Bogue United Methodist Church

08/02/2026

07/30/2026

Sermon and sermon questions for Sunday, August, 2nd, 10th Sunday after Pentecost:

Terrifying Vision
Daniel 8: 1-17, 19-22, 26-27

Dear Lord, we thank you for being faithful throughout all our lives and history, but also into the future. Your promises tell us that we are yours and that we need not fear the rulers of this world. You are the one who determines who reigns and who does not. Further, we are reminded that prophecy applies across history, prepares us for trials, and points to God’s ultimate timing. Let us not only understand this from our scripture today, but trust in its truth. In the name of Christ, with the Spirit, we pray. Amen.

Daniel 8 is the next apocalyptic, prophetic vision in the book, written in Hebrew and requiring an angel interpreter to explain it to him. It continues the theme of God’s sovereignty and power over the rulers of this world. As well as God’s dominion over history and assurance that God’s plan is always best, even if at times it seems unlikely. In this terrifying vision we see two forces battle against one another for control over the ancient Middle East. Although similar to Chapter 7, there are some interesting details that are slightly different, and also, once again, the symbolism of these forces is important.
So let us begin our deep dive into Chapter 8. Probably one of the most interesting aspects of this vision is where it takes place. That it is not in Babylon but in the royal residence of Persian Kings in the city of Susa. Today, this is a region of Iran near the Persian Gulf. One might wonder why Daniel was there. He is standing near the river Ulai, which runs through the center of the village. A sidebar is that the word used for river in this text can also be translated to mean “gate,” as well as river. We hear both terms used in this scripture today. It is also interesting to note that throughout the Old Testament, a visionary or prophet often stands on a riverbank in the vision. Rivers, canals, and lakes were known as meeting places for the displaced people of Israel while in captivity, but also as places where many were put to work, as agriculture was the lifeblood of Mesopotamia and required massive human effort to maintain the canals and irrigation systems. So, the symbolism of the river as the gate or place where the battle of the two forces takes place may have a deeper meaning to those who read this scripture during the time of Daniel. The writing of this story very well may have taken place shortly after the desecration of the Holy Temple by Antiochus, whom I spoke about last week. The Roman ruler who was disrespectful to God and the Jewish people.
Another interesting aspect is the two creatures chosen to represent the battling foes. The Ram, which in Babylonian astrological thinking was symbolic of Persia. They used the ram motif in much of their architecture and decorations. The Persian Empire at the time, under Cyrus, was one unlike what the world had known before. Its territorial expansion extended from Athens in Greece to Scythia, a territory of the Soviet Union, and into Egypt. The ram was the symbol of Aries, under which the Persians were located. While the goat is under Capricorn and was related to Syria. However, it is widely argued to be a metaphor for Alexander the Great. Although Antiochus adopted the Syrian kingdom as his homeland, so it might have been referring to him instead, but most biblical scholars believe it to be Alexander. And since in chapter 7, we know the small horn is identified as Antiochus, we might understand why the Goat would be Alexander and the horn in this vision may be thought of as Antiochus. Either way, it is clear that two world forces are about to hit head-to-head, and only one will come out as the victor. Historically, we might understand it as meaning Greece, because without this “middle empire,” representing Alexander the Great, we would not have Rome that followed. Again, it is a vision, and the deeper prophetic symbolism of the battle between the two is what is most important. In addition, like chapter 7, chapter 8 leaves an open-endedness that allows modern readers to interpret with current forces that push against God’s will.
We also know historically that although Cyrus’ kingdom was undoubtedly extraordinary, with the coming of Alexander the Great – who, by the way, personal symbol was the unicorn, and the goat is described as having one horn – Alexander’s victory over Persia was absolute. Thus, the battle between the two creatures, in which all others were powerless to help the ram. By this time, Alexander had already established himself as the coming conquering warrior and the leader of Greece.
