Faith The Evidence - Bible Studies: 2025

Thursday, February 13, 2025

Heroes of Faith Session 16 - Three Women

The Christ Church Wednesday Bible Study Group is now studying the heroes of faith found in the Bible. In Hebrews 11, we find a remarkable chapter that introduces us to a cloud of witnesses, individuals who exemplified extraordinary faith. However our study will go beyond Hebrews 11 and include the lives of others that are examples of the blessings of having faith in God. We will also talk about other people that exhibited extraordinary faith, some of them are people we may know.

Throughout this Bible study, we will delve into the lives of these individuals, examining the specific trials they endured, the faith principles they embraced, and the lessons we can learn from their examples. Our goal is not merely to admire their accomplishments but to understand the underlying principles that fueled their faith and to apply those principles to our own lives.

Last week our hero was David King David, a shepherd boy who became Israel's greatest king, is a complex figure. He was a warrior, a poet, a musician, and a leader, yet he was also a man who sinned deeply. But above all these, David was known as "a man after God’s own heart"

This session we look at three women heroes of faith;

Today we are going to look at 3 women heroes of faith.
Mary the Mother of Jesus
Mary Magdalene
Mary Lazarus sister

Hebrews 11:6 NIV And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.

Last week our hero was David King David, a shepherd boy who became Israel's greatest king, is a complex figure. He was a warrior, a poet, a musician, and a leader, yet he was also a man who sinned deeply. But above all these, David was known as "a man after God’s own heart"
1 Samuel 13:13-14 NIV[13] “You have done a foolish thing,” Samuel said. “You have not kept the command the Lord your God gave you; if you had, he would have established your kingdom over Israel for all time. [14] But now your kingdom will not endure; the Lord has sought out a man after his own heart and appointed him ruler of his people, because you have not kept the Lord’s command.”
We examined David’s life and how we can learn from his example.
Today we are going to look at 3 women heroes of faith.
Mary the Mother of Jesus
Mary Magdalene
Mary Lazarus sister
Next week we will look at three more

Priscilla

Tabitha (Dorcus)
Phoebe

Here, then, are six women in the New Testament to guide your walk with Christ:

1. Mary, Mother of Jesus

Here are some reasons why she is seen as a hero of faith:
Her acceptance of God's will: Mary's "yes" to the angel Gabriel, knowing the immense social and personal implications, is a powerful example of faith and obedience.
Luke 1:35-38, 46-55 NIV [35] The angel answered, “The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. [36] Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be unable to conceive is in her sixth month. [37] For no word from God will ever fail.” [38] “I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.” Then the angel left her.
[46] And Mary said: “My soul glorifies the Lord [47] and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, [48] for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed, [49] for the Mighty One has done great things for me— holy is his name. [50] His mercy extends to those who fear him, from generation to generation. [51] He has performed mighty deeds with his arm; he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts. [52] He has brought down rulers from their thrones but has lifted up the humble. [53] He has filled the hungry with good things but has sent the rich away empty. [54] He has helped his servant Israel, remembering to be merciful [55] to Abraham and his descendants forever, just as he promised our ancestors.”
In her time and culture, becoming pregnant outside of marriage carried a heavy social stigma. Mary faced potential ostracism, judgment, and even the possibility of being shunned by her community.
Her unwavering trust in God: Despite the challenges she faced, from the humble birth of Jesus to his crucifixion, Mary remained steadfast in her faith.
From the moment she received the angel's message, her life was turned upside down. She faced social stigma, the uncertainty of her future, and the immense responsibility of raising the Son of God.
The lesson here is that when the Lord asks us to do something, we should do so readily and with humility and complete obedience, just as Mary did.
Mary is also known to have brought about Jesus’s first miracle, turning water into wine at a wedding in Cana, at her insistence.
John 2:1-11 NIV [1] On the third day a wedding took place at Cana in Galilee. Jesus’ mother was there, [2] and Jesus and his disciples had also been invited to the wedding. [3] When the wine was gone, Jesus’ mother said to him, “They have no more wine.” [4] “Woman, why do you involve me?” Jesus replied. “My hour has not yet come.” [5] His mother said to the servants, “Do whatever he tells you.” [6] Nearby stood six stone water jars, the kind used by the Jews for ceremonial washing, each holding from twenty to thirty gallons. [7] Jesus said to the servants, “Fill the jars with water”; so they filled them to the brim. [8] Then he told them, “Now draw some out and take it to the master of the banquet.” They did so, [9] and the master of the banquet tasted the water that had been turned into wine. He did not realize where it had come from, though the servants who had drawn the water knew. Then he called the bridegroom aside [10] and said, “Everyone brings out the choice wine first and then the cheaper wine after the guests have had too much to drink; but you have saved the best till now.” [11] What Jesus did here in Cana of Galilee was the first of the signs through which he revealed his glory; and his disciples believed in him.
There are two times in Luke where he said that Mary pondered things in her heart.
Luke 2:16-19, 49-51 NIV [16] So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. [17] When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, [18] and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. [19] But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.
[49] “Why were you searching for me?” he asked. “Didn’t you know I had to be in my Father’s house?” [50] But they did not understand what he was saying to them. [51] Then he went down to Nazareth with them and was obedient to them. But his mother treasured all these things in her heart.
Mary's pondering suggests that faith is not a static thing. It's a journey of wrestling with questions, seeking understanding, and growing in trust. She didn't have all the answers, but she held onto the things she witnessed and pondered them in her heart, demonstrating a faith that was active and dynamic.
This is a faith marked by contemplation, humility, and trust, a faith that seeks understanding and allows God to work in His own time.
The act of treasuring something in your heart implies deep contemplation and reflection. Mary wasn't just passively observing the events unfolding around her.
She was actively thinking about them, trying to understand their meaning and significance in light of her faith. This shows a mind engaged with God's word and actions, seeking to discern His will.
Here, we can learn much from her unwavering faith in her son – a faith we must have as well.
Mary's life is a model for Christians, showing what it means to follow God with complete devotion and surrender.
Mary’s example reminds us that faith is not just about believing in God, but also about trusting in him even when life is difficult and uncertain.

