Session 5: The Public

Session Overview

Creedal Statement

We prize the family as a bedrock of faith formation,
we cherish marriage as a most holy and most sacred union,
we value parents as frontline shepherds to disciple their children,
we treasure friends as our own souls,
we engage society as godly citizens with redemptive purpose, and
we embrace our lifework with a God-centered focus.

We confess the church as Christ’s family, a family called to:
treat other members with genuine care,
steward our possessions for the common good,
honor appointed leaders and participate in Christ’s worldwide body,
engage the domains of the world with the truth of the gospel, and
represent Christ to all those who are far and near.

Key Elements

• Key Passage - Daniel 1:1–2:49; 4:1–6:28
• Scripture Memory - Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which is from God. The authorities that exist have been appointed by God. Consequently, whoever resists authority is opposing what God has set in place, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. Romans 13:1–2
• Catechism - Q: What public sphere does God call his people to engage with? A: Civic.

Introduction

Remind the believers to submit to rulers and authorities, to be obedient and ready for every good work, to malign no one, and to be peaceable and gentle, showing full consideration to everyone.

Wherever man may stand, whatever he may do, to whatever he may apply his hand, in agriculture, in commerce, and in industry, or his mind, in the world of art, and science, he is, in whatever it may be, constantly standing before the face of his God, he is employed in the service of his God, he has strictly to obey his God, and above all, he has to aim at the glory of his God.

Christians and churches are responsible for practicing their faith in the public sector. On one hand, this means that Christians are to be meaningful citizens in society while they maintain their ultimate citizenship in the world to come. Christians should wisely engage in the public life of the surrounding world, avoiding fearful isolation from the world and careless assimilation into the world. On the other hand, Christ followers should consider engagement in politics, public policy, and government as a righteous duty of Christians. Believers who occupy positions of authority should do so as public officials in the service of Christ. Christian citizens should be actively and redemptively involved in society in ways that shed the light of the gospel and make the world a better place.

Many are averse to a public faith, preferring to avoid any involvement in political, cultural, or civic affairs. Others are quite invested in public policy, popular trends, and governmental duty. On the extreme, some embrace their political leanings with a religious piety and zeal. The intersection of our Christian faith in the public sector is complex and multifaceted. Biblical teaching affirms that Christian maturity is tested in the world. God commands disciples to honor human authorities, obey the laws of the land, pay taxes, and fulfill civic duties. Scripture also asserts that Christians are pilgrims and sojourners on the earth. Christians live in society as world citizens, but their ultimate identity is citizens of a heavenly kingdom in the world to come. The Christian faith has public implications. The public expression of faith is to summon people to belong to an otherworldly kingdom. As disciples of Jesus Christ, the maturity of our faith is put to the test as we navigate the complexities of faith commitment amid earthly citizenship. In God’s wisdom, he has recorded historical instances of his faithful followers who did just that. Consequently, we turn to Scripture for wisdom on a distinctively Christian approach to public life.

In Daniel 1:1–2:49 and 4:1–6:28, we encounter a well-known servant of God named Daniel. In this narrative sequence, we witness Daniel’s resolve to maintain his faith as he interacts with his surrounding society. He showed ultimate loyalty to God in a way that did not prevent him from meaningful engagement with the world around him. In particular, Daniel entered into government service. He interpreted a dream for Nebuchadnezzar that emphasized God’s sovereignty over all things. He later interpreted another dream for Nebuchadnezzar that predicted the humbling of his pride and self-exaltation. Daniel’s service continued during the reign of King Belshazzar, when Daniel interpreted mysterious handwriting on a wall that confronted the flagrant acts of this king. In this, we see that all human authorities will be measured and judged by God. In the final scene, we witness Daniel’s courageous faith put on display as he chose obedience to God over obedience to the decree of a human king.

In the end, Daniel’s exemplary life of unrelenting devotion to God and dutiful service to the world offers a nuanced picture of how Christians can meaningfully engage society in a way that both maintains a distinctive faith and offers a compelling witness to the surrounding society. Inevitably, politics, cultural engagement, civic duty, public policy, and earthly citizenship have a way of becoming contentious, divisive, and polarizing. While it might be tempting for Christians to acclimate to the cultural milieu of the day (to minimize friction with surrounding society) or isolate from public life (to avoid interaction with surrounding society), neither of these extreme responses displays Christian maturity. Unavoidably, Christian maturity is displayed in wise and prudent engagement in public life. Christians live out their faith on the public stage in a way that preserves their ultimate allegiance to God while meaningfully engaging the pressing issues of their day. Since this road is fraught with danger and difficulty, we must turn to the Scripture for assistance and rely upon God for divine help. As we explore the life of Daniel, may his God-centered and public-facing faith be inspiring, instructive, and mobilizing for us all!

Biblical Interpretation: Hearing the Word

Study the Text: The Bible is God’s inspired word to his people. Christian disciples mature in the faith when they are grounded in God’s word. In this movement, you will study the basic details of the biblical text.

Observation Questions

Read (or listen to) the whole passage of Scripture. Discuss the questions below for each section of the story. Pay attention to the details of the text to recall what the passage is saying. Use the focus verses to guide your conversation.

Storycraft

Retell the story in your own words, recounting the overall flow of the narrative, the main segments of the story, and the major developments that take place.

Narrative Elements

Story Retell

Theological Dialogue: Discussing the Plot

Explore the Text: God’s word is his trustworthy and sufficient revelation to his people. We grow as Christ’s disciples by rooting our lives in God’s unchanging truth. In this movement, you will explore vital teachings of this biblical passage.

Discussion Questions

Summarize the biblical story. As a community, discuss the following questions. Be attentive to the truths taught in this text. Use the commentary on the next pages to uncover core principles this passage teaches about the Christian faith.

Biblical Commentary

Use this commentary to help you understand the meaning of the text. Refer to the infographic on the next page to think through how narratives work.

Passage Introduction

Key Idea

Christians must live out their faith in the public sector without compromising ultimate loyalty to God.