Yet, we now come to another theological and interpretive fork in the road. We know that on the way back to Greece, Alexander falls and his kingdom is split into four kingdoms. Out of which Antiochus arises. The little horn, as presented in chapter 7. Many scholars believe that this is the rise of Antiochus and the Roman Empire, because Antiochus inherits a broken kingdom from which he “grows exceedingly great.” In many ways, his excesses are recorded here. Historically, he was blasphemous to God through the Holy Temple. He not only desecrated the temple by stopping daily sacrifices and setting up a false idol in the temple, making it unusable for worship, but he also ordered the destruction and burning of all copies of the Torah. We also witness a spiritual and earthly battle between the “hosts of heaven” and this little horn. The important question summarized in this part of the chapter is “how long?” How long will evil reign? How long will this horn rule? Although the question is answered, it is not so much the answer as that it was answered. The apocalyptic literature does attempt to answer the agonizing questions in an effort to comfort the suffering under the heels of oppression and tyrannical regime. Further, the answer comes through two “holy ones,” who bring forth the appearance of Gabriel, the first time in scripture that an angel is given a name. Another side note here: although archangels Michael and Gabriel are often thought to be separate entities, there is some theological argument over whether, in Daniel, they are the same. However, many believe it is the angel Michael who introduces Daniel to Gabriel, and we will see Michael reemerge in the following chapters. See, there is much to be left to interpretation and imagination, and that is why I want to caution to never read too much into apocalyptic literature, always remembering that when it was visioned and written, it was for a specific situation and cultural background.
In this scripture, we see God’s authority and truth challenged by false teachings and blasphemous behavior. But God is Divine; His kingdom will have no end. And all authority in heaven and on earth is given to only one, Jesus Christ our Lord. We are reminded of this truth in Daniel 8. When we are living in the truth, it means we are being in Christ. How do we know we are in Christ? We know we are living in the truth of Christ when our thoughts, words, and actions are shaped by His Word, guided by the Spirit, marked by obedience, and produce love and freedom. This is not just belief—it is a life lived in step with Him. This means abiding in Christ’s Word, dwelling in him, and he in us. Remaining obedient to his commandments. Being guided by the Holy Spirit, which will lead us to reject falsehoods and embrace truth. When we are set free from the bo***ge of sin by rejecting evil schemes. Seeing the fruits of the Spirit growing in us, including loving God and others. And finally, trusting fully in the promises of God. If we can see ourselves in all of these, then we are in Christ. And it is okay if you still need a little work in getting there… that’s why we continue to worship, learn, and pray together.
Thus, we must remain determined to wait and follow Christ until the second coming. For it is the divine will that prevails. In our scripture today, when the two “holy ones” speak, they use the word “holy,” which in Hebrew means set apart or separated. The holy people of God are set apart and separated for God’s work. However, God is also set apart and separated as holy – the divine. In the Old Testament, repeatedly we hear that we cannot look upon the full presence of God without dying. As Jorge Conzales shares, “Perhaps our modern minds can best understand the concept of the holiness of God if we think at the Holy of Holies in the temple of Jerusalem as if it were marked with a sign that said, “DANGER! HIGH VOLTAGE! Or DO NOT ENTER! RADIOACTIVE!” That, in all reality, should be far more terrifying than any vision. It should also make us desire to trust in God, with fear and trembling, as with respect and reverence. It is also a valuable reminder as both a historical record and spiritual encouragement to trust in God’s plan amid any uncertainties of the world. Because it will not be world powers that bring the ultimate peace and reconciliation to the world. Not America, not Israel, not Ukraine, not even world alliances such as the United Nations. It will be God.