2. Mary Magdalene

Mary Magdalene a hero of faith! Her story is incredibly powerful and inspiring. Mary Magdalene is one of the most-mentioned women among Jesus’s earthy disciples. She traveled with him and cared for him as one of his followers and was present at his crucifixion.
Mary Magdalene's story begins with her being freed from "seven demons" by Jesus.
Luke 8:1-2 NIV [1] After this, Jesus traveled about from one town and village to another, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God. The Twelve were with him, [2] and also some women who had been cured of evil spirits and diseases: Mary (called Magdalene) from whom seven demons had come out;
Jesus, in his compassion and power, delivered her. This experience was likely a transformative one for Mary This profound healing experience led her to become a devoted follower of Jesus. She became what Paul later said was a new creation.
2 Corinthians 5:16-17 NIV [16] So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. [17] Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!
She spent the rest of her life in utter devotion to the Lord. We, too, can and should do the same.
Mary Magdalene remained faithful to Jesus even when others abandoned him. She was present at his crucifixion, a time of great danger for his followers, and she mourned his death.
Matthew 27:55-56 NIV [55] Many women were there, watching from a distance. They had followed Jesus from Galilee to care for his needs. [56] Among them were Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James and Joseph, and the mother of Zebedee’s sons.
Mark 15:40-41 NIV [40] Some women were watching from a distance. Among them were Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James the younger and of Joseph, and Salome. [41] In Galilee these women had followed him and cared for his needs. Many other women who had come up with him to Jerusalem were also there.
John 19:25 NIV [25] Near the cross of Jesus stood his mother, his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene.
Mary Magdalene was the first person to see Jesus after his resurrection. Jesus entrusted Mary Magdalene with the crucial task of sharing the good news of his resurrection with the other disciples. She became the first messenger of this transformative event.
John 20:11-18 NIV [11] Now Mary stood outside the tomb crying. As she wept, she bent over to look into the tomb [12] and saw two angels in white, seated where Jesus’ body had been, one at the head and the other at the foot. [13] They asked her, “Woman, why are you crying?” “They have taken my Lord away,” she said, “and I don’t know where they have put him.” [14] At this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not realize that it was Jesus. [15] He asked her, “Woman, why are you crying? Who is it you are looking for?” Thinking he was the gardener, she said, “Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have put him, and I will get him.” [16] Jesus said to her, “Mary.” She turned toward him and cried out in Aramaic, “Rabboni!” (which means “Teacher”). [17] Jesus said, “Do not hold on to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father. Go instead to my brothers and tell them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’ ” [18] Mary Magdalene went to the disciples with the news: “I have seen the Lord!” And she told them that he had said these things to her.
This pivotal moment in Christian history highlights her deep faith and her special relationship with Jesus.
Mary Magdalene's story is a testament to the power of faith, the importance of loyalty, and the courage to share our experience with God. Mary Magdalene is a role model for believers, demonstrating the transformative power of encountering Jesus and the importance of sharing that experience with others.