Passage Overview

Christians display their faith maturity in the manner they interact with and engage in the public arena. The way Christians live in the world—engage in politics, relate to government, embrace public service, consider social issues, respect authorities, and interact with society—matters. Daniel is a powerful example of a man of faith who navigated these complex waters with God-fearing prudence. He demonstrated an uncompromising loyalty to God while he also engaged in public affairs. He bore witness to God’s ultimate sovereignty above all human rulers. Daniel’s service confronted Nebuchadnezzar’s hubris and misuse of power. While Belshazzar was king, Daniel revealed that all people (even human authorities) will answer to God. In the end, when government and society come against God’s commands, faithful servants retain their piety and remain faithful to God regardless of the risks to their own lives. Even thousands of years later, Daniel’s example of public engagement and faithful integrity serves as a model for us today. Read the following commentary as a way to orient yourself to the Bible’s teaching on what it means for Christians to live a distinctive faith in the public sector.

Passage Outline

Faith In the Public Square

Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human institution, whether to the king as the supreme authority, or to governors as those sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to praise those who do right.

Whosoever, therefore, aims at arriving at inward and spiritual life, must, with Jesus, go aside from the crowd. No man is secure in appearing abroad but he who would willingly lie hid at home. No man securely speaks, but he who loves to hold his peace. No man securely governs, but he who would willingly live in subjection. No man securely commands, but he who has learned well to obey.

Introduction

Christians should live out their faith in the public sector. This simple truth has complex implications. It is not immediately obvious how citizens of a heavenly kingdom should live out their faith in the public sector. On one extreme, some believers embrace their otherworldly identity with a myopic focus such that they divest themselves of any responsibility in the present world. On the other extreme, some aim for an immediate manifestation of God’s kingdom on earth through political activism, governmental policy, or Christian nationalism. God wants us to avoid these extremes. Although the Christian faith is not synonymous with political engagement, it is not entirely separated from it. Christians owe their ultimate and undivided loyalty to God’s kingdom while they serve present society in righteousness and holiness. The ability to navigate the life of faith in the public sector is not without myriad challenges. But neither is it without blessings, affording opportunities to display God’s glory and sovereign rule throughout the watching world. Living out our faith in the world is a matter of distinctive Christian witness. To bear witness to Christ is our vocation and calling. To help uncover the essence of a distinctively Christian approach to public life, we turn to a gripping narrative of a faithful Israelite servant living under an enemy government in a foreign land.

In Daniel 1:1–2:49 and 4:1–6:28, we read the story of a faithful servant of God named Daniel. A Jewish God-fearer in Babylonian exile, Daniel modeled faithful piety in the public sector. After interpreting a vision for the Babylonian king—a vision that foretold God’s everlasting and unconquerable kingdom—Daniel (and his friends) were appointed to positions in the Babylonian government. Later, Daniel interpreted another dream for Nebuchadnezzar that predicted how God would humble this Babylonian king for his flagrant pride. Daniel continued in his faithful service into the reign of King Belshazzar. During Belshazzar’s reign, Daniel interpreted mysterious handwriting that appeared on the wall that predicted God’s judgment on the king. Later, under the rule of a Persian king named Darius, Daniel defied a royal decree that outlawed his faith, showing that when government contradicts one’s faith, faithful servants must obey God rather than men.

For those in positions of authority, this extended narrative instructs public officials how to steward their power and influence as righteous agents of God. For Christ followers seeking to be faithful world citizens, this storyline helps all disciples know how to engage in the public sector with civic responsibility and uncompromising faith. Maturing disciples of Jesus and seasoned Christians alike must learn how to express their faith in the public life of society. Motivated by the hope of God’s coming and unconquerable kingdom, Christians seek the good of the society in which they live while pointing people to God’s coming kingdom. Because dutiful earthly citizenship can be a summons for others to embrace heavenly citizenship, Christians should see their faith in the public sector as a vocation of witness. To maintain this witness, when public life is at odds with the Christian faith, God’s people stand firm in the faith regardless of the risk to their lives. As we develop a Christian understanding of interpersonal relationships, we must have a healthy view of government, politics, and public life. We offer the compelling narrative of Daniel (and his compatriots) as a service toward this end.

Ten Times Better: Witnessing Faithful Piety in the Public Sector

Biblical Narrative (Daniel 1:1–21)

When Jehoiakim was king of Judah, Nebuchadnezzar was the king of Babylon. In the third year of Jehoiakim’s reign, Nebuchadnezzar laid a siege on Jerusalem (1:1). As judgment on his disobedient and rebellious people, God allowed Nebuchadnezzar to defeat the Israelites. Boasting in his victory and aggregating his spoils, Nebuchadnezzar brought items from the Jewish temple back to his land, where he put them in the temple of his god (1:2). This was an ultimate act of defiance, disrespect, and blasphemy of God and the Israelites. The Babylonians took the Israelites into captivity and brought some back to Babylon. Around this time, Nebuchadnezzar commanded that some royal and noble Israelites be chosen (1:3). These would be “young men without blemish, handsome, gifted in all wisdom, knowledgeable, quick to understand, and qualified to serve in the king’s palace” (1:4). This select group would be educated in “the language and literature of the Chaldeans” (1:4) and assimilated into Babylonian (i.e., Chaldean) culture. The chosen youths were given daily provisions of food and drink to support them in their “babylonianization” (1:5). After three years of training and education, the youths would “enter the king’s service” (1:5). Among those who were chosen were Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah (1:6). They were given the following names: Belteshazzar, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego (1:7).

Although Nebuchadnezzar provided portions to his trainees, “Daniel made up his mind that he would not defile himself with the king’s food or wine” (1:8). Respectfully, Daniel asked the chief official (i.e., eunuch) for permission to refrain from eating the king’s portions (1:8). God was pleased with Daniel’s uncompromising devotion. Consequently, “God had granted Daniel favor and compassion from the chief official” (1:9). The chief official feared Daniel’s request would weaken the youths, making him appear irresponsible and delinquent in his duties. From a human standpoint, to give Daniel his request would put the life of the chief official in potential danger (1:10). In a wise and measured move, Daniel requested a ten-day test to see how their condition would fare (1:12). Daniel asked the steward responsible for the Hebrew youths—Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah—to only give them vegetables and water (1:12). At the end of the ten days, they could compare the Hebrew youths with the other youths who dined on royal food (11:13). The steward agreed to this test (1:14). After ten days, the Israelite youths “looked healthier and better nourished than all the young men who were eating the king’s food” (1:15). From then on, the youths ate vegetables (1:16).