Daniel's vision is terrifying because it tells the truth about earthly power: kingdoms rise, rulers boast, holy things are violated, and God's people suffer. Yet it also tells a greater truth: evil is never eternal. Every empire reaches its limit. Every tyrant's reign comes to an end. God alone determines the boundaries of history, and God's kingdom alone will endure.
Like Daniel, we may not understand everything we see. We may even feel overwhelmed by the violence, uncertainty, and injustice around us. But faith does not require us to decipher every symbol or predict every event. Faith calls us to remain steadfast - abiding in Christ, listening to the Spirit, resisting falsehood, loving our neighbors, and trusting God's promises.
So, when we find ourselves asking, "How long, O Lord?" let us remember that God hears the question. God has not abandoned the world or surrendered it to the powerful. In Jesus Christ, God has already entered the struggle, confronted sin and death, and promised that neither will have the final word.
Therefore, let us live as God's holy people: set apart not from the needs of the world, but for God's work within it. Let us face uncertain times without despair, earthly powers without idolatry, and evil without surrender. Empires will rise and fall, but the reign of God will have no end. Our hope is not in rulers, armies, nations, or alliances. Our hope is in the Lord, who was faithful to Daniel, who is faithful to us now, and who will remain faithful forever.
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Now, let us turn our thoughts and hope to the table of grace, of which God offers freely to us…..
Sermon Questions for Terrifying Vision:

• Daniel's vision reveals that earthly kingdoms rise and fall, but God's kingdom endures forever. How does this truth affect the way you view current world events and political leaders?

• The sermon reminds us not to become consumed with interpreting every detail of apocalyptic prophecy. Why do you think trusting God's character is more important than knowing every future event?

• What does it mean in your daily life to be "set apart" as one of God's holy people? What are some practical ways Christians can live differently from the world around them?

• The sermon describes living "in Christ" as having our thoughts, words, and actions shaped by God's Word and guided by the Holy Spirit. Which of these areas challenges you the most, and why?

• Daniel's vision asks the question, "How long?" in the face of suffering and injustice. Have you ever found yourself asking God that same question? How does God's promise of ultimate victory give you hope during difficult seasons?


• The sermon concludes that our hope is not found in nations, rulers, or military power, but in the Lord alone. What are some modern "earthly powers" that people are tempted to trust more than God, and how can we keep Christ at the center of our hope?

07/23/2026

Sermon and sermon questions for Sunday, July 26th:

An Everlasting Kingdom
(Daniel 7: 1-10b, 11-15, 19, 21-22, 28)
Dear God, we thank you for being the One who can do all things and conquer evil. We shall look to you for all we need, and we shall rely on you completely. For Yours is an everlasting Kingdom that one day, at the end of time, we shall all share in. Help us hear this valuable lesson from Daniel today. In the name of Christ with the Spirit. Amen.

