July 18, 2024 • 25 mins
Uncover the inspiring story of Daniel and his friends who thrived in Babylon by standing firm in their faith and values, becoming influential advisors to the king.
In this episode, journey with Daniel and his friends as they navigate the challenges of Babylonian captivity while remaining steadfast in their faith. Discover how they became beacons of wisdom and integrity in a foreign land.
Today's Bible verse is Matthew 5:13, from the King James Version.
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:00):
You are the salt of the earth. But if salt
has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored?
Matthew five thirteen. Dear Lord, as salt preserves, let us
be agents of preservation against the decay of culture. As
salt flavors. May we enhance the spiritual and cultural landscapes
(00:25):
around us. We ask you that you empower us to
enrich our environment by living out the Gospel intangible impactful ways.
Help us to bring balance where there is excess, hope
where there is despair, and light where there is darkness.
(00:48):
Enable us to add value to every interaction and relationship,
seasoning our world with love, joy, and peace that come
from You. Teach us to maintain our saltiness, not losing
our effectiveness by conforming to the patterns of this world,
(01:09):
but by continually being transformed by Your word and spirit.
Strengthen us to stand firm in our faith and convictions,
so we might genuinely influence our culture rather than be
consumed by it. May we be mindful of the responsibility
(01:30):
that comes with this calling, using our influence wisely and
generously for your glory. Let our lives not only preach
your truths, but also demonstrate them through acts of kindness,
words of encouragement, and deeds of courage. We thank you
(01:52):
for entrusting us with this mission to be the salt
of the earth, and may we fulfill this call with
all all earnestness and love, reflecting the grace and truth
of Jesus, in whose name we pray. Amen. Thank you
(02:14):
for praying with me today. You're listening to the Jesus Podcast.
Remain here for another story inspired by the Sermon on
the Mount. We've noticed that many of you who listen
to this podcast still aren't following or subscribing. Click that
button so you never miss an episode. Doing so will
(02:35):
help us get discovered so we can spread the hope
of the gospel worldwide. Thank you for making the mission possible.
Jesus looked on the crowd with compassion. His words were
meant to enliven their faith and awaken something new in them.
(02:57):
He wasn't looking for mindless slaves, but faithful followers able
to endure the highs and lows of life.
Speaker 2 (03:06):
You are the salt of the earth.
Speaker 1 (03:10):
He proclaimed with a booming voice. He had compassion, an
authority beautifully woven together for transformation.
Speaker 2 (03:20):
But if salt has lost its flavor.
Speaker 3 (03:22):
How shall it be restored?
Speaker 2 (03:24):
It is no longer good for anything except to be
thrown out and trampled unto people's feet.
Speaker 1 (03:30):
Jesus spoke of effectiveness and adding value to culture, rather
than run away from it.
Speaker 2 (03:36):
You are the light of the world. A city set
on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light
a lamp and put it under a basket. Light belongs
on display to illuminate the entire house.
Speaker 1 (03:51):
In the same way, let your.
Speaker 2 (03:54):
Light shine before others, so that they may see your
good works and give glory to the Father in heaven.
Speaker 3 (04:07):
Salt preserves and light illuminates. When faced with the decaying
and dark culture, we can be salt and light. Welcome
to the Jesus Podcast. These are gospel inspired stories meant
to awaken your imagination and strengthen your faith. I'm Ethan,
your host from pray dot Com. Today we direct our
(04:30):
focus on a profound teaching from Jesus' Sermon on the
Mount found in Matthew five, verses thirteen through sixteen. This
passage calls us to be the salt of the earth
and the light of the world. We will explore what
it means to embody these metaphors and how the story
of Daniel and the King's Men in Daniel Chapter one
(04:50):
illustrates these truths. Together, we'll discover how we can live
out these values and truths in our daily lives.
Speaker 1 (05:00):
Jerusalem was reduced to rubble. Babylon had prevailed. The children
of Israel were carted off like cattle to a foreign land.
All seemed lost for God's people. Their heritage was trampled on,
their heroes were slain. The records of their history rose
(05:23):
in smoke, never to be seen again. The captive israel
Lites traveled bound by rope to Babylon. Their future was
uncertain and their past was behind them, buried under flame
and soot. Daniel looked behind him, watching plumes of smoke
(05:47):
rising behind the broken walls of Jerusalem. The air was
heavy with the scent of smoke and fear. Hennonaiah, Michel
and as Arrive walked behind him, wrists bound and spirits broken.
Daniel looked forward with a tightened.
Speaker 4 (06:08):
Jaw, remained steadfast. Brothers, there's no anticipating what will happen
to us within the walls of Babylon. Death perhaps, or worse, slavery.
