When the Beasts Rise: God Still Reigns

 

When the Beasts Rise: God Still Reigns

Text: Daniel 7:1–3

 Daniel 7 begins a dramatic shift in the book — from interpreting others’ dreams to receiving his own visions from God. In the night, Daniel sees the sea churned up by mighty winds, and out of the chaos, four terrifying beasts arise. It's a scene full of movement, noise, and fear — a fitting picture of the turbulent, dangerous course of world history. But hidden in this frightening imagery are profound lessons for us today.

 The World Is a Chaotic Place. The “great sea” in Scripture often symbolizes the masses of humanity, nations, and peoples — restless, unstable, and unpredictable (see Revelation 17:15). Here, the sea is not calm but churned up by winds from every direction, a picture of political upheaval, conflict, and uncertainty. Like Daniel’s vision, the world today is full of unrest. Wars, divisions, and crises seem to rise endlessly. But this should not surprise us. Until Christ returns, the world will remain a stormy sea.

 Human Kingdoms Arise from Turmoil and Violence. Each beast that rises from the sea represents a powerful kingdom (as the angel later explains in Daniel 7:17). Notice: these are not portrayed as noble or godly but as beasts — wild, dangerous, and destructive. History confirms this: most kingdoms have been born through war, conquest, and ambition. Human power, when separated from God’s rule, tends to become beastly. This vision reminds us that human governments, even at their best, are flawed and fragile.

 God Is in Control Even Over the Beasts. Though the beasts rise violently, they do not act outside of God's sovereign plan. Daniel's vision — and indeed the entire chapter — points to one supreme truth: God sits on His throne above the chaos. Later in the chapter, Daniel sees the "Ancient of Days" taking His seat, judging the beasts, and establishing His everlasting kingdom (Daniel 7:9–14). No matter how wild the sea or how terrifying the beasts, they are all subject to the authority of Almighty God.

Hope for Us: Daniel 7:1–3 paints a frightening but honest picture of the world — full of movement, conflict, and fearsome powers. But it also teaches us not to be shaken. Though the sea roars and beasts rise, our God reigns supreme. His kingdom is not born of violence or chaos, but of righteousness, peace, and truth — and it will have no end.

Invitation: When the storms of life rage around you, where do you place your trust? In the fleeting powers of men, or in the unshakable throne of God? Let us lift our eyes above the sea to the One who reigns forever — the Ancient of Days.

More: Sabbath School Lesson 5: The Nations Part 2