As I shared last week, if you watched online or were here with us, I mentioned that we are getting into the section of Daniel that might be called apocalyptic, and it is a series of dreams or visions that Daniel has. This particular one in chapter 7, befuddles Daniel, and he asks for help in interpreting it. It is interesting that Daniel was capable of interpreting others’ dreams, but not his own; of course, whether interpreting others’ or his own, God is who does the actual interpreting. So, in this case, an attendant assists Daniel in understanding the truth of his vision, particularly concerning the final beast.
Chapter 7 is the first of four visions that Daniel recorded in chapters 7-12. In this great chapter, Daniel reveals the consecutive history of four major world empires, concluding with the coming of Jesus Christ from heaven and the establishment of His kingdom-a fifth kingdom. Thus, it provides a framework for more detailed revelation of these kingdoms that follows in the Book of Daniel and in the New Testament, especially in the Book of Revelation. Chapter 7 gives more information about the first four kingdoms that Daniel had already revealed in chapter 2, where the kingdoms are envisioned as various metals in the fearsome statue of Nebuchadnezzar’s dream.
The actual interpretation and understanding of the creatures and the vision is fairly simple, and I will get to that soon, but first a little background and understanding. As mentioned, this is apocalyptic literature. Apocalypse means to unveil or revelation. Although this scripture, as well as the book of Revelation in the Bible, are widely associated with one another and are often seen as an interpretation of the end of the world, we will see in Daniel that his vision has specific historical events in mind that concern the Jewish people. Although we do have verses 26-27 that state and seem to imply the end of days:
“Then the court shall sit in judgment,
and his dominion shall be taken away,
to be consumed and totally destroyed.
27 The kingship and dominion
and the greatness of the kingdoms under the whole heaven
shall be given to the people of the holy ones of the Most High;
their kingdom shall be an everlasting kingdom,
and all dominions shall serve and obey them.”
So, the fourth beast will be dispatched by the “Most High,” and His kingdom will be shared with His people and those who serve and obey. But more of that in a moment as well.
As I said, Daniel 7 is often thought of as a prequel to Revelation, particularly parts of chapters 4, 13, 17, and 19. It is also often thought of as the heart of the book, not only because it is the middle chapter, but because it is the capstone between chapters 2-6 and 8-11, and these chapters are often believed to be written together at about the same time. Also, if you remember (and it is okay if you don’t), we began with Hebrew as the language in which the book was written; that changed to Aramaic, and it is in chapter 7 that we revert back to Hebrew. This might seem like a rather mundane fact, but it is important because the change indicates the importance of the audience it is addressing: the Jewish people. When the chapters were written in Aramaic, although it was the most common language of the day, they addressed the Babylonian people (although the message was for all people). Now, God is offering a vision of hope to the captive Jewish exiles through the Hebrew language. In addition, although this vision supposedly occurred during the reign of Belshazzar, who wasn’t really a king, in about 555-556 bc the actual writing of Daniel probably took place during the control of Antiochus around 168 bc. Antiochus is the Greek leader who brought about great persecution upon the Jewish people and represents the final kingdom.
One final note before we look at the dream and interpretation, and then why Daniel 7 is important for us today, is that much of what we hear in this vision/dream is similar to Babylonian myth and epics. Such as the Enuma Elish, which is the story of the battle between Marduk, the main god of Babylon, and Tiamat, the dragon of chaos. Like many of the elements of Daniel’s dream, which parallels Revelation, so do many of the verses in the Enuma Elish. Specifically, the dragon emerges from the ocean, which has always been seen as an image of disorder and fear, full of danger and unknown creatures, always trying to burst out of its boundaries. But also, Marduk prevails over Tiamat, as the Most High shall over the monsters from the depths.
Now, let us examine the vision itself, and then discuss why it is important for us today.
As I said, the vision is pretty easy to understand, although it is described as being troubling to Daniel’s spirit. The four beasts quite simply represent four Empires that in turn will reign over the captive Jewish people, beginning with the Babylonians, represented by the Lion with eagle’s wings — demonstrating its swift, predatory nature and eventual transformation into a human-like ruler, referring to the story of Nebuchadnezzar becoming like an animal and then glorifying God and returning to a human nature. Next was the Bear raised on one side, representing Medo-Persia, with three ribs in its mouth, symbolizing its strength and territorial expansion. Then, the Leopard with four wings and four heads, which was the kingdom of Greece, with rapid conquests and division into four kingdoms. Finally, there is the Fourth beast, an undefined animal, which is Rome: terrifying and strong, with iron teeth and ten horns, representing a powerful, oppressive empire. Each beast’s description reveals the animalistic, self-serving character of human kingdoms, in contrast to the moral and spiritual order of God’s kingdom. Further, their coming from the ocean implicates spiritual/mythical warfare between the winds of heaven and the sea. The winds of heaven were a part of God’s arsenal of weapons. Thus, theologically, this battle is between good and evil.

