WEBVTT 00:00:00.000 --> 00:00:09.599 Well, what an incredible privilege it is to worship together, to be able to do that freely, 00:00:09.599 --> 00:00:17.440 ! to be able to do that consistently week after week. And it is a special delight to have Pastor 00:00:17.440 --> 00:00:22.480 ! Kenoyer back. I know he would not want me to draw attention to him. His head is still down. 00:00:22.480 --> 00:00:30.800 But he has been serving faithfully the Lord in a sister church of ours in Marion, Ohio. So Pastor, 00:00:30.800 --> 00:00:35.600 it's good to have you back and grateful for your example of service to the Lord. 00:00:37.600 --> 00:00:45.159 We have the joy of worshiping today. And one would think that to such an honor and such a privilege 00:00:45.159 --> 00:00:52.400 as this, it would be something that we would long and yearn to do on a consistent basis. And for some 00:00:52.399 --> 00:00:59.920 of you, that may and hopefully is the case. But as statistics will show or suggest, we live in an 00:00:59.920 --> 00:01:07.519 age where we are in a decline as far as worship is concerned. A poll that was put together by Gallup 00:01:07.519 --> 00:01:16.560 in March 29th of 2021 says the following. It says, American membership in houses of worship continued 00:01:16.560 --> 00:01:24.480 to decline last year, speaking of 2020, dropping below 50% for the first time in the Gallup's eight 00:01:24.480 --> 00:01:33.359 decade history. In 2020, 47% of Americans said they belonged to a church, a synagogue, or a mosque, 00:01:33.359 --> 00:01:44.640 which is down from 50% in 2018 and 70% that was registered in 1999. The decline in church membership is 00:01:44.640 --> 00:01:52.719 primarily, they say, a function of increasing numbers of Americans who express no religious affiliation. 00:01:55.120 --> 00:02:01.359 Over the past two decades, the percentage of Americans who do not identify with any religion has grown 00:02:01.359 --> 00:02:13.840 from 8% from 8% in 1998 to 13% in 2008. And now almost a quarter of Americans would say they have no 00:02:13.840 --> 00:02:23.520 religious affiliation. Church membership, they say, is also strongly correlated with age, with 66% of those who 00:02:23.520 --> 00:02:32.879 are traditionalists, meaning those born before 1946 would go to church. Baby boomers comprised 58%. 00:02:32.879 --> 00:02:42.480 50% of those in Gen X will go to church consistently. 36% of millennials. Currently, 31% of millennials have no 00:02:43.120 --> 00:02:53.280 religious affiliation. Now those statistics give a sense of the worshiping moral erosion within our 00:02:53.520 --> 00:03:02.480 culture. But I want to remind you that worship is just as strong today as it ever was. It's just that 00:03:02.480 --> 00:03:10.960 instead of worship being oriented towards God, now worship is being confined into the person has become 00:03:10.960 --> 00:03:19.280 self-awareness, self-worship. That's what we're going to find in our passage today. The truth is that worship 00:03:19.280 --> 00:03:26.879 remains constant. It has never been more or less a reality than it is today because God has created us 00:03:26.879 --> 00:03:39.280 as people with a worshiping capacity and with a desire to worship. Worship is inherent in our design as 00:03:39.280 --> 00:03:46.319 creatures. The question, of course, then, is who or what do you worship? Worship is simply defined as 00:03:46.319 --> 00:03:54.719 as the feeling or expression of reverence and adoration for a deity. One might say that worship is to value. 00:03:55.280 --> 00:04:05.120 Worship is to prioritize. Worship is to assign worth to someone or something. Perhaps to a job, to a family, 00:04:05.599 --> 00:04:11.759 to a friend, to an identity, to money, to comfort, to leisure, to your stuff. 00:04:11.759 --> 00:04:17.360 Worship is to allow us to worship. The question that we should ask ourselves this morning as we evaluate 00:04:17.360 --> 00:04:23.439 our own lives in relation to worship is, what is the person or thing that you could not do without? 00:04:24.560 --> 00:04:32.879 Or perhaps, what is the person or thing that occupies the bulk of your time, your energy, your attention, 00:04:32.879 --> 00:04:41.360 your thinking, and your affection? What do you enjoy the most? What do you talk about the most? Now we're 00:04:41.360 --> 00:04:47.360 beginning to come and arrive a little closer, perhaps, to that object of worship and adoration, 00:04:47.360 --> 00:04:54.959 that thing that you value, the thing that is worth everything to you. It might be fair to say that this 00:04:55.839 --> 00:05:03.759 has become an object of worship in your heart and life. Paul will say in Romans chapter 1, in addressing 00:05:03.759 --> 00:05:09.120 this issue of worship, that all of us are worshipers inherently. He says, 00:05:09.120 --> 00:05:15.039 For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them. For His invisible 00:05:15.039 --> 00:05:20.959 attributes, namely His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived ever since the 00:05:20.959 --> 00:05:25.599 creation of the world in the things that have been made, so they are without excuse. Now just pause 00:05:25.599 --> 00:05:33.759 there for a moment. What Paul is saying is that everyone has access to the revelation of God in 00:05:33.759 --> 00:05:41.199 creation. Everyone is able to see that there is a God who is overall, and there are certain qualities 00:05:41.199 --> 00:05:46.560 about God that they can perceive because of what they recognize in creation. 00:05:46.560 --> 00:05:58.480 But to every individual, the result is now spelled out. For although they knew God, they did not glorify 00:05:58.480 --> 00:06:05.439 Him as God or give thanks to Him, but became futile in their thinking, and their foolish hearts were darkened. 00:06:06.000 --> 00:06:12.879 Claiming to be wise, they became fools and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images resembling 00:06:12.879 --> 00:06:21.120 mortal man and birds and animals and creeping things. Meaning, while they knew that there was a God, 00:06:22.240 --> 00:06:30.560 rather than worshiping Him as He deserved, instead they turned inward and began to make images and gods 00:06:30.560 --> 00:06:38.079 of their own creation. Essentially, they turned their focus from outward to inward, and they began to worship 00:06:38.079 --> 00:06:46.000 the creature rather than the creator. Since the beginning of creation, mankind has worshiped and will 00:06:46.000 --> 00:06:55.199 continue to worship, the question is, what is the object of your affection? Rather than glorifying the God of 00:06:55.199 --> 00:07:04.719 creation, man tends to create gods of their own making. And it's not until God opens up the eyes of the blind, 00:07:04.720 --> 00:07:12.560 not until God unlocks the door of the heart, not until God reveals the light of His gospel into the 00:07:12.560 --> 00:07:20.160 lives of those who will believe in Him, will they become those who see and are awakened spiritually. 00:07:21.200 --> 00:07:27.360 2 Corinthians says, God has shown the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is in the image of 00:07:27.360 --> 00:07:33.680 God. It is God's work to shine that light into a heart. And until then, we're going to be those who 00:07:33.680 --> 00:07:40.720 worship the things that we create rather than worshiping the creator. But we understand that worship 00:07:40.720 --> 00:07:47.759 throughout the Scripture is not just an external thing, it involves an internal component. That's why 00:07:47.759 --> 00:07:54.480 Jesus says, love the Lord your God with all your heart and soul and mind and strength. It's meant to 00:07:54.480 --> 00:08:03.280 involve the entire and total part of an individual. Jesus, when addressing worship with His audience, 00:08:03.280 --> 00:08:06.879 in Matthew chapter 15, verse 8 and 9, says this, 00:08:06.879 --> 00:08:14.560 This people honors me with their lips, but their heart is far from me. In vain do they worship me, 00:08:14.680 --> 00:08:20.960 teaching as doctrines the commandments of men. They perform their religious duties, 00:08:20.959 --> 00:08:28.639 they show up to church on a regular basis, they bring their tithes, they do the things that they're 00:08:28.639 --> 00:08:34.079 asked to do, but it's only a checklist. It's not because of true affection for God. 00:08:35.519 --> 00:08:39.759 And as Piper is responding to this passage, he says this, quote, 00:08:39.759 --> 00:08:48.939 For Jesus, this worship amounts to zero. That is what vain means. In vain do they worship me. 00:08:48.940 --> 00:08:58.460 Zero. It is not worship. This is a zero worship. It is a zero if there's no heart dimension to it. 00:08:59.340 --> 00:09:03.580 So you can do as many deeds as you want, and go to as many church services as you want, 00:09:03.580 --> 00:09:10.220 and never be worshiping if it is all external, and nothing is happening in your heart towards God. 00:09:10.220 --> 00:09:11.100 End quote. 