Bible Study - Impact (3) - Stand Courageously - Daniel 3:13-18 and 26-28 - November 1, 2015

Bible Study – Impact (3) – Stand Courageously – November 1, 2015

This is lesson three (3) in our series entitled “Game Changer How to Impact Your World.”

Our focus scripture is Daniel 3:13-18, 26-28.

Be ready and willing to stand for GOD.

As Christians, we often think of having to take a stand for CHRIST in the face sure death like our lesson. But often, we overlook those times when we remain silent for fear of offending our friends or to support political correctness. I am not saying that we need to be obnoxious or collar people but to pray and ask GOD to reveal to us how we should respond. It may be to remain silent but to speak by living truth and trusting GOD.

Our lesson today reveals how GOD uses HIS children to witness to others. We have a lot of scripture in today’s lesson.

King’s often thought of themselves as gods and their subjects should worship them. It was an ego trip and their advisors promoted these ideas to gain favor with the king. Let’s explore!

Let’s read Daniel 3:1-7: (Background)

Nebuchadnezzar's Gold Statue

1 King Nebuchadnezzar made a gold statue, 90 feet high and nine feet wide. He set it up on the plain of Dura in the province of Babylon. 

This is one huge gold stature. Do you think since the interpretation of the king’s dream, which referenced him as the head made of pure gold, prompted him to have this stature made? The dream came from GOD. When GOD acknowledges us in HIS plans, can we get the wrong ideas for our lives? Often, the flesh rules and ignores the leadership of GOD. The king saw the witness of the One True GOD of Israel but he could not embrace the truth that he should abolish his gods and place his faith in the One True GOD. Often, we take GOD’S blessings as HIS endorsement of our lifestyle and our self-sufficiency.

Often, people see truth but due to many factors choose not to take action to embrace GOD as truth. The king wanted to be worshipped as a god.

2 King Nebuchadnezzar sent word to assemble the satraps, prefects, governors, advisers, treasurers, judges, magistrates, and all the rulers of the provinces to attend the dedication of the statue King Nebuchadnezzar had set up. 

Satraps were governors over major cities of the empire. They represented the king in those cities. Prefects were the governors over the conquered cities. It is possible they were also military officials responsible to the satraps. Governors were civil administrators over provinces or smaller regions within the empire. The others listed carried out the various functions of governance ruled by the king.

3 So the satraps, prefects, governors, advisers, treasurers, judges, magistrates, and all the rulers of the provinces assembled for the dedication of the statue the king had set up. Then they stood before the statue Nebuchadnezzar had set up. 

There was a great gathering for this great reveal.

4 A herald loudly proclaimed, "People of every nation and language, you are commanded: 

5 When you hear the sound of the horn, flute, zither, lyre, harp, drum, and every kind of music, you are to fall down and worship the gold statue that King Nebuchadnezzar has set up.

6 But whoever does not fall down and worship will immediately be thrown into a furnace of blazing fire." 

7 Therefore, when all the people heard the sound of the horn, flute, zither, lyre, harp, and every kind of music, people of every nation and language fell down and worshiped the gold statue that King Nebuchadnezzar had set up.

The people responded as directed, except for four of which we know.

Christians are being told to remain silent regarding politically correct issues that clash with Biblical facts. When we do, are we not bowing down to the manmade stature contrary to our faith?

When we speak out, we can face the fiery furnaces of public opinion. Are we willing to speak out for fear of public retaliation?

Let’s read Daniel 3:8-12:

The Furnace of Blazing Fire

8 Some Chaldeans (astrologers) took this occasion to come forward and maliciously accuse the Jews. 

9 They said to King Nebuchadnezzar, "May the king live forever. 

10 You as king have issued a decree that everyone who hears the sound of the horn, flute, zither, lyre, harp, drum, and every kind of music must fall down and worship the gold statue. 

11 Whoever does not fall down and worship will be thrown into a furnace of blazing fire. 

12 There are some Jews you have appointed to manage the province of Babylon: Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. These men have ignored you, the king; they do not serve your gods or worship the gold statue you have set up." 

Likely these astrologers feared some retribution from their gods because there was not 100% participation of all who were to bow to the stature. Or they may have been jealous that Jews had been given positions of power by the king. GOD uses the ungodly to achieve HIS plans and purposes. GOD needed for the king to continue to be exposed to truth and HIS power, which trumps the king’s power.

Let’s read Daniel 3:13-15:

13 Then in a furious rage Nebuchadnezzar gave orders to bring in Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. So these men were brought before the king. 

The king had another temper tantrum and had Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego brought before him.

14 Nebuchadnezzar asked them, "Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, is it true that you don't serve my gods or worship the gold statue I have set up? 

The king had appointed these men to important positions in his kingdom. Rather than jumping to a conclusion he gave them an opportunity to respond to the allegations being made against them. Notice the king did not ask them to abandon their GOD but to include his gods in their worship. Isn’t this what the world is asking Christians to do today – make us feel better about the things we worship?

15 Now if you're ready, when you hear the sound of the horn, flute, zither, lyre, harp, drum, and every kind of music, fall down and worship the statue I made. But if you don't worship it, you will immediately be thrown into a furnace of blazing fire-and who is the god who can rescue you from my power?" 

The fact that the king was giving Daniel’s friends, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, a second chance to get it right, it likely reflected his high regard for them, Daniel and possibly Daniel’s GOD. Notice Daniel was not rounded up with his friends. Why do think Daniel was not included? Was it because the king knew his relationship with the One True GOD of the Israelites? Was he afraid of what Daniel’s GOD might do to him? All are possibilities.

Let’s read Daniel 3:16-18:

16 Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego replied to the king, "Nebuchadnezzar, we don't need to give you an answer to this question. 

In essence, “Our minds are made up and nothing you have to say will change them.” Notice that they did not address as king but as “Nebuchadnezzar.”

17 If the God we serve exists, then He can rescue us from the furnace of blazing fire, and He can rescue us from the power of you, the king. 

