Daniel 8:24-26 – The certainty of Prophecy

Antiochus Epiphanes IV, a pivotal figure in the Seleucid dynasty, is the king to whom Daniel 8:23 refers. He was not just any king but a significant player in the historical tapestry of God's timeline. Described as insolent and skilled in intrigue, he was determined and crafty, making him a formidable figure. 

Daniel 8:24 reveals a profound truth about Antiochus Epiphanes IV. His might was not his own, meaning he was just a tool in the hands of God. Unwittingly, he was doing God's bidding. With that power, he would bring destruction on an unprecedented scale, even among the holy people, God's chosen ones.   

Verse 25 suggests that Antiochus was a shrewd man. With his shrewdness, he would influence successfully through his deceit and craftiness. He was also proud and self-exalting. Many would be lulled into complacency and a sense of false security before he attacked them. Besides, he even dared to oppose God, the Prince of princes. However, his reign would end abruptly. The last line of verse 25 says, “he will be broken without human agency.” 

History has it that Antiochus’ godless campaign knew no bounds. He defied God and attacked the temple and the sacrificial system of the Jews. He set up a statue of Zeus on the altar of the temple, burned the Word of God, massacred many Jews, and even sacrilegiously sacrificed a swine on the altar.     

In verse 26, Daniel was told three things concerning this vision. Firstly, the accuracy of the vision would be unquestionable. The duration of Antiochus' persecution would be 2,300 days. Secondly, Daniel was to keep the vision a secret, for it was preserved for a later time. Thirdly, whatever Daniel was told would be for the future. It would not occur in his days.  

We are reminded that God uses all sorts of people for His purpose. Antiochus Epiphanes IV was a formidable figure in his time, but ultimately, his power was not his own, and he was simply a tool in God's hands. Secondly, we must be alert to the danger of pride and arrogance. These flaws had led to Antiochus' downfall. It will do us well not to be proud and arrogant. 

Finally, know that God ultimately controls history and that events unfold according to His plan. Although Antiochus was a powerful figure in his time, his reign ended abruptly, and he was "broken without human agency." This reminds us that, ultimately, our lives are all in God's hands, and we should trust Him to navigate life's trials and challenges.