Further, the fourth beast is the one who brings pure destruction. The original ten horns are often thought of as the smaller 10 regions that developed between the end of the reign of Greece and the coming of the Roman Empire, and the little horn is meant to represent Antiochus IV. The one whose speech is arrogant and blasphemous toward God. However, much like many who interpret Revelation, the elasticity of Daniel's symbols lends itself to filling in the blanks with whatever power is in opposition to God at the time of the reader's life. However, I would caution how we use this, as some may see the U.S.A. as the little horn today! I’ll offer an example. When I was in High School and had the opportunity to tour Sweden as a Swedish Dancer, we were representing the U.S. However, we were cautioned not to wander from our group, to remain in our subgroups whenever we went somewhere, and to let someone know where we were going. When we were in Stockholm, the capital of Sweden, we were followed by what was essentially their FBI. One reason was that we were performing for the king, but also because, at that time, there was some disillusionment with America by certain groups in Sweden. There were posters around the area showing an octopus with U.S.A. across its forehead, engulfing the world with its tentacles. It was a bit of a strange feeling to realize that we might be seen as an enemy by such a neutral country as Sweden. So, although one might be able to interpret Daniel, as well as some of Revelation, as things happening currently, and I myself have made the statement of “just read Revelation, the Bible tells us of what will happen,” I also still caution reading too much into it (or interpreting it incorrectly). Considering we are most certain that the author of Daniel was trying to provide positive imagery for the Jews suppressed and in captivity under the Roman Empire and specifically the prosecutive reign of Antiochus. Similar to Revelation, John was writing to the followers of Jesus who were being hunted down, tortured, imprisoned, or worse, trying to share the good news that victory would be theirs in the coming of Christ. Which is also the good news we share. And likewise, the good news that Daniel shares by the vision of “the Son of Man.”

This is because although the powers of the earth exist, they have lost all dominion, because it is the Ancient of Days who determines and controls everything. Important to understand because of political skepticism and radical faith, which leads us to see that although they may think they remain ruling in this realm, the reality is that they do not. Their defeat is already written. And by the way, this is all earthly power! As the New Interpreter’s Bible Commentary states, “The rationale for rendering the empires powerless, instead of obliterating them, is because authority is given to the mysterious one who is now introduced, the “one like a human being. (vs. 13-14)” Our heavenly representative appointed by the source of heavenly authority, the Ancient of Days, God. Although most scholars certainly believe this human being is Jesus, some will argue it is archangel Michael, who is mentioned elsewhere later in Daniel. Whoever it is, through the battle that is fought, heaven claims the victory, and thus the right to rule. Bringing an everlasting kingdom.

Although we are aware that Daniel remains distressed over the vision after its interpretation, he keeps the matter to himself. Perhaps because after experiencing such a vision of holiness and power, one might be left in fearsome awe? Leaving us with another example of the struggle for peace and justice in a world that seeks power. Thus, Daniel may be asking us to examine the idea that fearing the Lord is far more than avoiding sin; it becomes about learning to want the right things. Do the right things. When we fear, respect, follow, and trust God, our hearts are reoriented. Replacing self-centeredness, ambition, and selfishness with humility, empathy, and care. When we fear God, our desires begin to bend toward His will and goodness. Therefore, a question we might need to ask ourselves is what “beastly” patterns still live in our culture – or even within our own hearts? And further, what would it look like for Christ’s kingdom to burn those away without destroying us? Purifying our hearts for God’s work.

Daniel 7 may very well be one of the most powerful chapters in all the Bible, even more so than Revelation. Daniel's vision reminds us that the kingdoms of this world are temporary, but the Kingdom of God is everlasting. Evil, pride, and the pursuit of power may seem overwhelming for a time, but they will never have the final word. Christ, the Son of Man, already reigns, and His victory is certain. Actually, His victory has already taken place. So let us not place our hope in earthly powers or live by the "beastly" ways of this world. Instead, let us surrender our hearts to God, allowing Him to shape us into people of humility, justice, mercy, and love. As we live faithfully under the rule of the Ancient of Days, we do so with confidence, knowing that His everlasting Kingdom is our true home.

Sermon Questions for An Everlasting Kingdom

• Daniel's vision contrasts the kingdoms of this world with God's everlasting Kingdom. What are some ways people today are tempted to place their trust in earthly power, success, or security instead of in God?

• The four beasts represent kingdoms driven by pride, power, and self-interest. What "beastly" attitudes or behaviors do you see in our culture today? Which of these can also find their way into our own hearts?