00:09:13.660 --> 00:09:20.220 This morning, are you worshiping God as one who is worshiping with your heart? 00:09:21.180 --> 00:09:28.480 Is the affection of your life that showing up from day to day as one who desires and craves after God? 00:09:28.720 --> 00:09:34.519 Is there true worship in your life? Because if not, it is a zero worship. It is a nothing worship. 00:09:34.519 --> 00:09:42.519 It is vain worship. In Matthew chapter 6 verse 24, we understand that worship cannot be mixed. 00:09:42.519 --> 00:09:48.439 It cannot be blended. It cannot be divided. And so Jesus will say, no one can serve two masters. 00:09:49.159 --> 00:09:55.079 Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. 00:09:55.299 --> 00:10:00.319 You cannot serve God and money. There are no two ways about it. 00:10:00.320 --> 00:10:07.680 There must be single-minded devotion to God and to God alone if there is true worship taking place. 00:10:08.720 --> 00:10:16.160 That's why the psalmist, in so many places throughout the Psalms, talks about the single-mindedness of his worship. 00:10:16.720 --> 00:10:18.700 In Psalm 27 verse 4, he says, 00:10:18.700 --> 00:10:27.759 One thing have I asked of the Lord, that will I seek after, that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, 00:10:27.900 --> 00:10:32.160 to gaze upon the beauty of the Lord and to inquire in his temple. 00:10:33.240 --> 00:10:35.680 And then in Psalm 86 11, the psalmist says, 00:10:35.680 --> 00:10:39.879 Teach me your way, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth. 00:10:40.240 --> 00:10:44.080 Unite my heart to fear your name. 00:10:45.180 --> 00:10:48.140 The NIV translates it this way. I think it's helpful. 00:10:48.139 --> 00:10:51.799 Give me an undivided heart that I might fear your name. 00:10:52.799 --> 00:10:56.460 We recognize the significance and the seriousness of worship, 00:10:56.559 --> 00:11:02.539 and we recognize that God is the only one who can help us worship rightly and truly. 00:11:03.000 --> 00:11:09.840 We need his help to unite our heart so it's not divided, so it's single-minded in devotion to him. 00:11:11.679 --> 00:11:14.879 Thus, any other worship is an abomination to God. 00:11:14.879 --> 00:11:21.700 And thus, anything that competes for your attention or your affection is idolatry. 00:11:22.480 --> 00:11:23.439 It is not true worship. 00:11:23.580 --> 00:11:27.159 Not the kind of worship that brings you close to God. 00:11:27.460 --> 00:11:29.039 Even good things. 00:11:29.039 --> 00:11:34.099 This is what our passage, in a nutshell, is trying to communicate. 00:11:34.259 --> 00:11:37.759 That God alone is worthy of your worship. 00:11:38.360 --> 00:11:40.779 God alone is worthy of your worship. 00:11:40.860 --> 00:11:46.879 And we're going to see that as we make our way through Daniel chapter 3, verses 1 to 18. 00:11:46.879 --> 00:11:49.740 Just the first part of this story. 00:11:49.740 --> 00:11:55.080 And we're going to see the spotlight on worship, true worship of the one sure God. 00:11:55.740 --> 00:11:58.600 So if you would, turn with me, if you would, to Daniel chapter 3. 00:11:58.639 --> 00:12:01.860 If you're using the Pew Bible, it's on page 739. 00:12:02.100 --> 00:12:05.500 Daniel chapter 3, verses 1 to 15. 00:12:05.500 --> 00:12:06.899 To start. 00:12:07.440 --> 00:12:15.159 I'm going to read just a few verses here in the first part of this passage to lay the groundwork, 00:12:15.220 --> 00:12:19.159 to set the context for our study as we jump in. 00:12:20.360 --> 00:12:21.879 It begins in verse 1. 00:12:21.879 --> 00:12:27.139 King Nebuchadnezzar made an image of gold whose height was 60 cubits and breadth 6 cubits. 00:12:27.679 --> 00:12:30.919 He set it up on the plain of Dura in the province of Babylon. 00:12:30.919 --> 00:12:37.299 Then King Nebuchadnezzar sent together the satraps, the prefects, and the governors, 00:12:37.519 --> 00:12:42.240 the counselors, the treasurers, the justices, the magistrates, and all the officials of the province 00:12:42.240 --> 00:12:47.419 to come to the dedication of the image that King Nebuchadnezzar had set up. 00:12:48.120 --> 00:12:48.799 Now verse 4. 00:12:49.759 --> 00:12:51.139 And the herald proclaimed aloud, 00:12:51.299 --> 00:12:55.120 You are commanded, O peoples, nations, and languages, 00:12:55.759 --> 00:13:00.559 that when you hear the sound of the horn, pipe, lyre, trigon, harp, bagpipe, 00:13:00.559 --> 00:13:01.819 and every kind of music, 00:13:02.059 --> 00:13:07.059 you are to fall down and worship the golden image that the King Nebuchadnezzar has set up. 00:13:08.439 --> 00:13:12.099 We begin this part of our service, this part of the message, 00:13:12.279 --> 00:13:16.199 in drawing attention to Nebuchadnezzar's self-centered demand. 00:13:17.339 --> 00:13:19.779 Nebuchadnezzar's self-centered demand. 00:13:20.839 --> 00:13:23.419 And as we make our way through this passage, 00:13:23.419 --> 00:13:29.379 I want all of us to understand that Nebuchadnezzar is just a magnified, 00:13:30.459 --> 00:13:34.159 amplified version of every single one of us in this room. 00:13:35.000 --> 00:13:40.360 That whatever Nebuchadnezzar does because of the power and the liberty of his position, 00:13:40.919 --> 00:13:45.559 every single one of us would also do given the same power, 00:13:45.939 --> 00:13:48.240 the same authority, and the same liberty. 00:13:48.240 --> 00:13:50.080 Because it's in our heart. 00:13:51.299 --> 00:13:57.480 Nebuchadnezzar's self-centered demand is no different than the demands that we have made, 00:13:57.980 --> 00:13:59.460 will continue to make perhaps, 00:13:59.840 --> 00:14:03.159 and God rescues us, hopefully in the process of sanctification, 00:14:03.620 --> 00:14:06.659 from making these kinds of demands on a regular basis. 00:14:08.460 --> 00:14:10.340 Nebuchadnezzar's self-centered demand. 00:14:11.259 --> 00:14:15.419 It begins with him establishing an image of gold. 00:14:15.419 --> 00:14:18.000 His image of gold is what we look at first. 00:14:19.019 --> 00:14:20.639 This should sound strangely familiar. 00:14:21.139 --> 00:14:22.620 This towering structure, 00:14:23.039 --> 00:14:27.659 this impressive image that has been erected in front of everyone. 00:14:28.240 --> 00:14:30.699 Mighty and glistening and awe-inspiring. 00:14:31.599 --> 00:14:33.959 Reminiscent of Nebuchadnezzar's dream. 00:14:34.899 --> 00:14:36.339 In Daniel chapter 2 verse 31, 00:14:36.439 --> 00:14:38.179 just to back up for a moment, 00:14:38.539 --> 00:14:42.000 Daniel, in explaining the dream that Nebuchadnezzar has in chapter 2, 00:14:42.339 --> 00:14:42.699 says, 00:14:42.700 --> 00:14:45.520 You saw, O king, and behold the great image. 00:14:45.780 --> 00:14:49.900 This image, mighty and exceeding brightness, stood before you. 00:14:50.540 --> 00:14:51.940 And its appearance was frightening. 00:14:53.000 --> 00:14:55.259 And then the interpretation in verse 37, 00:14:55.620 --> 00:14:57.460 You, O king, the king of kings, 00:14:57.600 --> 00:14:59.340 to whom the God of heaven has given, 00:14:59.740 --> 00:15:02.800 the kingdom, the power, and the might, and the glory, 00:15:03.160 --> 00:15:05.900 you are the head of gold. 00:15:05.899 --> 00:15:12.919 And now this head of gold that was once a part of the image in his dream, 00:15:13.100 --> 00:15:16.899 with different other kinds of metals in descending order 00:15:16.899 --> 00:15:19.059 as you work your way from head to toe, 00:15:19.299 --> 00:15:22.740 now Nebuchadnezzar has decided to make the entire statue 00:15:22.740 --> 00:15:24.659 an image of gold 00:15:24.659 --> 00:15:29.779 to demonstrate the superiority of his kingdom 00:15:29.779 --> 00:15:33.600 and perhaps suggesting that his kingdom, 00:15:33.600 --> 00:15:35.899 in fact, would be the eternal kingdom. 00:15:36.480 --> 00:15:38.399 It would be the kingdom that would continue. 00:15:39.919 --> 00:15:43.299 One can't help but see the correlation with this image. 00:15:43.939 --> 00:15:47.220 One can't help but wonder if in making this image, 00:15:47.519 --> 00:15:49.039 Nebuchadnezzar is also suggesting 00:15:49.039 --> 00:15:54.220 that he will have a kingdom that will stand the test of time. 00:15:54.220 --> 00:15:59.100 This image, which is 60 cubits tall and 6 cubits wide, 00:15:59.160 --> 00:16:01.320 essentially, to put in our own vernacular, 00:16:01.440 --> 00:16:04.960 would have been 90 feet tall and 9 feet wide. 00:16:05.139 --> 00:16:10.800 This grotesque, really, image that is standing in this plane, 00:16:10.940 --> 00:16:13.160 this backdrop of this flat plane, 00:16:13.800 --> 00:16:16.580 this image standing tall on that plane 00:16:16.580 --> 00:16:20.540 to draw attention to its towering, mighty figure. 