Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego were ordered to compromise their faith in their God. Instead of worshipping Nebuchadnezzar as god, the three men chose death over disloyalty.
The book of Daniel speaks to God's people throughout their history, starting with the Babylonian exiles, continuing through the years of the Greek and Roman empires, and to the Christian church throughout the centuries across the globe. It is also particularly relevant in our time.
We long for the Prince of Peace to be ultimately known and for his kingdom to unfold. If we see Jesus for who he is and if we have the peace that he offers, then we can wait by participating in what we've seen and what we've tasted. God is with us in all things.
Having urged us to show love and mercy to the poor of the world (James 2:8-26), James now applies the 'royal law' of love to the way we speak to other human beings made in the 'likeness of God'. (Please note, bible study questions relating to the sermon can be accessed by clicking on the paperclip icon, found on the right).