This, the third aspect of the blasphemy of the papal power, touches the inhabitants of the heavenly realm. The reference is probably to the members of the Godhead and those associated with them in service for mankind. This has been fulfilled in part in the Catholic claim to have power to forgive sins, also in ascribing powers and virtues to Mary that apply only to Christ. Thus the minds of men are turned away from the heavenly mediatorial work of Jesus to the confessional on earth.

 The papal head has also claimed power over the angels of God. “Indeed, the excellence and power of the Roman pontiff is not only in the sphere of heavenly things, earthly things, and those of the lower regions, but even above the angels, than whom he himself is greater” (translated from Lucius Ferraris, “Papa II,” Prompta Bibliotheca, Vol. VI, p. 27; see on Dan. 7:25).

 This is the second object of his blasphemy. This power presumes to set up his temple on earth, and thus draws the attention of the people away from the sanctuary in heaven, the “true tabernacle,” where Jesus ministers as high priest (Heb. 8:1, 2). But this power seeks to cast down the work of this sanctuary (see on Dan. 8:11; cf. vs. 12, 13). The heavenly ministry of the sacrifice of Christ is discounted, and the sacrifice of the mass on earth is substituted.

 By assuming divine titles. For examples see on Dan. 7:25.