The four young men lived a distinctive life of faith while integrating into Nebuchadnezzar’s learning regime. The faith, courage, and endurance to be distinctive in their diet—an important part of Jewish piety—would translate into a unique level of insight and understanding. Throughout their training, “God gave knowledge and understanding in every kind of literature and wisdom” (1:17). In fact, God also gave Daniel special revelation: “insight into all kinds of visions and dreams” (1:17). After three years, the young men went before Nebuchadnezzar, and he found them to have ten times greater wisdom and understanding than the magicians and enchanters of his kingdom (1:18–20). In fact, there was “no one equal to Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah” (1:19). These youths entered the king’s service (1:19) and the king highly valued them: “in every matter of wisdom and understanding about which the king consulted them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and enchanters in his entire kingdom” (1:20). As a sign of God’s favor presence with Daniel, God gave Daniel longevity of influence as he remained in the king’s service until the reign of the Persian king, Cyrus (1:21).

Biblical Principles

God’s Sovereignty and Human Citizenship. The opening of this narrative highlights that all geopolitical events are under God’s sovereign guidance. As in the case of Babylon and Israel, God is in ultimate control of the rise and fall of kingdoms (1:2). While God was the ultimate authority in Daniel’s life, Daniel also showed respect and submission to his governmental authorities (1:8, 12). Belief in God’s sovereignty allows believers to treat human leaders with respect and obedience. Daniel had a vibrant and committed faith in God. He had conviction to remain pure and undefiled before God (1:8) and bold confidence in God’s provision (1:11–16). Nevertheless, Daniel’s faithful commitment to God did not prevent him from engaging in the public life of Babylon. The Hebrew youths participated in the Babylonian training (1:14–19). They received different names (1:6–7). Daniel respectfully asked for a faith-based concession (1:8). Later, the youths served as advisors in the king’s court (1:5, 19–20). Importantly, Daniel served the welfare of the Babylonian empire, the very (enemy) nation that brought about the downfall of Israel. Daniel (and his companions) became respectful citizens and dutiful servants in Babylonian society without compromising their faith.

Distinctive Faith, Godly Character, and God-Given Wisdom. The Hebrew youths were chosen because of their nobility (1:3) and because they were “young men without blemish, handsome, gifted in all wisdom, knowledgeable, quick to understand, and qualified to serve in the king’s palace” (1:4). This description underscored their family lineage, outer appearance, intellectual capacity, learning capability, and vocational potential. The young men selected for Nebuchadnezzar’s training program showed promise before their selection. In short, the young men were dignified, physically fit, wise, learned, and competent (1:3–4). Specifically, their training was for them to “enter the king’s service” (1:5; cf. 1:19–20). When they participated in the Babylonian training (1:4–5), God enabled them to advanced in all kinds of learning: “God gave knowledge and understanding in every kind of literature and wisdom” (1:17). God specifically gave Daniel “insight into all kinds of visions and dreams” (1:17). The God-given knowledge these youths possessed made them valued advisors in the king’s court. They exceeded all Babylonian counselors and servants ten times over “in every matter of wisdom and understanding” (1:20). In the midst of this intensive training regimen, there was the youths’ distinctive character that stood out. A man of conviction and faith, Daniel wanted to make sure “not to defile himself” (1:8) by eating the king’s food. To be dutiful citizens in a godless culture, Christians must embrace a distinctive faith, embody godly character, and cultivate God-given wisdom. When surrounded by a culture that does not share Christian beliefs, it is easy for cultural values to “leak” into the community of faith. Biblical discipleship—call it Christian education, faith formation, wisdom development, or spiritual growth—is crucial for believers who want to prioritize truth and purity in the midst of a world of competing values and beliefs.

Godly Influence in Society. God gave Daniel and his coworkers favor before the Babylonian authorities (1:9, 14) and rewarded Daniel’s faithfulness with influence in the Babylonian society. Nebuchadnezzar grew to highly value the Hebrew youths (1:19–20). In fact, Daniel’s influence was so great that he maintained public and political influence under multiple kings (1:21). In a similar way, Christian faithfulness in the public sector offers an opportunity to influence politics, government, society, and culture. One need not forsake public engagement to maintain commitment to Christ. Rather, Christians maintain their commitment to Christ by being publicly engaged in the surrounding society with Christian character, biblical conviction, and spiritual wisdom. In fact, when committed to the ways of Christ, Christians possess power, truth, wisdom, and character that can outdo—“ten times better” (1:20)—the might, ideas, knowledge, and values of the world. Taking care to establish Christians and churches in the faith should result in extending our influence in culture and society across the generations.

It Shall Stand Forever: Honoring God’s Sovereignty Above All Human Powers

Biblical Narrative (Daniel 2:1–49)

In the second year of his reign, Nebuchadnezzar had troubling dreams that kept him from sleeping (2:1). He summoned his magicians, enchanters, sorcerers, and astrologers (or, Chaldeans) to explain his dreams (2:2). Rather than telling them his dream, Nebuchadnezzar told these servants that they needed to report the dream and then its interpretation or they would be killed (2:3–5). If they succeeded in revealing both the dream and its interpretation, Nebuchadnezzar promised to reward them with gifts and honor (2:6). They asked Nebuchadnezzar a second time to reveal the dream (2:7), but Nebuchadnezzar refused to do so. As a sort of test, Nebuchadnezzar was confident they could accurately discern the meaning of the dream if they knew the contents of the dream (2:8–9). The servants were certain that this was impossible, only something their gods could do (2:10–11).

