Conclusion

I've presented what I believe to be a reasonable representation of dispensational thought on Daniel 9.  Probably most futurists would generally agree--maybe they would quibble over specific points.  Literal interpretation forces me to recognize the church as distinct from Israel, and view the church (which didn't even exist when Daniel wrote this prophecy) as not being part of these 70 weeks at all.  I conclude, therefore, that all 70 weeks relate only to the nation Israel--even the remaining seven years which we call the tribulation period. 

To summarize, Daniel's 70-week prophecy concerns the Jewish nation, begins in 445 BC, and extends to the Second Coming of their Messiah--from their point of view, until Messiah assumes his kingship over Israel.  This prophecy has nothing to do with the church--which was a mystery when Daniel wrote the prophecy.  The first 69 weeks of years have been literally fulfilled and focused on national Israel; the two events stated to occur after the 69 weeks have also been literally fulfilled and focused on national Israel.  There's no reason to expect the final 7 years will not also be literally fulfilled when God once again turning his focus back on national Israel. 

At some future time a "prince" that shall come will establish a peace accord with that nation.  As you look at current events in the middle east you can see the desperate need for someone who can do just that, and guarantee "peace and safety".  I believe with all my heart that this will happen soon, and that because of this agreement Israel will rebuild her temple and resume her Levitical sacrifices.  But when they say, "peace and safety...sudden destruction."  The "prince" that shall come will break the agreement "in the midst of the week."  I believe this breaking of the covenant will signal the beginning of 

The two events which have already taken place between the 69^th and 70^th weeks--the death of Messiah, and the destruction of Jerusalem--prove a time gap in this prophecy must exist.  Literal fulfillment requires a future seven-year period specifically set aside for the nation Israel to complete God's program for her, and to accomplish His six intended purposes of the prophecy.  Presently, Israel is spiritually blinded, pruned off, and the Body of Christ is grafted into it's place.   That will not always be the case.  

Romans 11:25-29  For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in.  And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob: For this is my covenant unto them, when I shall take away their sins.   As concerning the gospel, they are enemies for your sakes: but as touching the election, they are beloved for the fathers' sakes.   For the gifts and calling of God are without repentance."

Written May 1979

Revised August 2001

Revised January 2002