18 But even if He does not rescue us, we want you as king to know that we will not serve your gods or worship the gold statue you set up." 

WOW! Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego had faith in GOD whether HE spared them from the fiery furnace or not, plus they did not fear the king. The GOD of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego gave them boldness because of their relationship with HIM. This was a powerful witness to the king.

What was the king’s reaction to such boldness? Let’s read on.

Let’s read Daniel 3:19-25:

19 Then Nebuchadnezzar was filled with rage, and the expression on his face changed toward Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. He gave orders to heat the furnace seven times more than was customary, 

The king had another temper tantrum and his hope that Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego would go along with his request vanished. It seems the king in essence was saying, “I will show you young punks who is in charge of your lives.” I am god and greater than your GOD. I will show you that your GOD cannot protect you.

20 and he commanded some of the strongest soldiers in his army to tie up Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego and throw them into the furnace of blazing fire. 

The king wanted to make certain that Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego could not escape what he had planned for them. He had his strongest soldiers to secure them.

21 So these men, in their trousers, robes, head coverings, and other clothes, were tied up and thrown into the furnace of blazing fire. 

Some translations read that the king ordered the furnace “to be seven times hotter than usual.”

22 Since the king's command was so urgent and the furnace extremely hot, the raging flames killed those men who carried Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego up. 

23 And these three men, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego fell, bound, into the furnace of blazing fire.

This was likely a top loaded furnace for smelting. The furnace likely also served as a kiln to fire clay for bricks or stones. Temperatures could reach 1800-2000 degrees Fahrenheit. The soldiers took them up and they fell. The heat killed these strong soldiers but not Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego.

I recall years ago visiting a brickyard and looking into a kiln loaded with bricks. The fire was intense and the heated bricks appeared as if you could see through them. They were white hot and translucent.

Delivered from the Fire

24 Then King Nebuchadnezzar jumped up in alarm. He said to his advisers, "Didn't we throw three men, bound, into the fire?" "Yes, of course, Your Majesty," they replied to the king. 

25 He exclaimed, "Look! I see four men, not tied, walking around in the fire unharmed; and the fourth looks like a son of the gods." 

The king was angry with Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego and wanted to hear them scream and watch them being burned to a crisp. But the king was startled. He saw four figures walking around in the furnace. He confirmed with his advisers that three were thrown into the furnace but he saw four. He recognized Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego but the fourth “looks like a son of the gods.”

Who was the fourth person in the furnace? It was the One and Only True Son of GOD, JESUS.

This happening can be referred to as the “Immanuel” Concept, which means “GOD is with us.” GOD is with HIS chosen in all situations and circumstances whether those HE is with live or die. Those who live, often tell of the experience. Those who die are carried into heaven with HIM.

Let’s read Daniel 3:26-28:

26 Nebuchadnezzar then approached the door of the furnace of blazing fire and called: "Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, you servants of the Most High God-come out!" So Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego came out of the fire. 

The king approached the door of the furnace of blazing fire and commanded that the servants of the MOST HIGH GOD – COME OUT! The king acknowledged that he got the message. So Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego came out of the fire. 

27 When the satraps, prefects, governors, and the king's advisers gathered around, they saw that the fire had no effect on the bodies of these men: not a hair of their heads was singed, their robes were unaffected, and there was no smell of fire on them. 

Not only did the king witness this miracle but those in authority in Babylon.

28 Nebuchadnezzar exclaimed, "Praise to the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego! He sent His angel and rescued His servants who trusted in Him. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego violated the king's command and risked their lives rather than serve or worship any god except their own God. 

Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego trusted GOD which resulted in a powerful witness to the king and the king’s officials. How did this experience impact the king’s life? Did GOD reward their faith by rescuing them? Their faith was in GOD regardless of the results. Let’s read on.

Let’s read Daniel 3:29:

29 Therefore I issue a decree that anyone of any people, nation, or language who says anything offensive against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego will be torn limb from limb and his house made a garbage dump. For there is no other god who is able to deliver like this." 

When the allocation was brought to the king’s attention, “8 Some Chaldeans (astrologers) took this occasion to come forward and maliciously accuse the Jews,” it was directed at the Jews. The king put any future attempts to blame his chosen Jewish officials to rest or at least this seemed to be his goal. The king did not want to upset the GOD of the Israelites. Just maybe GOD was little by little getting his attention, which HE does when HE tries to get our attention.

But also notice that the king did not tell the people to throw away their gods and embrace the One True GOD of the Israelites. As Christians we cannot serve GOD and the flesh. We must abandon the gods of the flesh and open our lives to the leadership and guidance of the Holy Spirit trusting that the power of GOD will be our source of strength.

 30 Then the king rewarded Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in the province of Babylon.

Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego’s faith in GOD resulted in a powerful witness to so many others.

How we live by our faith is a witness to those with whom we come into contact every day of our lives. As Christians, we may never face a true fiery furnace but we do face issues each day where we have to make choices and decisions. Will we be a positive witness for our LORD JESUS or be neutral, silent or negative? Only the Holy Spirit within each of us can empower us to be the witness GOD desires for us. That is why every Christian must have an intimate, loving relationship with HIM.

We, as Christians, are all sinners saved by grace and are being sanctified as we live our lives upon earth. Will we trust JESUS to be the strength of our lives as we build our relationship with HIM through obedient service? Are we growing in our trust of HIM? Blessings!!!

Bible Study - Impact (2) - Pray Fervently - Daniel 2:13-21, 26-28a - October 25, 2015

Bible Study – Impact (2) – Pray Fervently – October 25, 2015

This is lesson two (2) in our series entitled “Game Changer: How to Impact Your World.”

Our focus scripture is Daniel 2:13-21, 26-28a

Our prayers connect us with GOD’S plan.

