The Story Finding Your Story in Gods Story

The Story Finding 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 1 King 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 wisdom Daniel able to interpret visions and dream

Daniel 2 - Nebuchadnezzar’s Dream Called in Magicians, enchanters, sorcerers, astrologers Tell me the dream and what it means No 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 worshiped Herald shouted out – Bow or Burn

The three young Hebrew men refuse

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

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

Courage without condescension

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

The three men thrown in The fourth man - Angel

Willing to die rather than worship any other god No other god can rescue like this The three men promoted again

III. Determined to Stay Faithful Daniel 6 Administrators 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 world Live a life that points others to God