3. Mary, Lazarus’s Sister

Mary, the sister of Lazarus, is often considered a hero of faith. While her story isn't as prominently featured as Mary, the mother of Jesus, or Mary Magdalene, her actions and interactions with Jesus demonstrate a deep and admirable faith. Here's why:
The Gospels portray Mary as someone who sat at Jesus' feet, listening to his teachings while her sister Martha was busy with household tasks.
Luke 10:38-42 NIV [38] As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. [39] She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. [40] But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!” [41] “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, [42] but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”
This act shows her prioritization of spiritual nourishment and her recognition of Jesus's authority as a teacher. It implies a faith that sought understanding and connection with Jesus's message.
This story highlights the importance of prioritizing spiritual growth and learning from Jesus, even amidst the demands of daily life. It's a reminder that sometimes, it's more important to sit at Jesus' feet than to be busy with other things.
Later on we see Mary again. When Lazarus fell ill and died, Mary and Martha sent for Jesus.
John 11:1-7 NIV [1] Now a man named Lazarus was sick. He was from Bethany, the village of Mary and her sister Martha. [2] (This Mary, whose brother Lazarus now lay sick, was the same one who poured perfume on the Lord and wiped his feet with her hair.) [3] So the sisters sent word to Jesus, “Lord, the one you love is sick.” [4] When he heard this, Jesus said, “This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God’s glory so that God’s Son may be glorified through it.” [5] Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus. [6] So when he heard that Lazarus was sick, he stayed where he was two more days, [7] and then he said to his disciples, “Let us go back to Judea.”
When Jesus finally got there Lazarus was dead.
John 11:28-32 NIV [28] After she had said this, she went back and called her sister Mary aside. “The Teacher is here,” she said, “and is asking for you.” [29] When Mary heard this, she got up quickly and went to him. [30] Now Jesus had not yet entered the village, but was still at the place where Martha had met him. [31] When the Jews who had been with Mary in the house, comforting her, noticed how quickly she got up and went out, they followed her, supposing she was going to the tomb to mourn there. [32] When Mary reached the place where Jesus was and saw him, she fell at his feet and said, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.”
Mary's grief was profound, but her statement to Jesus, "Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died," suggests not a rebuke, but a deep belief in Jesus's power to heal. She expressed faith even in the face of death.
Then Mary witnessed the incredible miracle of Lazarus being raised from the dead.
John 11:38-44 NIV [38] Jesus, once more deeply moved, came to the tomb. It was a cave with a stone laid across the entrance. [39] “Take away the stone,” he said. “But, Lord,” said Martha, the sister of the dead man, “by this time there is a bad odor, for he has been there four days.” [40] Then Jesus said, “Did I not tell you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?” [41] So they took away the stone. Then Jesus looked up and said, “Father, I thank you that you have heard me. [42] I knew that you always hear me, but I said this for the benefit of the people standing here, that they may believe that you sent me.” [43] When he had said this, Jesus called in a loud voice, “Lazarus, come out!” [44] The dead man came out, his hands and feet wrapped with strips of linen, and a cloth around his face. Jesus said to them, “Take off the grave clothes and let him go.”
This experience undoubtedly strengthened her faith and solidified her belief in Jesus's divine power. Being a close recipient of such a profound miracle is a testament to her connection with Jesus.
Later on we see Mary perform an act of great love and devotion when Mary takes some expensive perfume and anoints Jesus’ feet demonstrating Mary expressing her faith through tangible actions.
John 12:1-8 NIV [1] Six days before the Passover, Jesus came to Bethany, where Lazarus lived, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. [2] Here a dinner was given in Jesus’ honor. Martha served, while Lazarus was among those reclining at the table with him. [3] Then Mary took about a pint of pure nard, an expensive perfume; she poured it on Jesus’ feet and wiped his feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume. [4] But one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, who was later to betray him, objected, [5] “Why wasn’t this perfume sold and the money given to the poor? It was worth a year’s wages.” [6] He did not say this because he cared about the poor but because he was a thief; as keeper of the money bag, he used to help himself to what was put into it. [7] “Leave her alone,” Jesus replied. “It was intended that she should save this perfume for the day of my burial. [8] You will always have the poor among you, but you will not always have me.”
Mary's story isn't filled with dramatic pronouncements or leadership roles. Instead, her faith is expressed through quiet devotion, attentive listening, unwavering belief in Jesus's power, and acts of love. This makes her a relatable figure for many and a powerful example of how faith can be expressed in everyday life.