Speaker 1 (06:18):
A man on horseback rode up to the caravan. He
was searching for particular people, pushing sum aside and taking others.
Daniel felt uneasy in his chest. The man's mouth was
covered with an indigo scarf. His dark, calloused eyes were
all Daniel could see of his face. He pointed to
(06:42):
Daniel and.
Speaker 3 (06:43):
His companions, take these as well.
Speaker 1 (06:46):
Daniel, Hananaiah, Michel, and Azariah were bound with another large
group of young men. The dark rider tied them to
a cart and escorted them away from the caravan. As
they tried, the landscape shifted from the rocky hills of
Judah to the fertile plains of the Tigris River. The
(07:09):
air grew thick with the scent of date palms, and
the sound of camel bells filled the air. Daniel's mind
raced with wonder in trepidation, his thoughts torn between the
life he left behind and the unknown future ahead. The
(07:29):
caravan approached the gates of Babylon, Daniel gazed upon the
towering zigurats and the shimmering gold of the Royal Palace.
The city pulsed with life, its markets and temples a
testament to the power and grandeur of the Babylonian Empire.
(07:52):
Grand statues of King Nebukenezar loomed over the gates, casting
cold shadows on Daniel and his companions.
Speaker 5 (08:01):
Welcome to Babylon.
Speaker 1 (08:03):
The mask figure said. They stopped at the palace gates,
and the man removed his mask, revealing markings on the
side of his lips and cheeks. Daniel knew enough about
Babylonian culture to see this man was important, the chief
eunuch of King Nevid.
Speaker 5 (08:23):
Kinessar i am Ashpanaals.
Speaker 1 (08:27):
His voice was commanding, but there was an inhuman quality
to it. He spoke like a man possessed by another,
as if neberd Caineszar was speaking through him.
Speaker 5 (08:41):
By the order of King Neberkanizza, you be chosen of Judah,
are summoned to Babylon who served the king. You will
be trained in the ways of the Chaldeans, and those
who prove worthy will be granted a place among the
King's advisers.
Speaker 1 (08:59):
Daniel's raced as he stepped forward, but his resolve remained unshaken.
He was determined to honor his God, serve his people,
and prove that even in the darkest of times, faith
and courage could triumph. Daniel was unlike most young men
(09:22):
his age. While many were formed and shaped by the
space they were in, Daniel seemed to change every place
he woke. His character was immovable, causing culture to bend
to him. The four friends walked through the labyrinth halls
of the Royal Palace, surrounded by the opulence of Babylonian grandeur.
(09:48):
Golden statues of ancient kings stood guard, their eyes glinting
in the flickering torchlight. The air was heavy with a
scent of incense and soft murmur of courtiers. Ashpenaz led
them to the chambers of the Royal Academy, where they
(10:08):
would begin training alongside other young scholars from across the empire.
The rome was a marvel of learning, its shelves overflowing
with scrolls and tablets inscribed with the wisdom of the Chaldeans.
Daniel's eyes widened as he scanned the titles.
Speaker 4 (10:30):
The astronomical tablets of Ncido, the Medico, Texas, Hippocrates, and
the chronicles of the Kings of Babylon.
Speaker 1 (10:38):
The place was a bastion for learning, but underneath it
all was a sinister spirit of Babylonian evil. Daniel's mind
raced with the possibilities. He hungered for knowledge, but he
was careful and resolved not to lose himself or his faith.
Speaker 4 (10:59):
I've wonder what the greatness of Babylon could be if
it had the influence of Yahweh.
Speaker 1 (11:05):
While others saw a prison, Daniel saw possibility.
Speaker 5 (11:10):
You are no longer your own. You are servants of
the almighty King Nebuconezza. New names will be given to you,
names that denote your loyalty to Babylon.
Speaker 1 (11:23):
Daniel and his companions gulped at the notion their Hebrew
names were tethers to what was anchors in the storm
of uncertainty. To Daniel, the name bel Shazar was given,
and Anayah was called Shadrak. Michele was named Meshak, and
(11:44):
Azariah was given the name a bed Niko. They were
led down a large corridor with twenty foot cedar doors.
At the end, the smell of incense, meat and wine
wafted from within the the large doors opened, Daniel beheld
(12:05):
a decatent table of food, pork, monkey, pigeon, and bat.
The table spilled over with the oil of calf meat
sacrificed to idols and wine pressed from the vineyards worked
by the slaves Greece laced the mouths and hands of
the other students sitting at the table. Judging by their
(12:28):
frames and complexion, they had eaten like this every night.
Daniel's stomach rowed, but he refused the food.
