When God Writes History in Advance

Bible Reading

In Daniel 8, the language shifts from Aramaic back to Hebrew, signaling that God’s focus moves from the broad stage of the Gentile nations to His covenant people. It’s a reminder that while history’s empires rise and fall, God’s promises to His people always remain firm.

Daniel 8 is more than a prophetic vision—it is a bold demonstration of the infallibility of Scripture. This chapter was written over two centuries before its detailed fulfillment, showing us that the Bible is not merely true—it is supernaturally precise.

Isaiah 46:9–10 “9 Remember the former things of old: for I am God, and there is none else; I am God, and there is none like me, 10 Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times the things that are not yet done, saying, My counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure:”

The Bible always tells the truth— and it does so often before it even happens.

Special Sunday Night with Ben Schettler [slide]

Theme: Understanding the Infallibility of Scripture

When: Final Sunday night of August

Ben will help us think clearly, biblically, and courageously about why the Bible is completely trustworthy in an age of skepticism.

Opening Prayer

We don’t have to wonder if God is in control.

Gratitude for the new members, baptisms, and opportunities in missions.

Sermon Introduction

When you look at today’s world—rising dictators, political instability, wars, and growing hostility to truth—do you ever wonder: Does God see all this? Is He still in control?

Daniel 8 answers with a resounding yes.

This is precise prophecy—so accurate that skeptics deny its authenticity, but history and archaeology confirm Daniel was written beforehand.

Bottom Line: Evil may rise, but it always falls. God already knows—and Christ already wins.

1. God reveals the future to remind us He reigns over all; the future and history.

Daniel 8:1–4 (KJV)

1 In the third year of the reign of king Belshazzar a vision appeared unto me, even unto me Daniel, after that which appeared unto me at the first.

2 And I saw in a vision; and it came to pass, when I saw, that I was at Shushan in the palace, which is in the province of Elam; and I saw in a vision, and I was by the river of Ulai.

3 Then I lifted up mine eyes, and saw, and, behold, there stood before the river a ram which had two horns: and the two horns were high; but one was higher than the other, and the higher came up last.

4 I saw the ram pushing westward, and northward, and southward; so that no beasts might stand before him, neither was there any that could deliver out of his hand; but he did according to his will, and became great.

A. God shows Daniel what’s coming—centuries before it arrives

“In the third year of Belshazzar” (v.1).

Babylon still stood, but God was revealing what’s next.

Daniel received this vision about 12–15 years before Persia conquered Babylon, and more than 200 years before the rise of Greece and the desecration by Antiochus Epiphanes

B. Daniel is transported to Susa

Physically in Babylon, but the vision places him in Susa—the future Persian capital.

A prophetic preview: Persia’s rise was already on God’s calendar.

Esther walks these halls about 70 years later.

Modern day Iran.

C. God is showing that He knows what’s next long before it happens.

The Ram = Medo‑Persia (v.20) [slide]

Charged west, north, south—matching Persia’s historic conquests.

The repetition—“I saw… I saw… I saw”—emphasizes that Daniel isn’t imagining this; it’s divine revelation.

God is not reacting to world events; He is writing them in advance (Isaiah 46:10).

The future is simply history waiting for its turn.

But God doesn’t just tell us that He reigns, He shows it. In Daniel 8, He names empires, describes their movements, and predicts their rise and fall with pinpoint accuracy. That brings us to the next part of Daniel’s vision.

2. God foretells the rise and fall of Empires with astonishing accuracy

Every little kid who has played baseball has walked up the mound and “called their shot” by pointing their bat to the back fence. This is replicating Babe Ruth, The Sultan of Swat, The King of Crash. The Colossus of Clout. The Titan of Terror, The Hercules of Baseball, The Great Bambino

Daniel 8:5–8 (KJV)

5 And as I was considering, behold, an he goat came from the west on the face of the whole earth, and touched not the ground: and the goat had a notable horn between his eyes.

6 And he came to the ram that had two horns, which I had seen standing before the river, and ran unto him in the fury of his power.

7 And I saw him come close unto the ram, and he was moved with choler against him, and smote the ram, and brake his two horns: and there was no power in the ram to stand before him, but he cast him down to the ground, and stamped upon him: and there was none that could deliver the ram out of his hand.

8 Therefore the he goat waxed very great: and when he was strong, the great horn was broken; and for it came up four notable ones toward the four winds of heaven.

