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Agents of Babylon: What the Prophecies of Daniel Tell Us about the End of Days
In his #1 New York Times bestseller Agents of the Apocalypse , noted prophecy expert Dr. David Jeremiah explored the book of Revelation through the lens of its major players. Now, in the much-anticipated follow-up, Agents of Babylon , Dr. Jeremiah examines prophecy through the eyes of the characters in the book of Daniel, explains what the prophecies mean, and helps us understand how these prophetic visions and dreams apply to our lives today. Written in the same highly engaging half dramatization, half Bible teaching format as Agents of the Apocalypse , Agents of Babylon is not only an in-depth exploration of the characters and prophecies contained in the book of Daniel but also a dramatic retelling of Scripture that is sure to bring ancient prophecy to light like never before.
384 pages, Hardcover
First published October 6, 2015
347 people are currently reading
562 people want to read
About the author
David Jeremiah
768books772followersDr. David Jeremiah, founder of Turning Point Radio and Television Ministries and senior pastor of Shadow Mountain Community Church, felt God’s calling on his life at a very early age. Born February 13, 1941 in Toledo, Ohio, Dr. Jeremiah was raised in a family deeply committed to ministry. At the age of eleven, Dr. Jeremiah and his family moved to Dayton, Ohio where his father, Dr. James T. Jeremiah, was the Pastor of Emmanuel Baptist Church, and in 1953 became the President of Cedarville College in Cedarville, Ohio.
As Dr. Jeremiah was sensitive to God’s leading in his life, he followed in his father’s footsteps. In 1963, Dr. Jeremiah received a Bachelor of Arts from Cedarville College. In that same year, Dr. Jeremiah married his college sweetheart, Donna Thompson who also was attending Cedarville College as a business major. He went on to earn a Masters degree in Theology from Dallas Theological Seminary in 1967. He completed additional graduate work at Grace University and was granted the Doctor of Divinity degree from Cedarville College in 1981.
In 1969, Dr. Jeremiah began Blackhawk Baptist Church in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and developed a Christian school grades K through 12. In the 12 years he served as pastor, Blackhawk Baptist Church grew from 7 families to 1300 members. He also launched The Bible Hour television program.
Dr. Jeremiah heeded God’s call, and in 1981 he and his family moved to California where he became the senior pastor of Scott Memorial Baptist Church, now Shadow Mountain Community Church.
Shadow Mountain Community Church is one of the largest churches in San Diego County. It is also the home of Southern California Seminary and Christian Unified Schools.
As Dr. Jeremiah began his ministry at Shadow Mountain, he felt God’s calling to continue the broadcast ministry he started in Fort Wayne. In 1982, Turning Point Ministries became a reality.
Today, Turning Point's 30-minute radio program is heard nationally and internationally on over 1800 stations and translator/satellators. In recognition of Dr. Jeremiah’s commitment to teaching the Word of God, he received the Broadcaster of the Year Award in 1999 from the National Religious Broadcasters (NRB), in August 2002, received the Award of Merit from the Western Chapter of National Religious Broadcasters for Excellence in Broadcasting and Faithfulness in Service, and in 2006 Turning Point received the Best Radio Teaching Program Award. Dr. Jeremiah has served on the Board of Directors for the NRB since 1996.
Turning Point launched a television program in 1982 in San Diego and went nationwide in 2000. Now seen around the world through cable and satellite technology, as well as on terrestrial stations all across the United States, conservative estimates suggest that close to 200 million homes around the world have access to Dr. Jeremiah's Bible teaching each week. Turning Point Television offers a half-hour Bible study message and a full hour worship service with the same great preaching. Carried on several national and international networks such as TBN, ION, and INSP, Turning Point Television has most recently been added to Middle East TV Network and BET, the Black Entertainment Network.
Dr. Jeremiah is a sought-after conference speaker for organizations around the country. He frequently speaks at Cedarville College, Dallas Theological Seminary, Moody Bible Institute, Billy Graham Training Center, Phil Waldrep’s Senior Adult Celebrations and numerous NFL, NBA and Baseball chapels.
Along with his speaking schedule around the country, Dr. Jeremiah also finds time to fulfill another passion in his life, writing. His books are always gripping and right to the point. Some of his books include Escape the Coming Night, The Power of Encouragement, What the Bible Says About Angels, Prayer The Great Adventure, which brought him The Gold Medallion Award in 1998, God In You, Gifts from God
As Dr. Jeremiah was sensitive to God’s leading in his life, he followed in his father’s footsteps. In 1963, Dr. Jeremiah received a Bachelor of Arts from Cedarville College. In that same year, Dr. Jeremiah married his college sweetheart, Donna Thompson who also was attending Cedarville College as a business major. He went on to earn a Masters degree in Theology from Dallas Theological Seminary in 1967. He completed additional graduate work at Grace University and was granted the Doctor of Divinity degree from Cedarville College in 1981.
In 1969, Dr. Jeremiah began Blackhawk Baptist Church in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and developed a Christian school grades K through 12. In the 12 years he served as pastor, Blackhawk Baptist Church grew from 7 families to 1300 members. He also launched The Bible Hour television program.
Dr. Jeremiah heeded God’s call, and in 1981 he and his family moved to California where he became the senior pastor of Scott Memorial Baptist Church, now Shadow Mountain Community Church.
Shadow Mountain Community Church is one of the largest churches in San Diego County. It is also the home of Southern California Seminary and Christian Unified Schools.
As Dr. Jeremiah began his ministry at Shadow Mountain, he felt God’s calling to continue the broadcast ministry he started in Fort Wayne. In 1982, Turning Point Ministries became a reality.
Today, Turning Point's 30-minute radio program is heard nationally and internationally on over 1800 stations and translator/satellators. In recognition of Dr. Jeremiah’s commitment to teaching the Word of God, he received the Broadcaster of the Year Award in 1999 from the National Religious Broadcasters (NRB), in August 2002, received the Award of Merit from the Western Chapter of National Religious Broadcasters for Excellence in Broadcasting and Faithfulness in Service, and in 2006 Turning Point received the Best Radio Teaching Program Award. Dr. Jeremiah has served on the Board of Directors for the NRB since 1996.