Let’s read Daniel 2:1-12: (Background and Setting)

Nebuchadnezzar's Dream

1 In the second year of his reign, Nebuchadnezzar had dreams that troubled him, and sleep deserted him. 

This timeline could be troubling since Daniel was on a three year training program and apparently had completed it. But as I understand, the first year of the kings reign was not counted, therefore, the second year was actually the third year. Therefore, our focus scripture must have been fairly close to the end of the three year training program because Daniel and his friends apparently had not begun serving the king.

2 So the king gave orders to summon the diviner-priests, mediums, sorcerers, and Chaldeans to tell the king his dreams. When they came and stood before the king, 

Those mentioned in this verse are a class of people possessed with occult learning in Babylon. A medium contacted the spirit world, cast spells; sorcerers conjured up spells and portions and had power with evil spirits; diviner-priests discerned truth and recorded sacred writings and the Chaldeans were the elite of the intelligent pool and studied astrology.

3 he said to them, "I have had a dream and am anxious to understand it." 

4 The Chaldeans spoke to the king (Aramaic begins here): "May the king live forever. Tell your servants the dream, and we will give the interpretation." 

5 The king replied to the Chaldeans, "My word is final: If you don't tell me the dream and its interpretation, you will be torn limb from limb, and your houses will be made a garbage dump. 

6 But if you make the dream and its interpretation known to me, you'll receive gifts, a reward, and great honor from me. So make the dream and its interpretation known to me." 

7 They answered a second time, "May the king tell the dream to his servants, and we will give the interpretation." 

8 The king replied, "I know for certain you are trying to gain some time, because you see that my word is final. 

9 If you don't tell me the dream, there is one decree for you. You have conspired to tell me something false or fraudulent until the situation changes. So tell me the dream and I will know you can give me its interpretation." 

10 The Chaldeans answered the king, "No one on earth can make known what the king requests. Consequently, no king, however great and powerful, has ever asked anything like this of any diviner-priest, medium, or Chaldean. 

11 What the king is asking is so difficult that no one can make it known to him except the gods, whose dwelling is not with mortals." 

12 Because of this, the king became violently angry and gave orders to destroy all the wise men of Babylon.

WOW! It is so great to see the hand of GOD working. All the resources at the king’s hand are null and void. The king has a temper tantrum and likely sees that all his supposedly wise men and those who deal in witchcraft, the occult and study the heavens are frauds.

The king orders all the wise men to be killed. The stage is set for One True GOD to be glorified and get the king’s attention. This leads us into our focus scripture.

Let’s read Daniel 2:13-16:

13 The decree was issued that the wise men were to be executed, and they searched for Daniel and his friends, to execute them. 

This gives us another clue regarding the fact that this was close to the termination of the king’s three year program. Daniel and his friends had not been assimilated into service for the king.

14 Then Daniel responded with tact and discretion to Arioch (EHR-ih-ahk), the commander of the king's guard, who had gone out to execute the wise men of Babylon. 

Notice that Daniel was intelligent and diplomatic. He knew that his life was hanging in the balance. The root word used for “guard” carried the idea that person was a killer, thus Arioch was the commander of execution soldiers.

15 He asked Arioch (EHR-ih-ahk), the king's officer, "Why is the decree from the king so harsh?" Then Arioch explained the situation to Daniel. 

Daniel wanted to know, why was the decree from the king so urgent? So Arioch explained the situation to Daniel. Daniel convinced Arioch to take him to the king.

16 So Daniel went and asked the king to give him some time, so that he could give the king the interpretation.

It took courage for Arioch to allow Daniel go before the king. Daniel had confidence and trust in GOD to provide what was needed. It took faith in GOD and courage to ask the king for time.

Let’s read Daniel 2:17-21:

17 Then Daniel went to his house and told his friends Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah about the matter, 

We learn that Daniel and his friends had a house. Daniel goes to those who will pray with him over this matter. It is good to have friends who will join with us in times of need. Of course, this need also involved Daniel’s friends.

18 [urging] them to ask the God of heaven for mercy concerning this mystery, so Daniel and his friends would not be killed with the rest of Babylon's wise men. 

Daniel broke the news to his friends. How do you think Daniel’s colleagues reacted when Daniel told them what the king wanted and what the consequences were if they did not produce the correct response. But likely, in Daniel’s orientation to his friends, he made the point that the king had already given them a death sentence. Now was the time to go before the One True GOD and seek HIS help and guidance.

They went before GOD and asked HIM to show them mercy by revealing this mystery. A mystery is something that will be revealed later. It was time for a serious prayer meeting.

19 The mystery was then revealed to Daniel in a vision at night, and Daniel praised the God of heaven.

A Biblical mystery is truth hidden for a period of time which is revealed later.

GOD revealed the king’s dream to Daniel and he praised GOD for the revelation. Would Daniel believe he had the truth from GOD? 

20 and declared: May the name of God be praised forever and ever, for wisdom and power belong to Him. 

Daniel responded with praises for GOD’S wisdom and power. Daniel recognized that the dream revealed the future. When GOD reveals truth, truth is confirmed in your inner being. It is a knowing. GOD’S reveal resulted in an outpouring of Daniel seeing and acknowledging the eternal nature of GOD and HIS power. Daniel continued to praise GOD and HIS sovereignty over all matters.

21 He changes the times and seasons; He removes kings and establishes kings. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who have understanding. 

Daniel saw GOD as totally in charge of all things in the universe and earth. GOD is sovereign and in control of all matters everywhere. GOD is not superficial. 

There is nothing equal to HIM or above HIM.

Do you recall scripture we had several weeks ago found in Acts 13:36?

36 For David, after serving his own generation in God's plan, fell asleep, was buried with his fathers, and decayed.

GOD has a plan for every person and we are born and serve in a particular time slot of life to accomplish HIS plan and purpose.

22 He reveals the deep and hidden things; He knows what is in the darkness, and light dwells with Him.

GOD reveals all hidden things and probes the depths of all things. If a person needs a resource, nothing can top what HE can do or reveal. This is a message to all of us to never ever limit what GOD can probe, reveal or accomplish. GOD knows what is hidden in the dark and HE can expose it to HIS light.