• The sermon reminds us that Christ has already won the victory. How does knowing that God's Kingdom will ultimately prevail give you hope when facing uncertainty, injustice, or suffering?


• Daniel was troubled by his vision, yet he continued to trust God. Can you think of a time when you did not understand what God was doing but chose to remain faithful? What did you learn from that experience?

• The sermon suggests that fearing God means allowing Him to reshape our desires from selfish ambition toward humility, mercy, and love. In what area of your life is God currently inviting you to surrender your own will to His?

• If God's Kingdom is your true home, how should that change the way you live this week? What is one practical way you can reflect the values of Christ's everlasting Kingdom—in your family, workplace, church, or community?

07/17/2026

Sermon and sermon questions for Sunday, July 19th, 8th Sunday after Pentecost:

Out of the Lion’s Den
(Daniel 6:1-4a, 6-7, 10-12a, 13-16, 19-22, 24a, 25-26, 28)
Dear God,
We hope we never find ourselves in the lion’s den, but if we do, let us have the courage and trust that Daniel had to maintain our faith. The truth is that we may never have a literal lion’s den we must face, but every day we fight the lions of evil that prowl this earth. Help us to face them, and let us hear the valuable lesson this story shares with us. We pray in Jesus’ name through the Spirit. Amen.

This is our last story about Daniel concerning his encounters with various kings who ruled over him during his time in Babylon. Next week, we will begin the portion of Daniel and his own dreams; those chapters are far less familiar to most people. However, this week we are probably looking at the most familiar story of Daniel, aside from the three in the fiery furnace. Daniel in the Lion’s Den. I hope to offer some valuable insight into this well-known tale, but also some interesting background information.
But before I get started on that, I wish to share with you that much of what we know of Daniel does not come from this little book in the Old Testament, but rather from outside historical sources and the books of the Apocrypha. The books of the Apocrypha are not included in our biblical Canon, but they are included in most Catholic Bibles. Although we do not normally study these books, they offer us additional stories about Daniel’s encounters, including what are often considered fables, such as Bel and the Dragon, but also stories of interest, such as Susanna, as well as more history of the time and poetry. Therefore, their value is immeasurable, and although not part of our Protestant background, they are important when contemplating Daniel. Although I have not specifically referenced the Apocrypha, much of the material and history used for this sermon series has.
Now, let us get started. Our story this week has two main focuses of interest. First is the meaning of nonviolent resistance. As we have worked through several of the first six chapters, we have repeatedly seen this as an underlying truth of Daniel and his companions. Second is the reaction to injustice, in particular the violence that can result from righteousness. This is a hard concept, one that is repeated often in the Old Testament, and we will spend some time exploring it.
So, like many of our other ruler characters, Darius is an interesting one, particularly as the historical model of the empathetic king towards Daniel in particular and the Jews in general. However, it is also fruitless to try to force the folklore of Daniel to fit what we know of the actual circumstances of Persian history with the Jewish exile. Darius came at least 100 years after Nebuchadnezzar and Cyrus. Daniel would have had to have been a really old man. Darius might have been chosen because, during his reign, he defended the Jewish reconstruction work under Zerubbabel, as we read in the Book of Ezra. We also see another familiar theme, very similar to chapter 3 and the fiery furnace, of how jealousy and concern with power, particularly concerning ethnic and religious tensions, cause people to act out inappropriately. The Satraps and Sarkins, or the governors and chief administrators over the governors, didn’t like Daniel. Just a side note, although the story tells us there were 120 of these Satraps, we know, in fact, that there were only about 30. Anyway, here, I am assuming a lot, but I suspect it is much like our political tensions today. Particularly towards those who are trying not to be caught up in the games and money, who often find themselves the butt of jokes or the target of harassment. Daniel was on the up and up, kept his books in order, ran a tight ship, and whatever other metaphor you want to share concerning doing an amazing job of running his satrapies. As Jorge Gonzalas states in his book Daniel A Tract for Troubled Times, these courtiers who are “devoured by