Speaker 4 (12:39):
This food is not going to nurse you. Refrain, pray.
I have an idea.
Speaker 1 (12:46):
Daniel and the others sat at the table but refused
to eat. They knew that if they were going to
maintain their identity as children of God, they had to
remain steadfast to His laws, awe and their health. They
needed to be set apart sharper. If they lost themselves,
(13:09):
their effectiveness in the world would be dulled.
Speaker 5 (13:12):
Why do you refuse the king's table?
Speaker 4 (13:14):
We can't eat this, my lord. It's against our customs.
Speaker 5 (13:18):
Your customs burned under rubble.
Speaker 4 (13:21):
No, my lord, you're wrong. Our ways are preserved in
our people.
Speaker 5 (13:26):
Some bodadied them. Eat.
Speaker 4 (13:29):
You need your strength, Lord ashburn Is, With all due respect,
this food would sappus of strength, not give it. Please
look around this table.
Speaker 1 (13:38):
The chief eunuchs surveyed the other students. Their bellies were soft,
and their movements slow. Their wits were quick when they
first arrived, but over time they were dulled instead of sharpment.
They were swollen from lack of clean food and water.
Speaker 5 (13:57):
The King has assigned me to you. He will have
my hate if you aren't healthy and fed. Eat so
that both of us don't lose our lives.
Speaker 1 (14:07):
Ashpinaz spoke with a tinge of compassion in his voice.
He didn't want Daniel to starve. He and the other
young men were assets to Babylon. If they were going
to rule the Hebrews and assimilate them, they needed Hebrew governors.
Ashpenaz agreed for ten days. The other young men gorged
(14:31):
on greasy meats and drank excessively. Their complexions were unhealthy
and their energy was fading. However, the four Hebrew faithful
were filled with energy and had their wits about them.
They were set apart and prepared for governing. The days
(14:53):
passed in a blur of study and exploration. The four
friends delved into the mysteries of astronomy, mathematics, and the
ancient lore of the Chaldeans. They debated the teachings of
God's prophets with their fellow students, who hailed from the
farthest reaches of the empire. Among their new companions was
(15:15):
a young prince named bel Shazar, the king's own grandson,
who showed a keen interest in the Hebrew youths. His
eyes sparkled with curiosity as he engaged Daniel in discussions
of the divine. As the weeks turned into months, the
four friends excelled in their studies. Their names became synonymous
(15:40):
with wisdom and heerdition. They found favor with Ashpanas, who
saw in them a potential for greatness, and with the
king himself, who summoned them to the throne room for
a special audience. Nebud Canizzar, resplendent in his golden robes,
(16:02):
gazed upon the four Hebrew youths with a piercing gaze.
Speaker 6 (16:07):
You have proven yourselves worthy of my court.
Speaker 1 (16:10):
He declared, his voice booming through the hall.
Speaker 6 (16:13):
I shall appoint you as my advisers, and you shall
serve me with the same loyalty and wisdom that you
have shown in your studies.
Speaker 1 (16:23):
Daniel, Hananiah, Michel, and Assyriah bowed low, their hearts swelling
with trepidation. They knew that their journey was far from over.
That the trials of Babylon lay ahead, and that their
faith would be tested like gold in the fire. Together
(16:46):
they would guide the decrees of the King. They would
stand in the midst of fire and not be burned.
They would endure regime changes, explain prophetic dreams, and proclaim
the heart of God. And a land that seemed forsaken
and faithless, they bless the city, turned the hearts of kings,
(17:12):
and upheld the commands of the Lord to the very end.
Speaker 3 (17:26):
You are the salt of the earth. But if the
salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again.
It is no longer good for anything, except to be
thrown out and trampled under foot. You are the light
of the world. A town built on a hill cannot
be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put
it under a ball. Instead, they put it on its stand,
(17:47):
and it gives light to everyone in the house. In
the same way, let your light shine before others, that
they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father
in heaven. Jesus uses two powerful metaphors here, salt and light.
Salt preserves and enhances flavor, symbolizing how we as Followers
(18:08):
of Christ are to preserve goodness and bring out the
best in the world around us. Light dispels darkness and
guides the way, signifying how we are to shine the
light of Christ and a world often overshadowed by sin
and despair. As citizens of Heaven, we are called to
influence the world positively and visibly, leading others to glorify
(18:33):
God through our actions. The story of Daniel and the
King's Men and daniel Ie is a powerful example of
being salt and light in a challenging environment. Daniel and
his friends were taking captive to Babylon and chosen to
serve in King Nebuknezzer's court. They were expected to assimilate
(18:54):
into the Babylonian culture, including eating the king's food, which
was contrary to their diet minetary laws. Daniel's decision to
follow God's laws even in a foreign land, exemplified his
role as salt and light. His faithfulness not only preserved
his integrity, but also led to a positive outcome that
(19:15):
influenced those around him. God's blessing on Daniel and his
friends made them stand out, and their wisdom and understanding
gained them favor in the King's court. How can we
too be salt and light in a decaying and dark world?