00:16:20.539 --> 00:16:24.860 A figure in this plane that was comprised of gold, 00:16:24.959 --> 00:16:27.240 which would have been glistening in the Middle Eastern sun. 00:16:28.339 --> 00:16:31.059 And the word for image that is used here in chapter 3 00:16:31.059 --> 00:16:34.759 is the same word for image that is used also in chapter 2, 00:16:35.699 --> 00:16:39.339 also suggesting that whatever image Nebuchadnezzar has created 00:16:39.339 --> 00:16:41.299 has taken human form. 00:16:42.179 --> 00:16:43.719 What is Nebuchadnezzar doing? 00:16:44.939 --> 00:16:47.599 Well, in this image, we see this massive ego 00:16:47.599 --> 00:16:49.099 of King Nebuchadnezzar. 00:16:49.100 --> 00:16:51.460 It does not say specifically, 00:16:51.620 --> 00:16:54.040 but I think we can assume that this is a representation 00:16:54.040 --> 00:16:56.259 of Nebuchadnezzar himself. 00:16:57.139 --> 00:17:00.500 Likely an image very similar to what we find in Daniel chapter 2. 00:17:00.820 --> 00:17:03.899 And here, Nebuchadnezzar is inviting all the officials 00:17:03.899 --> 00:17:06.120 of all the peoples and all the languages 00:17:06.120 --> 00:17:09.839 who are part of his empire to come and comprise themselves, 00:17:10.120 --> 00:17:13.779 present themselves, and bow in allegiance to the king. 00:17:13.779 --> 00:17:20.599 This image is also distinct from Nebuchadnezzar's gods. 00:17:21.399 --> 00:17:24.299 Three times we will read in the next several verses, 00:17:25.000 --> 00:17:28.339 in verse 12 and verse 14 and also in verse 18, 00:17:28.740 --> 00:17:32.200 the accusation is they do not serve your gods 00:17:32.200 --> 00:17:35.160 or worship your golden image, 00:17:35.299 --> 00:17:39.379 which would indicate the distinction between the gods of Babylon 00:17:39.380 --> 00:17:41.960 and this image that Nebuchadnezzar has set up. 00:17:42.920 --> 00:17:44.140 So why does he set up this image? 00:17:44.240 --> 00:17:45.820 Well, this is a test of loyalty. 00:17:47.340 --> 00:17:49.460 Elevating himself to a place of supremacy, 00:17:50.260 --> 00:17:52.660 probably trying to root out all of the opposition 00:17:52.660 --> 00:17:53.660 within his kingdom, 00:17:54.100 --> 00:17:55.640 exposing the resistance 00:17:55.640 --> 00:17:58.940 and making sure that everyone is falling in line. 00:17:58.940 --> 00:18:03.720 Now Daniel will describe what's happening next 00:18:03.720 --> 00:18:05.019 in verses 2 to 7. 00:18:05.840 --> 00:18:08.519 This image is set up, but it's set up for a purpose. 00:18:08.920 --> 00:18:11.940 We see Nebuchadnezzar's desire for worship, 00:18:12.620 --> 00:18:14.120 his desire for worship. 00:18:15.259 --> 00:18:16.700 I want to just draw your attention 00:18:16.700 --> 00:18:18.700 as we make our way through here. 00:18:18.779 --> 00:18:21.920 I want you to take notice of the number of times 00:18:21.920 --> 00:18:24.940 Nebuchadnezzar's name is used. 00:18:25.580 --> 00:18:26.900 In verse 2 it says, 00:18:26.900 --> 00:18:30.420 Then King Nebuchadnezzar sent to gather the satraps. 00:18:30.880 --> 00:18:32.060 Back up to verse 1. 00:18:32.160 --> 00:18:32.720 Sorry, I missed that. 00:18:32.840 --> 00:18:35.100 King Nebuchadnezzar made an image of gold. 00:18:35.620 --> 00:18:36.440 Towards the end it says, 00:18:36.540 --> 00:18:38.600 He set it up in the plain of Dura. 00:18:39.840 --> 00:18:41.420 At the end of verse 2 it says, 00:18:41.700 --> 00:18:44.259 The image that King Nebuchadnezzar had set up. 00:18:45.380 --> 00:18:47.040 Then in verse 3, towards the end, 00:18:47.820 --> 00:18:49.440 this dedication of the image 00:18:49.440 --> 00:18:51.620 that King Nebuchadnezzar had set up. 00:18:52.160 --> 00:18:53.780 And they stood before the image 00:18:53.780 --> 00:18:56.220 that King Nebuchadnezzar had set up. 00:18:56.900 --> 00:18:57.900 Then in verse 4, 00:18:58.840 --> 00:19:01.340 O peoples, nations, and languages, 00:19:02.060 --> 00:19:03.200 when you hear the sound of the horn, 00:19:03.300 --> 00:19:05.840 pipe, lyre, trigon, harp, bagpipe, 00:19:05.920 --> 00:19:06.759 and every kind of music, 00:19:06.860 --> 00:19:08.860 you are a fall down and worship 00:19:08.860 --> 00:19:11.500 the golden image that King Nebuchadnezzar 00:19:11.500 --> 00:19:12.460 has set up. 00:19:13.420 --> 00:19:14.560 And then verse 6, 00:19:14.680 --> 00:19:16.780 Whoever does not fall down in worship 00:19:16.780 --> 00:19:18.560 shall immediately be cast 00:19:18.560 --> 00:19:20.759 into the burning fiery furnace. 00:19:20.759 --> 00:19:23.099 Then at the end of verse 7, 00:19:24.720 --> 00:19:26.299 The people heard this music. 00:19:26.420 --> 00:19:28.500 All the peoples, nations, and languages 00:19:28.500 --> 00:19:31.440 fell down and worshiped the golden image 00:19:31.440 --> 00:19:33.960 that King Nebuchadnezzar had set up. 00:19:34.920 --> 00:19:36.779 Daniel is going through great lengths 00:19:36.779 --> 00:19:38.579 in these first seven verses 00:19:38.579 --> 00:19:41.779 to draw attention to who is on display, 00:19:41.779 --> 00:19:44.740 who is really the focal point of this ceremony. 00:19:44.740 --> 00:19:45.940 And of course, 00:19:46.299 --> 00:19:48.740 Nebuchadnezzar is at the center 00:19:48.740 --> 00:19:50.519 of the ceremony, 00:19:50.839 --> 00:19:52.240 the events that are taking place. 00:19:54.259 --> 00:19:56.220 Nebuchadnezzar is mentioned seven times. 00:19:57.200 --> 00:19:58.960 We also notice that Daniel mentions 00:19:58.960 --> 00:20:00.920 this image that is set up 00:20:00.920 --> 00:20:02.859 six times throughout the course 00:20:02.859 --> 00:20:03.740 of these seven verses. 00:20:04.559 --> 00:20:07.059 This word to set up is to stand. 00:20:07.299 --> 00:20:08.519 It's to rise up. 00:20:09.319 --> 00:20:10.240 This is all, of course, 00:20:10.319 --> 00:20:12.099 in contrast to the instructions 00:20:12.099 --> 00:20:13.599 that were given to the crowd. 00:20:13.599 --> 00:20:15.699 This image would stand up 00:20:15.699 --> 00:20:17.519 and the people were to fall down. 00:20:18.599 --> 00:20:19.659 Fall down in reverence. 00:20:20.159 --> 00:20:20.839 Fall down in worship. 00:20:21.279 --> 00:20:23.619 Fall down in allegiance to the king 00:20:23.619 --> 00:20:24.480 in his image. 00:20:25.259 --> 00:20:26.240 This image would stand. 00:20:26.359 --> 00:20:27.779 The people would fall. 00:20:28.119 --> 00:20:28.919 In the plain of Dura, 00:20:29.259 --> 00:20:30.459 as flat as it was, 00:20:30.519 --> 00:20:31.959 would be the perfect backdrop 00:20:31.959 --> 00:20:34.159 to this entire event. 00:20:35.819 --> 00:20:38.079 Notice also the composition of the group. 00:20:38.959 --> 00:20:40.679 We see seven different classes 00:20:40.679 --> 00:20:42.000 of officials that are represented 00:20:42.000 --> 00:20:43.680 in verse two. 00:20:44.099 --> 00:20:45.880 Satraps, prefects, governors, 00:20:46.140 --> 00:20:47.099 counselors, treasurers, 00:20:47.759 --> 00:20:50.640 justices, magistrates, officials. 00:20:51.859 --> 00:20:54.140 Described here from top to bottom. 00:20:54.680 --> 00:20:55.960 From the most important 00:20:55.960 --> 00:20:57.259 to the least important. 00:20:57.380 --> 00:20:59.359 To those who have the most authority 00:20:59.359 --> 00:21:00.819 to the least authority 00:21:00.819 --> 00:21:01.880 in the kingdom. 00:21:02.000 --> 00:21:03.940 This descending order, as it were, 00:21:03.940 --> 00:21:05.380 from head to toe. 00:21:05.380 --> 00:21:08.420 And that should also sound familiar. 00:21:09.580 --> 00:21:11.820 This group is also comprised of peoples 00:21:11.820 --> 00:21:13.700 from every part of the known world. 00:21:13.980 --> 00:21:14.920 Notice in verse four, 00:21:15.540 --> 00:21:16.620 the herald proclaims aloud, 00:21:16.760 --> 00:21:17.340 you are commanded, 00:21:17.480 --> 00:21:20.060 O peoples, nations, and languages. 00:21:21.360 --> 00:21:22.560 And then in verse seven, 00:21:22.800 --> 00:21:23.020 therefore, 00:21:23.700 --> 00:21:24.920 as soon as all the people 00:21:24.920 --> 00:21:26.920 heard the sound of the horn, pipe, 00:21:27.040 --> 00:21:29.180 lyre, trigon, harp, bagpipe, 00:21:29.300 --> 00:21:31.240 and every kind of music, 00:21:31.440 --> 00:21:32.100 all the peoples, 00:21:32.700 --> 00:21:33.700 nations, and languages, 00:21:33.700 --> 00:21:35.400 fell down and worshipped 00:21:35.400 --> 00:21:36.299 the golden image 00:21:36.299 --> 00:21:37.819 that King Nebuchadnezzar 00:21:37.819 --> 00:21:38.759 had set up. 00:21:39.559 --> 00:21:41.600 Everybody that was somebody 00:21:41.600 --> 00:21:43.120 came to this event 00:21:43.120 --> 00:21:46.420 and everybody that was somebody 00:21:46.420 --> 00:21:47.920 bowed to this image. 