"But even if he does not…we will not serve your gods" Daniel 3:18
A self-centered King
Polycarp, and countless other martyrs
Nebuchadnezzar conveniently forgot his humble acknowledgement in 2:47 It wasn’t enough that he ruled the greatest empire of the day (he was the head of gold), he had to be worshipped too.
Immediate Deification
Nebuchadnezzar summoned all officials. (It’s not clear where Daniel was.) He wanted anyone who was someone to know just who was the one.
But, in an immortal display of faith, the three friends did not bow down. Imagine how they must have stood out, three men standing up while countless others around them are bowing. It would have just been easier to blend in and bow too.
They knew God’s laws against idolatry, and they knew idolatry was the reason they were in Babylon, and why Israel no longer existed.
Jealous Retaliation
A group of astrologers made sure the king was aware of this crime. Quick to use something against their enemies, they thought they had the three friends.
Remember, Daniel was in charge of these people, too (2:48) Apparently they had forgotten what Daniel had done for them (2:24)
Consistent Determination
Nebuchadnezzar tried to give his valued advisers another chance (3:15) But the faith of the three friends could not be shaken (3:17-18) What can you do to someone who is not afraid of suffering?
Again, the king loses his temper (3:19-20) The times we’ve seen Nebuchadnezzar angry, it’s always about him. Next week we’ll see how that pride cost the king
Divine Preservation
The angel of the Lord appears, and a miracle occurs
The king was most impressed by the faith of these three men (3:28)
As a result, the king makes another decree (3:29), and another promotion (3:30)
However, recall 3:18, and then look at Hebrews 11:37-39. Remember the martyrs.
3 Principles
#1) God always honors our faith, but He does not always promise to deliver us from harm
#2)
No matter the outcome, we should not compromise our faith by worshipping false gods