How can we be people who preserve integrity and dispel darkness? First,
(19:38):
we must maintain our integrity and adversity. Daniel's resolve not
to defile himself with the King's food teaches us the
importance of maintaining our integrity and faithfulness to God's commands,
even when they are challenging. Being salt means preserving our
values and standing firm in our faith. When stress comes
(20:00):
our way. It can be easy to devolve into bad
habits or assimilate into what's most indulgent or comfortable. But
hard times call for hardened minds. If we can practice
making the right choices when times are easy, it will
make it all the more natural to do the right
thing when things go wrong. Develop those habits and reap
(20:24):
the rewards in adversity. Next, they are salty and influence
people through their example. Daniel's example influence the God and
eventually the King's court. Sometimes it's not about preaching, it's
about declaring your faith firmly and letting your actions speak
louder than your words. We can be light in the
(20:47):
world around us. By living in a way that reflects
God's principles, influencing those around us through our actions and decisions.
Jesus says this in Matthew chapter seven Versus six sixteen
through twenty. By their fruits, you will recognize them. The
people pick grapes from thorn bushes or figs from thistles. Likewise,
(21:09):
every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree
bears bad fruit. The good tree cannot bear bad fruit,
and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. Every tree
that does not bear good fruit is cut down and
thrown into the fire. Thus, by their fruit you will
recognize them. The fruit from your life will be noticed
(21:32):
by others, whether good or bad, and the fruit from
your life will speak to the God you worship, for
better or for worse. Next, we must trust in God's provision.
Daniel's faithfulness led to God's provision and blessing. When we
trust God and remain faithful to his ways, he provides
(21:54):
for us and blesses our efforts, enabling us to be
a greater light to the world. It doesn't always happen
on our terms or timing. Right, we must be okay
with the process. Daniels certainly had prayers that took years
to get answered. I'm reminded of the Chris Tomlin song
that sings strength will rise as we wait upon the
(22:17):
Lord that's inspired by Isaiah forty thirty one. Waiting for
God isn't a passive experience. It's being diligent, faithful, and
steady in uncertainty, waiting for God to work out his
will and his timing. Next, believers who are salt and
light bring about positive change. Daniel's refusal to compromise led
(22:41):
to a positive change in his environment. As believers, we
are called to bring about positive change in our communities,
standing up for what is right and just. The Jewish
captives in Babylon knew this concept will. As they were
being forcibly dragged from their homeland, a promise from God
rang in their minds. For I know the plans I
(23:03):
have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you
and not to harm you, plans to give you hope
and a future Jeremiah twenty nine eleven. This is a
beautiful promise, but it also came with a commission. Later
in that very passage, God calls his people to seek
the good of their city, to plant gardens, to start businesses,
(23:26):
and establish families. Later in that very passage, God calls
his people to seek the good of their city, to
plant gardens and eat from them, to start businesses, establish families.
God wants his people actively making the world around them
a better place. You aren't called to sit on your
hands and try to refrain from sitting. You're called to
(23:49):
be an active member of the community, bringing the Kingdom
of God with you wherever you go. That's what the
Sermon on the Mount is trying to teach us. Last
The call is to shine brightly. Just as a city
on a hill cannot be hidden, our faith should be
visible to those around us. We are called to let
(24:09):
our light shine through good deeds so others may see
and glorify our Father in Heaven. Imagine that you are
a first century traveler and the night has enveloped the land.
There's no flashlights, no street lights, no headlights, just darkness
with a threat of predators and bandits around every corner. Then,
(24:32):
piercing the darkness, you see a city illuminated by torchlight
on a hill, fortified, protected and warm. That is what
we are called to be as a church, the body
of Christ, we are a city set on a hill,
a refuge for the lost and the wandering. As we
(24:52):
reflect on Jesus' words, you are the salt of the earth,
and you are the light of the world and the
story of Daniel faithfulness. Let us strive to embody these
metaphors in our lives. May we maintain our integrity, influence
others through our example, trust in God's provision, bring about
positive change, and let our light shine brightly. Let us
(25:17):
pray for the strength and wisdom to be true citizens
of Heaven, living out the salt and light that Jesus
cause us to be. Thanks for joining us again. We're
going to keep trekking along this journey through the Sermon
on the Mount. If you've enjoyed it this far, go
ahead and leave us a review. We read all of them,
and they help fuel our passion as we continue to
(25:39):
bring the Bible to life
You are the salt of the earth. But if salt
has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored?
