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God Answered Nebuchadnezzar
Daniel 3:15
He defeated the world's mightiest armies, managed its wealthiest empire and
built one of its most beautiful cities. During more than 40 years as king of
Babylon, Nebuchadnezzar accomplished much. But one day, he was humiliated by
three faithful Jews.
Nebuchadnezzar is known for the elaborate pagan temples he built in Babylon. It
is not surprising that such an accomplished king would invite all his government
officials to witness the dedication of the impressive image of gold that he
erected. As he looked with pride at the image, 60 feet high, he ordered that all
present bow down to worship it.
When the king learned that three men had directly disobeyed his order, he was
furious. He gave them a second chance, but they still would not bow to the
image. When Nebuchadnezzar became furious, they calmly replied that, whether God
saved them or not, they would not serve the false god. The king challenged their
faith: "And who is the god who will deliver you from my hands?" (Daniel 3:15).
God answered Nebuchadnezzar's challenge with an unforgettable display of Divine
power that humbled the mighty king of Babylon. Soldiers threw the three
disobedient Jews into a fire that was so hot that the soldiers died when they
approached the fire. But as Nebuchad-nezzar peered into the furnace, he saw four
men - the three he had condemned and one sent by God to protect these faithful
servants.When Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-Nego came out of the furnace,
Nebuchadnezzar realized that God had answered his challenge. He ordered that the
name of Jehovah be respected in all his kingdom, and realized that God had
answered his question: ". . . because there is no other God who can deliver like
this" (Daniel 3:29).
Sin tries to take hold in our lives and challenges us as Nebuchadnezzar
challenged the servants of God. Who can set us free? There is only one correct
response (Acts 4:12).
By Dennis Allen
From Expository Files 5.4; April 1998