00:21:49.400 --> 00:21:50.799 The leading representatives 00:21:50.799 --> 00:21:51.640 from the world 00:21:51.640 --> 00:21:53.640 assembled to pay homage 00:21:53.640 --> 00:21:55.000 to King Nebuchadnezzar. 00:21:55.000 --> 00:21:56.019 Their attendance 00:21:56.019 --> 00:21:57.620 was not optional. 00:21:58.340 --> 00:21:59.720 This test of loyalty 00:21:59.720 --> 00:22:00.799 to the kingdom 00:22:00.799 --> 00:22:02.580 was placed on every 00:22:02.579 --> 00:22:04.259 major government official 00:22:04.259 --> 00:22:05.199 that existed. 00:22:06.079 --> 00:22:07.259 But Shadrach, Meshach, 00:22:07.319 --> 00:22:07.699 and Abednego, 00:22:08.339 --> 00:22:09.720 they knew, of course, 00:22:09.779 --> 00:22:11.159 that worship to this image 00:22:11.159 --> 00:22:12.659 was worship 00:22:12.659 --> 00:22:14.899 that would be idolatry 00:22:14.899 --> 00:22:16.379 against the worship 00:22:16.379 --> 00:22:18.619 of their God. 00:22:18.759 --> 00:22:19.839 Allegiance, of course, 00:22:19.899 --> 00:22:20.299 to them, 00:22:20.619 --> 00:22:21.480 to the God of heaven 00:22:21.480 --> 00:22:22.279 was at stake. 00:22:23.439 --> 00:22:25.319 And we move to verses six, 00:22:25.980 --> 00:22:26.299 excuse me, 00:22:26.359 --> 00:22:27.179 verses eight to 12. 00:22:27.180 --> 00:22:29.039 We find to reinforce 00:22:29.039 --> 00:22:30.740 this command 00:22:30.740 --> 00:22:33.080 that Nebuchadnezzar gives, 00:22:33.160 --> 00:22:35.740 we find his forceful intimidation. 00:22:37.019 --> 00:22:38.120 Nebuchadnezzar is serious 00:22:38.120 --> 00:22:39.299 about compliance. 00:22:40.000 --> 00:22:41.440 And so he sets in motion 00:22:41.440 --> 00:22:42.360 the consequences 00:22:42.360 --> 00:22:44.460 that will help to communicate 00:22:44.460 --> 00:22:46.220 the greatest severity. 00:22:47.279 --> 00:22:48.200 In Daniel chapter three, 00:22:48.259 --> 00:22:48.720 verse six, 00:22:48.820 --> 00:22:49.560 we see this. 00:22:49.860 --> 00:22:51.279 Whoever does not fall down 00:22:51.279 --> 00:22:51.960 and worship 00:22:51.960 --> 00:22:53.759 shall immediately be cast 00:22:53.759 --> 00:22:55.240 into a burning, 00:22:55.759 --> 00:22:56.640 fiery furnace. 00:22:58.279 --> 00:22:59.680 Nebuchadnezzar probably chose 00:22:59.680 --> 00:23:00.720 the fiery furnace 00:23:00.720 --> 00:23:02.759 as a means of convenience 00:23:02.759 --> 00:23:04.839 because it would be a kiln 00:23:04.839 --> 00:23:06.980 like this burning, 00:23:07.259 --> 00:23:07.759 fiery furnace 00:23:07.759 --> 00:23:08.960 that would be necessary 00:23:08.960 --> 00:23:10.440 in order to melt the gold, 00:23:10.720 --> 00:23:12.319 to plate this statue, 00:23:12.559 --> 00:23:14.640 and also to kiln the bricks 00:23:14.640 --> 00:23:16.039 that would have been used 00:23:16.039 --> 00:23:18.400 in fashioning the pedestal 00:23:18.400 --> 00:23:20.879 and the guts of the image itself. 00:23:20.880 --> 00:23:24.580 temperatures in kilns 00:23:24.580 --> 00:23:25.600 such as these 00:23:25.600 --> 00:23:27.020 could reach anywhere 00:23:27.020 --> 00:23:30.900 between 1200 and 1800 degrees Fahrenheit. 00:23:32.000 --> 00:23:33.460 Although it's not recorded, 00:23:35.240 --> 00:23:36.940 Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego 00:23:36.940 --> 00:23:39.740 did not bow down to the image. 00:23:40.520 --> 00:23:42.300 They were present at the ceremony. 00:23:43.080 --> 00:23:45.240 They obeyed as far as they could. 00:23:46.000 --> 00:23:48.480 This has been the standout feature 00:23:48.480 --> 00:23:50.520 of their time in Babylon. 00:23:50.880 --> 00:23:53.240 We see this blend of integrity 00:23:53.240 --> 00:23:54.340 and conviction 00:23:54.340 --> 00:23:56.960 that is mixed and blended 00:23:56.960 --> 00:23:57.800 with compliance. 00:23:58.320 --> 00:23:59.640 We see their courage 00:23:59.640 --> 00:24:01.120 that's mixed with submission. 00:24:01.660 --> 00:24:02.680 We see their faith 00:24:02.680 --> 00:24:04.300 that's mixed with adherence. 00:24:04.840 --> 00:24:05.940 But here they are again. 00:24:06.720 --> 00:24:07.660 They've been summoned 00:24:07.660 --> 00:24:08.440 to the plain of Dura. 00:24:09.040 --> 00:24:09.900 They come, 00:24:10.360 --> 00:24:11.640 although I'm sure 00:24:11.640 --> 00:24:13.220 they recognized it was risky. 00:24:14.200 --> 00:24:15.200 No doubt they're aware 00:24:15.200 --> 00:24:16.120 of the king's ego 00:24:16.120 --> 00:24:17.740 and his intent 00:24:17.740 --> 00:24:19.560 to single out the dissenters 00:24:19.559 --> 00:24:20.700 and call attention 00:24:20.700 --> 00:24:21.899 to worship to him. 00:24:22.119 --> 00:24:22.720 But they come 00:24:22.720 --> 00:24:24.200 to the command 00:24:24.200 --> 00:24:25.379 in obedience 00:24:25.379 --> 00:24:26.480 and submission 00:24:26.480 --> 00:24:28.460 to their authority. 00:24:28.919 --> 00:24:29.740 But here now 00:24:29.740 --> 00:24:30.899 they're faced with a decision. 00:24:31.460 --> 00:24:33.200 Here now they're at a crossroads. 00:24:33.599 --> 00:24:34.519 A crossroads 00:24:34.519 --> 00:24:35.759 of compliance 00:24:35.759 --> 00:24:37.079 and submission to God 00:24:37.079 --> 00:24:38.099 versus submission 00:24:38.099 --> 00:24:39.139 to the king. 00:24:39.140 --> 00:24:41.340 And we find themselves 00:24:41.340 --> 00:24:42.460 unable to bow 00:24:42.460 --> 00:24:43.180 before the image, 00:24:43.300 --> 00:24:43.920 understanding 00:24:43.920 --> 00:24:45.340 its implications. 00:24:46.380 --> 00:24:47.040 Verse 8 says, 00:24:47.039 --> 00:24:47.339 Therefore, 00:24:48.019 --> 00:24:48.680 at that time 00:24:48.680 --> 00:24:49.599 certain Chaldeans 00:24:49.599 --> 00:24:50.240 came forward 00:24:50.240 --> 00:24:51.099 and maliciously 00:24:51.099 --> 00:24:52.359 accused the Jews. 00:24:53.220 --> 00:24:53.659 They declared 00:24:53.659 --> 00:24:54.119 to the king, 00:24:54.259 --> 00:24:54.779 Nebuchadnezzar, 00:24:54.859 --> 00:24:55.220 O king, 00:24:55.279 --> 00:24:55.819 live forever. 00:24:56.200 --> 00:24:56.920 You, O king, 00:24:56.980 --> 00:24:57.839 have made a decree 00:24:57.839 --> 00:24:58.960 that every man 00:24:58.960 --> 00:24:59.759 who hears the sound 00:24:59.759 --> 00:25:00.240 of the horn, 00:25:00.420 --> 00:25:00.799 pipe, 00:25:00.940 --> 00:25:01.259 lyre, 00:25:01.379 --> 00:25:01.779 trigon, 00:25:02.039 --> 00:25:02.339 harp, 00:25:02.659 --> 00:25:03.279 bagpipe, 00:25:03.879 --> 00:25:05.000 and every kind of music 00:25:05.000 --> 00:25:05.759 shall fall down 00:25:05.759 --> 00:25:06.240 and worship 00:25:06.240 --> 00:25:07.119 the golden image. 00:25:07.819 --> 00:25:08.200 And whoever 00:25:08.200 --> 00:25:09.180 does not fall down 00:25:09.180 --> 00:25:09.659 and worship 00:25:09.659 --> 00:25:10.740 shall be cast 00:25:10.740 --> 00:25:12.019 into a burning, 00:25:12.240 --> 00:25:12.899 fiery furnace. 00:25:13.899 --> 00:25:14.980 There are certain Jews 00:25:14.980 --> 00:25:15.859 whom you have appointed 00:25:15.859 --> 00:25:17.179 over the affairs 00:25:17.179 --> 00:25:17.879 of the province 00:25:17.879 --> 00:25:18.459 of Babylon, 00:25:18.779 --> 00:25:19.139 Shadrach, 00:25:19.240 --> 00:25:19.519 Meshach, 00:25:19.579 --> 00:25:20.000 and Abednego. 00:25:20.359 --> 00:25:20.919 These men, 00:25:20.959 --> 00:25:21.459 O king, 00:25:21.619 --> 00:25:22.539 pay no attention 00:25:22.539 --> 00:25:23.159 to you. 00:25:23.359 --> 00:25:24.359 They do not serve 00:25:24.359 --> 00:25:24.939 your gods 00:25:24.939 --> 00:25:25.659 or worship 00:25:25.659 --> 00:25:26.859 the golden image 00:25:26.859 --> 00:25:28.279 that you have set up. 00:25:29.559 --> 00:25:30.539 As a side note, 00:25:30.619 --> 00:25:31.359 I think it's important 00:25:31.359 --> 00:25:32.159 for us to understand 00:25:32.159 --> 00:25:32.599 that Daniel 00:25:32.599 --> 00:25:33.379 is not present 00:25:33.379 --> 00:25:35.579 in this ceremony. 00:25:36.539 --> 00:25:37.419 And all along 00:25:37.419 --> 00:25:38.219 as we've been reading 00:25:38.219 --> 00:25:39.759 through the book 00:25:39.759 --> 00:25:40.219 of Daniel, 00:25:40.339 --> 00:25:41.359 we've come to see 00:25:41.359 --> 00:25:42.199 and appreciate 00:25:42.199 --> 00:25:43.099 that Daniel stood 00:25:43.099 --> 00:25:44.099 as a figure 00:25:44.099 --> 00:25:45.359 that was full 00:25:45.359 --> 00:25:46.000 of conviction 00:25:46.000 --> 00:25:46.439 and I think 00:25:46.439 --> 00:25:47.719 helped to carry 00:25:47.719 --> 00:25:48.859 these young men 00:25:48.859 --> 00:25:49.819 in doing what was right. 00:25:50.039 --> 00:25:50.519 But here, 00:25:50.799 --> 00:25:51.740 now these men 00:25:51.740 --> 00:25:52.719 stand alone. 