Turning Point launched a television program in 1982 in San Diego and went nationwide in 2000. Now seen around the world through cable and satellite technology, as well as on terrestrial stations all across the United States, conservative estimates suggest that close to 200 million homes around the world have access to Dr. Jeremiah's Bible teaching each week. Turning Point Television offers a half-hour Bible study message and a full hour worship service with the same great preaching. Carried on several national and international networks such as TBN, ION, and INSP, Turning Point Television has most recently been added to Middle East TV Network and BET, the Black Entertainment Network.
Dr. Jeremiah is a sought-after conference speaker for organizations around the country. He frequently speaks at Cedarville College, Dallas Theological Seminary, Moody Bible Institute, Billy Graham Training Center, Phil Waldrep’s Senior Adult Celebrations and numerous NFL, NBA and Baseball chapels.
Along with his speaking schedule around the country, Dr. Jeremiah also finds time to fulfill another passion in his life, writing. His books are always gripping and right to the point. Some of his books include Escape the Coming Night, The Power of Encouragement, What the Bible Says About Angels, Prayer The Great Adventure, which brought him The Gold Medallion Award in 1998, God In You, Gifts from God
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February 20, 2017
Wow, this book is incredible! Better than Agents of the Apocalypse.
When I was looking for a study of biblical prophecy a number of years ago, I ended up settling for listening to sermons because I couldn't find a book that delivered. I wanted something that explained which prophecies had been fulfilled including when and how and which were yet to be fulfilled. I also wanted a little about the differing views on the subject and to know which were the prevailing views and why. I wanted to know how prophecy proved the Bible and what to expect in the future (as far as is possible.) I did find what I was looking for in audio messages by John MacArthur but some of it was too academic and because it was audio I didn't absorb as much as I would have liked. This book was what I had been looking for....
Agents of Babylon uses the Biblical narrative in Daniel to create fictional stories around the events. The author then explains the Scripture, the different views, his own view and the reasons for it and the application for today. Rather than confusing the Biblical narrative, the fictional accounts enhance them and bring the text to life, this is because it is so closely based on Scripture and the author hasn't insisted on inserting personal views into the writing.
Having read this book and the prequel (sequel?) I finally feel like I understand the biblical history and the prophecies that have yet to be fulfilled. I personally have never been one to doubt the authenticity of the Bible but for those who struggle with doubt, read this book! The author states that some atheists even dispute when the book of Daniel was written due to the accuracy of the fulfillments to date. This book should give us confidence that God will fulfill His outstanding prophecies as specifically as He has done in the past.
I usually research authors if I am beginning to seek out their books. I will add that I have read some concerns about the methods the author has used to increase sales of his books. I do not know whether the claims are true. I don't think they have much bearing on whether or not I will recommend this book as they have nothing to do with the content. The book is clean--no bad language, or sexual content and limited violence.
I highly recommend this book for those wanting to understand biblical prophecy in layman's language and for those who want to be encouraged to trust the authenticity of the Bible.
When I was looking for a study of biblical prophecy a number of years ago, I ended up settling for listening to sermons because I couldn't find a book that delivered. I wanted something that explained which prophecies had been fulfilled including when and how and which were yet to be fulfilled. I also wanted a little about the differing views on the subject and to know which were the prevailing views and why. I wanted to know how prophecy proved the Bible and what to expect in the future (as far as is possible.) I did find what I was looking for in audio messages by John MacArthur but some of it was too academic and because it was audio I didn't absorb as much as I would have liked. This book was what I had been looking for....
Agents of Babylon uses the Biblical narrative in Daniel to create fictional stories around the events. The author then explains the Scripture, the different views, his own view and the reasons for it and the application for today. Rather than confusing the Biblical narrative, the fictional accounts enhance them and bring the text to life, this is because it is so closely based on Scripture and the author hasn't insisted on inserting personal views into the writing.
Having read this book and the prequel (sequel?) I finally feel like I understand the biblical history and the prophecies that have yet to be fulfilled. I personally have never been one to doubt the authenticity of the Bible but for those who struggle with doubt, read this book! The author states that some atheists even dispute when the book of Daniel was written due to the accuracy of the fulfillments to date. This book should give us confidence that God will fulfill His outstanding prophecies as specifically as He has done in the past.
I usually research authors if I am beginning to seek out their books. I will add that I have read some concerns about the methods the author has used to increase sales of his books. I do not know whether the claims are true. I don't think they have much bearing on whether or not I will recommend this book as they have nothing to do with the content. The book is clean--no bad language, or sexual content and limited violence.
I highly recommend this book for those wanting to understand biblical prophecy in layman's language and for those who want to be encouraged to trust the authenticity of the Bible.
November 14, 2015
Babylon
This book, Agents of Babylon, contains thirteen different chapters, an epilogue, an appendix, and a couple of other book sections. Each chapter is divided into roughly two sections. In the first section, Jeremiah offers his readers a 'fictional narrative about the subject of the chapter' (x) and in the second section he gives his readers an 'exposition of the Scripture behind the [fictional narrative].' It's a unique approach to a book written about the Bible and one that I did not fully appreciate. I read only the first three chapters of the 'fictional narrative' before skipping each subsequent one and going straight for the 'scripture behind' it. In short, I didn't appreciate the fictional narratives. I think they added too much to the narrative of Daniel, speculated entirely too much, and, to a certain degree, detracted from the narrative of the Book of Daniel.
The Book of Daniel does not need a fictional narrative to help explain its point, to make its point, or to point to its point. Then again, perhaps as justification for writing another book on Daniel this fictional narrative was necessary. I think it could have been eliminated and the book cut from nearly 400 pages, down to about 250 and the substance could have been deeper and better. As it is, however, the fictional narrative is, frankly, out of place. I didn't appreciate it at any level.
