The Statue

The book of Daniel has some incredibly specific predictions about world affairs starting with Daniel's interpretation of Nebuchadnezzar's dream about the statue. The Daily Bible editor's interpretation in the lead-in agrees with the commentaries I read. Babylon is the head of gold. Although not the largest empire ever of that time, it had ancient origins and was very well organized and strong under this particular king. Next came the Medes and Persians, weaker because the king's power was limited by the growing strength of the nobility. Next the Greek empire of Alexander the Great conquered Persia and for many centuries ruled the whole world. Next came Rome. The mix of iron and clay could represent strength and weakness within the empire (People's Bible) or a later confederation of states occupying the territory formerly controlled by the Roman empire (Concordia Bible).

The cool part is the rock representing God's kingdom, which during the time of these kingdoms is already being set up, which crushes all these earthly kingdoms, and continues on forever. This, of course, points to the kingdom of Jesus, who came at the time of the Romans and stated "My kingdom is not of this world" (John 18:36). His kingdom is the Church which continues to be built up until Judgment Day when God will bring his redeemed people into his perfect kingdom of heaven forever!