How To Use This Guide:
listen
Listen to the video and read this week's materials
reflect
Prayerfully answer the questions below
discuss
Meet with your group to discuss
respond
Apply the truth of God’s word to your life
How To Use This Guide:
listen
Listen to the weekly sermon and read through the main passage(s)
reflect
Prayerfully answer the questions below
discuss
Meet with your group to discuss
respond
Apply the truth of God’s word to your life
latest sermon:
background
In Daniel 6, we move beyond Nebuchadnezzar's reign in Babylon. The Medo-Persian empire had taken control of the region with Darius reigning in Babylon. Daniel is older now, possibly in his eighties. This might be why he stayed behind when the Babylonian captivity ended, rather than returning with those who went back to Israel to rebuild the temple and the city wall. Regardless of the reason, God still had important work for Daniel to do in Babylon.
As Daniel’s influence in Babylon increased, it aroused jealousy among other officials, who conspired to trap him by exploiting his devotion to God. A decree was issued that banned prayer to anyone but the king, putting Daniel in a situation where faithfulness to God could cost him his life. Daniel did not compromise. He continued his pattern of praying openly, trusting God regardless of the consequences. When he was thrown into the lions’ den, God shut their mouths and the mouths of his enemies.
This passage reminds us that faithfulness to God often invites opposition, but God remains sovereign over both our trials and our deliverance. Whether through rescue or endurance, he is worthy of unwavering trust.
As Daniel’s influence in Babylon increased, it aroused jealousy among other officials, who conspired to trap him by exploiting his devotion to God. A decree was issued that banned prayer to anyone but the king, putting Daniel in a situation where faithfulness to God could cost him his life. Daniel did not compromise. He continued his pattern of praying openly, trusting God regardless of the consequences. When he was thrown into the lions’ den, God shut their mouths and the mouths of his enemies.
This passage reminds us that faithfulness to God often invites opposition, but God remains sovereign over both our trials and our deliverance. Whether through rescue or endurance, he is worthy of unwavering trust.
OPEN
1. Have you ever been caught in a speed trap? How did you feel when you saw the flashing lights in your rear-view mirror?
REFLECT
2. Read Daniel 6:1-5. What trap was laid for Daniel? What does it reveal about Daniel and his character that his opponents could even set this kind of trap for him?
3. Read Daniel 6:6-18. How did Daniel respond to the king’s decree? What does his commitment to prayer show about his reliance on God?
4. Read Daniel 6:19-24. In this story, the king and his officials are all competing for power. What does this story reveal about God’s sovereignty – his supreme power over everything? How should our understanding of his sovereignty influence how we prioritize our relationship with God? How should it affect the way we relate to those who oppose us?
3. Read Daniel 6:6-18. How did Daniel respond to the king’s decree? What does his commitment to prayer show about his reliance on God?
4. Read Daniel 6:19-24. In this story, the king and his officials are all competing for power. What does this story reveal about God’s sovereignty – his supreme power over everything? How should our understanding of his sovereignty influence how we prioritize our relationship with God? How should it affect the way we relate to those who oppose us?
APPLY
5. God glorifies himself through his deliverance of Daniel. How does celebrating God’s deliverance deepen our understanding of His character? What are some instances in your own life that remind you of God’s deliverance? How can reflecting on these encourage you to maintain your trust in him when you face opposition?
6. This story clearly shows that God has the power to deliver us. How does this truth give you the confidence to live for him today? What are some everyday areas of life (work, family, relationships) where you can demonstrate trust in God that might inspire others through your example?
7. How can regular habits (like prayer, Bible reading, or community) help you stay faithful under pressure? Is there a specific area where you feel you need to focus more attention?
6. This story clearly shows that God has the power to deliver us. How does this truth give you the confidence to live for him today? What are some everyday areas of life (work, family, relationships) where you can demonstrate trust in God that might inspire others through your example?
7. How can regular habits (like prayer, Bible reading, or community) help you stay faithful under pressure? Is there a specific area where you feel you need to focus more attention?
RESOURCES
If you are interested in joining a group next semester, fill out the interest form below or contact Doug Barnwell at dbarnwell@fellowshipjackson.com.
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