Wednesday, February 5, 2025

Heroes of Faith Session 15 - King David, A Man of Faith

The Christ Church Wednesday Bible Study Group is now studying the heroes of faith found in the Bible. In Hebrews 11, we find a remarkable chapter that introduces us to a cloud of witnesses, individuals who exemplified extraordinary faith. However our study will go beyond Hebrews 11 and include the lives of others that are examples of the blessings of having faith in God. We will also talk about other people that exhibited extraordinary faith, some of them are people we may know.

Throughout this Bible study, we will delve into the lives of these individuals, examining the specific trials they endured, the faith principles they embraced, and the lessons we can learn from their examples. Our goal is not merely to admire their accomplishments but to understand the underlying principles that fueled their faith and to apply those principles to our own lives.

As we explore the lives of these faith heroes, we will discover that faith is not merely a belief; it is a dynamic force that empowers us to overcome obstacles, persevere through difficulties, and live a life of purpose.

In this session we are going to explore David's faith, examining how it shaped his life and how we can learn from his example.

The Reverend Dr. Kyle Norman is the Rector of St. Paul’s Cathedral, located in Kamloops BC, Canada. He has 20 years of pastoral experience, and his ministry focuses on helping people overcome times of spiritual discouragement.

Faith is more than rule-keeping or sin-management. Faith is an abiding relationship with the one who created us and redeemed us. Unless we abide with the Lord in a transformed relationship, we fail to live within the covenant that God establishes.

Here are three things to consider about the life of faith.

Faith is more internal than external.

Starting in the Old Testament, God continually calls God’s people into a standard of relationship. This relationship is called a covenant, and it is established with Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, Joshua, and Jeremiah. Yet, as good as the covenant was, Israel continually misconstrued it into a mere list of do’s and don’ts. The covenant, inscribed on stone tablets, became a mere end in itself.

For this reason, although Israel would abide by the letter of the law, they would continually fail to live out the relational heart of the covenant. Take, for example, the law concerning the Sabbath.

Exodus 20:8-10 NIV [8] “Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. [9] Six days you shall labor and do all your work, [10] but the seventh day is a sabbath to the Lord your God. On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your male or female servant, nor your animals, nor any foreigner residing in your towns.

In obeying the sabbath restriction, diligently stepping away from all work, Israel made other people work for them. They exploited their workers and the aliens in the land under the rhetoric of spiritual obligation. Thus, the prophet Isaiah challenges the people: “On the day of fasting (sabbath), you do as you please, and exploit your workers”. The good and perfect law, established by God, became twisted into a system of rule-keeping.

Isaiah 58:3-7 NIV [3] ‘Why have we fasted,’ they say, ‘and you have not seen it? Why have we humbled ourselves, and you have not noticed?’ “Yet on the day of your fasting, you do as you please and exploit all your workers. [4] Your fasting ends in quarreling and strife, and in striking each other with wicked fists. You cannot fast as you do today and expect your voice to be heard on high. [5] Is this the kind of fast I have chosen, only a day for people to humble themselves? Is it only for bowing one’s head like a reed and for lying in sackcloth and ashes? Is that what you call a fast, a day acceptable to the Lord? [6] “Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke? [7] Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter— when you see the naked, to clothe them, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?

While we can live great, moral, and upright lives by obeying the rules, we miss out on the full dynamic of a life with God. This is because God desires a heartfelt relationship more than just a system of obligation. “I will be their God, and they will be my people,” God announces. So deep and intertwined is God in our lives that it’s like God etches God’s voice upon our hearts, and our lives become lived in tandem with God.