At this, Nebuchadnezzar was “so furious with anger that he gave orders to destroy all the wise men of Babylon” (2:12). He comissioned Arioch, the commander of the his army, to execute his wrath (2:14). The king’s decree went out, and when Arioch’s men came for Daniel and his friends (2:13), Daniel “replied with discretion and tact” (2:14). When Daniel asked about the king’s decree, Arioch explained it to him, and Daniel in turn made an appointment with the king to make the interpretation of his dream known (2:15–16). Daniel went home and told his companions—Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah—about this, and he asked them to pray to God (2:17–18). Specifically, Daniel urged his friends to “plead for mercy from the God of heaven concerning this mystery” (2:18). God made the dream known to Daniel in a night vision, and Daniel praised God as the wise and strong God who is sovereign and all-knowing (2:19–23).

Daniel went to Arioch and told him not to kill the wise men because he would make the interpretation known to the king (2:24). When Daniel came before Nebuchadnezzar, he spoke with confidence and conviction. Daniel said that, while no wise man could make the dream known, the true God of heaven revealed all mysteries and made the dream known to Daniel (2:25–30). Then, Daniel told Nebuchadnezzar the dream. The dream depicted a great and frightening image with a head of gold, chest and arms of silver, midsection and thighs of bronze, legs of iron, and feet of iron and clay (2:31–34). A stone struck the image, breaking it into pieces, but the stone grew into a great mountain that filled the earth (2:31–35). Then, Daniel interpreted the dream for Nebuchadnezzar (2:36–45). Daniel explained that the head of gold was Nebuchadnezzar’s kingdom and the other sections of the image represented subsequent kingdoms, which would replace one another as world powers (2:36–43). The stone represented God’s kingdom that would destroy all the other kingdoms and be established forever (2:44–45).

In response, Nebuchadnezzar fell face down to the ground, paid respect to Daniel, and commanded offerings to be made to Daniel’s God (4:46–47). Nebuchadnezzar even confessed that Daniel’s God was “God of gods and Lord of kings, the Revealer of Mysteries” (2:47). Next, “the king promoted Daniel and gave him many generous gifts” (2:48). The king appointed Daniel “ruler over the entire province of Babylon and chief administrator over all the wise men of Babylon” (2:48). Daniel’s compatriots served over Babylon, and Daniel served in the king’s court (2:49).

Biblical Principles

Fragility of Human Empires. Nebuchadnezzar’s dream reveals the fragility of human empires. The glory, splendor, wealth, and power of earthly kingdoms (2:31, 37) are vulnerable to other human powers and kingdoms (2:39–43)—even “another kingdom … inferior” (2:39). Human governments are susceptible to division from within (2:41), weakened from their own internal frailties. And all human kingdoms will be vanquished by God’s eternal and unconquerable kingdom (2:44–45). God gives all leaders their positions of authority (2:37–38), and such power is a responsibility as much as it is a privilege. Those in power do well to heed these truths. While power and position tend to inflate the egos of human leaders, God calls those in public service to humbly steward their positions of authority as servants of God’s kingdom, caretakers of God’s creation, and decisive characters in human history.

Courage and Boldness. Just as Daniel had acted with wisdom and respect toward the steward (cf. 1:11–16), he displayed prudence and boldness before Arioch (2:14–15, 24). The honor and wisdom he had displayed before Nebuchadnezzar in the earlier episode (cf. 1:17–21) were mirrored in his humility and courage before the king (2:25–30). Daniel credited his wisdom and insight to God and thereby used his public role as a means to bear witness to the true God (2:28, 30, 36). The public-facing nature of Daniel’s faith was both grounded and reinforced by a private and prayerful communion with God and God’s people (2:17–19). Ultimately, Daniel’s faithfulness to God and public service of Nebuchadnezzar resulted in his promotion (2:48). He used his position as a means to appoint other God-fearing servants in Nebuchadnezzar’s government (2:49).

God’s Supremacy and Authority. This section of Daniel’s story reveals that “God is truly the God of gods and Lord of kings, the Revealer of Mysteries” (2:47). All wisdom and power belong to God (2:20). All rulers derive their authority from God (2:21; cf. Romans 13:1). All times and seasons are governed by God (2:21). All praise and glory is due to God alone (2:23). Rulers who possess authority must humbly reckon with these truths. Daniel lived in subservience to God’s all-sovereign and universal reign. All nations are subject to God’s prevailing rule over all the events and happenings in human history. All Christians should consider Daniel’s wise, humble, and bold example of serving the purposes of God in the civic affairs of Nebuchadnezzar’s kingdom. Fidelity to God’s eternal kingdom—a kingdom that, like the stone in Nebuchadnezzar’s dream, becomes a world-encompassing mountain—is the firm foundation of God-honoring leadership, public service, and citizenship.

Those Who Walk in Pride: Humbling Prideful Leaders Given to Self-Exaltation

Biblical Narrative (Daniel 4:1–37)

Some time later, Nebuchadnezzar had an experience that radically transformed his view of God and his understanding of his own position as a human ruler. In the end, this experience humbled the powerful Nebuchadnezzar (4:1) through a God-given sign (4:2) that confronted his flagrant human pride and displayed the glory of God’s eternal kingdom (4:3). Nebuchadnezzar was enjoying the ease and prosperity of a king’s life (4:4) when he had an alarming vision (4:5). The king of Babylon commanded all the wise men to come to explain his dream (4:6), but none of them could interpret it (4:7). Eventually, Daniel came and Nebuchadnezzar told him his dream, hopeful that his wisdom would be able to bring an interpretation (4:8–9, 18).

Nebuchadnezzar explained that he dreamed of a tree as high as heaven that was visible to the ends of the earth (4:10–11). It had beautiful leaves and abundant fruit (4:12). Animals took cover under its shade, birds found a home in its branches, and animals were fed by its fruit (4:12). An angel came from heaven (4:13) and commanded, “Cut down the tree and chop off its branches; strip off its leaves and scatter its fruit. Let the beasts flee from under it, and the birds from its branches” (4:14). The stump of the tree was left in the grass to be among the beasts (4:15). A watcher came from heaven and told Nebuchadnezzer that the mind of the man would become the mind of a beast for a time (4:16) in order to show that God is the ruler of all (4:17). Daniel was dismayed by what the dream meant for Nebuchadnezzar (4:19). The tree represented the strength and expanse of Nebuchadnezzar’s kingdom (4:20–22). The chopping of the tree represented that Nebuchadnezzar would be humbled, he would be driven from men, and he would eat in the field with the beasts until he came to know God as the supreme and sovereign ruler (4:23–26).

