Daniel 3: Bow or Burn!
THE STORY OF Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego in the fiery furnace ranks with Daniel in the lion's den and David and Goliath as one of the best-known and most exciting Bible stories. One of the problems with a story that's so familiar is that we tend to forget that it really happened. It is not a myth. It is history! It is also a very practical chapter for men and women who are trying to live for God in a secular society. We face the same pressure these three faced—the pressure to compromise what is right before God in order to be accepted by others.
Warming Up to God
In what ways are you tempted to compromise your faith in order to be accepted by others?
Read Daniel 3. »
Discovering the Word
- What do you think motivated Nebuchadnezzar to build this image of gold (vv. 1-7)?
- Why do you think the astrologers reported the disobedience of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego to Nebuchadnezzar (vv. 8-12)?
- What temptations do you think Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego faced when they were brought before the king (vv. 13-15)?
- What impresses you most about their response to these temptations (vv. 16-18)?
- As you look at Nebuchadnezzar's response (vv. 13-15, 19-23), what evidence do you see that his basic conflict was with God rather than with these three men?
- What specific actions did God take to bring assurance to the three men and to demonstrate his power to Nebuchadnezzar (vv. 24-30)?
Applying the Word
- Some Christians claim that pain or sickness or trial are always the result of sin or lack of faith. How would you respond to that claim in light of this passage?
- As you look back over this chapter, what lessons about the risks and rewards of obedience are most significant to you personally?
Responding in Prayer
What commitments can you make to God today that will prepare you to face the pressures of a secular world? Speak to the Lord with honesty.
For Further Study
Daniel LifeGuide Bible Study by Douglas Connelly