00:25:54.079 --> 00:25:54.579 The conviction 00:25:54.579 --> 00:25:56.039 and worship 00:25:56.039 --> 00:25:56.719 and devotion 00:25:56.719 --> 00:25:57.759 for their God 00:25:57.759 --> 00:25:59.379 is coming through 00:25:59.379 --> 00:26:00.279 in their heart 00:26:00.279 --> 00:26:02.139 of affection for God 00:26:02.139 --> 00:26:03.799 and loyalty to Him. 00:26:04.599 --> 00:26:05.639 But the Chaldeans 00:26:05.639 --> 00:26:06.619 take notice. 00:26:07.919 --> 00:26:08.679 It would have been obvious, 00:26:08.819 --> 00:26:09.199 of course, 00:26:09.359 --> 00:26:11.359 an act of disobedience. 00:26:11.979 --> 00:26:12.899 But you also get 00:26:12.899 --> 00:26:13.399 the sense 00:26:13.400 --> 00:26:14.420 that these Chaldeans 00:26:14.420 --> 00:26:15.500 were on the lookout 00:26:15.500 --> 00:26:16.780 because if any of you 00:26:16.780 --> 00:26:18.720 have looked at any pictures 00:26:18.720 --> 00:26:19.620 of anyone 00:26:19.620 --> 00:26:21.019 in Middle Eastern culture 00:26:21.019 --> 00:26:22.860 who is bowing down, 00:26:23.400 --> 00:26:24.220 you recognize 00:26:24.220 --> 00:26:25.080 that their face 00:26:25.080 --> 00:26:26.300 is often right 00:26:26.300 --> 00:26:27.040 to the ground. 00:26:27.460 --> 00:26:28.340 And so there is 00:26:28.340 --> 00:26:30.019 zero or very little, 00:26:30.160 --> 00:26:30.580 if any, 00:26:30.900 --> 00:26:32.440 view of their surroundings 00:26:32.440 --> 00:26:34.560 and often eyes closed. 00:26:34.740 --> 00:26:35.620 But somehow, 00:26:36.320 --> 00:26:37.160 these Chaldeans 00:26:37.160 --> 00:26:38.560 are taking notice. 00:26:39.360 --> 00:26:40.280 They have a lookout. 00:26:40.279 --> 00:26:43.599 It's a convenient observation. 00:26:44.859 --> 00:26:45.339 And of course, 00:26:45.440 --> 00:26:46.319 they approach the king 00:26:46.319 --> 00:26:48.619 to maliciously accuse 00:26:48.619 --> 00:26:49.539 these Jews. 00:26:50.980 --> 00:26:51.819 This word literally, 00:26:51.899 --> 00:26:53.000 or this phrase literally, 00:26:53.259 --> 00:26:53.619 means 00:26:53.619 --> 00:26:55.559 to eat the pieces of. 00:26:55.960 --> 00:26:57.339 They want to devour them 00:26:57.339 --> 00:26:58.460 piece by piece. 00:26:58.599 --> 00:26:59.720 They want to tear them 00:26:59.720 --> 00:27:00.599 to pieces. 00:27:02.180 --> 00:27:02.539 Of course, 00:27:02.619 --> 00:27:04.639 that is familiar as well 00:27:04.639 --> 00:27:05.460 as we understand 00:27:05.460 --> 00:27:06.299 that Satan 00:27:06.299 --> 00:27:07.240 is not only called 00:27:07.240 --> 00:27:08.059 the accuser 00:27:08.059 --> 00:27:09.059 and these men 00:27:09.059 --> 00:27:09.839 are maliciously 00:27:09.839 --> 00:27:11.319 accusing these Jews. 00:27:11.659 --> 00:27:12.700 We also understand 00:27:12.700 --> 00:27:13.119 that Satan 00:27:13.119 --> 00:27:14.220 is the roaring lion 00:27:14.220 --> 00:27:15.200 who is seeking 00:27:15.200 --> 00:27:17.299 whom he may devour. 00:27:18.299 --> 00:27:19.139 These Chaldeans 00:27:19.139 --> 00:27:20.619 acting as agents 00:27:20.619 --> 00:27:21.619 of the enemy. 00:27:22.720 --> 00:27:23.240 They begin 00:27:23.240 --> 00:27:24.259 with a formal greeting, 00:27:24.440 --> 00:27:25.039 O king, 00:27:25.200 --> 00:27:26.139 live forever. 00:27:27.099 --> 00:27:28.000 And then they continue 00:27:28.000 --> 00:27:29.099 by recounting 00:27:29.099 --> 00:27:29.899 the command 00:27:29.899 --> 00:27:30.799 that the king has given 00:27:30.799 --> 00:27:32.099 as if he didn't know. 00:27:33.059 --> 00:27:34.220 But then comes the hook. 00:27:35.119 --> 00:27:36.259 There are certain Jews 00:27:36.259 --> 00:27:37.200 whom you have appointed 00:27:37.200 --> 00:27:37.900 over the affairs 00:27:37.900 --> 00:27:39.160 of the province of Babylon. 00:27:39.279 --> 00:27:40.519 They pay no attention 00:27:40.519 --> 00:27:41.039 to you. 00:27:41.600 --> 00:27:42.519 They do not serve 00:27:42.519 --> 00:27:43.100 your gods 00:27:43.100 --> 00:27:44.080 or worship 00:27:44.080 --> 00:27:44.819 the image 00:27:44.819 --> 00:27:46.140 that you have set up. 00:27:46.960 --> 00:27:47.860 This, of course, 00:27:48.019 --> 00:27:48.700 is an attempt 00:27:48.700 --> 00:27:49.340 to emphasize 00:27:49.340 --> 00:27:51.819 every single point 00:27:51.819 --> 00:27:53.539 of suspicion 00:27:53.539 --> 00:27:55.100 that they could identify. 00:27:56.019 --> 00:27:56.640 They're Jews, 00:27:56.759 --> 00:27:57.059 meaning 00:27:57.059 --> 00:27:58.460 they're not from here, 00:27:58.660 --> 00:27:59.160 Nebuchadnezzar. 00:27:59.960 --> 00:28:00.900 They have no allegiance 00:28:00.900 --> 00:28:01.620 to Babylon, 00:28:02.140 --> 00:28:02.700 Nebuchadnezzar. 00:28:02.799 --> 00:28:04.120 They're not on the home team, 00:28:04.299 --> 00:28:05.019 as it were. 00:28:05.640 --> 00:28:06.279 Watch out. 00:28:07.200 --> 00:28:08.279 They pay no attention 00:28:08.279 --> 00:28:08.740 to you. 00:28:09.059 --> 00:28:09.420 Also, 00:28:09.580 --> 00:28:10.920 an attempt 00:28:10.920 --> 00:28:11.740 to discredit 00:28:11.740 --> 00:28:12.480 their service 00:28:12.480 --> 00:28:13.340 that has been 00:28:13.340 --> 00:28:14.220 consistent 00:28:14.220 --> 00:28:15.080 and faithful 00:28:15.080 --> 00:28:16.259 up to this point. 00:28:17.120 --> 00:28:18.160 They do not serve 00:28:18.160 --> 00:28:18.759 your gods. 00:28:18.799 --> 00:28:19.740 And this will be important 00:28:19.740 --> 00:28:21.000 as we continue 00:28:21.000 --> 00:28:21.940 to work our way 00:28:21.940 --> 00:28:22.960 through the text 00:28:22.960 --> 00:28:24.299 that service 00:28:24.299 --> 00:28:25.200 and worship 00:28:25.200 --> 00:28:26.680 are interchangeable 00:28:26.680 --> 00:28:27.360 in the scriptures. 00:28:28.180 --> 00:28:29.200 That when worship 00:28:29.200 --> 00:28:29.940 is happening, 00:28:30.360 --> 00:28:31.519 service is also 00:28:31.519 --> 00:28:32.640 taking place. 00:28:32.700 --> 00:28:33.680 And we see that here 00:28:33.680 --> 00:28:34.400 in our text. 00:28:34.400 --> 00:28:35.740 They do not serve 00:28:35.740 --> 00:28:36.220 your gods 00:28:36.220 --> 00:28:36.960 or worship 00:28:36.960 --> 00:28:37.720 the image. 00:28:39.420 --> 00:28:40.460 Exclusive worship 00:28:40.460 --> 00:28:41.100 of God 00:28:41.100 --> 00:28:42.620 was allowed 00:28:42.620 --> 00:28:45.320 during Nebuchadnezzar's reign, 00:28:45.640 --> 00:28:46.660 permitted by him, 00:28:46.720 --> 00:28:47.200 but here, 00:28:47.420 --> 00:28:48.400 now it's twisted 00:28:48.400 --> 00:28:49.980 against these young men. 00:28:50.720 --> 00:28:51.800 They do not worship 00:28:51.800 --> 00:28:52.500 your image. 00:28:52.620 --> 00:28:52.900 Now, 00:28:53.300 --> 00:28:55.040 this gets extremely personal. 00:28:55.420 --> 00:28:56.360 This is your image, 00:28:56.880 --> 00:28:57.420 Nebuchadnezzar. 00:28:57.780 --> 00:28:59.000 They don't recognize you 00:28:59.000 --> 00:28:59.680 as supreme. 00:29:00.680 --> 00:29:01.580 They don't acknowledge 00:29:01.580 --> 00:29:02.279 your authority. 00:29:03.180 --> 00:29:03.840 They don't pay 00:29:03.840 --> 00:29:04.900 any allegiance 00:29:04.900 --> 00:29:05.700 to your kingdom, 00:29:05.840 --> 00:29:06.360 Nebuchadnezzar. 00:29:07.160 --> 00:29:08.340 Watch out for these guys. 00:29:09.440 --> 00:29:10.640 It is important to notice 00:29:10.640 --> 00:29:11.900 that worship and service, 00:29:12.039 --> 00:29:12.680 as I have said, 00:29:12.799 --> 00:29:13.660 are interchangeable. 00:29:13.700 --> 00:29:14.220 We see that 00:29:14.220 --> 00:29:15.660 in the next several verses. 00:29:15.779 --> 00:29:16.960 We saw that in verse 12. 00:29:17.400 --> 00:29:18.180 We'll see it again 00:29:18.180 --> 00:29:19.180 in verse 14 00:29:19.180 --> 00:29:20.620 where Nebuchadnezzar 00:29:20.620 --> 00:29:21.759 challenges the young men, 00:29:21.920 --> 00:29:22.620 is it true 00:29:22.620 --> 00:29:24.200 that you do not serve 00:29:24.200 --> 00:29:25.100 my gods 00:29:25.100 --> 00:29:25.980 or worship 00:29:25.980 --> 00:29:27.240 the golden image 00:29:27.240 --> 00:29:27.840 I've set up? 00:29:27.839 --> 00:29:30.019 And then in verse 17, 00:29:30.779 --> 00:29:31.699 the young men say, 00:29:32.199 --> 00:29:33.000 our God 00:29:33.000 --> 00:29:34.139 whom we serve 00:29:34.139 --> 00:29:35.759 is able to deliver. 00:29:37.000 --> 00:29:37.659 And then finally, 00:29:37.819 --> 00:29:38.579 in verse 18, 00:29:39.119 --> 00:29:40.359 we will not serve 00:29:40.359 --> 00:29:40.959 your gods 00:29:40.959 --> 00:29:42.079 or worship 00:29:42.079 --> 00:29:43.079 the golden image 00:29:43.079 --> 00:29:44.159 that you have set up. 00:29:44.699 --> 00:29:46.039 We will not serve you. 00:29:46.480 --> 00:29:47.819 We will not worship you. 00:29:48.099 --> 00:29:49.079 We will not pay 00:29:49.079 --> 00:29:50.859 our allegiance to you 00:29:50.859 --> 00:29:52.639 because God alone 00:29:52.639 --> 00:29:53.679 is worthy. 