With that said, I'm a little uncertain my take on this book. On the one hand, Jeremiah starts out exactly where I would have started: "Daniel 1:2 introduces us to the theme of the entire book: the sovereignty of God" (13). I think this is dead on and correct and throughout the book he touches upon this very point and, at times, does so well for example, "May we live lives of astonishment over how God has broken into human history for our benefit--to give us a future and a hope that is absolutely certain" (219). On the other hand, the book delves into the nether regions of millenial, Antichrist, and physical Israel theology that does nothing to inspire hope or courage and everything to drain me of vitality and strength. It's my opinion that the theological perspective under-girding the majority of this book is misguided and as much fictional as the Fictional Narratives. An example should suffice to make my point.
In chapter 10, The Herald, Jeremiah quotes from Clarence Larkin (1850-1924). Here's the quote:
Daniel's seventieth week (Daniel 9:24-27), Jesus' Olivet Discourse (Matthew 24), and John's seals, trumpets, and vials (Revelation 6:1-18:24) cover the same period, and are Jewish and have no reference to the Christian Church. (257)
I simply cannot comprehend how a respected preacher can quote something so unbelievably wrong with a straight face. But this is the kind of result one gets when a theological system is the lens through which one reads the Bible. There is so much emphasis on the trees in this book that, despite the good beginnings, the forest missed almost entirely. How one can account for saying that three lengthy, significant portions of the Holy Writ have no bearing on the church is stunning. I suppose we may as well excise those portions from our Bibles and throw them away. But here's the point: in order for Millenial theology to work, that is exactly what one must do to Scripture. I don't think I'm the only one who sees the significant problem this creates.
Here's another problem I had with the book. I took a fairly long look at the the Notes section of the book. Considering the type of book this is, and who it is intended for, the notes are fairly detailed and I appreciate that very much. But I also take a look at who is being noted, what works are being quoted, and when the works quoted were written. Aside from Jermiah's own works and a couple of other non-specific titles, the works the author cites as authorities on the Book of Daniel range from Calvin's 1853 commentary to Stortz's 2004 Preaching the Word contribution. Along the way there are citations from 1879 (Seiss), Larkin (1929), Keil (1877), Scofield (1945), Anderson (1909), and others. This is 2015. Are we as readers really supposed to take seriously a book whose author has, apparently, not read anything on Daniel since a 2004 publication whose overall Amazon rank is over 800,000? These other men were great. Sure. Their books are classic and probably somewhat important. Yet there are countless works available from reputable scholars in the last ten years that Jeremiah has, apparently, not even bothered to investigate. This was disappointing. (As also was the absence of a bibliography which a work of this sort should have.)
I appreciated that Jeremiah was not afraid to keep this book in its historical context. There is a great deal of emphasis placed on this book as prophecy and I think that is important given how many writers and scholars write off Daniel as pseudo-prophecy (ex eventu). I appreciated that he didn't skimp when it came to his exegesis of the individual chapters of Daniel but that he took the time to explain concepts and other difficult to understand aspects of the book. I didn't always agree with his conclusions, but I appreciated that he took the time to do the work nonetheless.
There are some helpful charts, graphs, and illustrations that add flavor to the book and help the reader visualize a concept from Daniel. I also appreciated that at the end of each chapter Jeremiah added a brief 'Daniel for Today' section to help the reader make some relevant applications. Again, I'm not buying all his applications, but at minimum they get the reader thinking about the content of Daniel. I would appreciate more depth to these applications, but I can read other books to obtain the depth I desire.
Here's the bottom line, and I'm gonna stop because I can go on all day knocking the theology behind this book and nit-picking every little thing I dislike about it, there's nothing in this book that is entirely 'wrong.' For all I know, Jeremiah and the pre/post-millenialists of the church could be correct. I'm not staking my faith to it, but the truth is that they are, to one degree or another, looking for Jesus. And this gives me some courage. For my money, the system is entirely too clean, it all fits together too neatly, and the dates are all too convenient. I don't think Daniel is about giving us a specific historical timeline about this or that. I think Daniel is about pointing us to Jesus whose Kingdom will come upon us when we are not expecting it, will not find its origins from earth, and which will destroy all the other kingdoms that seek to kill, steal, and destroy. At the end of the day, I'm not looking for a timeline. I'm looking for hope. I'm not looking for a particular evil person (e.g. the so-called 'antichrist') or event; I'm looking for the return of Jesus and the Kingdom that takes over the world, the Kingdom not built by human hands, the Kingdom that belongs to the saints of the Most High.
Jeremiah writes:
While we don't know when this world as we know it will come to an end, we know from the prophecies of Daniel and others what will happen: Christ, the invincible Agent, will appear; He will cleanse the world of its evil; and He will set up His perfect Kingdom, which will completely reverse the ravages inflicted on earth by the Fall. (340)
I'm not going to support his methods of dating or the theological overlay that necessarily accompanies this statement, but I will support generally the point he is making: Daniel teaches us about a Kingdom that is coming to earth, whose origins are not here, and whose King is not like the kings of this earth. This I support. And here I agree with the author.
PS-One final aspect of the book that I thoroughly enjoyed and found appropriate was the appendix titled The Agent of Agents. Many books take the approach that the Bible is about 'I' and 'Me'. Agents of Babylon does this a lot too, but I was super impressed with this appendix precisely because the first word of every sentence is 'He', as in YHWH. This was an exquisite addition to the book and one that I wholly embraced. See pages 341-350 for the appendix in question.
3/5 Stars
Important Book & Author Things
Where to purchase Agents of Babylon: Amazon ($13.74); Tyndale ($24.99); Christian Book Distributors ($15.49)
Author: David Jeremiah
On the Web:
On Twitter: David Jeremiah
Academic Webpage:
Editor:
Publisher: Tyndale House Publishers
Pages: 361
Year: 2015
Audience: christians, prophecy buffs, preachers, general, millenialists
Reading Level: High School
Disclaimer: I was provided an advance reader's copy courtesy of Tyndale Publishing's Tyndale Blog Network blog program in exchange for my fair and unbiased review.
