Isagogical Study of Daniel 7-12

Abstract

John Zeitler’s Isagogical Study of Daniel 7–12 offers a confessional Lutheran analysis of the apocalyptic visions in the latter half of Daniel. Written for a pastoral conference, the study defends the book’s authenticity against higher-critical skepticism, affirming its divine inspiration and predictive prophecy. Zeitler situates Daniel within the Babylonian exile and outlines both the historical (chs. 1–6) and prophetic (chs. 7–12) sections. Special emphasis is given to the visions of the four beasts, the ram and the goat, the seventy weeks, and the conflicts between the kings of the North and South, all culminating in the prophecy of resurrection and final judgment. Zeitler interprets Antiochus Epiphanes as a type of the Antichrist, ultimately fulfilled in the papacy, while stressing Christ’s victory as the “Son of Man.” The study concludes with pastoral exhortations: Daniel strengthens the church militant with assurance of God’s sovereignty, angelic protection, and Christ’s ultimate triumph.

Summary prepared with the assistance of OpenAI’s ChatGPT (GPT-5)