Daniel Serves Faithfully

Lesson Summary

Although he was a captive in a foreign land, Daniel continued to serve the Lord by faithfully serving whichever king was in power. The book of Daniel reveals that he ministered to Nebuchadnezzar, Belshazzar,

Darius the Mede, and Cyrus. He likely also served under Evil-merodach, who ruled in the time between Nebuchadnezzar and Belshazzar, though the only mention of him in the Bible is in reference to the release of Jehoiachin (Jeremiah 52:31).

We have seen how God blessed Daniel with the kings’ favor and the ability to interpret dreams. It was through this ability that God made himself known to the pagan kings. Now let’s look at Daniel’s

circumstances from a different angle, paying special attention to whom Daniel served, how he served, and why he served in this way.

Read and Discuss

Read the following passages and discuss the questions together.

Daniel 2:20–23

1.     How did Daniel view God?

2.     Who was responsible for Daniel’s current position of service?

3.     Describe Daniel’s attitude toward the king and toward his own position?

Romans 13:3–7

4.     Where does all authority come from?

5.     Why should the Christian be subject to the governing authorities?

6.     In verse 6, what does Paul call authorities?

1 Peter 2:13–17

7.     For whose sake does the believer submit to the government?

8.     What is the will of God according to verse 15?

9.     Who is the believer really serving (v. 16)?

Acts 5:27–32

10.  Is it OK to disobey the governing authorities? When?