23 I offer thanks and praise to You, God of my fathers, because You have given me wisdom and power. And now You have let me know what we asked of You, for You have let us know the king's mystery. 

When GOD answers our request, we break out in praise and thanksgiving. 

GOD’S response blew Daniels mind because he knew that only GOD could provide the information in the king’s dream which HE had revealed to Daniel. Daniel knew that he had not dreamed up the answer. He was excited. I don’t think Daniel’s excitement was as much over the fact that GOD revealed the king’s dream to him but that GOD was with him in a wicked nation and GOD would be revealed to the king. I think he was excited to reveal to the king what the One True GOD of Israel could do that the king’s wisest and his gods could not do. Armed with the power of GOD, Daniel was ready to meet with the king.

24 Therefore Daniel went to Arioch, whom the king had assigned to destroy the wise men of Babylon. He came and said to him, "Don't kill the wise men of Babylon! Bring me before the king, and I will give him the interpretation." 

Daniel’s first request to Arioch was for him and his men to stand down because he had what the king wanted. Confidence in what GOD reveals is vital and taking action on what HE reveals is equally vital. The One True GOD of the Israelites would also be revealed to Arioch and his soldiers.

25 Then Arioch quickly brought Daniel before the king and said to him, "I have found a man among the Judean exiles who can let the king know the interpretation."

Notice that Arioch did not hesitate. He responded quickly and seemed to be excited that Daniel knew the king’s dream and had the interpretation.

Let’s read Daniel 2:26-28a:

26 The king said in reply to Daniel, whose name was Belteshazzar, "Are you able to tell me the dream I had and its interpretation?" 

27 Daniel answered the king: "No wise man, medium, diviner-priest, or astrologer is able to make known to the king the mystery he asked about. 

28 But there is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries, and He has let King Nebuchadnezzar know what will happen in the last days.

Daniel makes it a point that the king’s cadre of wise men, diviner-priest or astrologers could not answer the king’s question but Daniel knew the One True GOD in heaven WHO did. The proof of the pudding is always in the eating. 

What do you think was going through the king’s mind as Daniel was speaking? 

Daniel was confident and excited to reveal what the One True GOD of the Israelites had revealed to him regarding the king’s dream.

Let’s read on.

Let’s read Daniel 2:28b-49:

28b Your dream and the visions [that came into] your mind [as you lay] in bed were these: 

29 Your Majesty, while you were in your bed, thoughts came [to your mind] about what will happen in the future. The revealer of mysteries has let you know what will happen. 

GOD’S knows our thoughts. God is the only ONE WHO can reveal the things that are hidden.

30 As for me, this mystery has been revealed to me, not because I have more wisdom than anyone living, but in order that the interpretation might be made known to the king, and that you may understand the thoughts of your mind.

The Dream's Interpretation

31 "My king, as you were watching, a colossal statue appeared. That statue, tall and dazzling, was standing in front of you, and its appearance was terrifying. 

32 The head of the statue was pure gold, its chest and arms were silver, its stomach and thighs were bronze, 

33 its legs were iron, and its feet were partly iron and partly fired clay. 

34 As you were watching, a stone broke off without a hand touching it, struck the statue on its feet of iron and fired clay, and crushed them. 

35 Then the iron, the fired clay, the bronze, the silver, and the gold were shattered and became like chaff from the summer threshing floors. The wind carried them away, and not a trace of them could be found. But the stone that struck the statue became a great mountain and filled the whole earth. 

36 "This was the dream; now we will tell the king its interpretation. 

37 Your Majesty, you are king of kings. The God of heaven has given you sovereignty, power, strength, and glory. 

GOD had put the king in place to accomplish HIS plan and purpose. GOD always reserves a remnant of HIS chosen to carry forward into the next generation.  

38Wherever people live-or wild animals, or birds of the air-He has handed them over to you and made you ruler over them all. You are the head of gold. 

39"After you, there will arise another kingdom, inferior to yours, and then another, a third kingdom, of bronze, which will rule the whole earth. 

40 A fourth kingdom will be as strong as iron; for iron crushes and shatters everything, and like iron that smashes, it will crush and smash all the others.

41 You saw the feet and toes, partly of a potter's fired clay and partly of iron-it will be a divided kingdom, though some of the strength of iron will be in it. You saw the iron mixed with clay, 

42 and that the toes of the feet were part iron and part fired clay-part of the kingdom will be strong, and part will be brittle. 

43 You saw the iron mixed with clay-the peoples will mix with one another but will not hold together, just as iron does not mix with fired clay.

44 "In the days of those kings, the God of heaven will set up a kingdom that will never be destroyed, and this kingdom will not be left to another people. It will crush all these kingdoms and bring them to an end, but will itself endure forever. 

This is the Kingdom established by JESUS the CHRIST.

45 You saw a stone break off from the mountain without a hand touching it, and it crushed the iron, bronze, fired clay, silver, and gold. The great God has told the king what will happen in the future. The dream is true, and its interpretation certain."

Nebuchadnezzar's Response

46 Then King Nebuchadnezzar fell down, paid homage to Daniel, and gave orders to present an offering and incense to him. 

The king saw truth revealed and he responded. The king knew he was in the presence of the One True GOD’S messenger.

47 The king said to Daniel, "Your God is indeed God of gods, Lord of kings, and a revealer of mysteries, since you were able to reveal this mystery." 

The king did not relinquish his gods, he only elevated the GOD of Daniel to a higher level. The king did not want to make his gods angry. GOD’S desire is to be preeminent in our lives. Our GOD is a jealous GOD and HE does not share HIS children with anyone or thing. 

48 Then the king promoted Daniel and gave him many generous gifts. He made him ruler over the entire province of Babylon and chief governor over all the wise men of Babylon. 

