July 01, 2003 (22)THE LAST WEEK OF DANIEL’S SEVENTY WEEKS PROPHECY. The seventy weeks were the time allotted to Israel to accomplish the dealings of the Lord with them. It is the last week, the seventieth week that is of interest to us in this study. A day is found representing a year in this prophecy. Therefore the last week involves a period of seven years. It is interesting to note that not once in the book of Revelation is there any reference to a seven year period of time. However, and to repeat, measurements of one thousand two hundred and sixty days, forty-two months and a time, times and half a time are used. All are in regard to the same duration of time. This final week is allotted in particular to Israel. The message of the Lord is directed to them. It is their time of salvation, though we must remember that the door is not closed to the Gentiles. Under the laws of Israel the Gentiles could become proselytes.
THE SEVENTIETH WEEK MUST BE DIVIDED. It was to be divided into two parts, each a term of three and one-half years. The two periods of time were to be divided, not only by a measurement of years, but by a condition called the overspreading of abominations. Dan. 9:27 This situation is caused by a restoration of Temple worship, or the continuation of old testament sacrifice and worship after the once for all sacrifice of Christ. Isaiah very plainly states the feelings and emotions of the Lord toward any attempt to continue the Old Testament sacrifices after the death of Christ. To do so is an abomination before the Lord and is to blaspheme the Son of God. It is likewise an insult of the highest degree. Isa. 66:1-5 The Lord does not look to the house built by man, He looks to the man who appreciates His Word. Animal sacrifice is unconscionable.
THE ONLY SACRIFICE FOR THE SALVATION OF MANKIND. The offering made by the Lord Jesus on the cross is a “once for all†sacrifice. It was not only for those of that time, but for all in the future, and for those in the past. None will find their way into the eternal kingdom of the Lord except by the sacrifice of Jesus on Calvary. Though the Law was given by God, its sacrifices did not forgive sin.
ONLY THE BLOOD OF JESUS can bring forgiveness. Those under the first testament are forgiven by the sacrifice of the New. Heb. 9:15 It is an impossibility for animal; sacrifice to take away sin. Heb. 10:4 The rending of the veil in the temple is evidence of the end of the law of sacrifice. The way into the Holy of Holies is now open for all. At the death of Christ, the veil of the temple was torn in two, most certainly by the hand of the Lord Himself. Mt. 27:51 Jesus has opened unto us the new way. A way whereby we come directly to the throne of the Lord in times of worship and need. The Holy presence of the Lord is no longer sealed off and inaccessible to those who would come to Him. Freely, without fear or doubt we may appear before His very throne presence knowing that we will be received and granted an audience with Him. Heb. 10:20-22