Daniel

Daniel Homework

1. Write one paragraph explaining the historical background and purpose of the book.

Daniel was written to the people that were taken to exile under Babylon and were actually preparing to come out. Daniel himself was exiled as a young boy and was chosen among other young boys to serve in the palace of the king (1:3&6). Many of the people at the time viewed their exile as a sign that the Lord was losing in battle to the Babylonian gods. But God wanted to prove that He was more powerful than the nations of the world. 

Daniel, the author, was mostly likely the best Old Testament example of what it means to be in the world, but not of it. From the very beginning when he established his diet (1:12-16), to being thrown into a den of Lions (6:16-22), Daniel never strayed from his convictions and the Law of the Lord. In turn, he found favor with the Lord and the rulers of Babylon (1:19-20). He became an incredible influence without having to compromise his beliefs. This was an incredible example for the people of Israel as they were living among the Babylonians and Persians. 

Daniel is a very political book. Through his visions and dreams, as wells as some visions of others, the reader gets a look into many of the kingdoms (8:18-22). However, it is not only insight to the present circumstances, but visions of future kingdoms as well (Chapters 11-12). The people are able to see that God is more powerful than any human kingdom or power on the planet. He has control of all. 

2. What does this book show of the Character and Nature of God as well as His plan for redemption?

God proves himself to be so faithful through the book of Daniel. With stories like the fiery furnace (Chapter 4) and the lions den (Chapter 6), God remains faithful to those who rely on him. He even grants favor to the point of giving them high rank and influence over the nation (5:29). Yet in the same way, he is still the sovereign Lord and he will humble the proud. Just look at Nebuchadnezzar. (Chapter 4) He desires a humble heart in his leaders and he will do what needs to be done in order to get it. Nebuchadnezzar, fearsome, pagan king of Babylon exclaims of the Lord “His rule is everlasting and his kingdom is eternal!” (4:34)

But perhaps one of the greatest pictures of hope for the people at this time was the promise of an everlasting kingdom (7:14). Through all the political turmoil, through the exile and the destruction of their city, and despite the rise of national superpowers, God is still sovereign and he promises a city that will last through the ages. What an incredible and exciting promise!

3. Application

I loved Daniel. I loved who he was as a person. He was so uncompromising in his beliefs, so strong. But when you actually break it down and look at him, he becomes much more human than you might think. In fact, Daniel faints twice because of visions he sees! God doesn’t say that he answers Daniel’s prayers because he was so persistent or said all the right words. God listened to Daniel because he said he was PRECIOUS to him (10:19). Everything Daniel did was step by step, day by day with God. What an incredible picture and example that is set for us!

God entrusts us with the little things. He wants us to be uncompromising in who we are in him and it’s through these little decisions that God can trust us with the bigger things. Personally, it’s so hard for me to not always be looking for the big things in my life. “God what’s the point of my life, what can I do for you, what will my legacy be?” When really God is saying “Hey, think you can come meet with me today?” Step by step, day by day, just walk with God.