Welcome everyone! We’re so excited to have you here for the midweek study led by Pastor Bill Welsh on Daniel 3 at Refuge Calvary Chapel. This study explores the theme of true worship and the sacrifices that come with it. You’ll also hear from Dwight, a missionary who shares about his recent trip to Thailand and the impact it had on the missionaries there. We’ll pray for Dwight and the missionaries, while emphasizing the importance of congregational worship, evangelism, and discipleship. The study delves into Psalm 46 and a song of peace in times of crisis, highlighting God as a refuge and source of strength. We’ll then transition to the story of Nebuchadnezzar and the dedication of a golden image, focusing on the steadfast faith and defiance of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. It’s a powerful study that teaches us about the one true God and the cost of standing firm in our faith.
Theme: True Worship and Its Price
Overview of the Study
In this study led by Pastor Bill Welsh at Refuge Calvary Chapel, the focus is on the theme of true worship and the price that comes with it. The study delves into the story of Daniel 3, where three men named Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego refuse to worship a golden image set up by King Nebuchadnezzar. It also references Psalm 46, a song of peace in times of crisis.
Focus on the Theme of True Worship
True worship is a central theme in the study. It emphasizes the importance of worshiping God wholeheartedly, surrendering all burdens and cares to Him. The study encourages believers to cast away distractions and negativity, focusing solely on God in worship. Congregational worship is seen as an opportunity to lift up hearts and voices to God, giving Him thanks and praise.
Dwight’s Mission Trip to Thailand
Sharing About the Trip
Dwight, a missionary, shares about his recent trip to Thailand and the impact it had on both him and the missionaries he visited. He talks about the places he visited, the people he met, and the experiences he had during his time there. Dwight highlights the importance of missions and the role it plays in spreading the Gospel globally.
Impact on Missionaries
Dwight also discusses the impact his trip had on the missionaries in Thailand. He shares stories of their dedication and perseverance despite facing challenges and opposition. The study emphasizes the inspiring example set by these missionaries and encourages believers to support and pray for missionaries around the world.
Prayer for Dwight and the Missionaries
Congregational Prayer
The study concludes with a time of congregational prayer, where attendees lift up Dwight and the missionaries in Thailand in prayer. The importance of intercessory prayer is emphasized, as believers are urged to stand in the gap for those on the mission field. The study highlights the power of prayer and its role in supporting and encouraging missionaries.
Emphasis on Congregational Worship, Evangelism, and Discipleship
Importance of Worship
The study emphasizes the importance of congregational worship as a central aspect of the Christian faith. It encourages believers to approach worship with a heart of surrender and genuine adoration for God. Worship is seen as an opportunity to connect with God on a deeper level and to express gratitude for His goodness and faithfulness.
Importance of Evangelism
The study also highlights the importance of evangelism in the life of a believer. It encourages individuals to actively share the Gospel with others, both locally and globally. The story of Dwight’s mission trip serves as a reminder of the impact that evangelism can have on people’s lives and the role it plays in fulfilling the Great Commission.
Importance of Discipleship
Discipleship is another key aspect highlighted in the study. It emphasizes the need for believers to be discipled and to disciple others, investing in relationships that foster spiritual growth and maturity. The study encourages believers to seek out mentors and to actively engage in discipleship relationships within their church community.
Introduction to Daniel 3 and Reference to Psalm 46
Overview of Daniel 3
The study introduces the story of Daniel 3, where King Nebuchadnezzar commands everyone to worship a golden image. It specifically focuses on the stand taken by three men named Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who refuse to bow down and worship the image. Their faithfulness to God and refusal to compromise their beliefs serve as a powerful example of true worship.
Reference to Psalm 46
In connection with the theme of true worship, the study references Psalm 46. This Psalm, written by the sons of Korah, emphasizes God’s role as a refuge and source of strength in times of trouble. It speaks of the importance of relying on God’s presence and power in the midst of chaotic and uncertain circumstances. The symbolism of the river and city of God represents God’s constant and unwavering presence.
Psalm 46: A Song of Peace in Times of Crisis
Authorship and Background of the Psalm
Psalm 46 is identified as a song of peace written by the sons of Korah. These sons were descendants of a rebellious leader named Korah, but they turned to God and became dedicated worshippers. The study highlights the significance of this background in understanding the depth of trust and reliance on God expressed in the Psalm.