Matthew five thirteen. Dear Lord, as salt preserves, let us
be agents of preservation against the decay of culture. As
salt flavors. May we enhance the spiritual and cultural landscapes
(00:25):
around us. We ask you that you empower us to
enrich our environment by living out the Gospel intangible impactful ways.
Help us to bring balance where there is excess, hope
where there is despair, and light where there is darkness.
(00:48):
Enable us to add value to every interaction and relationship,
seasoning our world with love, joy, and peace that come
from You. Teach us to maintain our saltiness, not losing
our effectiveness by conforming to the patterns of this world,
(01:09):
but by continually being transformed by Your word and spirit.
Strengthen us to stand firm in our faith and convictions,
so we might genuinely influence our culture rather than be
consumed by it. May we be mindful of the responsibility
(01:30):
that comes with this calling, using our influence wisely and
generously for your glory. Let our lives not only preach
your truths, but also demonstrate them through acts of kindness,
words of encouragement, and deeds of courage. We thank you
(01:52):
for entrusting us with this mission to be the salt
of the earth, and may we fulfill this call with
all all earnestness and love, reflecting the grace and truth
of Jesus, in whose name we pray. Amen. Thank you
(02:14):
for praying with me today. You're listening to the Jesus Podcast.
Remain here for another story inspired by the Sermon on
the Mount. We've noticed that many of you who listen
to this podcast still aren't following or subscribing. Click that
button so you never miss an episode. Doing so will
(02:35):
help us get discovered so we can spread the hope
of the gospel worldwide. Thank you for making the mission possible.
Jesus looked on the crowd with compassion. His words were
meant to enliven their faith and awaken something new in them.
(02:57):
He wasn't looking for mindless slaves, but faithful followers able
to endure the highs and lows of life.
Speaker 2 (03:06):
You are the salt of the earth.
Speaker 1 (03:10):
He proclaimed with a booming voice. He had compassion, an
authority beautifully woven together for transformation.
Speaker 2 (03:20):
But if salt has lost its flavor.
Speaker 3 (03:22):
How shall it be restored?
Speaker 2 (03:24):
It is no longer good for anything except to be
thrown out and trampled unto people's feet.
Speaker 1 (03:30):
Jesus spoke of effectiveness and adding value to culture, rather
than run away from it.
Speaker 2 (03:36):
You are the light of the world. A city set
on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light
a lamp and put it under a basket. Light belongs
on display to illuminate the entire house.
Speaker 1 (03:51):
In the same way, let your.
Speaker 2 (03:54):
Light shine before others, so that they may see your
good works and give glory to the Father in heaven.
Speaker 3 (04:07):
Salt preserves and light illuminates. When faced with the decaying
and dark culture, we can be salt and light. Welcome
to the Jesus Podcast. These are gospel inspired stories meant
to awaken your imagination and strengthen your faith. I'm Ethan,
your host from pray dot Com. Today we direct our
(04:30):
focus on a profound teaching from Jesus' Sermon on the
Mount found in Matthew five, verses thirteen through sixteen. This
passage calls us to be the salt of the earth
and the light of the world. We will explore what
it means to embody these metaphors and how the story
of Daniel and the King's Men in Daniel Chapter one
(04:50):
illustrates these truths. Together, we'll discover how we can live
out these values and truths in our daily lives.
Speaker 1 (05:00):
Jerusalem was reduced to rubble. Babylon had prevailed. The children
of Israel were carted off like cattle to a foreign land.
All seemed lost for God's people. Their heritage was trampled on,
their heroes were slain. The records of their history rose
(05:23):
in smoke, never to be seen again. The captive israel
Lites traveled bound by rope to Babylon. Their future was
uncertain and their past was behind them, buried under flame
and soot. Daniel looked behind him, watching plumes of smoke
(05:47):
rising behind the broken walls of Jerusalem. The air was
heavy with the scent of smoke and fear. Hennonaiah, Michel
and as Arrive walked behind him, wrists bound and spirits broken.
Daniel looked forward with a tightened.
Speaker 4 (06:08):
Jaw, remained steadfast. Brothers, there's no anticipating what will happen
to us within the walls of Babylon. Death perhaps, or worse, slavery.
Speaker 1 (06:18):
A man on horseback rode up to the caravan. He
was searching for particular people, pushing sum aside and taking others.
