Events as History Unfolds
- Six centuries before Christ came into the world, Nabopolassar, the king of Babylon, began his rise to Power. (626-605 B.C.).
- His son, Nebuchadnezzar, was made commander of his armies and marched against Nineveh around 612 B.C.
- In 609 B.C. there was a decisive battle in which the Assyrian armies were defeated by Babylon. (Remember 113 years earlier Assyria overtook the Northern Kingdom of Israel)
- In time, the Babylonians defeated Pharoah Necho’s armies.
- About 586 B.C. Daniel/Belteshazzar, Hananiah/Shadrach, Mishael/Meshach, and Azariah/Abenego were taken captive by Babylon in their 1st Siege on Jerusalem (Daniel 1:6-7).
- These four young Hebrews, all men of the Royal/Noble families, were to receive training in order to serve in Nebuchadnezzars Palace (Daniel 1:3-5).
Three Lessons
- Daniel teaches Christians to be faithful where they are planted/live.
- Daniel exposes the folly of idolatry.
- Daniel upholds the sovereign God who reigns over everything.
Scriptures Referenced
Daniel 1:8
Daniel 12:2–3
Daniel 7:13–14