Emphasis on God as Refuge and Strength
The study emphasizes the key theme of God as a refuge and source of strength in times of trouble. The Psalm encourages believers to find solace and security in God, even when the world around them seems to be crumbling. It encourages individuals to take refuge in God’s presence and to trust in His power and faithfulness.
Dependence on God in Troubled Times
The Psalm serves as a reminder that believers can depend on God in troubled times. It speaks of God’s ability to bring peace and calm in the midst of chaos and turmoil. The study highlights the importance of turning to God and placing our trust in Him, knowing that He has the power to overcome any adversity.
Symbolism of the River and City of God
The river and city of God mentioned in the Psalm symbolize God’s constant and unwavering presence. The river symbolizes the abundant life that flows from God and brings gladness to His people. The city of God represents the dwelling place of God where believers can find security and peace. The study encourages individuals to find comfort and strength in God’s presence.
God’s Power to Bring Peace
The Psalm emphasizes God’s power to bring peace and end wars. It speaks of God’s authority over the nations and His ability to establish peace and justice. The study emphasizes the importance of trusting in God’s sovereignty and recognizing His power to bring about peace in times of crisis.
Transition: Nebuchadnezzar and the Golden Image
Introduction to the Story
The study transitions to the story of Nebuchadnezzar and the dedication of a golden image. It sets the context for the stand taken by Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego and highlights the tension between the idolatrous practices of the Babylonians and the faithfulness of the Jewish people.
Nebuchadnezzar’s Command and Threat
Nebuchadnezzar, the king of Babylon, commands all his officials to worship the golden image he has erected. He threatens death in a fiery furnace for anyone who does not comply with his command. The study emphasizes the pressure faced by Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego to conform and the courage and conviction they display in defying the king’s order.
Compliance vs. Defiance
While many comply with the king’s command out of fear, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego choose to defy the king and remain faithful to their God. The study contrasts the actions of those who choose compliance with those who choose defiance, highlighting the importance of standing firm in one’s faith even in the face of opposition.
Actions of the Chaldeans
Possible Motives of Jealousy
The study explores the possible motives of jealousy that led the Chaldeans, a group of Babylonian officials, to accuse Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego of not worshiping the golden image. It suggests that the Chaldeans may have been envious of the promotion received by these Jewish officials, particularly after Daniel’s interpretation of a dream.
Accusations against Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego
The Chaldeans bring evidence against Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego to King Nebuchadnezzar, accusing them of not serving his gods or worshiping the golden image. The study highlights the faithfulness and integrity of these three men in the face of false accusations and the pressure to conform.
The Betrayal of the Chaldeans
The study reveals the betrayal of the Chaldeans, who had previously been saved by Daniel and his friends. Instead of showing gratitude, they now turn against them. This highlights the fickleness of human loyalty and the importance of remaining steadfast in one’s faith, even when faced with betrayal and opposition.
The Stand of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego
Comparison to Keith Green’s Album Picture
The stand taken by Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego is compared to a picture from Keith Green’s album “No Compromise.” The image depicts a man refusing to bow down to the king in Babylon, symbolizing the defiance against idolatry and the commitment to worship the one true God.
The Cost of Their Stand
The study emphasizes the cost of the stand taken by Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. It explores the risks they face, including the anger and wrath of King Nebuchadnezzar. The study highlights their courage and unwavering commitment to their faith, knowing that their stand could potentially cost them their lives.
Nebuchadnezzar’s Command
In response to the refusal of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego to worship his gods and the golden image, Nebuchadnezzar becomes furious. He demands that they worship his gods and the image he set up, threatening them with the fiery furnace if they do not comply. This showcases his arrogance and entitlement as a king.
Conclusion
Summary of the Study
In conclusion, the study focuses on the theme of true worship and the price that comes with it. It explores the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego and their stand against idolatry and false worship. The study also highlights the importance of congregational worship, evangelism, and discipleship in the life of a believer.
Implications for True Worship and Faith
The study encourages believers to examine their own worship practices and to seek genuine and wholehearted worship of God. It inspires individuals to stand firm in their faith, even when faced with opposition or pressure to conform. It also encourages believers to actively engage in evangelism and discipleship, spreading the Gospel and investing in the spiritual growth of others.
In conclusion, the study presents a comprehensive exploration of the theme of true worship and its price. It provides insights into the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, illuminating their unwavering commitment to their faith and their stand against false worship. The study also highlights the importance of congregational worship, evangelism, and discipleship in the life of a believer. Through these themes and the references to Psalm 46, the study encourages believers to seek a deeper relationship with God and to be bold and courageous in their faith.