This study on Daniel's 70 x 7 vision is intended to demystify the true meaning of the numbers. For decades Christians have heard only one interpretation of Daniel's vision, which is not supported by the historical evidence. So the historical evidence provided in this series should peak the interest of a true seeker, who wants to understand the message given to Daniel by the angel Gabriel, and how it was intended for the Jewish people - all 70 x 7 weeks fulfilled by 70 A.D.
When we were last together we began to research what Moses and Jesus had to say about 70 x 7, and how this relates to Daniel's 70 x 7 vision - Genesis chapter 4. Since we extensively outlined what Moses had to say, this week we will research how Jesus used the common metaphor 70 x 7, and how it relates to Daniel's vision.
In Series #5-6 we explained the meaning of Daniel's 70 x 7 vision in detail as an ecclesiastical indictment upon Israel - a judgment on sin. In our research into what Moses said about 70 x 7 we found that 70 x 7 implies immeasurable vengeance on sin.
Our second reference in the Bible that refers to 70 x 7 is from the lips of Jesus Christ, which will help us solve the mystery of this common ancient metaphor. In this reference we find a conversation between the Apostle Peter and Jesus, where they are discussing the matter of forgiveness. Peter wanted to know if he should forgive seven times if someone sins against him. Jesus answered saying...I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven...Matt. 18:22.
As in our Genesis reference, we can see that seven times implies measured or limited forgiveness. But Jesus uses the metaphor 70 x 7 to define the forgiveness He personifies - immeasurable. This decree He will sign with His own blood. His blood covenant of immeasurable forgiveness, defined by His death and resurrection, would supersede God's covenant with Moses in the Old Testament. When Moses instituted the blood of animals to atone for the sins of mankind, forgiveness was measured. How do we know?
In those days, a sin offering was characterized by sprinkling the blood of an unblemished animal in front of the veil of the sanctuary, where the presence of God dwelled. This blood was offered for atonement for the sins of the people - sprinkled by the priest seven times. Seven times symbolized that measured forgiveness was received from the Lord. Animal blood temporarily covered the sins of mankind, yet leaving the sinner with the fear of death.
When the sinless Lamb of God died for the sins of mankind, He took away the fear of death when He shed His blood for the sins of mankind. If a sinner repents of their sins and receives Jesus Christ as his Savior, he becomes a new creation, old things have passed away, all things have become new. Jesus provided 70 x 7 forgiveness - immeasurable forgiveness forever.
Since numbers are used in Daniel's vision, there is a natural inclination to require a numerical calculation of years for the fulfillment of his vision. To do so would be incorrect. Both of the scripture references we have cited regarding 70 x 7 are metaphors relating to sin. One reference describes God's immeasurable vengeance on sin, while the other reference describes God's immeasurable forgiveness for sin.
Daniel's 70 x 7 vision revealed that Israel would be given a determined period of time to surrender their allegiance to God. We know by countless examples that Israel often strayed from God, experiencing harsh judgment. The severe consequences drove them to repent which restored them to God's acceptance. But, within this specific decree, if they will not surrender their allegiance to God, the end of their nation would be the consequence of their faithlessness - idolatry.
Did you ever ask yourself, "When the metaphor 70 x 7 is used in Daniel's vision, why wouldn't it have the same meaning as when Moses and Jesus used the term?" Questions demand answers.
When the angel said to Daniel seventy times seven weeks have been determined upon the people, he is saying that 70 x 7 ecclesiastical weeks have been decreed upon sin - a religious judgment. Depending on the heart condition of the people - stiff-necked or remorseful - Israel will receive vengeance or forgiveness for their sins during this decree. This long period of time - over 500 years - will be Israel's final opportunity to surrender their allegiance to God alone, eventually through the Messiah, before their nation becomes a byword.
Until Messiah the prince, there shall be seven weeks, and sixty-two weeks...Dan. 9:25. What does this portion of Daniel's vision mean? Stay tuned...
God's sheep question the doctrines of men...sheeple follow without question~~~
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