Jeremiah 31:33-34 NIV [33] “This is the covenant I will make with the people of Israel after that time,” declares the Lord. “I will put my law in their minds and write it on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people. [34] No longer will they teach their neighbor, or say to one another, ‘Know the Lord,’ because they will all know me, from the least of them to the greatest,” declares the Lord. “For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more.”

This is why Jesus continually pointed to the inner life, over and above the simple external commandments. Instead of the commandment calling people to “not murder,” Jesus said, “Whoever is angry at a brother or sister will be subject to judgment”. Jesus took the external commandments and reinterpreted them to speak to the matter of our heartfelt relationship with God. Before we consider what we might “do” for God, we must ask ourselves whether we are in the right relationship with God.

Faith is rooted in grace.

Our relationship with God is rooted in grace. Without grace, our faith becomes transactional insofar as we receive blessings and goodness because of what we do. If we do more, we receive more, we believe. Many people believe this. Yet scripture continually rejects this notion. Paul writes, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works so that no one can boast” (Ephesians 2:8-9). Grace reminds us that our relationship with God exists because of God’s activity rather than any work of our own. We never earn our place with God.

God’s grace is fully revealed in the life, ministry, and death of Jesus. When Jesus announced on the cross, “It is finished” (John 19:30), he was speaking about the fulfillment of all the Law’s commandments and obligations. Jesus accomplishes all that needs to be accomplished for salvation, thereby releasing us from the law’s demands. His resurrection assures us that Jesus has done for us what we could never do ourselves. The author of Hebrews describes that when Jesus “had offered for all time one sacrifice for sins, he sat down at the right hand of God” (Hebrews 10:12). This “sitting down” signifies that nothing more needs to be accomplished. All is complete.

Grace brings the accomplishments of Jesus into our lives as a gift. Instead of working towards our salvation, faith calls us to accept the work done for us on the cross. Without an acceptance of grace, the Christian faith is impossible, for it fundamentally rejects the cruciform work of Christ.

Faith leads to a transformed life

Faith is more internal than external; it exists in the heart and soul rather than in the blind execution of action. Faith unites us with Jesus’ work.

But does this mean that what we do or how we live matters not? Do grace and forgiveness mean that I can just do what I want when I want and however I want? Absolutely not!

Scripture holds a delicate balance between faith and works. Faith is not contrary to work or effort. Christian faith, rooted in grace, testifies that we don’t earn our salvation. We can never climb the heights of spiritual exaltedness by any work of the flesh. Yet, we are called to live out our faith in action. James writes, “As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead” (James 2:26). Our actions testify to the God we worship and follow. Without faithful deeds, evidenced in our lives, our faith is naturally drawn into question.

This is why the biggest witness to the truth of the gospel is a transformed life. Jesus called us to a radically new way of life, one that directly contradicts the ways of the world. We “love [our] enemies and pray for those who persecute [us]” (Matthew 5:44). Instead of acting in retribution or retaliation, we bless those who act against us. We turn the other cheek and seek forgiveness over revenge.

The early witness of the gospel was the transformed lives of the disciples. “See how they love each other,” was the observation. This is the life that we, as followers of Christ, are called to live. Jesus calls us to transform our lives in today’s world. It is in our transformed lives that we bear the image of Christ.

So where is Jesus asking your life to be transformed? How might you live out your inward relationship with Jesus? How can your transformation, by grace, be evidenced in your life as the natural response to the love of Christ? After all, this is the way of faith.

Exploring the Faith of King David

King David, a shepherd boy who became Israel's greatest king, is a complex figure. He was a warrior, a poet, a musician, and a leader, yet he was also a man who sinned deeply. But above all these, David was known as "a man after God’s own heart"

1 Samuel 13:13-14 NIV[13] “You have done a foolish thing,” Samuel said. “You have not kept the command the Lord your God gave you; if you had, he would have established your kingdom over Israel for all time. [14] But now your kingdom will not endure; the Lord has sought out a man after his own heart and appointed him ruler of his people, because you have not kept the Lord’s command.”

We are going to explore David's faith, examining how it shaped his life and how we can learn from his example.

King David, the second king of Israel, is one of the most iconic figures in the Bible. He is known for his bravery, leadership, and most importantly, his faith. Despite his flaws and mistakes, David's trust in God and his commitment to following Him are exemplary. In this study, we will explore David's life and highlight key moments that demonstrate his faith.