This book, Agents of Babylon, contains thirteen different chapters, an epilogue, an appendix, and a couple of other book sections. Each chapter is divided into roughly two sections. In the first section, Jeremiah offers his readers a 'fictional narrative about the subject of the chapter' (x) and in the second section he gives his readers an 'exposition of the Scripture behind the [fictional narrative].' It's a unique approach to a book written about the Bible and one that I did not fully appreciate. I read only the first three chapters of the 'fictional narrative' before skipping each subsequent one and going straight for the 'scripture behind' it. In short, I didn't appreciate the fictional narratives. I think they added too much to the narrative of Daniel, speculated entirely too much, and, to a certain degree, detracted from the narrative of the Book of Daniel.
The Book of Daniel does not need a fictional narrative to help explain its point, to make its point, or to point to its point. Then again, perhaps as justification for writing another book on Daniel this fictional narrative was necessary. I think it could have been eliminated and the book cut from nearly 400 pages, down to about 250 and the substance could have been deeper and better. As it is, however, the fictional narrative is, frankly, out of place. I didn't appreciate it at any level.
With that said, I'm a little uncertain my take on this book. On the one hand, Jeremiah starts out exactly where I would have started: "Daniel 1:2 introduces us to the theme of the entire book: the sovereignty of God" (13). I think this is dead on and correct and throughout the book he touches upon this very point and, at times, does so well for example, "May we live lives of astonishment over how God has broken into human history for our benefit--to give us a future and a hope that is absolutely certain" (219). On the other hand, the book delves into the nether regions of millenial, Antichrist, and physical Israel theology that does nothing to inspire hope or courage and everything to drain me of vitality and strength. It's my opinion that the theological perspective under-girding the majority of this book is misguided and as much fictional as the Fictional Narratives. An example should suffice to make my point.
In chapter 10, The Herald, Jeremiah quotes from Clarence Larkin (1850-1924). Here's the quote:
Daniel's seventieth week (Daniel 9:24-27), Jesus' Olivet Discourse (Matthew 24), and John's seals, trumpets, and vials (Revelation 6:1-18:24) cover the same period, and are Jewish and have no reference to the Christian Church. (257)
I simply cannot comprehend how a respected preacher can quote something so unbelievably wrong with a straight face. But this is the kind of result one gets when a theological system is the lens through which one reads the Bible. There is so much emphasis on the trees in this book that, despite the good beginnings, the forest missed almost entirely. How one can account for saying that three lengthy, significant portions of the Holy Writ have no bearing on the church is stunning. I suppose we may as well excise those portions from our Bibles and throw them away. But here's the point: in order for Millenial theology to work, that is exactly what one must do to Scripture. I don't think I'm the only one who sees the significant problem this creates.
Here's another problem I had with the book. I took a fairly long look at the the Notes section of the book. Considering the type of book this is, and who it is intended for, the notes are fairly detailed and I appreciate that very much. But I also take a look at who is being noted, what works are being quoted, and when the works quoted were written. Aside from Jermiah's own works and a couple of other non-specific titles, the works the author cites as authorities on the Book of Daniel range from Calvin's 1853 commentary to Stortz's 2004 Preaching the Word contribution. Along the way there are citations from 1879 (Seiss), Larkin (1929), Keil (1877), Scofield (1945), Anderson (1909), and others. This is 2015. Are we as readers really supposed to take seriously a book whose author has, apparently, not read anything on Daniel since a 2004 publication whose overall Amazon rank is over 800,000? These other men were great. Sure. Their books are classic and probably somewhat important. Yet there are countless works available from reputable scholars in the last ten years that Jeremiah has, apparently, not even bothered to investigate. This was disappointing. (As also was the absence of a bibliography which a work of this sort should have.)
I appreciated that Jeremiah was not afraid to keep this book in its historical context. There is a great deal of emphasis placed on this book as prophecy and I think that is important given how many writers and scholars write off Daniel as pseudo-prophecy (ex eventu). I appreciated that he didn't skimp when it came to his exegesis of the individual chapters of Daniel but that he took the time to explain concepts and other difficult to understand aspects of the book. I didn't always agree with his conclusions, but I appreciated that he took the time to do the work nonetheless.
There are some helpful charts, graphs, and illustrations that add flavor to the book and help the reader visualize a concept from Daniel. I also appreciated that at the end of each chapter Jeremiah added a brief 'Daniel for Today' section to help the reader make some relevant applications. Again, I'm not buying all his applications, but at minimum they get the reader thinking about the content of Daniel. I would appreciate more depth to these applications, but I can read other books to obtain the depth I desire.
Here's the bottom line, and I'm gonna stop because I can go on all day knocking the theology behind this book and nit-picking every little thing I dislike about it, there's nothing in this book that is entirely 'wrong.' For all I know, Jeremiah and the pre/post-millenialists of the church could be correct. I'm not staking my faith to it, but the truth is that they are, to one degree or another, looking for Jesus. And this gives me some courage. For my money, the system is entirely too clean, it all fits together too neatly, and the dates are all too convenient. I don't think Daniel is about giving us a specific historical timeline about this or that. I think Daniel is about pointing us to Jesus whose Kingdom will come upon us when we are not expecting it, will not find its origins from earth, and which will destroy all the other kingdoms that seek to kill, steal, and destroy. At the end of the day, I'm not looking for a timeline. I'm looking for hope. I'm not looking for a particular evil person (e.g. the so-called 'antichrist') or event; I'm looking for the return of Jesus and the Kingdom that takes over the world, the Kingdom not built by human hands, the Kingdom that belongs to the saints of the Most High.
Jeremiah writes:
While we don't know when this world as we know it will come to an end, we know from the prophecies of Daniel and others what will happen: Christ, the invincible Agent, will appear; He will cleanse the world of its evil; and He will set up His perfect Kingdom, which will completely reverse the ravages inflicted on earth by the Fall. (340)
I'm not going to support his methods of dating or the theological overlay that necessarily accompanies this statement, but I will support generally the point he is making: Daniel teaches us about a Kingdom that is coming to earth, whose origins are not here, and whose King is not like the kings of this earth. This I support. And here I agree with the author.