A. Greece is the GOAT

There are many discussions about the GOAT. Greatest of all time. In this instance we are talking about a nation.. not Larry Bird.

Daniel doesn’t speculate — God gives him the interpretation.

“The rough goat is the king of Grecia: and the great horn … is the first king” (v.21).

This horn represents Alexander the Great, whose conquests were so fast they’re described as a goat that “doesn’t touch the ground.”

In just 10 years, Alexander conquered the known world — a feat unmatched in ancient history.

His rise fulfilled exactly what Daniel saw: an unstoppable force for a season, yet still fully under God’s sovereign timetable.

B. God Calls the Shots on Empires Before They Exist

God Identified the Empire Before It Existed

The two-horned ram represents Medo-Persia (v.20).

One horn rose higher—Persia eventually dominated the Medes.

Long before Persia conquered Babylon, God told Daniel it would rise.

2. God Described Its Power and Expansion

The ram charged west, north, and south, matching Persia’s campaigns.

For a time, no nation could resist it: “neither was there any that could deliver out of his hand” (v.4).

This was a season of greatness, but a limited one—because God set its boundaries.

3. God Foretold the Rise of a Greater Conqueror

The goat with the prominent horn represents Alexander the Great (v.21).

His conquests were lightning-fast, “not touching the ground.”

Yet his rise—though stunning—never outpaced the God who wrote it first.

4. God Predicted the Division of His Empire

Alexander died at the height of his power, and his empire fractured into four kingdoms (Cassander, Lysimachus, Seleucus, Ptolemy).

God said it would happen—and history fulfilled it exactly.

C. This prophecy was fulfilled with stunning precision, over two centuries in advance.

Daniel 4:17 “17 This matter is by the decree of the watchers, and the demand by the word of the holy ones: to the intent that the living may know that the most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will, and setteth up over it the basest of men.”

Prophecy is not the deceptive work of the fortune-teller at the carnival. It is precise.

God is not giving educated guesses, He is revealing exact events across time.

The level of detail has led many skeptics to wrongly claim Daniel must’ve been written after the fact.

But archaeology, manuscript history, and divine authority confirm the vision’s authenticity.

Jesus affirms that Daniel is prophecy. Matthew 24:15 “15 When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso readeth, let him understand:)”

Isaiah 45:1 even names Cyrus—the Persian king—a century before his birth. If God can name kings before they are born, we can trust Him to control the rise and fall of all rulers.

And yet, this prophecy is more than a history lesson. It zooms in on one ruler whose actions shock the people of God, a figure who blasphemes heaven itself. Let’s meet the 'little horn' that Daniel saw, a preview of Antichrist to come.

History tells us a remarkable story: (1)

Alexander was marching toward Jerusalem after taking Tyre and Gaza.

Jaddua, the high priest, and the people came out in procession wearing their priestly robes, bringing the Book of Daniel.

Alexander claimed he had seen this figure (Jaddua in his priestly garb) in a dream earlier, which encouraged him in his conquests.

They entered the city and offered sacrifices to God in the temple.

The Book of Daniel was read to Alexander, particularly the parts that spoke of a Greek king who would conquer Persia (Josephus does not specify chapter/verse, but interpreters connect it to Daniel 8).

Alexander concluded that the prophecy referred to him.

When asked what Jaddua wanted, the high priest requested that the Jews be allowed to live according to their ancestral laws and that Jews in other territories also receive these rights.

Alexander granted these requests and promised further favors. He then departed eastward to fight the Persians.

Let that sink in.

A pagan world conqueror—perhaps the most brilliant military mind in history—was humbled by the accuracy of a Jewish prophet who lived two centuries before him.

That is the power of the Word of God.

Daniel 8 is not myth. It’s not guesswork. It’s evidence that the Bible is supernaturally true—it tells the truth before it happens. And because God’s Word has proven true in the past, we can trust it for the future.

3. God Unmasks the Little Horn: A Preview of Antichrist

Daniel 8:9–14 (KJV)

9 And out of one of them came forth a little horn, which waxed exceeding great, toward the south, and toward the east, and toward the pleasant land.

10 And it waxed great, even to the host of heaven; and it cast down some of the host and of the stars to the ground, and stamped upon them.

11 Yea, he magnified himself even to the prince of the host, and by him the daily sacrifice was taken away, and the place of his sanctuary was cast down.