Faith in the Face of Adversity

David's journey begins with his anointing as king by the prophet Samuel.

1 Samuel 16:11-13 NIV [11] So he asked Jesse, “Are these all the sons you have?” “There is still the youngest,” Jesse answered. “He is tending the sheep.” Samuel said, “Send for him; we will not sit down until he rrives.” [12] So he sent for him and had him brought in. He was glowing with health and had a fine appearance and handsome features. Then the Lord said, “Rise and anoint him; this is the one.” [13] So Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the presence of his brothers, and from that day on the Spirit of the Lord came powerfully upon David. Samuel then went to Ramah.

Though anointed king by Samuel as a youth, likely a teenager, David endured years of hardship before finally ascending the throne.

Instead, he faces numerous challenges, including the giant Goliath. We see David's faith in action as he confronts the giant. He says, "The Lord, who delivered me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear, will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine" (1 Samuel 17:37).

Trusting in God's Providence

David's faith is not limited to times of crisis. He also trusts in God's providence, even when things seem uncertain. In Psalm 23, David writes, "The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul" . This psalm demonstrates David's confidence in God's guidance and provision.

Faith and Humility

David's faith is also marked by humility. When he is confronted by the prophet Nathan about his sin with Bathsheba, David repents and acknowledges his wrongdoing.

2 Samuel 12:13 NIV Then David said to Nathan, “I have sinned against the Lord.” Nathan replied, “The Lord has taken away your sin. You are not going to die.

He writes his heartfelt desire for mercy and forgiveness

Psalms 51:1-19 NIV [1] Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions. [2] Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin. [3] For I know my transgressions, and my sin is always before me. [4] Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight; so you are right in your verdict and justified when you judge. [5] Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time my mother conceived me. [6] Yet you desired faithfulness even in the womb; you taught me wisdom in that secret place. [7] Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow. [8] Let me hear joy and gladness; let the bones you have crushed rejoice. [9] Hide your face from my sins and blot out all my iniquity. [10] Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. [11] Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. [12] Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me. [13] Then I will teach transgressors your ways, so that sinners will turn back to you. [14] Deliver me from the guilt of bloodshed, O God, you who are God my Savior, and my tongue will sing of your righteousness. [15] Open my lips, Lord, and my mouth will declare your praise. [16] You do not delight in sacrifice, or I would bring it; you do not take pleasure in burnt offerings. [17] My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise. [18] May it please you to prosper Zion, to build up the walls of Jerusalem. [19] Then you will delight in the sacrifices of the righteous, in burnt offerings offered whole; then bulls will be offered on your altar.

David's humility and willingness to acknowledge his sin demonstrate his faith in God's mercy and forgiveness.

Conclusion

King David's life is a testament to the power of faith. Despite his flaws and mistakes, he consistently trusts in God and seeks to follow Him. As we reflect on David's life, we are reminded of the importance of faith in our own lives. May we, like David, trust in God's providence, humility, and mercy, and may our faith be a source of strength and inspiration to others.

Prayer

Dear God, thank you for the example of King David's faith. Help us to trust in your providence, to humble ourselves before you, and to seek your mercy and forgiveness. May our faith be a source of strength and inspiration to others, and may we always seek to follow you. Amen.

Monday, February 3, 2025

Heroes of Faith Session 14 - Daniel

This week we talk about Daniel. We all know the stories of Daniel refusing to eat the king's food, and of him being thrown into the lion's den because he refused to pray to the king and instead prayer toward Jerusalem three times each day. We look into the role that Daniel's faith made in this and other decisions he made in his life.

Hebrews 11:6 NIV And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.

Daniel, a young Hebrew man, was taken captive by King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon and forced to serve in the royal court. Despite being in a foreign land, surrounded by idolatry and temptation, Daniel remained faithful to God and became one of the most revered heroes of the Old Testament.

Daniel's Early Life and Training

Daniel, along with his friends Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, was taken captive by King Nebuchadnezzar and brought to Babylon. The king ordered that the young men be trained in the language and customs of the Babylonians, with the intention of making them serve in the royal court.

