The book of Daniel presents the reader with a wide sweep of prophetic history. Through the visions and dreams presented in Daniel, we see the great kingdoms of this earth laid out before us. First will be the Babylonian empire, ruled by king Nebuchadnezzar. Next will come the Persian empire, then the Greeks, and finally the Roman empire. This last worldwide empire will be crushed by God himself and the kingdom of God will rule on the earth forever.
Daniel is also a book about the faithfulness of Daniel and his three friends in the face of evil influence and persecution. As we wait for God's kingdom to rule over the earth, our allegiance - like Daniel and his friends - is to belong fully to the king of the coming kingdom of God.
