Intro to Daniel: Resistance & Redemption in Babylon
Matthew 5:14-16 & Daniel 1
Discussion Questions:
As Redeemer begins this new series what, if anything, do you already know about the book of Daniel? How do you hope to grow over the next ten weeks as we study Daniel together as a church?
What role does God play throughout Daniel 1 (if helpful look at Daniel 1:2, 1:9, and 1:17) and what does this teach us about God's sovereignty?
Read Matthew 5:14-16. What do you think it means that Jesus calls his followers the "salt and "light of the world?" How does Daniel give us an example of how we actually live as salt and light?
Reread Daniel 1:8. What thoughts and reactions do you have when we read, "Daniel resolved that he would not defile himself with the king's food?"
Following Daniel's example, what are some relevant lines that Christians today maybe should be resolved not to cross in order to maintain our holiness (our "set-apartness") in the midst of our culture?
Are there any areas of your own life where you know you should have more resolve, but you have allowed yourself to become lax or compromised? What makes it difficult to remain faithful in those areas?
In his sermon, Joel mentioned that "once you realize that God is the one with the power and that he can give more than Babylon gives, it becomes possible to resolve to do God's will." What do you need to believe about God in order to resolve to live a life of holiness?