In light of this message, Daniel appealed to Nebuchadnezzar that he should repent from his sins and practice justice and righteousness (4:27). Nebuchadnezzar did not listen to Daniel’s appeal. Twelve months later, Nebuchadnezzar was walking on his palace roof and exalted in the glory and might of his kingdom (4:28–30). While he was still bragging, a voice from heaven told Nebuchadnezzar that he would dwell with and eat with the beasts of the field until he came to know God as the greatest ruler of all (4:31–32). Specifically, this humiliating experience would teach this prideful king that “the Most High rules over the kingdom of mankind and gives it to whom He wishes” (4:32). As Daniel foretold, God drove Nebuchadnezzar to the field with the beasts. His body became wet, his hair grew like the feathers of an eagle, and his nails became long like the claws of a bird (4:33). After a time, Nebuchadnezzar regained his human reason (4:34, 36), praised God as the true king of all (4:34–35, 37), recovered the splendor of his kingdom (4:36), and even experienced greater prosperity (4:36).

Biblical Principles

Danger of Pride and Self-Exaltation. In the midst of ease, luxury, wealth, power, and prosperity (4:4), human rulers tend toward self-exaltation (4:28–30). Forgetting that human rulers enjoy their positions of power and privilege only because God has determined it to be so (4:17, 25, 32, 35), successful leaders are tempted to say along with Nebuchadnezzar, “Is this not Babylon the Great, which I myself have built by the might of my power as a royal residence and for the glory of my majesty?” (4:30). Like Nebuchadnezzar, humans are prone to self-glorification, basking in accomplishments, plaudits, prestige, and human approval. Pride and self-exaltation inevitably lead to a person’s (and nation’s) downfall. Often taking credit for that which was given as a divine gift, human leaders easily forget that “the Most High rules over the kingdom of mankind and gives it to whom He wishes, setting over it the lowliest of men” (4:17; cf. 4:25, 32).

One key remedy to human pride is a reverence toward God as all-sovereign. All humans, leaders and citizens alike, must come to “acknowledge that Heaven rules” (4:26), God is sovereign over human kingdoms (4:17, 25, 32), his kingdom is eternal (4:34), and he appoints leaders to positions of authority as he wills (4:17, 25, 32, 35). All human fame, prosperity, and wealth are derived from God (4:26, 36). Compared to God, “all the peoples of the earth are counted as nothing” (4:35) and thus have no right for prideful self-exaltation. Humble acknowledgement of God’s rule leads us away from self-exaltation and encourages pure worship of God (4:34, 37). God’s supreme rule can foster the practice righteousness: to “break away from … sins by doing what is right, and from … iniquities by showing mercy to the oppressed” (4:27, cf. 4:37). This narrative episode warns humans of self-aggrandizing pride, appeals for our penitent humility, and alerts us to the fact that all will be held accountable before God.

Human Government as Provision for Human Flourishing. When humans rejoice in their accolades and bask in their earthly positions with a self-glorifying hubris, it can devastatingly lead to a selfish use of power. Unchecked human power leads to sin, unrighteousness, injustice, and oppression (4:27). As much as God establishes the lowly (4:17), he also humbles the proud (4:37). God not only removed the kingdom from the prideful Nebuchadnezzar but also humbled him to be like a beast of the field (4:13–17, 23–25, 31–33). On the contrary, those who occupy positions of authority with humility, gratitude, and accountability can serve the people under their care well. As detailed in the dream, Nebuchadnezzar’s kingdom experienced prosperity where it could serve as a place where people enjoyed protection, abundance, and provision (4:11–12, 20–22). Human government is a God-given institution to punish evil, protect the vulnerable, and promote righteousness (cf. Romans 13:3–5). The humiliating judgment of Nebuchadnezzar is a warning to all people who occupy positions of power and authority. Flagrant dismissals of God’s ultimate glory and power can too easily lead to painful abuse, tyranny, and oppression. God-honoring leaders and governments can institute policies and public life that facilitate human flourishing.

Handwriting on the Wall: Acknowledging One’s Accountability to God’s Righteous Judgment

Biblical Narrative (Daniel 5:1–31)

Eventually, Belshazzar came to power as the final king of the Babylonian Empire. After some time, “King Belshazzar held a great feast for a thousand of his nobles, and he drank wine with them” (5:1). Belshazzar commanded that the gold vessels from the Jerusalem temple be brought out and used for the feast (5:2; cf. 1:1–2). The king and his nobles used the gold vessels to drink and praised their false gods as they did so (5:3–4). At this moment, human fingers appeared and wrote on the wall (5:5). Belshazzar saw the hand write the message, and he was terrified: “his face grew pale and his thoughts so alarmed him that his hips gave way and his knees knocked together” (5:6). He called his wise men and promised that if someone could interpret the message, they would be promoted to the third ruler in the kingdom (5:7–8). None of the wise men could interpret the message, frightening Belshazzar and confounding his officials (5:9).

Around this time, the queen told Belshazzar about Daniel and how he had interpreted dreams for Nebuchadnezzar (5:10–12). By this time, God had established Daniel as an important figure in the Babylonian government. Daniel came before King Belshazzar, and the king told him his promise of gifts and promotion if Daniel could interpret the message (5:13–16). Daniel told the king that he did not need his gifts, but he would tell the interpretation (5:17). Daniel recounted to Belshazzar how God had humbled Nebuchadnezzar in his pride (5:18–21), then he warned Belshazzar that he had not humbled himself but had instead exalted himself against God, drank from the sacred vessels, and worshiped false gods (5:22–23).

