Transcript

The StoryFinding Your Story in God’s Story

“Daniel in Exile”

Series 2 - God Pursues His People

Review Chapter 17

“The Kingdoms’ Fall”

Series 2 - God Pursues His People

I. Determined not to Defile Themselves

Daniel 1King Nebuchadnezzar given victory over Judah

Took sacred objects from the temple

Took young men to serve in the royal palace

Young men trained and cultivated in Babylonian culture

Daniel and Company were determined not to defile themselves with unacceptable foods

God gave unusual understanding in literature and wisdomDaniel able to interpret visions and dream

Daniel 2 - Nebuchadnezzar’s Dream

Called in Magicians, enchanters, sorcerers, astrologersTell me the dream and what it meansNo one could – ordered execution

Daniel is able – 2:27-30

Daniel and Company promoted – 2:46-49

II. Determined not to Bow to Idols

Daniel 3

Nebuchadnezzar sets up a gold statue to be worshipedHerald shouted out – Bow or Burn

The three young Hebrew men refuse

The King’s ultimatum Bow or BurnWhat God can save you from my power

The men’s reply – 3:16-18God will rescue usEven if he doesn’t – we will never serve your gods

Courage without condescension

The King’s wrath – 3:19-30furnace seven times hotter

The three men thrown inThe fourth man - Angel

Willing to die rather than worship any other godNo other god can rescue like thisThe three men promoted again

III. Determined to Stay Faithful

Daniel 6Administrators set up Daniel

King concedes to the law – 6:16-18

Daniel delivered – 6:19-28

IV. Living as Exiles

Philippians 3:20 (NLT) 20  But we are citizens of heaven, where the Lord Jesus Christ lives. And we are eagerly waiting for him to return as our Savior.

1 Peter 2:11-12 (NLT) 11  Dear friends, I warn you as “temporary residents and foreigners”[NRSV - aliens and exiles] to keep away from worldly desires that wage war against your very souls. 12  Be careful to live properly among your unbelieving neighbors. Then even if they accuse you of doing wrong, they will see your honorable behavior, and they will give honor to God when he judges the world.

Live properly in the worldLive a life that points others to God


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