49 At Daniel's request, the king appointed Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego to manage the province of Babylon. But Daniel remained at the king's court.

The king saw that the GOD of Israel was truly the One True GOD and that his reign was ordained by GOD. The king’s dream carried history to 476 A.D.

Does Daniel’s relationship with GOD encourage you to have this same relationship? You can.

It is GOD’S desire for all Christians to have this intimate, loving, trusting relationship with HIM. Ask HIM to help you have this intimate relationship for the purpose of carrying out HIS plan and purpose.

GOD never overrides our right to choose. Each of us has to choose to have this relationship. Is this the same as salvation? No! Once we accept CHRIST as our Savior, we still have choices. Do we desire to serve our flesh or serve our LORD?

Salvation is just the beginning of the sanctification process and each Christian must choose how much of his or her life CHRIST will control. Do you trust CHRIST with your life? Do you trust HIM enough to respond as HE leads and guides you by the indwelling Holy Spirit? The choice is up each Christian. Blessings!!!

Bible Study - Impact (1) - Develop Conviction - Daniel 1:3-5, 8-13 and 17-19. - October 18, 2015

Bible Study – Impact (1) – Develop Conviction – October 18, 2015

This is lesson one (1) in a new series entitled “Game Changer: How to Impact Your World.”

Our focus scripture is Daniel 1:3-5, 8-13 and 17-19.

Live your life with uncompromising convictions.

We begin a new series of study for the next six weeks. All six lessons will be based upon scripture from the Book of Daniel. Daniel took a stand for GOD. In today’s world taking a stand for CHRIST is just as important. Our lives need to reflect our conviction.

Let’s read Daniel 1:1-2: (Background)

Daniel's Captivity in Babylon

1 In the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim (jih HOY uh kim) king of Judah, Nebuchadnezzar (neb yoo kad NEZ uhr) king of Babylon came to Jerusalem and laid siege to it. 

2 The Lord handed Jehoiakim king of Judah over to him, along with some of the vessels from the house of God. Nebuchadnezzar carried them to the land of Babylon, to the house of his god, and put the vessels in the treasury of his god. 

GOD had warned Israel to change their ways or suffer the consequences. Israel or the northern kingdom was defeated by the Assyrians in 722 B.C. Then Judah or the Southern Kingdom continued to disregard GOD’S warnings and GOD removed HIS protective hand from Judah. The ultimate defeat of Judah took place in three stages.

Stage one - In 605 B.C., about 20 years before Judah’s final fall, in 586 B.C. to Babylon, King Nebuchadnezzar took control of Judah and began taking the brightest and best looking Hebrews to Babylon for indoctrination and assimilation into the Babylonian culture. He also took ceremonial vessels used in worship in the temple in Jerusalem and placed them in the “house of the king’s god” in Babylon.

Stage two – In 597 B.C. Jehoiachin (jih HOY uh kin), son of Jehoiakim (Jehoiakim had reigned in Jerusalem for 11 years), gave up the throne to King Nebuchadnezzar. Jehoiachin reigned after his father for 3 months and ten days when King Nebuchadnezzar took him along with additional items from the temple and over 10,000 Hebrews to Babylon. Jehoiakim and Jehoiachin were vassal kings.

Stage three – In 586 B.C. King Nebuchadnezzar destroyed Solomon’s temple and took a large number of Hebrews to Babylon. Jerusalem was left in ruins along with a devastated remnant of Hebrews.

Daniel and other Hebrew youth were taken in stage one or 605 B.C. of Judah’s ultimate defeat. GOD warned the Israelites to obediently serve HIM and if they didn’t they would encounter HIS wrath. They didn’t and they suffered the consequences at the hands of Babylon.

GOD says what HE means and means what HE says and in 2015 that has not changed and will not change. GOD is eternally the same.

Let’s read Daniel 1:3-7: (I will comment after each verse.)

3 The king ordered Ashpenaz (ASH peh naz), the chief of his court officials, to bring some of the Israelites from the royal family and from the nobility -  

Ashpenaz was charged with the responsibility of selecting young Israelites for being indoctrinated and assimilated into the Babylonian culture. Typically “the chief of his court officials” was a term used, as stated in the King James Version  “the master of his eunuchs.” However, since there seems to be fixation on physical perfection, it is likely that this would be the case for Ashpenaz. But it is interesting that the name Ashpenaz includes the Old Persian word for Inn, resulting in some to believe that he was associated with providing dining and lodging for hostages. (Advanced Bible Study, LifeWay, Fall 2015, p. 68.) 

Ashpenaz was instructed to select Israelites from “the royal family” and from “the nobility.” It was common when a king defeated another king that the conquering king would take the family of the conquered king into captivity or have them killed. This was to prevent a family member from succeeding to the throne or causing problems in the conquered kingdom. It was a form of control. But here, it seems to have a dual purpose: control but also selecting those who were physically fit, taught social graces, good nutrition, mentally fit, educated and potential leaders.

Also, he was to select those from “the nobility.” Again, this served a dual purpose – to control the family left behind but also those of nobility would more likely to have been educated, likely to have good nutritional, physical habits and potential leaders. The noble tend to breed with nobility.

4  young men without any physical defect, good-looking, suitable for instruction in all wisdom, knowledgeable, perceptive, and capable of serving in the king's palace-and to teach them the Chaldean language and literature. 

Ashpenaz was to select “young men without physical defect, good-looking, suitable for instruction in all wisdom, knowledgeable, perceptive and capable of serving in the king’s palace – and to teach them the Chaldean language and literature. This is quite a list of traits and characteristics.

Ashpenaz was likely very good at his job and he did not want to make a mistake or else.  Let’s take a look at some of these attributes:

Young men could refer to men ages 14-40 but more likely 14-15 years old. Those in that age bracket are eager to learn and willing to work hard to achieve.

Without any physical defect and good-looking - Appearance was important, especially when coming into the presence of the king. Their good-looks reflected well on the king.