PS-One final aspect of the book that I thoroughly enjoyed and found appropriate was the appendix titled The Agent of Agents. Many books take the approach that the Bible is about 'I' and 'Me'. Agents of Babylon does this a lot too, but I was super impressed with this appendix precisely because the first word of every sentence is 'He', as in YHWH. This was an exquisite addition to the book and one that I wholly embraced. See pages 341-350 for the appendix in question.
3/5 Stars
Important Book & Author Things
Where to purchase Agents of Babylon: Amazon ($13.74); Tyndale ($24.99); Christian Book Distributors ($15.49)
Author: David Jeremiah
On the Web:
On Twitter: David Jeremiah
Academic Webpage:
Editor:
Publisher: Tyndale House Publishers
Pages: 361
Year: 2015
Audience: christians, prophecy buffs, preachers, general, millenialists
Reading Level: High School
Disclaimer: I was provided an advance reader's copy courtesy of Tyndale Publishing's Tyndale Blog Network blog program in exchange for my fair and unbiased review.
May 9, 2024
Great read! Had my 10 year old engaged and my 16 year old challenged and asking questions. Was a fun and insightful book to read outloud as a family
October 20, 2023
This is an excellent read which ties the book of Daniel to the book of Revelation. So rich in Scripture and depth of understanding by Dr. Jeremiah - wonderful references to other Theologians and authors. He reminds us that "every person alive eventually serves God in some way - intentionally or not. God never originates evil, but He uses it as an instrument to accomplish His ultimate purpose." (p. 338) This was a good reminder for me at this time with the horrific Hamas attacks on God's people since October 7, 2023. "It may not seem so when evil seems to engulf our lives, God is in control. Not a sparrow falls without His knowing it." (p.339)
Many fear "the end times" because the focus is on tragedy, loss and apocalyptic horrors. Instead, let's focus on what comes next . . . The important thing to remember is that Christ is coming - not to end world history but to signal "the beginning of all things." PRAISE THE LORD!!!
Many fear "the end times" because the focus is on tragedy, loss and apocalyptic horrors. Instead, let's focus on what comes next . . . The important thing to remember is that Christ is coming - not to end world history but to signal "the beginning of all things." PRAISE THE LORD!!!
September 14, 2017
The author writes a fictionalized account of Daniel's life, blending historical fact with cultural aspects of Babylon. I enjoyed the book, although I struggled with the author's method of backfilling each chapter with history and commentary. Very innovative method of Bible study, which I highly recommend, especially to any who truly want to understand Daniel's life and prophecies.
January 9, 2023
As I studied the biblical books of Daniel and Revelation earlier this winter, I came up with many questions about the content. When I heard about this book: Agents of Babylon, by Dr. David Jeremiah—a teacher I highly respect—I found it in my library app and listened to it. Very helpful, catchy fictionalized story of the biblical record, then detailed explanations of the Scripture text. I learned many new things (and hope I remember them).
Highly recommended for anyone who loves studying God's Word, and/or who wants to learn more about it.
Highly recommended for anyone who loves studying God's Word, and/or who wants to learn more about it.
July 23, 2016
Agents of Babylon and the Countdown to the Messiah
Agents of Babylon continues Dr. Jeremiah’s popular series on heroes and villains of the Bible. This time Dr. Jeremiah brings to bear his considerable knowledge of Biblical history and Bible prophecy on the book of Daniel and its intriguing list of characters from the second temple era.
Each chapter in Agents of Babylon has two distinct parts. The first part is a short novel like story based upon the real events depicted in a specific part of the book of Daniel. The second part of the chapter in Agents of Babylon, the real meat and potatoes of the book, is non-fiction and really gets to the fascinating details of the book of Daniel. I especially like that at the end of each chapter Dr. Jeremiah summarized a few points or life lessons as takeaways for the reader to apply to his or her own life.
The book of Daniel has held a fascination for me over the years and I really appreciated seeing the book through Dr. Jeremiah’s eyes. Even though I don’t agree with all of his conclusions in the non-fiction part of the book, I still thoroughly enjoyed reading Dr. Jeremiah’s many wonderful insights into the book of Daniel, one of the most important prophetic books of the Bible.
In the spirit of a Berean there are a couple of areas in the book where it would be nice to have further clarification. In Chapter 10, Dr. Jeremiah talks about the prophecy of 70 Weeks. Dr. Jeremiah’s interpretation of this wonderful passage is based upon the work of the great Christian scholar Sir Robert Anderson in his influential book The Coming Prince.
Anderson’s view holds that Ezra and Nehemiah were contemporaries of the Persian king Longimanus. Anderson bases this upon the work of the Christian chronologist Rawlinson. On Page 71 of the Coming Prince Anderson quotes Rawlinson and the sum of his evidence leaves quite a bit to be desired. Rawlinson simple states “there is every reason to believe� that Ezra and Nehemiah were contemporaries of Longimanus without providing any additional proof. My concern is a prophecy as important to our eschatological beliefs as Daniel 9 deserves a better foundation than this.
What is not widely known is that the Bible tells us that Ezra’s father died in the 19th year of Nebuchadnezzar. This would make Ezra’s age, at its youngest, nearly a quarter of a century older than Moses in order to be a contemporary of the Persian king Longimanus. The same goes for the Priest’s and Levites of Nehemiah 10 and 12. The Bible’s own internal evidence shows us that most reasonably Nehemiah and Ezra were contemporaries of Darius ‘the Great� Artaxerxes. It would be helpful to see how Dr. Jeremiah has dealt with these difficulties in his own exploration of the subject.
