SERIES TITLE
STAND FIRM
series overview
Culture is shifting. We see it all around us. So, how do people of faith live and love well in a culture of compromise? How do we stand firm without alienating the very people who need the grace and love of Jesus? Join us for a brand new 5-part series from the book of Daniel, and let’s discover together how Daniel and his friends personified courageous faith in a spirit of love and truth.
sermon TITLE
One Kingdom
Sermon Summary
Gene Appel’s message “One Kingdom” delves into Daniel 4 & 5 to address cultural challenges and the spirit of Babylon still present today. Through the examples of Daniel and his companions, Gene emphasizes the importance of humility and acknowledging God in the face of personal pride and cultural opposition to God. It’s a powerful reminder to stand firm in a culture that drifts from God and to represent the love of Jesus with those who oppose us, offering practical guidance on navigating these challenges while prioritizing a kingdom mindset.
Ice Breaker
What is the longest you have ever lived outdoors, camping or backpacking? How long did you go without a traditional bath or shower? Todays study will describe someone who probably set a record on both those topics, so enjoy exploring this story and it’s lessons for today.
DISCUSSion
Discussion Questions
- Even though this story takes place in ancient Babylon, Revelation 14:6-8 describes how the “spirit of Babylon” has been going on behind the scenes throughout human history unseen, and we play a role in its defeat. In what areas of your life do you feel particularly challenged to stand firm against the influence of the ‘spirit of Babylon’?
- Read Daniel 4:4-9. What things do you find notable about Daniel’s reputation with Nebuchadnezzar? How can God’s people have that kind of reputation in a culture that opposes God?
- Read Daniel 4:19-27. Can you think of a time when pride negatively impacted your life? How can you work toward maintaining humility with loved ones, neighbors, or people you work with?
- Read Daniel 4:28-34. What are some practical ways you can exalt the King of Heaven in the current culture? Who has been an example of this to you?
- In the story of Belshazzar (read Daniel 5:18-31), how did his pride and disregard for God lead to his downfall? What can we learn from Belshazzar’s downfall about the consequences of disregarding God in our lives?
WRAP UP & PRAYER
- Ask for any prayer requests in the group.
- Thank God for the lessons from Daniel on resisting cultural pressures.
- Pray for humility and the strength to avoid pride.
- Ask God to help us be a light and a positive influence in our family and communities.