Suitable for instruction – they were going to be indoctrinated and assimilated into the Babylonian culture therefore they needed to have the ability to learn and apply what they learned.

Suitable for instruction in all wisdom – wisdom is the proper application of knowledge. True wisdom is knowledge applied to GOD’S plan.

Perception is the ability to apply knowledge at the precise moment to be most effective. The three work together – wisdom, knowledge and perception.

Capable of serving in the king’s palace – A person can have all of the traits and attributes mentioned so far but not be able to be humble or have the social graces required to serve the king. Having the right attitude.

Teachable – they would need to learn the Chaldean language and literature. The Chaldean language was Aramaic but the scholarly language was Akkadian.

These young men needed to be willing to embrace this new culture. But where were they to draw the line between learning and embracing this new culture and being obedient to GOD in a society that had their own god. This issue is at the heart of our study.  They were in a new world but how would they not become part of that new world?

The king had a planned training program for those selected.

5 The king assigned them daily provisions from the royal food and from the wine that he drank. They were to be trained for three years, and at the end of that time they were to serve in the king's court. 

These young men would eat and drink the same foods the king ate and drink what the king drank for three years, which would put them about 17-18 years old at the end of the training program.

So who are some of these young Hebrew men? Let’s read on.

6 Among them, from the descendants of Judah, were Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. 

7 The chief official gave them [different] names: to Daniel, he gave the name Belteshazzar; to Hananiah, Shadrach; to Mishael, Meshach; and to Azariah, Abednego.

The Hebrew young men are listed below with their Hebrew name and their Babylonian name:

Daniel to Belteshazzar (bell tuh SHAZ zur)

Hananiah (han uh NIE uh) to Shadrach (SHAD rak)

Mishael (MISH eh uhl) to Meshach (MEE shak)

Azariah (az ah RYE ah) to Abednego (uh BED knee goe)

Changing their names to Babylonian names would help them assimilate into the Babylonian culture. So far so good!

Let’s read Daniel 1:8-13: Faithfulness in Babylon

8 Daniel determined that he would not defile himself with the king's food or with the wine he drank. So he asked permission from the chief official not to defile himself. 

I understand that it was likely that the king’s food consisted of pork and horse meats, which were forbidden for the Hebrews to consume. Daniel had to make a decision. Since he wanted to be obedient to GOD, he pondered what he could do. His decision reveals the wisdom GOD gave Daniel.

He first determined what GOD would have him to do and then communicated with the chief official. He was not defiant. He did not just refuse but he approached the person who had the authority to help him achieve his goal to be obedient to GOD. He asked permission from the chief official not to defile himself. GOD had already prepared the relationship between Daniel and Ashpenaz as we read ---

9 God had granted Daniel favor and compassion from the chief official, 

Notice, GOD was already at work in Daniel’s life. Daniel had the right attitude. Why? He had the right relationship with GOD and trusted HIM. GOD always goes ahead of HIS children. Do you recall our lesson a few weeks ago in Romans where Paul revealed that GOD is at work in all things to bring about the best for those who obediently serve HIM?

It is likely, because Daniel asked permission rather than taking matters into his own hands, he established a good rapport with Ashpenaz.

10 yet he said to Daniel, "My lord the king assigned your food and drink. I'm afraid [of what would happen] if he saw your faces looking thinner than those of the other young men your age. You would endanger my life with the king." 

This could have been Ashpenaz testing Daniel. Ashpenaz communicated his concerns to Daniel. So what does Daniel do? Again, GOD guides HIS children. Daniel did not give up. GOD gave him another approach. He spoke to the guard (Melzar) who had been assigned to Daniel and his colleagues.

11 So Daniel said to the guard (Melzar), whom the chief official had assigned to Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, 

12 "Please test your servants for 10 days. Let us be given vegetables to eat and water to drink.

13 Then examine our appearance and the appearance of the young men who are eating the king's food, and deal with your servants based on what you see." 

14 He agreed with them in this matter and tested them for 10 days. 

15 At the end of 10 days they looked better and healthier than all the young men who were eating the king's food. 

16 So the guard continued to remove their food and the wine they were to drink and gave them vegetables.

This is fairly straight forward except for the vegetables. As I understand the vegetables were more than vegetables. Vegetables included fruits, grains and breads made from grains.

Let’s read Daniel 1:17-19: Faithfulness Rewarded

17 God gave these four young men knowledge and understanding in every kind of literature and wisdom. Daniel also understood visions and dreams of every kind. 

18 At the end of the time that the king had said to present them, the chief official presented them to Nebuchadnezzar. 

19 The king interviewed them, and among all of them, no one was found equal to Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. So they began to serve in the king's court.

20 In every matter of wisdom and understanding that the king consulted them about, he found them 10 times better than all the diviner-priests and mediums in his entire kingdom. 

21 Daniel remained there until the first year of King Cyrus (536 B.C.).

Daniel and his colleagues passed the king’s program with flying colors. In fact, “ten times better than diviner-priests and mediums in his entire kingdom.” GOD equipped these young men to serve HIM. In addition, GOD equipped Daniel with special gifts to understand visions and dreams of every kind. When GOD calls, HE equips.

As we study the life of Daniel and his colleagues we will see their relationship with GOD was built upon relationship and trust. Blessings!!!

Bible Study – Stand (6) – GOD’S Promise of a New Home – October 11, 2015

This is the sixth (6^th) and final lesson in our series entitled “Stand Strong: Building Your Life on GOD’S Promises.”

Our focus scripture is Revelation 21:1-8.

A life in CHRIST means a life with CHRIST forever.

First, the Book of Revelation was written by the Apostle John while he was exiled on the Isle of Patmos. Notice that the word “revelation” does not end in “s” therefore it is NOT revelations, it is singular. 

Our focus scripture is Chapter 21 which describes the coming of the new heaven and new earth which will be the time of GOD’S rule, reign and presence upon earth.

