Seventy Weeks Are Determined – Richard T. Ritenbaugh cgg.org

In the past, the church extensively covered prophetic topics, particularly in World Tomorrow broadcasts, focusing on Daniel 2’s Nebuchadnezzar’s image, the beasts representing world empires in Daniel 7, and symbols and timelines in Revelation. However, the Seventy Weeks Prophecy of Daniel 9:24-27 was seldom explained.

Though not as emphasized as other prophecies, it’s crucial for dating Christ’s birth, ministry, and death. This season, as the world observes what they consider Jesus’ birth, offers a fitting time for review.

Given to Daniel by the cherub Gabriel in 538 BC, this prophecy responds to Daniel’s plea about Israel’s redemption and Messiah’s arrival. Structured poetically, it contrasts subjects, guiding interpretation.

Starting in verse 24, Gabriel outlines that within the seventy weeks, God’s entire plan will unfold. The seventy weeks, meaning seventy sevens, surpass Jeremiah’s seventy years of captivity, implying a more extensive timeframe.

Verse 25 establishes the starting point: a decree to rebuild Jerusalem. The viable one aligns with Artaxerxes I in 457 BC, culminating in AD 27 when John baptized Jesus at the start of His ministry.

Verse 26 discusses Messiah being “cut off” after sixty-two weeks, placing His crucifixion around AD 31, coinciding with a Wednesday Passover.

The prophecy shifts to describe the Beast or Antichrist in verses 26b-27. Protestants often misattribute the covenant to the Antichrist, but “the many” refers to God’s covenant people, affirming it as the New Covenant established by Christ.

The final three and a half years of the seventieth week are yet to be fulfilled, and Gabriel does not specify when. Possible scenarios include completion during Christ’s return, post-return before Satan’s binding, or during the Great Tribulation and Day of the Lord.

Understanding this prophecy challenges false Christian holidays and provides chronological context for Christ’s ministry and church founding, aiding biblical vindication. As we approach the end, the prophecy guides us to watch for the correct signs, avoiding misconceptions.