or gospel proclamation • Criminalizing biblical convictions – Hate-speech laws that silence truth about sin and redemption (Amos 8:11-12) • Global governance movements that supersede national constitutions – Preparing a framework the Antichrist can seize (Revelation 13:7) Why does it matter? • God’s “times and laws” protect human flourishing; when distorted, confusion and bondage follow (Proverbs 29:18). • Assaults on these foundations signal we are nearer to the consummation of God’s plan (Matthew 24:12-14). Responding Faithfully • Hold the line on biblical truth—speak it in love even when unpopular (Ephesians 4:15). • Order personal and family life around God’s rhythms—weekly worship, rest, and celebration of Christ’s work (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Pray for governing authorities while resisting commands that contradict God’s Word (Acts 5:29; 1 Timothy 2:1-2). • Live expectantly, knowing Christ will soon “change the times and seasons” back under His righteous reign (Acts 1:7; Revelation 11:15). |
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