On a related note Dr. Jeremiah states there are four Persian decrees which scholar’s have claimed might qualify as the “commandment to restore and build� of Daniel 9:25. In Ezra 6 it tells of another decree which Dr. Jeremiah didn’t mention. This decree was given by YHWH the living God of the Bible. It is curious to note that the word “commandment� of Daniel 9:25 is the Hebrew word dabar. Dabar is used 3 other times in Daniel 9 and each other time if refers specifically to the word of YHWH. It would be interesting to get Dr. Jeremiah’s take on why the decree or “word� of YHWH given to Haggai and Zechariah and witnessed by Ezra 6 is not a consideration when looking at Daniel 9 and countdown to the Messiah.
In summary, my disagreements and questions notwithstanding, I think Agents of Babylon was a good read and I believe anyone interested in the subject of the Bible’s prophetic word would be well served by reading it. I would also encourage the reader to then open their own Bibles and “see if these things be so�. Maranatha!
Agents of Babylon continues Dr. Jeremiah’s popular series on heroes and villains of the Bible. This time Dr. Jeremiah brings to bear his considerable knowledge of Biblical history and Bible prophecy on the book of Daniel and its intriguing list of characters from the second temple era.
Each chapter in Agents of Babylon has two distinct parts. The first part is a short novel like story based upon the real events depicted in a specific part of the book of Daniel. The second part of the chapter in Agents of Babylon, the real meat and potatoes of the book, is non-fiction and really gets to the fascinating details of the book of Daniel. I especially like that at the end of each chapter Dr. Jeremiah summarized a few points or life lessons as takeaways for the reader to apply to his or her own life.
The book of Daniel has held a fascination for me over the years and I really appreciated seeing the book through Dr. Jeremiah’s eyes. Even though I don’t agree with all of his conclusions in the non-fiction part of the book, I still thoroughly enjoyed reading Dr. Jeremiah’s many wonderful insights into the book of Daniel, one of the most important prophetic books of the Bible.
In the spirit of a Berean there are a couple of areas in the book where it would be nice to have further clarification. In Chapter 10, Dr. Jeremiah talks about the prophecy of 70 Weeks. Dr. Jeremiah’s interpretation of this wonderful passage is based upon the work of the great Christian scholar Sir Robert Anderson in his influential book The Coming Prince.
Anderson’s view holds that Ezra and Nehemiah were contemporaries of the Persian king Longimanus. Anderson bases this upon the work of the Christian chronologist Rawlinson. On Page 71 of the Coming Prince Anderson quotes Rawlinson and the sum of his evidence leaves quite a bit to be desired. Rawlinson simple states “there is every reason to believe� that Ezra and Nehemiah were contemporaries of Longimanus without providing any additional proof. My concern is a prophecy as important to our eschatological beliefs as Daniel 9 deserves a better foundation than this.
What is not widely known is that the Bible tells us that Ezra’s father died in the 19th year of Nebuchadnezzar. This would make Ezra’s age, at its youngest, nearly a quarter of a century older than Moses in order to be a contemporary of the Persian king Longimanus. The same goes for the Priest’s and Levites of Nehemiah 10 and 12. The Bible’s own internal evidence shows us that most reasonably Nehemiah and Ezra were contemporaries of Darius ‘the Great� Artaxerxes. It would be helpful to see how Dr. Jeremiah has dealt with these difficulties in his own exploration of the subject.
On a related note Dr. Jeremiah states there are four Persian decrees which scholar’s have claimed might qualify as the “commandment to restore and build� of Daniel 9:25. In Ezra 6 it tells of another decree which Dr. Jeremiah didn’t mention. This decree was given by YHWH the living God of the Bible. It is curious to note that the word “commandment� of Daniel 9:25 is the Hebrew word dabar. Dabar is used 3 other times in Daniel 9 and each other time if refers specifically to the word of YHWH. It would be interesting to get Dr. Jeremiah’s take on why the decree or “word� of YHWH given to Haggai and Zechariah and witnessed by Ezra 6 is not a consideration when looking at Daniel 9 and countdown to the Messiah.
In summary, my disagreements and questions notwithstanding, I think Agents of Babylon was a good read and I believe anyone interested in the subject of the Bible’s prophetic word would be well served by reading it. I would also encourage the reader to then open their own Bibles and “see if these things be so�. Maranatha!
November 17, 2019
UPDATE: My theology has changed so much since I posted this review. This book is written for dispensationalists. I highly recommend this podcast series if you are in this camp .
Original review removed.
Original review removed.
August 25, 2024
Loved this book. I read it twice. First all the way through to piece together the story and how the book is written. Then to read side by side with my Bible and make notes of timelines and meanings I never want to forget. I loved having the narrative of Daniel in storybook form before each scripture debrief to help me visualize in my head parts of the story of Daniel that can be hard to grasp or comprehend. What a gift it is for Jeremiah to depict through modern storytelling the reality of Daniel for my brain and imagination while also being centered on God’s word and what is actually in scripture.
This book was an incredibly helpful study tool and also sparked my interest in prophecy, making me excited to pursue part of the Bible I’ve never read, and conversations about faith that I’ve never had!
Jeremiah also does a great job of highlighting the joys of God’s revelations and the hope we have in knowing these signs He gives us are leading to Christ’s second coming. This is not a scary book of apocalyptic warnings. This is a hope-filled dissection of God’s redemptive plans for all humanity, His chosen nation of Israel, and the coming of Heaven to Earth! I finished the book filled with joy and expectation! Well done.
This book was an incredibly helpful study tool and also sparked my interest in prophecy, making me excited to pursue part of the Bible I’ve never read, and conversations about faith that I’ve never had!
Jeremiah also does a great job of highlighting the joys of God’s revelations and the hope we have in knowing these signs He gives us are leading to Christ’s second coming. This is not a scary book of apocalyptic warnings. This is a hope-filled dissection of God’s redemptive plans for all humanity, His chosen nation of Israel, and the coming of Heaven to Earth! I finished the book filled with joy and expectation! Well done.
