The Fiery Furnace Study
Daniel 3:1-30
God spared Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego form certain death in the fiery furnace because of their faith.
- What is the hottest you can remember being?
- What things seem threatening to you?
- What does King Nebuchadnezzar do and why? (v1-3) Why does he insist everyone worship the golden image? He wanted to control them., He was committed to his God., He was insecure., He wanted to unite his people.
- How would you describe the king's officials? Yes-men, loyal, fearful, idolatrous, politically pragmatic.
- What exceptions to the universal decree are noted? (v8-12) By whom? Why would these people tip off the king?
- Why was the king furious? What test does he propose? Who is he testing?
- How does this relate to Daniel's theme of God's authority vs. the world's?
- What were Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego sure about? What were they not sure about? What does this say to you? (v16-19)
- What is your greatest resource for taking a stand?
- What is remarkable about the furnace? Who is killed? Who is not?
- Who or what is the 4th figure in the furnace? An angel (Ps 91:9-12), a "son of the gods" as Nebuchadnezzar thinks, the Son of God, a mystery.
- Do you think this experience made a believer out of King Nebuchadnezzar?
- What do you admire most about Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego?
- Has anyone ever been like Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, an example of trust that has drawn you to the Lord?