When our ancestral parents sinned and lost eternal life, GOD discharged them from the Garden of Eden. GOD placed a cherubim and a flaming sword to prevent Adam and Eve or any of their descendants to get to the tree of life. If they were to eat fruit from the tree of life, they would live forever in their unredeemed state.

GOD had a plan, even before sin came into the world, for the descendants of Adam and Eve to be given the opportunity to be redeemed from eternal death. Before JESUS was born in the flesh, those who worshipped GOD were looking forward to the coming of the Messiah. After the birth, life, death, resurrection and ascension of JESUS, we are looking back on that event for redemption and restoration to GOD’S original intent for eternal life with HIM. The best is yet to come and GOD reveals the final act to us through HIS revelation to John.

Eve ate the forbidden fruit and handed it to Adam. Adam took a bite of the fruit from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil and their eyes were opened to the truth of what they had done.

GOD had told Adam if they ate of the fruit from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil they would die. They would lose eternal life and they would be separated from HIM.

We are descendants of Adam and Eve and as such, we live in the world they chose. Fallen earth is our home. It is a world filled with the knowledge of good and evil. All humans long for peace but there is no peace. GOD did not abandon us as fallen humans but instead HE had a place where we could live and have a second opportunity for eternal life and fellowship with HIM and be restored to HIS original intent. Look around and behold HIS handiwork. Every human lives in a miracle body which HE fashioned to function upon planet earth. HE provided all things to sustain the human race. HE gives all humans the opportunity to be redeemed from eternal death.

Earth is our second opportunity to get it right. We have a choice to either accept or reject CHRIST as our Savior. CHRIST gave HIS life through the shedding of HIS blood to pay, in full, the death penalty GOD imposed upon the descendants of Adam and Eve. CHRIST is the second Adam. The first Adam was flesh whereas the second Adam was both flesh and blood, yet divine. Both the first Adam and the second Adam had free wills to choose. Adam chose to disobey GOD and the second Adam chose to obey GOD, remain sinless and gave HIS life to redeem all who will place their faith in HIM.

CHRIST’S shed blood paid the price for sin and redeems ALL who will place their faith in CHRIST as their Savior. All humans have the freedom and right to choose. GOD never violates the human right to choose but HE maintains the right to appeal to every human his or her need for salvation.

It is the miracle of rebirth in a person’s spirit that restores him or her to GOD’S original intent and eternal state. Life upon earth is for the perfecting and equipping of each Christian to obediently serve GOD, according to HIS plan and purpose, and to prepare him or her for eternal life in heaven.

I think JESUS gave us a glimpse of this perfecting upon earth in the “Model Prayer,” when HE said “our Father Who is in heaven, Holy is Your name, Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” To experience the fullness of CHRIST and GOD in our lives Christians are to obediently serve GOD upon earth as they would in heaven. Those in heaven willingly obey the will of GOD their Father because they know and abide in truth. Upon earth the flesh has its own agenda and battles with being obedient to the will of GOD. The flesh must be brought under the authority of GOD by yielding to the leadership of GOD by the indwelling Holy Spirit.

Christians must yield themselves to GOD and ask HIM to make and mold their lives as HE desires. HE is the potter and we are the clay. All the clay has to do is be available to the potter. The potter is the designer and determines the final product suitable for its intended use.

The present earth will be destroyed by fire but what will replace it?

Let’s read Revelation 1:1-2: (Background)

1 The revelation of Jesus Christ that God gave Him to show His slaves (servants) what must quickly take place. He sent it and signified it through His angel to His slave (servant) John, 

2 who testified to God's word and to the testimony about Jesus Christ, in all he saw.

The LORD JESUS gave the Apostle John a vision of things to come. Our scripture focuses on the period after Satan and his angels have been cast into the lake of fire. In Revelation 1:19, JESUS instructed John to write everything he had seen; what is now and what will take place later. Let’s explore!

Let’s read Revelation 21:1-3:

1 Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea existed no longer. 

2 I also saw the Holy City, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared like a bride adorned for her husband. 

3 Then I heard a loud voice from the throne: Look! God's dwelling is with men, and He will live with them. They will be His people, and God Himself will be with them and be their God.

Chapter 21 is the next to the last chapter in the Book of Revelation. There is a great deal that has happened upon earth before we get to Chapter 21. Chapter 21 is the great reveal for all Christians.

The Apostle John saw a new heaven and a new earth. Saw means there was no doubt regarding what he was seeing. It is a knowing that what he saw was truth and real or genuine.  The word “new” means just that. It was not a renovation or a remodel but it was unprecedented, unheard of, never thought about, a brand spanking new heaven and earth. WOW!!! Now that is something to get excited about.

In 1 Corinthians 2:9:

9 But as it is written: What no eye has seen and no ear has heard, and what has never come into a man's heart, is what God has prepared for those who love Him.

What a day that will be!

The “sea existed no longer” can be pondered in several ways. We know that the “sea” is a barrier separating land masses, countries, cultures, loved ones, etc. “Sea” has been used to describe the divide between heaven and earth. JESUS was teaching as recorded in Luke 16:26:

26 Besides all this, a great chasm has been fixed between us and you, so that those who want to pass over from here to you cannot; neither can those from there cross over to us.'

JESUS was teaching of the “great chasm” between heaven/paradise (Before the death of CHRIST) and hell (sheol).

There was a great chasm between GOD and mankind, which JESUS bridged when HE came to earth as a human and gave HIS life to pay, in full, the penalty for sin.

John saw a new Jerusalem. Again, the words “saw” and “new” are the same as we have already discussed. John was certain of what he was observing and experiencing. Earth as we know it will be destroyed by fire. Here there are differing opinions about whether or not earth is totally annihilated or cleansed by fire thus reducing it to a burned out cinder. Earth as we know it will be gone and a new earth built by GOD will appear. Heaven, where GOD is and earth where humans dwell will exist no longer. Keep in mind that Christians will have their Glorified bodies.