jealousy…find a ground for complaint…(realizing) that the only way (Daniel) is vulnerable to the wrath of the king is by placing royal authority in a collision course with Daniel’s loyalty to Yahweh.” And because of this, they conspire, or trick, or, as the Aramaic puts it, ‘they came in a throng to crowd in on the king’; thus, they convince King Darius to issue an edict forbidding Daniel to pray to or worship his God. There is absolutely no doubt in my mind that they knew Daniel did this three times a day, every day. Not only was this edict a prohibition of worshipping anything other than the king, but it also carried a heavy price. An interesting thing to note here is that, unlike Nebuchadnezzar, although an edict has been given to worship something other than the One True God, Darius most likely was not thrilled with the idea, and when Daniel is brought to him by the conspirators, Darius is “distraught,” while Nebuchadnezzar in chapter 3 is vengeful and angry.
Therefore, we see the first of our focus items in Daniel’s disobedience to the known and clear edict. Yet, he breaks the law. He continues praying as he has always done, no matter what that might mean in terms of consequences. It is particularly interesting that Daniel doesn’t try to hide such civil disobedience. He even opens up the windows, so that not only is he heard, but he can possibly be seen. It is interesting to examine verses 10 and 11, where we are made aware of Daniel’s choice to continue worshipping Yahweh, the One True God, as usual. In Aramaic, it is in the passive voice, as if this were not a confrontational decision; however, in the Old Greek and Ethiopic versions, it is in the active voice, and it is clear that he swung open the windows in a defiant manner. As modern Christians, what might we take away from this? Before I examine that question further, I’d like to share a couple of helpful thoughts. Early commentators did not see this as an act of disobedience or defiance because of how Daniel was praying. First, he was praying on his knees. Early Jewish tradition was to stand when praying, or to be fully prostrate on the ground. It is interesting that Daniel has adopted a kneeling stance. Second, he was praying towards Jerusalem. Not only praying for his homeland, but also for mercy and seeking favor from God. Suggesting he understood the implications of his actions, but also clearly showed his great faith. Opening the windows was simply something one did to pray, even if the prayer was an act of disobedience; it might not have been meant as a public display, but rather one spied on by those who wished to see Daniel’s downfall. So, to return to our question, as modern Christians, what might we take away from this act of civil disobedience? We have repeatedly seen that, despite Daniel’s situation as a captive exile, he has not only continued to hold fast to his belief and worship in God, refusing to be tainted by Babylonian culture, but, despite his defiance, has continued to prosper and grow in authority in the kingdom. It is also assumed that Daniel is an old man. Perhaps he is over the entire power-hungry, ethnically fueled hatred and doesn’t care; he has chosen to follow God and trust in God. What happens, happens. Much like Shadrack, Meshack, and Abednego, who told Nebuchadnezzar that they would trust their God and that, if God chose, God would deliver them from the fire. Basically, do it, I dare you! This might have been Daniel at this point. Further, it is another example of complete trust in God, who is the one who delivers.
The second focus is on the reaction to injustice, in particular the violence that can result from righteousness. This is a toughie because we see this happen often in the Old Testament. Why the OT is such a difficult book to read and understand? It seems that God is vengeful, wrathful, and sometimes angry. Often to his own people when they have disobeyed, but especially to the enemies of the Jews. So, first, before we look at this from the perspective of Daniel, we must understand that those writing these stories wanted to relate a lesson, a very serious, important lesson. Don’t mess with God! However, much of this literature might be categorized as a reversal of fortune or of destinies. That evil suffers the death they had planned for the faithful. What is probably most difficult for us is that although it is evil that gets its just deserts, unfortunately, the innocent still suffer because of it, such as women, children, and even animals. Like, it is okay that the enemy army, or in this case the Satraps and Sarkins, deserve what they get, but not those who were not involved in the decision. Many biblical scholars point out that when these sorts of difficult reversals occur, it indicates that, just as God is with us from generation to generation, so does the sin of those who defy God continue from generation to generation. I’m not sure that gives me any comfort, but the literary implications of why the story is written as it is make sense, and I sincerely hope that not all who were innocent truly suffered. However, we also know that in some ancient cultures, it was true that an entire family suffered for the crime of one member. So, it might have been an understood cultural norm.
