Daniel Part 1 - Faithful Exiles

Faithful Exiles

This is the first of a series of powerful talks on the Book of Daniel drawing out the theme of "outstanding faith" in challenging times. 

Daniel’s story begins in 605 BC, when Babylon, under King Nebuchadnezzar, conquered Judah and exiled much of its population —including Daniel. Babylon’s strategy was to assimilate the brightest youths, changing their language, culture, and even names to erase their identity and faith.

Daniel, however, chose to stand out—not by resisting every change, but by drawing a clear line where it mattered most, in this case, by refusing food offered to Babylonian gods. This act symbolized his commitment to God. 

This is a powerful message that challenges us to reflect on how the example Daniel sets relates to our own times. If we are faithful to Christ’s teachings, we will inevitably find that being comfortable with the world will be a challenge. How do we live within a society that often has very different benchmarks to those contained within Scripture? When do we draw a line in the things that we do and in the way that we live, and how do we stand firm when the pressure of the world is bearing down on us?

Christians are called to be faithful exiles, influencing the world while remembering they belong to a greater kingdom.

As you go about this week:

• Reflect on what it means for Christians to be faithful exiles within the world we live in today.
• Are there areas in your life where you are allowing the world to define you at the expense of what matters? 
• Pray that the Holy Spirit will show you how you to respond as you reflect, and how you might better mirror the example of Daniel.

This series of talks were preached to the Church in Leominster in the run up to Christmas 2024.

Leominster Baptist Church can be found on Etnam Street in Leominster. To find out more about us, visit our website leobc.co.uk. If you would like to speak to someone about anything that you have heard on our podcasts please give us a call and ask for a chat.