FAITH AND THE CRUCIBLE TODAY

Today, worshipers of Jehovah face circumstances similar to those of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego.  Granted, God's people may not be exiles in a literal sense. Yet, Jesus said that his followers would be "no part of this world." (John 17:14)   They are "foreigners" in that they do not adopt unscriptural  customs, attitudes, and practices of those around them. As the apostle Paul wrote, Christians are to "quit being fashioned after this system of things." -Romans 12:2.

The three Hebrews refused to be fashioned after the Babylonian system.  Even thorough instruction in Chaldean wisdom did not sway them.  Their position in the matter of worship was nonnegotiable, and their allegiance was to Jehovah. Christians today need to be just as steadfast.  They need not be ashamed because they are different from those in the world.  Indeed, "the world is passing away and so is its desire." (1 John 2:17)  So  it would be foolish and futile to conform to this dying system of things.

Christians need to be on guard against every form of idolatry, including subtle forms. (1 John 5:21)  Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego obediently and respectfully stood before the golden image, but they realized that bowing before it was more than a mere gesture of respect. It was an act of worship, and participation would incur Jehovah's wrath.  (Deuteronomy 5:8-10)  John F. Walvoord writes:  "It was in effect a saluting of the flag although, because of the interrelationship of religious with national loyalties, it may also have had religious connotation."  Today, true Christians take an equally firm stand against idolatry.  

(note: saluting the flag or putting your hand over your heart to the flag,  is also a form of idolatry and singing the star spangled banner and other state or nation songs,  is  as well)

The Bible account of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego provides a sterling object lesson for all you are determined to render exclusive devotion to Jehovah.  The apostle Paul evidently had these three Hebrews in mind when he spoke of many who exercised faith, including those who "stayed the force of fire."  (Hebrews 11:33, 34)  Jehovah will reward all who imitate such faith.  The three Hebrews were delivered from the fiery furnace, but we can be sure that he will resurrect all loyal  ones who lose their lives as integrity keepers and will bless them with everlasting life.  Either way, Jehovah "is guarding the souls of his loyal ones; out of the hand of the wicked ones he delivers them." -Psalm 97:10. 

Next time: UNRAVELING THE MYSTERY OF THE GREAT TREE; CHAPTER SIX

From the book: PAY ATTENTION TO DANIEL'S PROPHECY! 1999