00:29:54.939 --> 00:29:57.819 In verses 13 to 15, 00:29:58.699 --> 00:29:59.939 we find Nebuchadnezzar 00:29:59.939 --> 00:30:01.819 giving them another opportunity, 00:30:01.879 --> 00:30:02.559 another chance, 00:30:02.599 --> 00:30:02.959 as it were. 00:30:03.199 --> 00:30:04.099 He brings Shadrach, 00:30:04.220 --> 00:30:04.619 Meshach, 00:30:04.679 --> 00:30:05.159 and Abednego 00:30:05.159 --> 00:30:06.240 before him. 00:30:06.299 --> 00:30:07.980 He recites the command. 00:30:08.279 --> 00:30:09.279 He gives them a chance 00:30:09.279 --> 00:30:10.419 when the music plays 00:30:10.419 --> 00:30:11.459 to fall down 00:30:11.459 --> 00:30:12.379 and show their allegiance. 00:30:13.720 --> 00:30:14.839 And then Nebuchadnezzar 00:30:14.839 --> 00:30:17.519 adds an important element 00:30:17.519 --> 00:30:19.039 at the end of verse 15. 00:30:19.159 --> 00:30:19.399 Notice, 00:30:19.400 --> 00:30:22.360 And who is the God 00:30:22.360 --> 00:30:23.600 who will deliver you 00:30:23.600 --> 00:30:25.460 out of my hands? 00:30:26.420 --> 00:30:27.960 This has always been 00:30:27.960 --> 00:30:28.980 a test of power. 00:30:29.259 --> 00:30:30.340 Now we're finally getting 00:30:30.340 --> 00:30:31.120 to the crux 00:30:31.120 --> 00:30:32.420 of what Nebuchadnezzar 00:30:32.420 --> 00:30:33.200 is after. 00:30:33.560 --> 00:30:34.680 He wants worship 00:30:34.680 --> 00:30:36.300 as if he were God. 00:30:36.820 --> 00:30:38.480 He wants to establish himself 00:30:38.480 --> 00:30:39.980 as the Supreme One. 00:30:40.660 --> 00:30:41.940 It's a test of allegiance, 00:30:42.759 --> 00:30:43.900 a test of worship. 00:30:44.800 --> 00:30:45.440 And Nebuchadnezzar, 00:30:45.500 --> 00:30:46.300 by his own mouth, 00:30:46.299 --> 00:30:47.759 demonstrates what is central 00:30:47.759 --> 00:30:49.200 to this ceremony. 00:30:50.559 --> 00:30:52.119 Worship this image. 00:30:52.940 --> 00:30:53.639 And no God 00:30:53.639 --> 00:30:55.680 can challenge my power. 00:30:58.159 --> 00:30:59.700 These three young men 00:30:59.700 --> 00:31:00.919 stand their ground. 00:31:02.539 --> 00:31:03.819 They serve as an example 00:31:03.819 --> 00:31:04.799 to us 00:31:04.799 --> 00:31:06.659 of loyalty to Christ 00:31:06.659 --> 00:31:08.619 and true worship 00:31:08.619 --> 00:31:09.480 that should be true 00:31:09.480 --> 00:31:11.839 of every single one of us 00:31:11.839 --> 00:31:13.319 who claim 00:31:13.319 --> 00:31:14.680 to be followers of Jesus. 00:31:14.680 --> 00:31:16.299 We come in verses 00:31:16.299 --> 00:31:17.740 16 to 18. 00:31:18.880 --> 00:31:20.320 We see Shadrach, Meshach, 00:31:20.400 --> 00:31:21.560 and Abednego's devotion. 00:31:22.539 --> 00:31:23.000 Nebuchadnezzar 00:31:23.000 --> 00:31:24.120 has issued a command. 00:31:24.539 --> 00:31:25.920 Now Shadrach, Meshach, 00:31:26.000 --> 00:31:26.440 and Abednego 00:31:26.440 --> 00:31:28.240 demonstrate their 00:31:28.240 --> 00:31:30.320 single-minded devotion 00:31:30.320 --> 00:31:31.140 to God. 00:31:31.299 --> 00:31:31.660 Notice 00:31:31.660 --> 00:31:33.120 in verse 16. 00:31:33.940 --> 00:31:34.700 Shadrach, Meshach, 00:31:34.759 --> 00:31:35.200 and Abednego 00:31:35.200 --> 00:31:36.019 answered and said 00:31:36.019 --> 00:31:36.460 to the king, 00:31:36.840 --> 00:31:37.759 O Nebuchadnezzar, 00:31:37.880 --> 00:31:39.120 we have no need 00:31:39.120 --> 00:31:39.740 to answer you 00:31:39.740 --> 00:31:40.299 in this matter. 00:31:40.299 --> 00:31:42.539 If this be so, 00:31:42.680 --> 00:31:43.159 our God, 00:31:43.220 --> 00:31:44.139 whom we serve, 00:31:44.399 --> 00:31:45.700 is able to deliver us 00:31:45.700 --> 00:31:46.599 from the burning 00:31:46.599 --> 00:31:47.259 fiery furnace. 00:31:47.399 --> 00:31:48.919 And he will deliver us 00:31:48.919 --> 00:31:49.799 out of your hand, 00:31:49.899 --> 00:31:50.299 O king. 00:31:50.940 --> 00:31:51.980 But if not, 00:31:52.619 --> 00:31:53.659 be it known to you, 00:31:53.740 --> 00:31:54.200 O king, 00:31:54.339 --> 00:31:56.200 that we will not 00:31:56.200 --> 00:31:57.299 serve your gods 00:31:57.299 --> 00:31:58.319 or worship 00:31:58.319 --> 00:31:59.519 the golden image 00:31:59.519 --> 00:32:00.680 that you have set up. 00:32:01.740 --> 00:32:03.019 In these few verses, 00:32:03.159 --> 00:32:04.859 we find this confident, 00:32:05.519 --> 00:32:06.220 bold, 00:32:06.919 --> 00:32:07.480 clear, 00:32:07.480 --> 00:32:10.420 respectful allegiance 00:32:10.420 --> 00:32:12.819 to the one true God. 00:32:13.819 --> 00:32:14.819 This is, of course, 00:32:15.019 --> 00:32:16.519 intensely personal 00:32:16.519 --> 00:32:17.839 for them as well. 00:32:19.099 --> 00:32:20.740 Notice in verse 17. 00:32:21.220 --> 00:32:22.360 If this be so, 00:32:22.740 --> 00:32:23.519 our God, 00:32:23.599 --> 00:32:24.299 whom we serve, 00:32:24.460 --> 00:32:25.519 is able to deliver us. 00:32:26.120 --> 00:32:26.819 He's not just 00:32:26.819 --> 00:32:27.680 the God of Abraham, 00:32:27.960 --> 00:32:28.640 Isaac, and Jacob. 00:32:28.819 --> 00:32:29.480 He's not just 00:32:29.480 --> 00:32:30.319 the God of heaven. 00:32:30.559 --> 00:32:31.019 He's not just 00:32:31.019 --> 00:32:32.160 the God of our forefathers. 00:32:32.160 --> 00:32:34.120 He is our God. 00:32:34.559 --> 00:32:35.980 He belongs to us. 00:32:36.200 --> 00:32:37.299 And we will worship him 00:32:37.299 --> 00:32:39.200 as the only 00:32:39.200 --> 00:32:40.379 true God. 00:32:42.259 --> 00:32:43.059 And this statement, 00:32:43.180 --> 00:32:43.919 we have no need 00:32:43.919 --> 00:32:44.559 to answer you 00:32:44.559 --> 00:32:45.119 in this matter, 00:32:45.839 --> 00:32:46.799 is not a statement 00:32:46.799 --> 00:32:47.559 of defiance, 00:32:47.839 --> 00:32:48.799 but a statement 00:32:48.799 --> 00:32:49.720 and a testimony 00:32:49.720 --> 00:32:51.379 to their consistent 00:32:51.379 --> 00:32:53.039 devotion to God 00:32:53.039 --> 00:32:54.159 that has been true 00:32:54.159 --> 00:32:54.919 from the very beginning. 00:32:55.559 --> 00:32:56.599 You have known us, 00:32:56.680 --> 00:32:57.259 Nebuchadnezzar, 00:32:57.319 --> 00:32:58.019 from the beginning. 00:32:59.339 --> 00:33:00.379 We have never 00:33:00.379 --> 00:33:00.879 compromised 00:33:00.879 --> 00:33:01.720 the things 00:33:01.720 --> 00:33:02.519 that we believed in. 00:33:03.240 --> 00:33:04.500 We have remained 00:33:04.500 --> 00:33:05.619 true to our God 00:33:05.619 --> 00:33:06.839 who has never 00:33:06.839 --> 00:33:07.719 abandoned us. 00:33:08.439 --> 00:33:09.679 Our lives have remained 00:33:09.679 --> 00:33:11.179 a faithful witness 00:33:11.179 --> 00:33:13.319 to our true devotion 00:33:13.319 --> 00:33:14.079 to him. 00:33:15.379 --> 00:33:16.059 Nothing's going to 00:33:16.059 --> 00:33:16.659 change that. 00:33:17.199 --> 00:33:18.959 Not being stripped away 00:33:18.959 --> 00:33:19.979 from our country. 00:33:20.479 --> 00:33:22.319 Not becoming slaves 00:33:22.319 --> 00:33:23.659 in this new empire. 00:33:24.039 --> 00:33:25.779 Not losing our family 00:33:25.779 --> 00:33:26.500 and friends. 00:33:26.500 --> 00:33:27.799 Not for the sake 00:33:27.799 --> 00:33:28.579 of privilege 00:33:28.579 --> 00:33:29.579 and position. 00:33:30.079 --> 00:33:31.539 Not for fear 00:33:31.539 --> 00:33:32.779 of reputation. 00:33:32.779 --> 00:33:34.599 and not in the face 00:33:34.599 --> 00:33:35.139 of death. 00:33:35.420 --> 00:33:36.639 We will remain 00:33:36.639 --> 00:33:38.339 true to the one 00:33:38.339 --> 00:33:38.940 true God. 00:33:40.259 --> 00:33:41.259 He is not distant. 00:33:42.139 --> 00:33:43.500 He's not abandoned us. 00:33:44.059 --> 00:33:45.099 He's not diminished 00:33:45.099 --> 00:33:46.139 in power 00:33:46.139 --> 00:33:47.940 or failed to answer us 00:33:47.940 --> 00:33:48.619 when we pray. 00:33:49.019 --> 00:33:49.920 He is present. 00:33:50.240 --> 00:33:51.019 He is active. 00:33:51.279 --> 00:33:52.279 And he is able 00:33:52.279 --> 00:33:53.119 to save. 00:33:53.119 --> 00:33:54.000 Our hope 00:33:54.000 --> 00:33:54.680 is in him. 00:33:58.680 --> 00:34:00.160 Even if he doesn't save, 00:34:00.160 --> 00:34:02.360 we will still 00:34:02.360 --> 00:34:04.220 not serve your God 00:34:04.220 --> 00:34:04.860 or worship 00:34:04.860 --> 00:34:05.940 this image. 00:34:06.720 --> 00:34:08.220 We must draw the line. 00:34:08.320 --> 00:34:09.460 We must remain true 00:34:09.460 --> 00:34:10.880 to our allegiance 00:34:10.880 --> 00:34:11.920 to our God. 00:34:13.019 --> 00:34:13.940 They do this 00:34:13.940 --> 00:34:14.619 because they know 00:34:14.619 --> 00:34:15.340 the word of God. 00:34:15.960 --> 00:34:16.840 They do this 00:34:16.840 --> 00:34:17.380 because they know 00:34:17.380 --> 00:34:18.240 the power of God. 00:34:18.440 --> 00:34:18.980 They do this 00:34:18.980 --> 00:34:19.599 because they are 00:34:19.599 --> 00:34:20.059 settled 00:34:20.059 --> 00:34:21.360 in the results 00:34:21.360 --> 00:34:22.220 that God 00:34:22.220 --> 00:34:22.880 will bring. 