Yet, if we look more deeply at Daniel 6 and the message it conveys, we might find a few of fascinating aspects. First, there is the theme of a dominant culture deluding itself into believing it is more important and should be glorified over the conquered. The injustice and dehumanization of a taken people hurting in the wings, praying for justice. It is these, in our world today, that we, as Christians, must stand up for. Change systems and governments for. Pray for and care for. But, here is a caution: we, too, must be careful not to succumb to emotional failures of the conscience by being sucked into what might be considered culturally acceptable. For there is no brutal action on the face of this earth that may be considered righteous violence. As the New Interpreter’s Bible Commentary states, “Our call is to understand anger and accept it as a reality in people’s lives, precisely because our nonviolent action must be based on the realities of human life and not on fantasy worlds.” The world bombards us with the idea that vengeance is virtue and payback is okay. So, we live in a constant struggle between popular wisdom and God’s. Especially when we make the mistake of identifying with the sufferer as justification for equal or perhaps even more awful acts. It is Daniel who cautions us, as Daniel, although defiant, accepts his punishment and is delivered. Daniel did not ask for anyone else to take his place; that was done without his approval.
However, another idea is the reality that Daniel suffered because of jealousy and legalism. A conspiracy was formed against him, forcing the king between a rock and a hard place. How many times have we found ourselves in such a predicament? The king knew what was truly right, but was unable because of the legalism that bound him. It is absolutely important for us to believe in the rule of law, but there is often a difference between what is legal and what is just. The law can create an environment for justice, but legalism can (and often does) work against it. This is why we cannot be tied so tightly to the “law” that we forget about justice, love, mercy, and grace.
Finally, and perhaps most importantly, the aspect of this idea of reacting to injustice and the result of righteousness is resurrection. This story of Daniel in the lion’s den has often been likened theologically to the empty tomb and resurrection Sunday of Jesus. The lion’s den serves as both an unjust punishment and imprisonment; however, resurrection is also a direct threat to imperial power, because if they can’t keep their executed prisoners dead, where now is the power? The threat? That is why Jesus’ resurrection was so powerful and such a threat to the Roman Empire. So was Daniel’s emergence from the lion’s den.
As we conclude our journey through Daniel's encounters with kings, we are reminded that faithfulness to God is not measured by comfort or safety, but by steadfast trust in every circumstance. Like Daniel, we will all face "lion's dens" of fear, injustice, temptation, or opposition. Yet God calls us to remain faithful, trusting that God's presence is with us even in the darkest places. Remembering that resurrection is around the corner. Therefore, may we leave today with the courage to stand firm, the wisdom to seek justice with mercy, and the confidence that the God who delivered Daniel is still at work in our lives today. Amen.

SERMON QUESTIONS FOR OUT OF THE LIONS DEN

• Daniel continued to pray despite knowing the consequences. What gives someone the courage to remain faithful when doing so may come at a personal cost?

• The sermon emphasized nonviolent resistance. What are some ways Christians today can stand firmly for their faith without responding with anger, hatred, or violence?

• Daniel's enemies were motivated by jealousy and the desire for power. Where do you see jealousy, legalism, or the misuse of power creating injustice in our world today? How should Christians respond?

• The sermon distinguished between what is legal and what is just. Can you think of a time when following God's call to love, mercy, and justice challenged cultural expectations or accepted practices? How did you respond?

• Daniel trusted God without knowing whether he would be rescued. How does Daniel's example challenge your own faith when facing uncertainty, fear, or your own "lion's den"?


• The lion's den points us toward Christ's resurrection and God's ultimate victory over evil. How does the hope of resurrection shape the way you face suffering, injustice, and hardship in your daily life?