February 2, 2018
After being taken captive by Nebuchadnezzar, God uses Daniel to be an example to the authorities throughout his lifetime, thus rebuilding his life. This book helps me understand Dr. Jeremiah´s first book, Agents of the Apocalypse, better from Daniel´s point of view mixed with some of what he envisions the end times being on his own accord. For me, a fiction chapter and a behind the scenes follow up structure brilliantly hit all the points in Agents of Babylon, giving me help with Right Doctrine. For example, ¨Though no single method works best for everyone, many people like to keep prayer lists or a simple prayer journal. Many follow a sequence that includes Bible reading and meditation, praise, confession and various petitions for oneself and for others,(Jeremiah, Agents of Babylon. 193).¨Although Christian prayer will decrease in the End Times, modern day Christians can use Daniel´s example of fervent prayer during danger and chaos while he or she waits for the Second Coming. I rate this book a 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it to those whose lives are broken because prayer is the best medicine around for inward healing.
July 18, 2018
Hi! I just finished this book and thought that it was a pretty good read. Dr. David Jeremiah does a brilliant job in retelling the story of the Biblical character, Daniel, in the narrative half of the book. At the same time, he walks through the Book of Daniel as well, exploring the meaning of the prophecies and the impact of Daniel's life on the Jewish people. While I happily recommend this book to anyone looking for a good read, I warn that it is an intense and taxing book, especially for those with little to no understanding of the Bible, the Book of Daniel, or the basic principles of prophecy styled text/Scripture. Again, it's not my goal to discourage anyone from reading this! I will warn, however, as a person working towards an MA in the Bible study world, that it is a tough read and difficult to grasp subject. If you're looking for something to make you think, or something to help further explore Scripture, this is most definitely a great book!
June 3, 2017
2,622 years ago, a young man is taken captive from Jerusalem to Babylon. He interprets his dreams, which come true, as divine intervention. Through him and by God, this young man discerns visions and dreams of others, as well, giving all the glory and praise to God. His name is Daniel, a wise and humble person devoted to his practice of worship.
This study guide has a DVD with the author, David Jeremiah, reading and discussing each chapter. It is amazing to discover how powerful Daniel's connection is with God. His prophecies come true in his lifetime and beyond. Daniel's interpretations of his visions and dreams are some of the strongest arguments for the divinity of Jesus Christ; but what is really astounding is the unfolding of events here on earth that lead us to Daniel's prophecies yet to come. A study well worth one's time and effort.
This study guide has a DVD with the author, David Jeremiah, reading and discussing each chapter. It is amazing to discover how powerful Daniel's connection is with God. His prophecies come true in his lifetime and beyond. Daniel's interpretations of his visions and dreams are some of the strongest arguments for the divinity of Jesus Christ; but what is really astounding is the unfolding of events here on earth that lead us to Daniel's prophecies yet to come. A study well worth one's time and effort.
April 29, 2023
Dr. David Jeremiah’s “Agents of Babylon� teems with prophetic insights, and visions from the Book of Daniel in the Old Testament. Some of these have been fulfilled and others are evident in the world we’re living in today.
Using a combination of Bible teaching and dramatization this well-written and fascinating exploration of scripture brings to life the decadence, cruelty, and power of Babylon, the strength of faith of Daniel and his friends as well as the sovereignty of God. The book is structured with fictional section at the first of each chapter followed by a section of facts demonstrating its relevant application to the reader’s life.
As a believer I thoroughly enjoyed “Agents of Babylon and highly recommend it especially to those interested in the prophetic insight of the Old Testament, some of which has come to pass while some is yet to come.
Using a combination of Bible teaching and dramatization this well-written and fascinating exploration of scripture brings to life the decadence, cruelty, and power of Babylon, the strength of faith of Daniel and his friends as well as the sovereignty of God. The book is structured with fictional section at the first of each chapter followed by a section of facts demonstrating its relevant application to the reader’s life.
As a believer I thoroughly enjoyed “Agents of Babylon and highly recommend it especially to those interested in the prophetic insight of the Old Testament, some of which has come to pass while some is yet to come.
April 20, 2019
Another wonderfully written book by David Jeremiah. I didn't buy this book in order to study end times prophecies, but instead because it fit my intended purpose of serving as a study guide to the book of Daniel. It does cover the topics of fulfilled prophecies and prophecies of things yet to come; however, it should also help readers more fully understand why God allows bad things to happen in this world and how he can and does work those things for good. This is a great book for all Christians regardless of the reason you buy it. It'll teach you many things.
February 18, 2021
Excellent Book Detailing Project from Daniel
After watching the series on television once and beginning this book then putting it aside, I decided to re-read it when Dr. Jeremiah brought the series of sermons back to television. The two are so well correlated that it's easy to read and follow. I believe the information found in this book is even more pertinent today in light of the political upheaval and world problems. It offers hope for a list world. God loves us so much he doesn't want anyone to be left behind. This book encourages believers to be "Stand-up" Christians.
After watching the series on television once and beginning this book then putting it aside, I decided to re-read it when Dr. Jeremiah brought the series of sermons back to television. The two are so well correlated that it's easy to read and follow. I believe the information found in this book is even more pertinent today in light of the political upheaval and world problems. It offers hope for a list world. God loves us so much he doesn't want anyone to be left behind. This book encourages believers to be "Stand-up" Christians.
April 16, 2021
Very Comforting
With all the crazy things that are happening today, it is so calming to hear over and over how God has everything in control and I need not worry. I just have to continue working for Him and his kingdom which will come. He has seen all of the present evil thousands of years ago and has laid out a plan for a victory for those who love him and are called to His purpose. The book of Daniel is amazing and Dr Jeremiah is wonderful at explaining what it means to us today.
With all the crazy things that are happening today, it is so calming to hear over and over how God has everything in control and I need not worry. I just have to continue working for Him and his kingdom which will come. He has seen all of the present evil thousands of years ago and has laid out a plan for a victory for those who love him and are called to His purpose. The book of Daniel is amazing and Dr Jeremiah is wonderful at explaining what it means to us today.