00:34:24.860 --> 00:34:25.659 Next week, 00:34:26.159 --> 00:34:26.639 we're going to 00:34:26.639 --> 00:34:27.300 finish the story. 00:34:28.260 --> 00:34:28.639 And we're going to 00:34:28.639 --> 00:34:29.599 see how their commitment 00:34:29.599 --> 00:34:30.619 to worship 00:34:30.619 --> 00:34:31.440 to God, 00:34:31.579 --> 00:34:32.579 the God who could 00:34:32.579 --> 00:34:33.339 save them 00:34:33.339 --> 00:34:35.059 from the fire, 00:34:35.900 --> 00:34:36.980 does save 00:34:36.980 --> 00:34:38.679 in his presence. 00:34:38.859 --> 00:34:40.440 He sends his presence 00:34:40.440 --> 00:34:41.400 to carry them 00:34:41.400 --> 00:34:41.920 through the fire. 00:34:43.960 --> 00:34:45.139 But each one of us 00:34:45.139 --> 00:34:45.739 in this room 00:34:45.739 --> 00:34:46.379 are confronted 00:34:46.379 --> 00:34:47.900 with the kind 00:34:47.900 --> 00:34:48.779 of struggle, 00:34:48.920 --> 00:34:49.940 the kind of decision 00:34:49.940 --> 00:34:51.359 that we see 00:34:51.359 --> 00:34:52.039 happening 00:34:52.039 --> 00:34:52.859 in our passage. 00:34:52.960 --> 00:34:53.579 We're confronted 00:34:53.579 --> 00:34:54.219 with this 00:34:54.219 --> 00:34:55.619 nearly every day. 00:34:56.559 --> 00:34:57.319 I'm reminded 00:34:57.319 --> 00:34:57.940 of Joshua 00:34:57.940 --> 00:34:59.000 at the end 00:34:59.000 --> 00:34:59.480 of his life 00:34:59.480 --> 00:34:59.960 who says 00:34:59.960 --> 00:35:00.500 in Joshua 00:35:00.500 --> 00:35:01.420 24, 15, 00:35:01.619 --> 00:35:02.119 he says, 00:35:02.480 --> 00:35:03.220 choose this day 00:35:03.220 --> 00:35:04.400 whom you will serve. 00:35:04.480 --> 00:35:05.179 That's our word again. 00:35:06.079 --> 00:35:07.280 But as for me 00:35:07.280 --> 00:35:08.360 and my house, 00:35:08.659 --> 00:35:10.039 we will serve 00:35:10.039 --> 00:35:10.539 the Lord. 00:35:10.679 --> 00:35:11.659 There is a decision 00:35:11.659 --> 00:35:12.780 that we need to make. 00:35:12.980 --> 00:35:14.079 Who is the object 00:35:14.079 --> 00:35:14.940 of your affection? 00:35:15.360 --> 00:35:16.639 Who is the center 00:35:16.639 --> 00:35:17.420 of your worship? 00:35:17.700 --> 00:35:18.880 And you may 00:35:18.880 --> 00:35:19.940 fill in the blank 00:35:19.940 --> 00:35:20.840 with who 00:35:20.840 --> 00:35:22.039 is the one 00:35:22.039 --> 00:35:22.860 that you serve? 00:35:25.500 --> 00:35:26.599 Like Nebuchadnezzar, 00:35:26.599 --> 00:35:29.639 I find my own 00:35:29.639 --> 00:35:30.699 heart demanding 00:35:30.699 --> 00:35:31.460 worship. 00:35:32.440 --> 00:35:33.099 Not the kind 00:35:33.099 --> 00:35:33.579 of worship 00:35:33.579 --> 00:35:34.639 that I set up 00:35:34.639 --> 00:35:35.219 an image 00:35:35.219 --> 00:35:36.440 of myself 00:35:36.440 --> 00:35:37.259 and ask people 00:35:37.259 --> 00:35:37.940 to bow down, 00:35:38.279 --> 00:35:39.860 but the kind 00:35:39.860 --> 00:35:40.519 of worship 00:35:40.519 --> 00:35:41.239 where I want 00:35:41.239 --> 00:35:41.839 to be at the 00:35:41.839 --> 00:35:42.480 center of attention. 00:35:43.139 --> 00:35:44.039 You find the pole, 00:35:44.139 --> 00:35:45.059 that same pole 00:35:45.059 --> 00:35:46.000 on your own heart? 00:35:46.860 --> 00:35:47.480 You want to be 00:35:47.480 --> 00:35:48.380 the center of attention? 00:35:48.679 --> 00:35:49.179 You want to be 00:35:49.179 --> 00:35:50.319 the object of praise? 00:35:50.539 --> 00:35:51.339 You want the 00:35:51.339 --> 00:35:52.199 commendation, 00:35:52.519 --> 00:35:53.159 the recognition? 00:35:53.539 --> 00:35:54.059 You want the 00:35:54.059 --> 00:35:54.579 attaboy? 00:35:54.739 --> 00:35:55.400 You want the pat 00:35:55.400 --> 00:35:55.940 on the back? 00:35:56.099 --> 00:35:56.900 You want people 00:35:56.900 --> 00:35:57.639 to say, 00:35:57.920 --> 00:35:58.200 wow, 00:35:58.320 --> 00:35:59.119 what a great job 00:35:59.119 --> 00:35:59.660 you're doing? 00:35:59.840 --> 00:36:00.880 What a great person 00:36:00.880 --> 00:36:01.519 you are? 00:36:03.860 --> 00:36:05.280 We want the kind 00:36:05.280 --> 00:36:05.900 of worship 00:36:05.900 --> 00:36:07.180 that Nebuchadnezzar 00:36:07.180 --> 00:36:08.400 craved. 00:36:08.840 --> 00:36:10.000 We want loyalty 00:36:10.000 --> 00:36:10.880 to us. 00:36:11.240 --> 00:36:12.139 We want the world 00:36:12.139 --> 00:36:12.780 to revolve 00:36:12.780 --> 00:36:14.559 around our desires 00:36:14.559 --> 00:36:15.840 and our interests. 00:36:17.039 --> 00:36:18.079 While we may not 00:36:18.079 --> 00:36:18.760 be as bold 00:36:18.760 --> 00:36:19.820 as Nebuchadnezzar 00:36:19.820 --> 00:36:20.940 to demand 00:36:20.940 --> 00:36:21.440 that people 00:36:21.440 --> 00:36:22.280 worship us, 00:36:22.519 --> 00:36:23.440 remember that worship 00:36:23.440 --> 00:36:24.400 and service 00:36:24.400 --> 00:36:25.740 go hand in hand 00:36:25.740 --> 00:36:27.679 and service 00:36:27.679 --> 00:36:28.659 is inherent 00:36:28.659 --> 00:36:29.760 in us. 00:36:30.920 --> 00:36:31.519 That's why Jesus 00:36:31.519 --> 00:36:32.240 in confronting 00:36:32.240 --> 00:36:32.820 the disciples, 00:36:33.320 --> 00:36:34.240 remember the argument 00:36:34.240 --> 00:36:34.740 that they're having 00:36:34.740 --> 00:36:35.800 about who is first? 00:36:36.460 --> 00:36:37.300 Jesus has to 00:36:37.300 --> 00:36:37.920 confront them 00:36:37.920 --> 00:36:39.119 in Mark chapter 9 00:36:39.119 --> 00:36:39.740 verse 35. 00:36:39.900 --> 00:36:40.159 He says, 00:36:40.539 --> 00:36:41.260 He sat down, 00:36:41.360 --> 00:36:41.980 called His twelve 00:36:41.980 --> 00:36:42.440 and said to them, 00:36:42.659 --> 00:36:43.820 If anyone desires 00:36:43.820 --> 00:36:44.860 to be first, 00:36:45.619 --> 00:36:46.940 he shall be last 00:36:46.940 --> 00:36:48.360 and of all 00:36:48.360 --> 00:36:49.340 and servant 00:36:49.340 --> 00:36:50.360 of all. 00:36:50.360 --> 00:36:54.500 Like Nebuchadnezzar, 00:36:54.579 --> 00:36:55.320 we put ourselves 00:36:55.320 --> 00:36:56.079 in the center. 00:36:57.260 --> 00:36:58.620 Like Nebuchadnezzar, 00:36:58.660 --> 00:36:59.559 we want the world 00:36:59.559 --> 00:37:00.559 to serve us. 00:37:02.220 --> 00:37:03.240 Jesus, of course, 00:37:03.400 --> 00:37:04.559 came to change 00:37:04.559 --> 00:37:05.640 all of that. 00:37:06.260 --> 00:37:07.340 In Mark 10, 45, 00:37:07.460 --> 00:37:08.720 He came not 00:37:08.720 --> 00:37:09.640 to be served, 00:37:09.640 --> 00:37:10.820 but to serve 00:37:10.820 --> 00:37:12.019 and to give His life 00:37:12.019 --> 00:37:13.300 a ransom for many. 00:37:13.700 --> 00:37:14.940 He came to unlock 00:37:14.940 --> 00:37:15.800 the door 00:37:15.800 --> 00:37:17.840 of true service 00:37:17.840 --> 00:37:18.720 and worship 00:37:18.720 --> 00:37:19.559 to God 00:37:19.559 --> 00:37:20.680 that gets me 00:37:20.680 --> 00:37:21.420 out of the way 00:37:21.420 --> 00:37:23.019 and puts Him 00:37:23.019 --> 00:37:23.980 at the center. 00:37:25.420 --> 00:37:26.300 We are all like 00:37:26.300 --> 00:37:26.840 Nebuchadnezzar 00:37:26.840 --> 00:37:27.380 in our heart. 00:37:27.940 --> 00:37:28.840 We do whatever 00:37:28.840 --> 00:37:30.260 is in our power 00:37:30.260 --> 00:37:31.840 to force the issue, 00:37:32.220 --> 00:37:33.380 to get our way, 00:37:33.700 --> 00:37:35.059 to demand our rights, 00:37:35.220 --> 00:37:36.620 to make ourselves known. 00:37:37.700 --> 00:37:38.620 We want to 00:37:38.620 --> 00:37:39.920 intimidate. 00:37:40.039 --> 00:37:40.820 We want to manipulate. 00:37:41.079 --> 00:37:42.059 We want everyone 00:37:42.059 --> 00:37:43.800 to bow down 00:37:43.800 --> 00:37:44.660 and serve us. 00:37:44.800 --> 00:37:45.400 We would never 00:37:45.400 --> 00:37:46.360 put it in those terms, 00:37:46.360 --> 00:37:47.260 but that's exactly 00:37:47.260 --> 00:37:47.860 what's happening. 00:37:49.120 --> 00:37:49.800 Of course, 00:37:50.019 --> 00:37:50.420 none of this 00:37:50.420 --> 00:37:51.280 was the way of Christ 00:37:51.280 --> 00:37:54.000 who sets the example 00:37:54.000 --> 00:37:54.440 for us. 00:37:54.480 --> 00:37:55.240 And I would encourage you 00:37:55.240 --> 00:37:56.519 just in our closing moments 00:37:56.519 --> 00:37:57.940 to open up 00:37:57.940 --> 00:37:58.900 to Philippians chapter 2. 00:37:58.960 --> 00:37:59.559 I want to read 00:37:59.559 --> 00:38:00.160 through this 00:38:00.160 --> 00:38:01.900 with a new lens 00:38:01.900 --> 00:38:02.480 and I want you 00:38:02.480 --> 00:38:03.400 to be able to see 00:38:03.400 --> 00:38:06.660 how self-service 00:38:06.660 --> 00:38:08.240 is in us. 00:38:08.440 --> 00:38:09.300 It must be rooted 00:38:09.300 --> 00:38:10.000 out of us 00:38:10.000 --> 00:38:11.260 and that will only happen 00:38:11.260 --> 00:38:12.820 as we make Jesus 00:38:12.820 --> 00:38:13.539 the center 00:38:13.539 --> 00:38:15.360 of our affection. 