Daniel 1:1-6 NIV [1] In the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim king of Judah, Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon came to Jerusalem and besieged it. [2] And the Lord delivered Jehoiakim king of Judah into his hand, along with some of the articles from the temple of God. These he carried off to the temple of his god in Babylonia and put in the treasure house of his god. [3] Then the king ordered Ashpenaz, chief of his court officials, to bring into the king’s service some of the Israelites from the royal family and the nobility— [4] young men without any physical defect, handsome, showing aptitude for every kind of learning, well informed, quick to understand, and qualified to serve in the king’s palace. He was to teach them the language and literature of the Babylonians. [5] The king assigned them a daily amount of food and wine from the king’s table. They were to be trained for three years, and after that they were to enter the king’s service. [6] Among those who were chosen were some from Judah: Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah.

Daniel and his friends were given new names:

Daniel 1:7 NIV [7] The chief official gave them new names: to Daniel, the name Belteshazzar; to Hananiah, Shadrach; to Mishael, Meshach; and to Azariah, Abednego.

King Nebuchadnezzar changed the names of Daniel and his three friends as a means of cultural and religious assimilation.

To erase their Hebrew identity: Their original names reflected their faith in the God of Israel. Changing them to names associated with Babylonian gods was an attempt to erase their Hebrew identity and make them more readily conform to Babylonian culture.

To indoctrinate them into Babylonian beliefs: The new names were designed to connect the young men to Babylonian deities, subtly encouraging them to adopt Babylonian religious practices and beliefs.

This act of name-changing was a common practice in ancient empires to assert dominance and integrate conquered peoples into the ruling culture.

Despite being in a foreign environment, Daniel and his friends remained committed to their Hebrew heritage and their faith in God. Daniel and his friends were offered food from the king's table, which would have included meat sacrificed to idols.

Daniel, however, refused to eat the king's food, citing his commitment to the laws of God.

Daniel 1:8 NIV [8] But Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine, and he asked the chief official for permission not to defile himself this way.

The reason for this refusal is primarily attributed to their commitment to the laws of God, specifically the dietary laws that prohibited them from eating certain foods considered unclean.

Eating vegetables and drinking water kept them from potentially eating food that under law was considered unclean. The primary dietary restrictions in the Old Testament focused on the distinction between clean and unclean animals.

Leviticus 11:46-47 NIV [46] “ ‘These are the regulations concerning animals, birds, every living thing that moves about in the water and every creature that moves along the ground. [47] You must distinguish between the unclean and the clean, between living creatures that may be eaten and those that may not be eaten.’ ”

To show their faith and obedience to God results in blessings Daniel and his friends asked to be given vegetables and water for ten days, and then compared their health to that of the king's servants.

At the end of the ten days, Daniel and his friends were found to be healthier and stronger than the king's servants, and they were allowed to continue their diet.

Daniel 1:11-21 NIV [11] Daniel then said to the guard whom the chief official had appointed over Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah, [12] “Please test your servants for ten days: Give us nothing but vegetables to eat and water to drink. [13] Then compare our appearance with that of the young men who eat the royal food, and treat your servants in accordance with what you see.” [14] So he agreed to this and tested them for ten days. [15] At the end of the ten days they looked healthier and better nourished than any of the young men who ate the royal food. [16] So the guard took away their choice food and the wine they were to drink and gave them vegetables instead. [17] To these four young men God gave knowledge and understanding of all kinds of literature and learning. And Daniel could understand visions and dreams of all kinds. [18] At the end of the time set by the king to bring them into his service, the chief official presented them to Nebuchadnezzar. [19] The king talked with them, and he found none equal to Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah; so they entered the king’s service. [20] In every matter of wisdom and understanding about which the king questioned them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and enchanters in his whole kingdom. [21] And Daniel remained there until the first year of King Cyrus.

Daniel's Interpretation of the King's Dream

Because Daniel believed that God cared for His people he was able to save himself and all the wise men of Babylon by trusting that God would reveal information to him that would save them. Here is the story.

King Nebuchadnezzar had a dream that troubled him. The king called upon his wise men and magicians to first tell him the dream and then interpret it, but they were unable to do so.