March 16, 2020
Yo si creo que las cosas que suceden últimamente son las señales del fin de los tiempos, lo peor de esto es que los seres humanos mismo lo hemos provocado por ser tan egoístas y no ver todo el daño que causamos. Me ha encantado saber más sobre este tema y la forma en la que lo explica es tan detallada y simple que no me ha costado poder entenderlo. Por fin llegará el tiempo de la Paz y la serenidad después de toda esta tribulación. ❤️
February 3, 2021
I am a big fan of David Jeremiah and turn to read his books and watch his podcasts. Daniel kept his Faith and God kept his promises to Daniel. I listened to this book instead of reading it, and it is certainly a book that needs to be read vs. listening. Many times I had to play back chapters to be able to follow the story line. However I did learn so much. Are we close to the End of Days? We have moved so far away from God and His teaching, that I believe it could be.
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June 7, 2021This book reveals a lot of history behind Daniel's prophesies bringing the Book of Daniel to life. I thoroughly enjoyed reading the author's stories as they would have been back in those times. The book of Daniel is filled with so many miracles for his faithfulness to God in a pagan world , giving us as Christians a role model of living in these evil times. God's sovereignty is displayed constantly and His power to use evil for His Glory.
February 10, 2024
Book of Daniel
Thank You Lord for the Book of Daniel. Thank you Pastor David Jeremiah for the scriptures from the Book of Daniel. Thank you for the insight to create an understanding story line. It brought for myself a clear visual journey. A clear perspective of not only Daniel and his friends but how our Lord is constant in our lives: family, work, neighbors and especially Worship! Thank you to all who contributed to the work in this book.
Thank You Lord for the Book of Daniel. Thank you Pastor David Jeremiah for the scriptures from the Book of Daniel. Thank you for the insight to create an understanding story line. It brought for myself a clear visual journey. A clear perspective of not only Daniel and his friends but how our Lord is constant in our lives: family, work, neighbors and especially Worship! Thank you to all who contributed to the work in this book.
July 31, 2024
One of the best books I've ever read on Daniel just incredible
If you ever read a book on the book of Daniel let it be this one. It's just one of the most amazing books I've ever read and it's important for this time. I'm talking about 2024 and beyond. Please take the time to read this book and it will take you to a place of understanding and give you great peace in a time when the world is in a total state of turmoil.
If you ever read a book on the book of Daniel let it be this one. It's just one of the most amazing books I've ever read and it's important for this time. I'm talking about 2024 and beyond. Please take the time to read this book and it will take you to a place of understanding and give you great peace in a time when the world is in a total state of turmoil.
April 11, 2025
Amazing Book, Refreshed my thirst for God
I very much sobbed when I read about the deeds of Antiochus. I prayed. I was not ever much about praying because I didn't understand it- God knows everything already. I assumed everything was his will. But reading about Daniel who prayed three times a day inspired me. "Here goes God."
I very much want to be in Christ's new kingdom. Thank you so much for helping me. I had some questions that this book helped me to understand.
I very much sobbed when I read about the deeds of Antiochus. I prayed. I was not ever much about praying because I didn't understand it- God knows everything already. I assumed everything was his will. But reading about Daniel who prayed three times a day inspired me. "Here goes God."
I very much want to be in Christ's new kingdom. Thank you so much for helping me. I had some questions that this book helped me to understand.
November 21, 2016
David Jeremiah is an engaging writer that explores the prophesies of the Book of Daniel, with a story-teller's gift to present the tales so the reader can imagine the context of the book, and put it into context of our times. I learned so much about the history of Babylon, and the empires that followed and what it means to us today.
December 8, 2019
Great study of Daniel
Excellent study of the book of Daniel. Encouraging. I’ve had trouble holding onto the joy of The Lord for about a decade now. There’s just so many hard things going on in this world. While this book didn’t sugar coat any of that, it addressed perseverance in adversity. Timely word for me.
Excellent study of the book of Daniel. Encouraging. I’ve had trouble holding onto the joy of The Lord for about a decade now. There’s just so many hard things going on in this world. While this book didn’t sugar coat any of that, it addressed perseverance in adversity. Timely word for me.
May 27, 2020
I really enjoyed this book. I've read the book of Daniel many, many times but Agents of Babylon really taught me so much more than I'd learned by just reading the book of Daniel. David Jeremiah puts it in layman's terms and explains many things. It is an exciting book, a little scary at times (to think about) but gives hope to the person with a personal relationship with Christ.
May 3, 2021
Agents of Apocalypse
This book was an excellent explanation of Gods revelation of the dais on the future.
It was an amazing detailed explanation.
To realize that Daniel was just a regular man who loves God and worshiped Him, yet was given a life of such magnificent understanding.
I am inspired to live a life daily with God as my guide.
This book was an excellent explanation of Gods revelation of the dais on the future.
It was an amazing detailed explanation.
To realize that Daniel was just a regular man who loves God and worshiped Him, yet was given a life of such magnificent understanding.
I am inspired to live a life daily with God as my guide.
August 19, 2021
A book on how and when to draw the line between serving God and living in a babylonian world (the world we live in now). God allowing Daniel to live in that culture did not make Daniel forget his God and his home in Jerusalem... "That is how we live faithfully in Babylon as we walk forward toward our home in the New Jerusalem."
January 11, 2022
The book of Daniel is an intriguing combination of history and prophecy told by a remarkable captive from his youth through his old age. Excellent study, (especially in conjunction with Dr. David Jeremiah's DVD lessons), providing biblical passages, backed up by historical documentation, and relating it to end of days prophecies.
November 3, 2022
An in depth look into the book of Daniel. I love the way Jeremiah told the biblical tale in story form, using historical information to augment and color the story. Then he would explain in his "scripture behind the story" and take a deep dive into the information and analyze it from a biblical and historical perspective. Very thoughtful and convicting.
January 23, 2024
What a phenomenal book. This book uses a unique way to explain prophecy in the book of Daniel of the Bible. Part of the book is written as a fictional story and then afterwards Dr. Jeremiah explains the previous part of the chapter with Biblical writings. It explains things and helps us understand them more easily. Loved this book.
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