The message written on the wall (5:24) had the following words: “Mene, Mene, Tekel, Parsin” (5:25). Daniel explained the “Mene” meant “God has numbered the days of your reign and brought it to an end” (5:26). “Tekel” meant Belshazzar had “been weighed on the scales and found deficient” (5:27). “Peres” meant his “kingdom has been divided and given over to the Medes and Persians” (5:28). Even though he did not ask for Belshazzar’s reward, “they clothed Daniel in purple, placed a gold chain around his neck, and proclaimed him the third highest ruler in the kingdom” (5:29). As for Belshazzar, God’s word came true. The same night, Belshazzar was killed (5:30), and Darius brought the kingdom of the Medes to power (5:31).

Biblical Principles

Exaltation, Accountability, and Humility. God distributes power, position, and prestige to human leaders (5:18). All human authority is derivative of the ultimate authority from “the Most High God [who] rules over the kingdom of mankind, setting over it whom He wishes” (5:21). God’s supremacy and sovereignty are fittingly expressed in Daniel’s words to Belshazzar: “God … holds in His hand your very breath and all your ways” (5:23). God establishes and rules over the rulers of the earth. He also sustains human life. To not acknowledge these realities can breed pride, self-exaltation, and failure to worship God (5:22–24). God is the one-and-only supreme God who is worthy of all worship, praise, and honor. God’s praiseworthy excellence also establishes him as a righteous judge. The story of Belshazzar warns human rulers (and human beings) that we are all accountable and answerable to God. Although Belshazzar knew how God humbled Nebuchadnezzar (5:18–21), he did not humble himself (5:22–23). Instead, Belshazzar used his position of authority for self-exaltation, defiance of God, and false worship (5:2–4, 23). Even though alarmed by the vision, Belshazzar relied on his power and authority (5:7, 13–16). What was true for Belshazzar is true for all earthly authorities. Eventually, every human leader will be scrutinized by the scales of God’s righteous judgment (5:27). The tenure of human rule is limited and will eventually come to an end, if not shortened because of an abuse of power (5:20–21, 26). As history unfolds, human kingdoms will be replaced with other human kingdoms (5:28) until God finally establishes his universal righteous reign over all creation.

The truths in this passage should guide how Christians approach government, power, and earthly authority. For those in positions of power, humility is an essential virtue (5:20, 22). In the grand scheme of history, every tenure of leadership is brief. Until the end of time, subsequent rulers will replace current rulers. No leader’s reign will last forever. Those in positions of leadership will also be held to stricter judgment. The divine scrutiny from a righteous God should curb pride and foster humility. Renouncing the idolatry and hubris of the surrounding culture, devoted believers live in a way that acknowledges God as sovereign ruler and judge above all. For citizens who live under human governments, humility is also required. In the end, God will bring all things to just fruition. Because God governs the universe, humans can live as faithful, respectful, and humble citizens in this world. Genuine faith in God is a powerful witness to the watching world. Faith that produces godly character is a further testimony of God’s supreme rule over his creation. As a leader or citizen, each believer should be warned by Belshazzar’s prideful idolatry and defiant blasphemy. To live as accountable and answerable to God is to foster humble and devoted worship to the God whose eternal kingdom will reign in the end and forevermore.

Divine Reversals. In response to the writing, Belshazzar was terrified: “His face grew pale and his thoughts so alarmed him that his hips gave way and his knees knocked together” (5:6). When the king’s wise men were unable to read or interpret the inscription, the king “became even more terrified, his face grew evenmore pale, and his nobles were bewildered” (5:9; cf. 5:10). His heightened fear was warranted in the end. In this scene, Belshazzar would become the object of God’s judgment (5:30). Belshazzar’s fear and the wise men’s confusion contrast with Daniel’s character, reputation, and wisdom. From the Babylonian perspective, Daniel was thought to have “the spirit of the holy gods” (5:11; cf. 5:14). He was also known as a man of “insight, intelligence, and wisdom like that of the gods” (5:11; cf. 5:14). Daniel represented God in a kingdom of blasphemy, idolatry, and sin. Although a Hebrew exile, Daniel’s humble and devoted service to God resulted in his promotion (5:29). Daniel’s wisdom and insight into the king’s dream exceeded that of the wise men of the Babylonian empire (5:8–12). Despite Belshazzar’s power and wealth, his pride led to his downfall. God can (and often does) work with dramatic reversals. God humbles the self-exalting and exalts the humble. God uses his wisdom (often perceived as foolishness to the world) to confound the wisdom of men. God brings powerful rulers to fear and emboldens his meek and unassuming servants. At a spiritual, social, and political level, false worship and pride turn the world upside down. God’s divine reversals are a means to set the world back into its rightful order and righteous design.

Servant of the Living God: Embracing Faithfulness to God as One’s Ultimate Loyalty

Biblical Narrative (Daniel 6:1–28)

Under the rule of King Darius, Daniel’s faith was put to the test once again. Daniel had been one of the three officials who oversaw other governors in the kingdom (6:1–2). Continuing to experience God’s favor, Daniel had an “extraordinary spirit” (6:3). His influence in the kingdom was great and “distinguished himself among the administrators and satraps” to the point that “the king planned to set him over the whole kingdom” (6:3). As Daniel’s promotions in the Babylonian political sphere continued, the other officials and governors tried to find something—“charge or corruption” (6:4)—of which to accuse Daniel (6:4). The officials were unable to charge Daniel of wrongdoing “because he was trustworthy, and no negligence or corruption was found in him” (6:4). As a result, they came to King Darius and convinced him to make a decree that no one should pray to any god other than the king for thirty days (6:6–9). If anyone disobeyed this edict, they would be thrown into a den of lions (6:7). They had Darius sign the decree so that it could not be changed (6:8–9). Because these officials were unable to charge Daniel with legal misconduct, they plotted to use his religious devotion against him.