12 And an host was given him against the daily sacrifice by reason of transgression, and it cast down the truth to the ground; and it practised, and prospered.

13 Then I heard one saint speaking, and another saint said unto that certain saint which spake, How long shall be the vision concerning the daily sacrifice, and the transgression of desolation, to give both the sanctuary and the host to be trodden under foot?

14 And he said unto me, Unto two thousand and three hundred days; then shall the sanctuary be cleansed.

A. This “little horn” is Antiochus IV Epiphanes.

Alexander the Great → left no heir → empire split among generals → Seleucid dynasty → Antiochus IV Epiphanes

Region was Syria and Babylon.

Though called “little,” Antiochus grew “exceeding great” through manipulation and terror.

He named himself Epiphanes (“God Manifest”)—blasphemously exalting himself as divine.

B. His Actions Against God’s People

He invaded Jerusalem and stopped daily sacrifices (v. 11)—a direct assault on Israel’s worship.

He defiled the sanctuary with pagan rituals, setting up an idol of Zeus in the temple.

Eating pork was forced, circumcision forbidden, and possession of the Torah punishable by death.

Our knowledge of Antiochus comes not only from Daniel but also from Jewish historical records like 1 Maccabees. While we do not view the Apocrypha as divinely inspired Scripture, it provides valuable historical insight into the time between the Old and New Testaments.

C. Fulfilled to the Day

2,300 evenings & mornings (v.14) = ~3 years.

Matches exactly from temple desecration (167 BC) to its rededication (164 BC).

Jews still celebrate this as Hanukkah.

A group of Jewish rebels, led by Judas Maccabeus (“The Hammer”), rose up in what’s known as the Maccabean Revolt.

After about 3 years of fighting (matching Daniel’s prophecy of 2,300 evenings and mornings), they recaptured the temple and rededicated it to the Lord in 164 BC.

Daniel’s prophecy (v. 12) shows that even in seasons of oppression, God limits evil’s reign.

Antiochus thought his power was unstoppable — but even the mightiest rulers are only as strong as God allows. Daniel reminds us that no matter how high evil rises, God sets the boundaries.

4. God sets the boundaries on wicked rulers.

Even when evil rulers like Antiochus seem unstoppable, their power is limited by the sovereign hand of God. They rise only as far as He permits—and for only as long as He allows.”

Daniel 8:23–24 (KJV)

23 And in the latter time of their kingdom, when the transgressors are come to the full, a king of fierce countenance, and understanding dark sentences, shall stand up.

24 And his power shall be mighty, but not by his own power: and he shall destroy wonderfully, and shall prosper, and practise, and shall destroy the mighty and the holy people.

A. Antiochus Rose by Deceit

He rose to power through deceit and brutality, embodying the “king of fierce countenance” (v. 23).

He claimed divine status, elevating himself above both man and God—“magnified himself in his heart” (v. 25).

Yet his arrogance placed him in direct opposition to the “Prince of princes” (v. 25)—a dangerous and doomed position.

B. Antiochus Fell by Divine Judgment

Died in 164 BC — “broken without hand”. Daniel 8:25 “25 And through his policy also he shall cause craft to prosper in his hand; and he shall magnify himself in his heart, and by peace shall destroy many: he shall also stand up against the Prince of princes; but he shall be broken without hand.”

Not by war, but by God’s hand.

That phrase “broken without hand” (literally shattered, destroyed, without human power) points to his sudden, divinely caused downfall—not by a human conqueror.

History tell us of his death.

While Antiochus was on his way to Persia, “the Lord Almighty, the God of Israel, smote him with an incurable and invisible plague.”

He was struck with severe internal pain and rotting flesh (the text says his body became so foul-smelling that no one could bear to carry him).

In deep distress, he finally acknowledged the God of Israel, saying: “It is right to be subject to God and not to think of oneself as equal to God.” (2 Macc. 9:12)

He died miserably in 164 BC.

Antiochus’ fall is a preview of how God will deal with all proud rulers who defy Him.

C. God always limits the reach and reign of wicked men.

Though Antiochus "prospered and practiced" for a time (v. 24), it was only because God allowed it.

Evil is not sovereign. God’s providence governs all empires, even those bent on destruction. Psalm 76:10 “10 Surely the wrath of man shall praise thee: the remainder of wrath shalt thou restrain.”

Evil has an expiration date.