Daniel felt uneasy in his chest. The man's mouth was
covered with an indigo scarf. His dark, calloused eyes were
all Daniel could see of his face. He pointed to
(06:42):
Daniel and.
Speaker 3 (06:43):
His companions, take these as well.
Speaker 1 (06:46):
Daniel, Hananaiah, Michel, and Azariah were bound with another large
group of young men. The dark rider tied them to
a cart and escorted them away from the caravan. As
they tried, the landscape shifted from the rocky hills of
Judah to the fertile plains of the Tigris River. The
(07:09):
air grew thick with the scent of date palms, and
the sound of camel bells filled the air. Daniel's mind
raced with wonder in trepidation, his thoughts torn between the
life he left behind and the unknown future ahead. The
(07:29):
caravan approached the gates of Babylon, Daniel gazed upon the
towering zigurats and the shimmering gold of the Royal Palace.
The city pulsed with life, its markets and temples a
testament to the power and grandeur of the Babylonian Empire.
(07:52):
Grand statues of King Nebukenezar loomed over the gates, casting
cold shadows on Daniel and his companions.
Speaker 5 (08:01):
Welcome to Babylon.
Speaker 1 (08:03):
The mask figure said. They stopped at the palace gates,
and the man removed his mask, revealing markings on the
side of his lips and cheeks. Daniel knew enough about
Babylonian culture to see this man was important, the chief
eunuch of King Nevid.
Speaker 5 (08:23):
Kinessar i am Ashpanaals.
Speaker 1 (08:27):
His voice was commanding, but there was an inhuman quality
to it. He spoke like a man possessed by another,
as if neberd Caineszar was speaking through him.
Speaker 5 (08:41):
By the order of King Neberkanizza, you be chosen of Judah,
are summoned to Babylon who served the king. You will
be trained in the ways of the Chaldeans, and those
who prove worthy will be granted a place among the
King's advisers.
Speaker 1 (08:59):
Daniel's raced as he stepped forward, but his resolve remained unshaken.
He was determined to honor his God, serve his people,
and prove that even in the darkest of times, faith
and courage could triumph. Daniel was unlike most young men
(09:22):
his age. While many were formed and shaped by the
space they were in, Daniel seemed to change every place
he woke. His character was immovable, causing culture to bend
to him. The four friends walked through the labyrinth halls
of the Royal Palace, surrounded by the opulence of Babylonian grandeur.
(09:48):
Golden statues of ancient kings stood guard, their eyes glinting
in the flickering torchlight. The air was heavy with a
scent of incense and soft murmur of courtiers. Ashpenaz led
them to the chambers of the Royal Academy, where they
(10:08):
would begin training alongside other young scholars from across the empire.
The rome was a marvel of learning, its shelves overflowing
with scrolls and tablets inscribed with the wisdom of the Chaldeans.
Daniel's eyes widened as he scanned the titles.
Speaker 4 (10:30):
The astronomical tablets of Ncido, the Medico, Texas, Hippocrates, and
the chronicles of the Kings of Babylon.
Speaker 1 (10:38):
The place was a bastion for learning, but underneath it
all was a sinister spirit of Babylonian evil. Daniel's mind
raced with the possibilities. He hungered for knowledge, but he
was careful and resolved not to lose himself or his faith.
Speaker 4 (10:59):
I've wonder what the greatness of Babylon could be if
it had the influence of Yahweh.
Speaker 1 (11:05):
While others saw a prison, Daniel saw possibility.
Speaker 5 (11:10):
You are no longer your own. You are servants of
the almighty King Nebuconezza. New names will be given to you,
names that denote your loyalty to Babylon.
Speaker 1 (11:23):
Daniel and his companions gulped at the notion their Hebrew
names were tethers to what was anchors in the storm
of uncertainty. To Daniel, the name bel Shazar was given,
and Anayah was called Shadrak. Michele was named Meshak, and
(11:44):
Azariah was given the name a bed Niko. They were
led down a large corridor with twenty foot cedar doors.
At the end, the smell of incense, meat and wine
wafted from within the the large doors opened, Daniel beheld
(12:05):
a decatent table of food, pork, monkey, pigeon, and bat.
The table spilled over with the oil of calf meat
sacrificed to idols and wine pressed from the vineyards worked
by the slaves Greece laced the mouths and hands of
the other students sitting at the table. Judging by their
(12:28):
frames and complexion, they had eaten like this every night.
Daniel's stomach rowed, but he refused the food.
Speaker 4 (12:39):
This food is not going to nurse you. Refrain, pray.
I have an idea.
