Daniel

Introduction and Overview

Test:True or False, the account

depicted in the picture is in the book of Daniel

1.2.3.4.5.6.7.8.9.10.

Where does Daniel Take Place?

Historical Setting of Daniel

Ilumina Time Line

Who we encounter in Daniel

Daniel

Shadrach (Hananiah), Meshach (Mishael), and Abednego (Azariah)

Nebuchadnezzar: Babylonian

Belshazzar: Babylonian

Darius: Medo-Persian

Cyrus: Medo-Persian

Content of Daniel at a Glance

Chapters 1-6:Accounts of different episodes during the life of Daniel, including:

The fiery furnace

The lion’s den

Nebuchadnezzar’s downfall

Chapters 7-12:Prophecies

What challenges and lessons await us in Daniel?

Personal Integrity

Standing up for our beliefs

Having the courage to confront

The Sovereignty of God

God’s foreknowledge

Chapter 1

Our Convictions & Strength

Let’s read Daniel Chapter 1

Events of Chapter 1

Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah are taken to Babylon (605 BC)

These young men were probably teenagers during this time

They are taken to Babylon from Jerusalem

Babylon has now come into power over Assyria

God’s chastisement:

Daniel 1:2 says “And the Lord gave Jehoiakim king of Judah into his (Nebuchadnezzar’s) hand”

Why would the Lord “give him over’?

Read Deuteronomy 28, ref 28:25

New Names: What’s the significance?

Daniel=God is my judgeBelteshazzar=Beltis protect the king

Hananiah=God is graciousShadrach=Command of Aku (moon god)

Mishael=Who is like God?Meshach=probably a Chaldean god

Azariah=God has helpedAbednego=Servant of Nebo (god of wisdom)

Group Break-outA: Read Daniel 1:8-15

Why was this food so important to Daniel? (ref v8)What does this passage say about Daniel’s character?How could we have the character of Daniel?

B: Read Daniel 1:17-20Was Daniel able to do everything himself? Where did he get his abilities from?Has God blessed you with abilities/strengths?How do you use them for His glory (not your own)?

C: Read Philippians 4:10-13Where do we get our strength?What are situations/experiences for which you could apply this verse?