And this is where prophecy lifts our eyes higher. It doesn’t just tell us about past rulers or even future ones — it points us to the ultimate King. Every vision, every detail in Daniel 8 leads us to Christ, the Prince of Princes.

5. Prophecy prepares us for Christ, the Prince of Princes.

Daniel 8:15–22 (KJV)

15 And it came to pass, when I, even I Daniel, had seen the vision, and sought for the meaning, then, behold, there stood before me as the appearance of a man.

16 And I heard a man’s voice between the banks of Ulai, which called, and said, Gabriel, make this man to understand the vision.

17 So he came near where I stood: and when he came, I was afraid, and fell upon my face: but he said unto me, Understand, O son of man: for at the time of the end shall be the vision.

18 Now as he was speaking with me, I was in a deep sleep on my face toward the ground: but he touched me, and set me upright.

19 And he said, Behold, I will make thee know what shall be in the last end of the indignation: for at the time appointed the end shall be.

20 The ram which thou sawest having two horns are the kings of Media and Persia.

21 And the rough goat is the king of Grecia: and the great horn that is between his eyes is the first king.

22 Now that being broken, whereas four stood up for it, four kingdoms shall stand up out of the nation, but not in his power.

A. Antiochus foreshadows the final Antichrist

The “little horn” (v. 9) is both a historical figure and a prophetic shadow of a greater evil still to come.

Paul describes a “man of sin” who exalts himself above God —just like Antiochus. 2 Thessalonians 2:3–4 “3 Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; 4 Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God.”

Revelation 13 speaks of a beast who deceives the world and wages war against the saints—pointing to the same spirit of rebellion seen in Antiochus.

B. Prophecy Strengthens the Faithful

Daniel 8:26–27 “26 And the vision of the evening and the morning which was told is true: wherefore shut thou up the vision; for it shall be for many days. 27 And I Daniel fainted, and was sick certain days; afterward I rose up, and did the king’s business; and I was astonished at the vision, but none understood it.”

The weight of divine revelation physically crushed Daniel (v. 27)—prophecy isn’t entertainment, it’s sobering truth.

He didn’t fully understand it, yet God told him to seal the vision (v. 26)—it was meant for the future.

Though shaken, Daniel returned to “the king’s business” (v. 27)—showing faithfulness amid mystery.

C. Every evil king falls. Only Christ reigns forever.

Antiochus rose and fell. Rome rose and fell. Every tyrant in history is temporary.

Christ is the Prince of princes (v. 25)—no one stands against Him and wins. Daniel 8:25 “25 And through his policy also he shall cause craft to prosper in his hand; and he shall magnify himself in his heart, and by peace shall destroy many: he shall also stand up against the Prince of princes; but he shall be broken without hand.”

The Lamb who was slain is also the Lion who conquers —and He will reign forever and ever. Revelation 5:5–6

So what do we do with this? Daniel didn’t walk away from this vision just with answers — he walked away with a calling. And so should we. Let’s end with what this means for us today.

Conclusion: The past, present and future belongs to God and to those who trust in Him.

Daniel 8 reminds us that history is not random, and evil is not sovereign. Every empire, every ruler, every moment in time bends beneath the hand of the God who reigns. He names kings before they rise. He limits evil before it moves. He restores what is broken—down to the day. And in the end, all prophecy points to Jesus Christ, the Prince of princes, the Lamb who wins.

So the question is not merely, “Do you understand prophecy?” The real question is, “Are you ready for the One it points to?”

Gospel Call

Friend, if you're here today and you do not know Jesus Christ as your Savior and King, hear this clearly: the greatest threat in your life is not earthly empires or corrupt rulers—it’s the sin that separates you from God.

Your greatest threat is not earthly rulers—it’s sin.

The same God who wrote history in advance has written the way of salvation: Christ crucified, buried, and risen.

Repent and believe—today.

Next Steps for Believers

If you already belong to Christ, let this chapter move you to live with urgency, confidence, and hope:

Live Alert — Watch God’s hand in history.

Anchor Your Heart — Trust His faithfulness.

Stay Obedient — Do the King’s business like Daniel.

Share Christ — Prophecy calls us to evangelize, not speculate.

Worship the Lamb — Every story points to Him.

Final Word:

You don't have to fear the future when you know the One who holds it. Look to Christ. Rest in His promises. Live for His kingdom—until He returns in glory.

Footnote:

1. Josephus, Antiquities of the Jews 11.321–339