We overview the history of God’s people from the time of the exile in Babylon to the coming of Christ, using a prophecy in Daniel as our basis. We see: 

• This time frame is distinguished by the fact that a majority of its history isn’t recorded in Scripture, but it is predicted by prophecy. 
• This period is also distinguished by three revolutions that take place in world dominions prior to the coming of Christ’s kingdom, which puts an end to them all. 
• Finally, this period is not unusual in the fact that through these three political empires that are overturned, the Lord preserves His church.

We should be encouraged by the fact that the Lord is in control of world history because we, who are part of His kingdom, will persevere to the end. And so we are challenged to keep pressing forward. The Lord may allow some of His and our enemies to confront us on the path to Mount Zion; but He will not allow them to overcome us.