Recently I preached through the book of Daniel. Daniel was an incredible book in which I greatly grew in my understanding of God’s power, provision, and presence. When I look back at the series, there is one sermon in which I wish I could redo (and I will someday in the future). And that is the sermon from Daniel 9:24-27. Now admittedly this is a very difficult passage which has been the occasion of much disagreement in Christian circles. The reason I look forward to preaching this passage again is because it was not as clear as I would have liked for it to have been. I became too caught up in all the details that the main point became somewhat muddied. Here is the general outline I would use next time I preach Daniel 9:24-27:

1. The passage is about Jesus and all that He accomplished for us at the cross (v.24).
2. Hope is not found in an earthly city, temple, or a specific plot of land. This is evident in that the Jews will return to their land and rebuild their city and temple but will not be free from suffering and trials (v.25).
3. Jesus is the one who comes and makes a strong covenant through His death and resurrection. And by His death He will put an end to the entire sacrificial system (v.26-27).
4. Suffering will characterize the church between Jesus’ first and second coming (v.26-27).
5. There is a day coming in which all sin, suffering, and evil will be done away with and only those who have trusted in Jesus will experience God’s blessed rule for all eternity (v.26-27)