Host Peter Englert, co‑host Rich Christman, and guest Ron Pierce (Biola professor emeritus) explore why Daniel’s stories— from the lion’s den to the apocalyptic visions of chapters 7‑12—still speak to today’s crises.

• From Sunday school to scholarship: Ron shares how he moved from childhood tales to uncovering Daniel’s Aramaic/Hebrew structure and its prophetic timeline.
• Systematic vs. biblical theology: Why reading Daniel through the eyes of a 6th‑century exile reveals deeper meaning than end‑times speculation.
• Dark night of the soul: Using St. John of the Cross, they trace Daniel’s long “dark night” and its role in spiritual formation.
• Language & canon: The significance of the Aramaic sections and the place of apocryphal additions.
• Aging & hope: Ron, nearing 80, reflects on what Daniel teaches about purpose, suffering, and the promise of resurrection.

Tune in for a hopeful look at how Daniel’s ancient visions can guide us through today’s darkness. 🎧✨

In this enlightening episode of “Understanding the Book of Daniel,” Peter Englert engages in a captivating discussion with Wendy Witter, an esteemed scholar and author of two commentaries on Daniel. Wendy shares her journey from a reluctant student of Daniel to a passionate advocate for its profound teachings.

The conversation delves into the intricacies of narrative in the Book of Daniel, emphasizing the importance of understanding its theological messages rather than merely historical accounts. Wendy highlights how the narratives, particularly those involving Nebuchadnezzar, showcase God’s sovereignty and the enduring nature of His kingdom amidst the rise and fall of human rulers.

Listeners will gain insights into how to approach biblical narratives, with practical advice on interpreting the text in its broader context. Wendy’s unique perspective on the humor and irony within the stories, especially in the famous account of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, offers a fresh lens through which to view these ancient tales.

As they explore the relevance of Daniel’s messages for today’s political landscape and the challenges of faith in a secular world, this episode encourages listeners to reaffirm their allegiance to God above all earthly powers. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that connects the past and present, urging us to recognize the eternal kingdom of God.

Understanding Narrative in Daniel
The Role of Nebuchadnezzar
Interpreting Biblical Stories
Application to Modern Contexts

✍️ Episode References

Wendy Widder

https://wendywidder.com

Zondervan

https://www.zondervan.com/search-results/?q=wendy%20widder

Zondervan Exegetical Commentary

https://faithgateway.com/products/daniel-a-discourse-analysis-of-the-hebrew-bible?variant=41102749892744

Story of God Commentary

https://faithgateway.com/products/daniel-1?variant=13746586681455

In the debut episode of “Understanding Daniel,” Peter, the Adult Ministries Director of Browncroft Community Church, welcomes renowned Old Testament scholar Dr. Tremper Longman.

The conversation outlines Daniel’s historical setting from the Babylonian exile to the Persian period, explaining how its six court‑court stories and four apocalyptic visions address a people living under foreign oppression. Dr. Longman demonstrates how the book’s ancient Near Eastern symbols point to a larger biblical theme: God as the ultimate Warrior who defeats evil. This theme bridges Daniel to Revelation and the New Testament.

Listeners receive practical advice for personal or small‑group study, including recommended study Bibles and commentaries, and a reminder to recognize the book’s genre before interpreting its imagery. The central takeaway is clear: despite today’s “evil times,” Daniel’s timeless message urges believers to stay faithful, trust God’s control, and find hope.