Daniel: A Commentary in the Wesleyan Tradition (NBBC)
Overview
The Book of Daniel speaks a fresh message to each new generation. For over two millennia it has done so. The book invites its readers to live within a larger story than their own. It gives them a glimpse of the broad sweep of human history and the cosmic proportions of God’s intentions. In light of certainties about the final outcome of this world, this book challenges believers to risk radical faith in God within the context of a hostile world.
This message has been especially relevant to those individuals and communities who have become disillusioned by present realities. Where political and social systems disappoint, Daniel provides hope. In contexts of oppressive, even anti-God, governments, Daniel infuses courage. When the strong undertow of secular values confuses, Daniel calls for clear choices. As the siren song of cultural compromise lures, Daniel gives reason for restraint. Century after century, the pages of Daniel have infused the faithful with fortitude.
Jim Edlin moves verse-by-verse through Daniel after providing an in-depth introduction.
- The latest scholarship from notable experts in the Wesleyan tradition
- Convenient introductory material for each book of the Bible including information on authorship, date, history, audience, sociological/cultural issues, purpose, literary features, theological themes, hermeneutical issues, and more
- Clear verse-by-verse explanations, which offer a contemporary, Wesleyan-based understanding derived from the passage’s original language
- Comprehensive annotation divided into three sections: 1. Background elements behind the text 2. Verse-by-verse details and meanings found in the text 3. Significance, relevance, intertextuality, and application from the text
- Insight into theological issues, word meanings, archaeological connections, historical relevance, cultural customs, and more
- Expanded bibliography for further study of historical elements, additional interpretations, and theological themes
Top Highlights
“Since the seventy sevens are broken down into three specific divisions—seven sevens, sixty-two sevens, and one seven—a precise accounting seems warranted. Further, references to seven literal years with regard to sabbatical years and jubilees in other parts of the Hebrew Scriptures indicate that these could be taken literally as well (Lev 25:1–12). Finally, the near accuracy of seventy years for the length of Judah’s exile might support a literal reading.” (Page 216)
“The effect of apocalyptic literature is to allow persons to gain perspective on their world by glimpsing realities of the heavenly realms. Readers can contemplate their place in the unfolding drama of history. They can see their struggles with evil in the context of a much larger story. Hope arises out of the realization that God and his goodness will triumph in the end.” (Page 22)
“After the seventy years of Babylonian dominance, God envisions that his people ‘will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart’ (Jer 29:12–13). Daniel appears to be seeking a fulfillment of Jeremiah’s prophecy through his prayer.” (Page 220)
“There is more to this world than the material realities. Spiritual realities impact the course of human events. The story of spiritual conflict is a much larger story than our own and one whose details are only vaguely known. It will outlast and eventually take over the story on earth.” (Page 252)
“The book of Daniel is an intense study of the sovereignty of God and its implications for believers. The primary theological message of the book is clear. God overrules the rulers of this world. Therefore God’s people can risk faithful living because ultimate victory is assured.” (Page 37)
- Alex Varughese
- Roger Hahn
- George Lyons
- Joseph Coleson
- Robert Branson
- Jim Edlin
- Kent Brower
- Jeanne Serrão
- Title: Daniel: A Commentary in the Wesleyan Tradition
- Author: Jim Edlin
- Series: New Beacon Bible Commentary (NBBC)
- Publisher: Beacon Hill Press
- Publication Date: 2009
- Pages: 288