00:38:16.159 --> 00:38:17.239 Philippians chapter 2. 00:38:17.920 --> 00:38:18.920 Let me just read this for us. 00:38:18.980 --> 00:38:19.179 It says, 00:38:19.300 --> 00:38:20.360 So if there is any 00:38:20.360 --> 00:38:21.679 encouragement in Christ, 00:38:21.880 --> 00:38:23.239 any comfort from love, 00:38:23.440 --> 00:38:24.300 any participation 00:38:24.300 --> 00:38:25.639 in the Spirit, 00:38:26.980 --> 00:38:27.679 any affection 00:38:27.679 --> 00:38:28.699 and sympathy, 00:38:29.519 --> 00:38:30.679 complete my joy 00:38:30.679 --> 00:38:32.599 by being of the same mind, 00:38:32.860 --> 00:38:34.039 have the same love, 00:38:34.320 --> 00:38:35.619 being in full accord 00:38:35.619 --> 00:38:36.699 and of one mind. 00:38:36.699 --> 00:38:37.699 Do nothing 00:38:38.360 --> 00:38:39.699 from selfish ambition 00:38:40.300 --> 00:38:40.699 or conceit, 00:38:40.699 --> 00:38:41.239 conceit, 00:38:41.359 --> 00:38:42.299 but in humility 00:38:42.299 --> 00:38:44.079 count others 00:38:44.079 --> 00:38:45.099 more significant 00:38:45.099 --> 00:38:45.779 than yourselves. 00:38:45.939 --> 00:38:47.480 Now why does Paul 00:38:47.480 --> 00:38:48.159 have to say that? 00:38:48.279 --> 00:38:49.599 Because it is in us. 00:38:50.859 --> 00:38:52.439 We want what we want 00:38:52.439 --> 00:38:53.419 and we want everyone 00:38:53.419 --> 00:38:54.879 to want the same things 00:38:54.879 --> 00:38:55.779 that we want. 00:38:56.879 --> 00:38:57.679 But the instruction 00:38:57.679 --> 00:38:58.259 goes on, 00:38:58.339 --> 00:38:59.279 let each of you 00:38:59.279 --> 00:39:00.039 look out 00:39:00.039 --> 00:39:02.480 not only to his own interest 00:39:02.480 --> 00:39:03.759 but also to the interest 00:39:03.759 --> 00:39:04.159 of others. 00:39:04.279 --> 00:39:04.480 Why? 00:39:05.419 --> 00:39:06.359 Because of Christ. 00:39:07.000 --> 00:39:07.759 In verse 5, 00:39:08.619 --> 00:39:09.279 have this mind 00:39:09.280 --> 00:39:09.960 found among yourselves, 00:39:10.540 --> 00:39:11.140 which is yours 00:39:11.140 --> 00:39:11.820 in Christ Jesus, 00:39:12.780 --> 00:39:13.420 who though he was 00:39:13.420 --> 00:39:15.040 in the form of God, 00:39:15.240 --> 00:39:16.580 did not count equality 00:39:16.580 --> 00:39:17.200 with God a thing 00:39:17.200 --> 00:39:17.900 to be grasped, 00:39:18.060 --> 00:39:19.380 but he emptied himself, 00:39:20.800 --> 00:39:21.600 taking the form 00:39:21.600 --> 00:39:22.100 of a servant, 00:39:22.820 --> 00:39:23.980 being born in the likeness 00:39:23.980 --> 00:39:24.380 of men, 00:39:24.860 --> 00:39:25.840 and being found 00:39:25.840 --> 00:39:27.120 in human form, 00:39:27.400 --> 00:39:28.540 he humbled himself 00:39:28.540 --> 00:39:29.700 by becoming obedient 00:39:29.700 --> 00:39:30.540 to the point of death, 00:39:30.760 --> 00:39:32.660 even death on a cross. 00:39:33.600 --> 00:39:34.320 Therefore God 00:39:34.320 --> 00:39:35.720 has highly exalted him 00:39:35.720 --> 00:39:37.280 and bestowed on him 00:39:37.280 --> 00:39:37.880 the name that is 00:39:37.880 --> 00:39:38.620 above every name, 00:39:38.619 --> 00:39:40.539 said the name of Jesus. 00:39:40.799 --> 00:39:42.179 Every knee should bow 00:39:42.179 --> 00:39:43.000 in heaven, 00:39:43.199 --> 00:39:43.940 on earth, 00:39:44.000 --> 00:39:44.599 and under the earth, 00:39:44.659 --> 00:39:45.480 and every tongue 00:39:45.480 --> 00:39:46.019 will confess 00:39:46.019 --> 00:39:47.380 that Jesus Christ 00:39:47.380 --> 00:39:48.359 is Lord 00:39:48.359 --> 00:39:49.339 to the glory 00:39:49.339 --> 00:39:50.900 of God the Father. 00:39:55.420 --> 00:39:56.440 Allow your heart 00:39:56.440 --> 00:39:58.619 to follow the lead 00:39:58.619 --> 00:39:59.380 of your Savior. 00:40:00.920 --> 00:40:01.940 Allow your heart 00:40:01.940 --> 00:40:02.599 to bend 00:40:02.599 --> 00:40:04.179 and flex 00:40:04.179 --> 00:40:05.699 and lay down 00:40:05.699 --> 00:40:07.059 and abandon 00:40:07.059 --> 00:40:08.659 self-interest 00:40:08.659 --> 00:40:09.739 for the sake 00:40:09.739 --> 00:40:10.279 of love 00:40:10.279 --> 00:40:10.980 to Christ. 00:40:11.599 --> 00:40:13.119 Stop serving 00:40:13.119 --> 00:40:13.980 yourself 00:40:13.980 --> 00:40:14.960 and start 00:40:14.960 --> 00:40:16.420 serving him. 00:40:17.779 --> 00:40:18.539 And trust 00:40:18.539 --> 00:40:20.339 that in that process 00:40:20.339 --> 00:40:21.319 that God 00:40:21.319 --> 00:40:21.839 will 00:40:21.839 --> 00:40:23.319 allow you 00:40:23.319 --> 00:40:24.860 to see the fruit 00:40:24.860 --> 00:40:25.679 of that kind 00:40:25.679 --> 00:40:26.219 of life. 00:40:27.259 --> 00:40:28.420 The kind of fruit 00:40:28.420 --> 00:40:29.920 where God himself 00:40:29.920 --> 00:40:30.840 is the one 00:40:30.840 --> 00:40:31.920 who is meeting 00:40:31.920 --> 00:40:32.440 needs 00:40:32.440 --> 00:40:33.680 and strengthening 00:40:33.680 --> 00:40:34.360 your life 00:40:34.360 --> 00:40:35.960 and leading you 00:40:35.960 --> 00:40:36.980 to fruitfulness. 00:40:39.500 --> 00:40:40.599 At the end of the day, 00:40:40.680 --> 00:40:41.559 at the end of the age, 00:40:42.039 --> 00:40:43.200 because of Christ's 00:40:43.200 --> 00:40:43.720 example 00:40:43.720 --> 00:40:44.619 of humility, 00:40:44.619 --> 00:40:45.440 we're going to 00:40:45.440 --> 00:40:46.840 enjoy 00:40:46.840 --> 00:40:48.059 and remember 00:40:48.059 --> 00:40:49.240 what Christ 00:40:49.240 --> 00:40:49.780 has accomplished 00:40:49.780 --> 00:40:50.320 for us 00:40:50.320 --> 00:40:51.420 through his death, 00:40:51.659 --> 00:40:52.340 his body, 00:40:52.440 --> 00:40:53.000 his blood. 00:40:53.300 --> 00:40:54.119 He's made a way 00:40:54.119 --> 00:40:54.619 for us 00:40:54.619 --> 00:40:55.159 to enjoy 00:40:55.159 --> 00:40:56.019 this kind 00:40:56.019 --> 00:40:56.519 of life. 00:40:56.519 --> 00:40:58.900 self-abandonment 00:40:58.900 --> 00:40:59.719 for the sake 00:40:59.719 --> 00:41:00.500 of love 00:41:00.500 --> 00:41:01.159 and worship 00:41:01.159 --> 00:41:01.900 to God. 00:41:03.179 --> 00:41:03.920 As I pray, 00:41:04.000 --> 00:41:04.659 I want to encourage 00:41:04.659 --> 00:41:05.239 the men 00:41:05.239 --> 00:41:06.139 to come forward 00:41:06.139 --> 00:41:07.840 and we'll remember 00:41:07.840 --> 00:41:09.559 the body 00:41:09.559 --> 00:41:09.920 and blood 00:41:09.920 --> 00:41:10.380 of Christ 00:41:10.380 --> 00:41:11.259 through the elements. 00:41:12.519 --> 00:41:12.960 Father, 00:41:13.059 --> 00:41:13.440 thank you 00:41:13.440 --> 00:41:15.259 for the example 00:41:15.259 --> 00:41:15.900 that you've set 00:41:15.900 --> 00:41:16.420 in your son, 00:41:16.519 --> 00:41:16.780 Jesus. 00:41:18.000 --> 00:41:18.480 And Lord, 00:41:18.539 --> 00:41:18.840 thank you 00:41:18.840 --> 00:41:19.519 that every knee 00:41:19.519 --> 00:41:19.920 will bow 00:41:19.920 --> 00:41:20.400 and every tongue 00:41:20.400 --> 00:41:20.980 will confess 00:41:20.980 --> 00:41:21.800 that you're Lord, 00:41:22.900 --> 00:41:23.880 that you will get 00:41:23.880 --> 00:41:24.739 the praise 00:41:24.739 --> 00:41:26.199 that you deserve. 00:41:26.519 --> 00:41:28.199 but it will come 00:41:28.199 --> 00:41:28.759 in the time 00:41:28.759 --> 00:41:29.559 that's been ordained 00:41:29.559 --> 00:41:31.480 by the Father. 00:41:33.059 --> 00:41:33.579 So Lord, 00:41:33.619 --> 00:41:34.019 I pray that you'd 00:41:34.019 --> 00:41:34.639 help us to follow 00:41:34.639 --> 00:41:35.239 in your steps. 00:41:36.380 --> 00:41:36.699 And Lord, 00:41:36.739 --> 00:41:37.300 as we take 00:41:37.300 --> 00:41:37.840 the elements 00:41:37.840 --> 00:41:38.860 this morning 00:41:38.860 --> 00:41:39.280 that we would 00:41:39.280 --> 00:41:39.800 remember 00:41:39.800 --> 00:41:41.280 that you are 00:41:41.280 --> 00:41:42.599 faithful 00:41:42.599 --> 00:41:43.579 and dependable, 00:41:44.340 --> 00:41:45.480 that as Christ 00:41:45.480 --> 00:41:46.420 submitted his will 00:41:46.420 --> 00:41:47.079 to the Father 00:41:47.079 --> 00:41:48.400 and got to enjoy 00:41:48.400 --> 00:41:49.019 the benefits 00:41:49.019 --> 00:41:50.000 of that obedience, 00:41:50.360 --> 00:41:51.059 we too 00:41:51.059 --> 00:41:52.280 can enjoy 00:41:52.280 --> 00:41:52.960 the benefits 00:41:52.960 --> 00:41:55.460 of trust 00:41:55.460 --> 00:41:56.059 in you 00:41:56.059 --> 00:41:57.659 and service 00:41:57.659 --> 00:41:58.079 of you. 00:41:59.039 --> 00:41:59.619 May you be 00:41:59.619 --> 00:42:00.659 pleased 00:42:00.659 --> 00:42:01.820 through our time 00:42:01.820 --> 00:42:02.159 together. 00:42:02.299 --> 00:42:03.019 In Jesus' name, 00:42:03.219 --> 00:42:03.420 Amen. 00:42:03.420 --> 00:42:03.519 Amen.