Speaker 1 (12:46):
Daniel and the others sat at the table but refused
to eat. They knew that if they were going to
maintain their identity as children of God, they had to
remain steadfast to His laws, awe and their health. They
needed to be set apart sharper. If they lost themselves,
(13:09):
their effectiveness in the world would be dulled.
Speaker 5 (13:12):
Why do you refuse the king's table?
Speaker 4 (13:14):
We can't eat this, my lord. It's against our customs.
Speaker 5 (13:18):
Your customs burned under rubble.
Speaker 4 (13:21):
No, my lord, you're wrong. Our ways are preserved in
our people.
Speaker 5 (13:26):
Some bodadied them. Eat.
Speaker 4 (13:29):
You need your strength, Lord ashburn Is, With all due respect,
this food would sappus of strength, not give it. Please
look around this table.
Speaker 1 (13:38):
The chief eunuchs surveyed the other students. Their bellies were soft,
and their movements slow. Their wits were quick when they
first arrived, but over time they were dulled instead of sharpment.
They were swollen from lack of clean food and water.
Speaker 5 (13:57):
The King has assigned me to you. He will have
my hate if you aren't healthy and fed. Eat so
that both of us don't lose our lives.
Speaker 1 (14:07):
Ashpinaz spoke with a tinge of compassion in his voice.
He didn't want Daniel to starve. He and the other
young men were assets to Babylon. If they were going
to rule the Hebrews and assimilate them, they needed Hebrew governors.
Ashpenaz agreed for ten days. The other young men gorged
(14:31):
on greasy meats and drank excessively. Their complexions were unhealthy
and their energy was fading. However, the four Hebrew faithful
were filled with energy and had their wits about them.
They were set apart and prepared for governing. The days
(14:53):
passed in a blur of study and exploration. The four
friends delved into the mysteries of astronomy, mathematics, and the
ancient lore of the Chaldeans. They debated the teachings of
God's prophets with their fellow students, who hailed from the
farthest reaches of the empire. Among their new companions was
(15:15):
a young prince named bel Shazar, the king's own grandson,
who showed a keen interest in the Hebrew youths. His
eyes sparkled with curiosity as he engaged Daniel in discussions
of the divine. As the weeks turned into months, the
four friends excelled in their studies. Their names became synonymous
(15:40):
with wisdom and heerdition. They found favor with Ashpanas, who
saw in them a potential for greatness, and with the
king himself, who summoned them to the throne room for
a special audience. Nebud Canizzar, resplendent in his golden robes,
(16:02):
gazed upon the four Hebrew youths with a piercing gaze.
Speaker 6 (16:07):
You have proven yourselves worthy of my court.
Speaker 1 (16:10):
He declared, his voice booming through the hall.
Speaker 6 (16:13):
I shall appoint you as my advisers, and you shall
serve me with the same loyalty and wisdom that you
have shown in your studies.
Speaker 1 (16:23):
Daniel, Hananiah, Michel, and Assyriah bowed low, their hearts swelling
with trepidation. They knew that their journey was far from over.
That the trials of Babylon lay ahead, and that their
faith would be tested like gold in the fire. Together
(16:46):
they would guide the decrees of the King. They would
stand in the midst of fire and not be burned.
They would endure regime changes, explain prophetic dreams, and proclaim
the heart of God. And a land that seemed forsaken
and faithless, they bless the city, turned the hearts of kings,
(17:12):
and upheld the commands of the Lord to the very end.
Speaker 3 (17:26):
You are the salt of the earth. But if the
salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again.
It is no longer good for anything, except to be
thrown out and trampled under foot. You are the light
of the world. A town built on a hill cannot
be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put
it under a ball. Instead, they put it on its stand,
(17:47):
and it gives light to everyone in the house. In
the same way, let your light shine before others, that
they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father
in heaven. Jesus uses two powerful metaphors here, salt and light.
Salt preserves and enhances flavor, symbolizing how we as Followers
(18:08):
of Christ are to preserve goodness and bring out the
best in the world around us. Light dispels darkness and
guides the way, signifying how we are to shine the
light of Christ and a world often overshadowed by sin
and despair. As citizens of Heaven, we are called to
influence the world positively and visibly, leading others to glorify
(18:33):
God through our actions. The story of Daniel and the
King's Men and daniel Ie is a powerful example of
being salt and light in a challenging environment. Daniel and
his friends were taking captive to Babylon and chosen to
serve in King Nebuknezzer's court. They were expected to assimilate
(18:54):
into the Babylonian culture, including eating the king's food, which
was contrary to their diet minetary laws. Daniel's decision to
follow God's laws even in a foreign land, exemplified his
role as salt and light. His faithfulness not only preserved
his integrity, but also led to a positive outcome that
(19:15):
influenced those around him. God's blessing on Daniel and his
friends made them stand out, and their wisdom and understanding
gained them favor in the King's court. How can we
too be salt and light in a decaying and dark world?