This New Jerusalem was coming down from above in breathtaking splendor as a bride adorned for her husband. We know a bride’s desire is to look her absolute, stunning best for her groom.

There was a loud unmistakable voice that announced from the throne that GOD has established HIS home in this New Heaven and New Earth. If it is pure and holy enough for GOD, it is pristine and beyond our wildest dreams.

Let’s read Acts 7:48-49:

However, the Most High does not dwell in houses and temples made with hands; as the prophet says, l49 Heaven [is] My throne, and earth the footstool for My feet. What [kind of] house can you build for Me, says the Lord, or what is the place in which I can rest?

Isaiah 66:1-2: (Amplified)

1 THUS SAYS the Lord: Heaven is My throne, and the earth is My footstool. What kind of house would you build for Me? And what kind can be My resting-place? a2 For all these things My hand has made, and so all these things have come into being [by and for Me], says the Lord. But this is the man to whom I will look and have regard: he who is humble and of a brokenor wounded spirit, and who trembles at My word and reveres My commands. b

GOD'S deisre is to indwell every human. HE does the instant a person receives salvation by placing his or her faith in CHRIST because the redeemed receive the Holy Spirit. GOD'S greatest accomplishment will be when all who are redeemed, by the shed blood of the Lamb, inhabit their Glorified bodies. This is vital in the final act of merging the New Heaven and the New Earth so that GOD can dwell with HIS children. "It is done!" as discussed later in Revelation 21:6 sheds some light on this. Only GOD'S children will be in the New Heaven and the New Earth.  HE will dwell be there as well. Our Holy GOD and Father will dwell with those HE made righteous through the shed blood of JESUS.

Currently, GOD’S dwelling is universal but when the new heaven and new earth is revealed, that will be the place where GOD will reside but HE is always universal and sovereign.

So Who is the loud voice from the throne? He Apostle John was raised in the Jewish religion where the name of GOD was not written or uttered. Bible scholars believe that John purposely avoided using or writing the name of GOD. The voice was GOD speaking from the throne.

The next to be revealed is what living in the presence of GOD will be like.

Let’s read Revelation 21: 4-5:

4 He will wipe away every tear from their eyes. Death will exist no longer; grief, crying, and pain will exist no longer, because the previous things have passed away. 

5 Then the One seated on the throne said, "Look! I am making everything new." He also said, "Write, because these words are faithful and true." 

GOD reveals to mankind what becoming a Christian means. No more tears resulting from death. No more grief, crying and pain because they EXIST NO LONGER! Christians will be in their Glorified bodies. Their Glorified bodies will be just like CHRIST’S Glorified body and death will not exist. Their Glorified bodies are eternal.

When our pastor was preaching the funeral of our eldest son, when he read this scripture, our eldest daughter, Said “YES!” There will be no more death, sorrow, grief, crying, and pain will exist no longer.  Our previous life in the flesh will no longer exist. We will be in our new bodies and dwell as GOD originally intended; in complete harmony, obedience and fellowship with HIM.

As the song says, “We can only imagine.” We cannot even imagine what it will be like because it will be better than good because it will be perfect.

JESUS instructed John to write because these words are faithful and true. GOD continued to speak.

Let’s read Revelation 21:6-8:

6 And He said to me, "It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. I will give to the thirsty from the spring of living water as a gift. 

7 The victor will inherit these things, and I will be his God, and he will be My son. 

8 But the cowards, unbelievers, vile, murderers, sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars-their share will be in the lake that burns with fire and sulfur, which is the second death."

The words “It is done!,” means “they have become reality.” [New Testament Commentary, Revelation, page  559, Simon J. Kistemaker, Baker Books, Grand Rapids, MI, 49516-6287, ISBN 0-8010-2606-7]

Alpha and Omega are the beginning and ending letters of the Greek alphabet. It would be like we would say “A to Z.” GOD’S plan and purpose for humanity and creation has come to completion. GOD is the One Who gives eternal life as described by the “living water” to those who desire having an intimate, personal, loving relationship with ME by placing their faith in CHRIST. HE gives eternal life free of charge to the receiver/Christian. It is a free gift of GOD’S Grace, but it cost HIS only Son’s sinless, earthly life. JESUS gave HIS sinless life in order that all who place their faith in HIM will receive eternal life and experience the miracle of rebirth into the family of GOD.

Christians are the “victors,” thus Sons or Daughters of GOD and as a result inherit all things; to the victor’s go the spoils. Christians will inherit all the rights and privileges of being GOD’S child for eternity and live with HIM in the New Heaven and New Earth. GOD chose us and we in turn chose HIM. So we are where we want to be of our free will.

Since Christians are “victors,” those who refuse to take a stand are “cowards” because they are fearful for various reasons e.g. pride, what will my friends or business associates think of me if I become a Christian. Fear prevents them from becoming Christians. Following cowards are those who are unbelievers or the faithless, followed by vile (abominable, detestable), murderers, sexually immoral, sorcerers (those who practice magic arts e.g. horoscopes, fortune tellers and those who go to fortune tellers, etc.), idolaters, and all liars – “will be consigned” (NIV) or will be in or share in the lake that burns with fire and sulfur, which is the second death." Hell was made for Satan and his angels, thus humans that refuse the free gift of GOD share in what was originally made for them.

Some may ask, “Do you think there is such a lake of burning sulfur?” Think of your worst nightmare or horror story that will never end. Coming to the full, complete knowledge and reality that because you rejected the love of GOD and the redemptive love of CHRIST is the reason you are being in torment is beyond human thought.

On this side of eternity, I have heard people say, “I will take my chances.” Oh, friends please do not let this instant pass without asking JESUS to forgive you for your sins and to come into your heart right now. Do not put it off. This is the most serious, eternal decision you will ever make. We are all but one heartbeat away from eternity. And the eternal rewards are beyond our wildest imagination. Blessings!!!