Daniel knew that the king had signed a document that forbade prayer to God (6:10). Following his custom (a custom of praying three times a day), Daniel went home and prayed before his open windows (6:10). The men saw Daniel praying and told King Darius that Daniel had disobeyed the decree (6:11–13). King Darius was distressed and wanted to set Daniel free (6:14), but the men reminded the king that his edict could not be changed (6:15). Daniel was thrown into the den of lions. The king told Daniel he hoped the God he served would deliver him: “May your God, whom you serve continually, deliver you!” (6:16). They set a stone over the den, and the king sealed it (6:17). Showing concern for Daniel, King Darius went back to his palace and fasted all night (6:18).

In the morning, the king hurried to the den (6:19) to see if Daniel was alive (6:20). King Darius said, “O Daniel, servant of the living God, has your God, whom you serve continually, been able to deliver you from the lions?” (6:20). Daniel explained how God sent an angel to close the mouths of the lions (6:21–22). The king was overjoyed and brought Daniel out of the den (6:23). Then, the king had Daniel’s accusers (and their families) thrown into the den of lions (6:24). King Darius wrote a decree that all people should worship Daniel’s God (6:25–26). He told them that Daniel’s God is the living God whose kingdom is forever (6:26) and he has the power to deliver (6:27). After this, “Daniel prospered during the reign of Darius and the reign of Cyrus the Persian” (6:28).

Biblical Principles

Serving God Above All. Daniel exemplifies what it means to serve God above all. While Daniel served the human governments under which he lived, he did not allow their decrees or edicts to erode his faith (cf. Acts 5:29). Daniel was blameless in character (6:4–5, 22), courageous in his piety (6:10), and trusting of God’s protection (6:23). Daniel’s exemplary faith and courageous devotion resulted in God’s continued favor in his life (6:28). Daniel had experienced this divine favor before. In this narrative, Daniel simply applied what he learned about God during previous episodes of his life. Because Daniel had experienced the Lord’s faithfulness and provision, Daniel willingly put his life on the line. Although Daniel was respectful to human authorities, his ultimate allegiance was to God. Regardless of which human leader signed a decree, Daniel would not abandon praying to God. Albeit he was never king, Daniel enjoyed longevity, prosperity, and protection that no other king experienced. An exiled Israelite, Daniel served God in the public sector without compromise or accommodation, enjoying God’s sustaining favor. Daniel’s life and public service provide testimony to all generations of what it looks like to serve God above all. A model of discipleship and Christian citizenship, Daniel’s model life encourages us to fulfill our civic duty, honor our leaders, and give our ultimate loyalty to God alone.

Living God and Continual Devotion. Daniel’s exemplary faith was a testimony that God “is the living God” who “endures forever” and whose “kingdom will never be destroyed, and His dominion will never end” (6:26). God alone “delivers and rescues” (6:27; cf. 6:20). God performs miraculous signs in heaven and earth (6:27). God’s supernatural protection of Daniel in the den of lions was only one instance of God’s powerful and saving work (6:27). The king’s wish that Daniel’s God whom he served continually would deliver him (6:16, 20) came to fruition. Daniel’s continual service of God is motivated by God’s living character, eternal nature, redemptive work, and unconquerable rule. To practice one’s faith in the public sector is a test of one’s devotion to God and a testimony of God himself. Genuine trust in the living God is an unashamed faith in a God who never fails his people. Our devotion to God can be continual because God is ever on his throne. Daniel’s life as a follower of God and vocational service in the Babylonian empire helps us make our faith continual and visible to the watching world.

Conclusion

Daniel’s story offers a dramatic picture of faithful participation in the public sector. Daniel (and his friends) exhibited a distinctive faith commitment to God while they actively engaged in Babylonian public, civic, and political life. The first dream Daniel interpreted for Nebuchadnezzar emphasized the fragility of human governments and the sovereign power of God’s kingdom. Daniel interpreted another dream for Nebuchadnezzar that confronted his pride and self-exaltation. When King Belshazzar came to power, Daniel interpreted the handwriting that appeared on the wall and showed that all human rulers will be held accountable to God. When another king, Darius, came to power, Daniel put his life on the line by defying the king’s edict when it threatened to compromise his faith. Through his life and public service, Daniel was a faithful servant of God who wisely, prudently, and uncompromisingly lived out his faith in surrounding society.

It is easy for Christians to react in two extremes when it comes to our engagement with society. While total assimilation into society threatens the integrity of one’s faith, staunch isolationism sidelines disciples from opportunities to minister to the surrounding world. Like Daniel demonstrated, living out one’s faith in the public sector requires wisdom, integrity, character, and conviction. These virtues are not easily acquired. But when faithful Christians are employed as God’s servants in governmental, political, and public life, it not only galvanizes the faith of God’s people in a crucible of testing but also provides a compelling witness of the faith to the unbelieving world.