How can we be people who preserve integrity and dispel darkness? First,
(19:38):
we must maintain our integrity and adversity. Daniel's resolve not
to defile himself with the King's food teaches us the
importance of maintaining our integrity and faithfulness to God's commands,
even when they are challenging. Being salt means preserving our
values and standing firm in our faith. When stress comes
(20:00):
our way. It can be easy to devolve into bad
habits or assimilate into what's most indulgent or comfortable. But
hard times call for hardened minds. If we can practice
making the right choices when times are easy, it will
make it all the more natural to do the right
thing when things go wrong. Develop those habits and reap
(20:24):
the rewards in adversity. Next, they are salty and influence
people through their example. Daniel's example influence the God and
eventually the King's court. Sometimes it's not about preaching, it's
about declaring your faith firmly and letting your actions speak
louder than your words. We can be light in the
(20:47):
world around us. By living in a way that reflects
God's principles, influencing those around us through our actions and decisions.
Jesus says this in Matthew chapter seven Versus six sixteen
through twenty. By their fruits, you will recognize them. The
people pick grapes from thorn bushes or figs from thistles. Likewise,
(21:09):
every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree
bears bad fruit. The good tree cannot bear bad fruit,
and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. Every tree
that does not bear good fruit is cut down and
thrown into the fire. Thus, by their fruit you will
recognize them. The fruit from your life will be noticed
(21:32):
by others, whether good or bad, and the fruit from
your life will speak to the God you worship, for
better or for worse. Next, we must trust in God's provision.
Daniel's faithfulness led to God's provision and blessing. When we
trust God and remain faithful to his ways, he provides
(21:54):
for us and blesses our efforts, enabling us to be
a greater light to the world. It doesn't always happen
on our terms or timing. Right, we must be okay
with the process. Daniels certainly had prayers that took years
to get answered. I'm reminded of the Chris Tomlin song
that sings strength will rise as we wait upon the
(22:17):
Lord that's inspired by Isaiah forty thirty one. Waiting for
God isn't a passive experience. It's being diligent, faithful, and
steady in uncertainty, waiting for God to work out his
will and his timing. Next, believers who are salt and
light bring about positive change. Daniel's refusal to compromise led
(22:41):
to a positive change in his environment. As believers, we
are called to bring about positive change in our communities,
standing up for what is right and just. The Jewish
captives in Babylon knew this concept will. As they were
being forcibly dragged from their homeland, a promise from God
rang in their minds. For I know the plans I
(23:03):
have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you
and not to harm you, plans to give you hope
and a future Jeremiah twenty nine eleven. This is a
beautiful promise, but it also came with a commission. Later
in that very passage, God calls his people to seek
the good of their city, to plant gardens, to start businesses,
(23:26):
and establish families. Later in that very passage, God calls
his people to seek the good of their city, to
plant gardens and eat from them, to start businesses, establish families.
God wants his people actively making the world around them
a better place. You aren't called to sit on your
hands and try to refrain from sitting. You're called to
(23:49):
be an active member of the community, bringing the Kingdom
of God with you wherever you go. That's what the
Sermon on the Mount is trying to teach us. Last
The call is to shine brightly. Just as a city
on a hill cannot be hidden, our faith should be
visible to those around us. We are called to let
(24:09):
our light shine through good deeds so others may see
and glorify our Father in Heaven. Imagine that you are
a first century traveler and the night has enveloped the land.
There's no flashlights, no street lights, no headlights, just darkness
with a threat of predators and bandits around every corner. Then,
(24:32):
piercing the darkness, you see a city illuminated by torchlight
on a hill, fortified, protected and warm. That is what
we are called to be as a church, the body
of Christ, we are a city set on a hill,
a refuge for the lost and the wandering. As we
(24:52):
reflect on Jesus' words, you are the salt of the earth,
and you are the light of the world and the
story of Daniel faithfulness. Let us strive to embody these
metaphors in our lives. May we maintain our integrity, influence
others through our example, trust in God's provision, bring about
positive change, and let our light shine brightly. Let us
(25:17):
pray for the strength and wisdom to be true citizens
of Heaven, living out the salt and light that Jesus
cause us to be. Thanks for joining us again. We're
going to keep trekking along this journey through the Sermon
on the Mount. If you've enjoyed it this far, go
ahead and leave us a review. We read all of them,
and they help fuel our passion as we continue to
(25:39):
bring the Bible to life
Host
Zak Shellabarger
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