Session Synopsis

SESSION 5 SYNOPSIS
Public Life	In this passage, we learn about the public life of the Christian faith. This narrative takes place during the Babylonian exile. God had judged his people by removing them from the land to live in the foreign empire of Babylon. Faithful Hebrew youths—Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah (renamed Belteshazzar, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego)—demonstrated a distinctive faith in Babylon. They became servants in the king’s court. Daniel ended up interpreting dreams for Nebuchadnezzar and Belshazzar. He also defied an ungodly decree of King Darius. He was thrown into a lion’s den, and God protected him. Throughout this narrative, the faithful Hebrews demonstrated how to live in devotion to God in the midst of a surrounding culture opposed to God. They helped to reveal key principles on earthly government, human authority, and God’s kingdom. A summary of this story’s principles is outlined below.
God’s Kingdom	God is supreme and sovereign (2:47) over all truth, times, and earthly powers (1:2; 2:20–23). God’s kingdom operates and functions in the world and in human history (4:17, 25–26, 32; 5:21). God rules heaven and earth (2:18, 19, 28, 35, 37, 44; 4:13; 17, 37; 5:22; 6:27). His rule is all-just (4:37), all-gracious (6:20–23, 27; cf. 3:29), all-powerful (2:20), unconquerable (2:44–45; 6:26), and eternal (2:44; 4:3, 34; 6:26).
Human Government	All human authority is appointed by God. God appoints people to positions of power and prestige (2:21, 37–38; 4:17, 25–26, 32, 35–36; 5:18, 21, 23; cf. Romans 13:1). Human governments should recognize that their authority (2:21, 37, 38; 4:17, 25, 32, 35; 5:18–19, 21, 30) and prosperity (4:27, 36; 5:18–19) come from God. Human governments should provide protection (2:38; 4:10–12, 20–22, 36) and peace (4:1; 6:25) for their citizens. They should reflect God’s righteous rule (4:27) and defend the vulnerable (4:27). Human governments should be shown human respect but never worshiped. (2:4; 5:10; 6:6). They should recognize their lowly human status (4:17). They should also acknowledge their limited, temporary, deficient, and fragile authority (2:31–33, 37–43; 4:13–15, 23, 26–27, 31; 5:20–21, 27–28, 31), knowing that they will be judged by God (5:27).
Dangers of Human Power	Unchecked human power leads to sin. Human leaders can be prone to many sinful dangers: fear and insecurity (2:1–15; 4:5; 5:6, 9, 10), abuse of power (2:1–15), conceit that leads to ease and prosperity (4:4–5), pride and self-exaltation (4:22, 28–30; 5:20, 22–24), wickedness and iniquity (4:27), oppression and injustice (4:27), pleasure and indulgence (5:1–4, 23), crowd and fame (5:1), blasphemy and dishonor (5:2–4, 23), idolatry and false worship (4:2, 5:2–4, 23), ignorance of God’s work not know redemptive history (5:10–12), not heeding redemptive history (5:22), a sense of entitlement (5:2), wealth (5:16–17), and disloyal servants (6:6–10).
Leadership and Power	The formation of godly leadership begins in one’s youth (1:4). Human leaders should embrace their smallness and dependence upon God (4:23, 35), know that God rules above all (4:25–26, 32), ground themselves in God’s unerring truth (5:7–9, 15), and recognize their great responsibility before God and to others (2:36–38). God-honoring leaders should make laws and policies in alignment with God’s law (2:5–6, 10, 13, 15, 24; 4:6, 17, 24, 27; 5:29; 6:7–9, 12–13, 15, 16, 17, 23; 6:25). Human leaders should anticipate the future (2:28–29) and God’s judgment (5:27). Human leaders should be humble now or humbled later (4:15–17, 23–25, 32–33, 37; 5:20–21). Human leaders should embody humility, honor God, and practice repentance (2:46; 4:27, 34, 37; 6:26).
Public Faith	Christians should view themselves as exiles in this world (1:1–2; 2:25; 5:13; 6:13). Believers should function as active respectful citizens and members in society (1:6–8, 12, 14–21) and seek to contribute to society with wise intervention and righteous influence (1:3–4; 2:14–16, 18, 24; 6:1–2, 22). Christians should embrace meaningful roles in society and government (1:5, 19–21; 2:48–49). Christians should live a distinct life of uncompromising faith in deep trust (6:22–23), complete devotion (6:10, 16, 20), godly character (1:8; 5:11, 14; 6:3–5, 20, 22), genuine humility (2:28, 30; 5:20, 22), heartfelt compassion (2:18; 4:19), bold initiative (1:8, 11–16; 2:14–15, 24–30; 6:10), and wise discernment (1:4, 11–17, 20; 2:14–15, 24; 5:11, 14). Christians should make themselves fit for civic engagement: physical appearance/condition (1:3, 10–17), armed with special revelation (1:17, 2:19, 21–23, 25, 30, 36, 47; 4:8–9; 5:11–12, 14; 6:3), and competent for service (1:14–19). God’s continued favor, promotion (2:48–49; 5:29; 6:1–2, 28), and redemptive security (6:20, 27) remain over his people in the midst of hostile circumstances.
Divine Favor	Christians should recognize God’s hand in any success they have: longevity (1:21; 2:46–49; 4:18–19; 5:18–23, 29–31; 6:28), quality (1:18–21; 2:27; 4:6–9, 18; 5:11, 15–16; 6:3), and advocacy (1:9; 6:14, 18, 19–20, 23). Christians should be unenamored with wealth, gifts, or special tokens (5:16–17). Christians should galvanize/arm their faith with spiritual disciplines of prayer (2:18, 20–23; 6:10–11, 13), praise (2:20), thanks (2:23; 6:10), confession (2:20, 28), community discernment, (2:17), and testimony (4:2). Christians should prepare for tests of faith (1:8–21), expect (concerted and hostile) opposition (6:4–9, 11–13, 24), look forward to God’s certain deliverance (6:20–23), and expect the eventual judgment of wicked (6:24). God establishes the lowly (4:17), and humbles the proud (4:13–17, 23–25, 31–33, 37; 5:18–23). The wisdom of God exceeds the wisdom of men (1:19–20; 5:8–12).

Personal Reflection: Entering the Story

Apply the Text: The word of God is binding and authoritative, the only reliable guide for faith and godliness. True disciples submit themselves to God’s word. In this movement, you will apply God’s word to your lives.

Reflection Questions

Encourage one person to share a testimony about how this story has impacted them so far. Use the reflection questions to examine your life in light of this biblical passage.

Spiritual Practice

Manifesto of Responsibility

Consider the example of Daniel as he practiced his faith in the public sector. Reflect on the principles that define a godly approach to politics and public life. Write a manifesto (i.e., a statement) that defines your responsibility and approach to public life from a Christian perspective.

Ministry Practice: Rehearsing the Script

Minister the Text: God’s word is living and active. Through God’s word, the Christian community is edified. In this movement, you will utilize the biblical passage to minister to other believers and build them up in their faith.

Application Questions

Look at the infographic below. Use the questions to think about how to minister this text to other believers.

Missional Outreach: Publicizing the Truth

Witness the Text: The Bible is a message of God’s gracious salvation to the world. In word and deed, God’s people proclaim the good news of the gospel. In this movement, you will use this biblical passage to reach out to unbelievers.

Strategy Questions

Reflect on the infographic below. Consider how you can use this passage to witness to the surrounding world. Use the suggested ideas to prime your imagination. Then, put together a plan to share this passage with unbelievers, Afterward, reflect on this mission experience.