Daniel 2:1-13 NIV [1] In the second year of his reign, Nebuchadnezzar had dreams; his mind was troubled and he could not sleep. [2] So the king summoned the magicians, enchanters, sorcerers and astrologers to tell him what he had dreamed. When they came in and stood before the king, [3] he said to them, “I have had a dream that troubles me and I want to know what it means.” [4] Then the astrologers answered the king, “May the king live forever! Tell your servants the dream, and we will interpret it.” [5] The king replied to the astrologers, “This is what I have firmly decided: If you do not tell me what my dream was and interpret it, I will have you cut into pieces and your houses turned into piles of rubble. [6] But if you tell me the dream and explain it, you will receive from me gifts and rewards and great honor. So tell me the dream and interpret it for me.” [7] Once more they replied, “Let the king tell his servants the dream, and we will interpret it.” [8] Then the king answered, “I am certain that you are trying to gain time, because you realize that this is what I have firmly decided: [9] If you do not tell me the dream, there is only one penalty for you. You have conspired to tell me misleading and wicked things, hoping the situation will change. So then, tell me the dream, and I will know that you can interpret it for me.” [10] The astrologers answered the king, “There is no one on earth who can do what the king asks! No king, however great and mighty, has ever asked such a thing of any magician or enchanter or astrologer. [11] What the king asks is too difficult. No one can reveal it to the king except the gods, and they do not live among humans.” [12] This made the king so angry and furious that he ordered the execution of all the wise men of Babylon. [13] So the decree was issued to put the wise men to death, and men were sent to look for Daniel and his friends to put them to death.

Daniel, however in confidence, prayed to God and asked for wisdom and understanding. The story emphasizes the importance of faith in God and seeking divine guidance in times of difficulty. It highlights the belief in God's sovereignty and ability to reveal truths beyond human understanding.

Daniel 2:14-18 NIV [14] When Arioch, the commander of the king’s guard, had gone out to put to death the wise men of Babylon, Daniel spoke to him with wisdom and tact. [15] He asked the king’s officer, “Why did the king issue such a harsh decree?” Arioch then explained the matter to Daniel. [16] At this, Daniel went in to the king and asked for time, so that he might interpret the dream for him. [17] Then Daniel returned to his house and explained the matter to his friends Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah. [18] He urged them to plead for mercy from the God of heaven concerning this mystery, so that he and his friends might not be executed with the rest of the wise men of Babylon.

Sometimes it’s wise to ask others to pray with you. We do that a lot. Sharing our concerns and needs with others and asking for their prayers creates a sense of community and support. It reminds us that we are not alone in our struggles. Knowing that others are interceding for us can be incredibly encouraging and provide a sense of comfort and peace.

Ultimately, asking others to pray with us and for us is an act of faith and love. It reflects our understanding that we are part of a larger community of believers who support and encourage one another on their spiritual journeys.

God heard and answered their prayers, which were made in faith, and He revealed the dream and its interpretation to Daniel, who then shared it with the king.

Daniel 2:19-23 NIV [19] During the night the mystery was revealed to Daniel in a vision. Then Daniel praised the God of heaven [20] and said: “Praise be to the name of God for ever and ever; wisdom and power are his. [21] He changes times and seasons; he deposes kings and raises up others. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning. [22] He reveals deep and hidden things; he knows what lies in darkness, and light dwells with him. [23] I thank and praise you, God of my ancestors: You have given me wisdom and power, you have made known to me what we asked of you, you have made known to us the dream of the king.”

The account of Daniel and Nebuchadnezzar's dream serves as a powerful testament to the role of faith and divine intervention in the lives of believers.

Daniel clearly recognized God as the ultimate source of wisdom and revelation.

Daniel 2:27-28 NIV [27] Daniel replied, “No wise man, enchanter, magician or diviner can explain to the king the mystery he has asked about, [28] but there is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries. He has shown King Nebuchadnezzar what will happen in days to come. Your dream and the visions that passed through your mind as you were lying in bed are these:

Then he told the king the details of the dream and what it meant prophetically. Daniel 2:29-44

The king was impressed with Daniel's wisdom, praised God and appointed him and his friends as his chief advisors.

Daniel 2:46-49 NIV [46] Then King Nebuchadnezzar fell prostrate before Daniel and paid him honor and ordered that an offering and incense be presented to him. [47] The king said to Daniel, “Surely your God is the God of gods and the Lord of kings and a revealer of mysteries, for you were able to reveal this mystery.” [48] Then the king placed Daniel in a high position and lavished many gifts on him. He made him ruler over the entire province of Babylon and placed him in charge of all its wise men. [49] Moreover, at Daniel’s request the king appointed Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego administrators over the province of Babylon, while Daniel himself remained at the royal court.

Daniel's Courage in the Face of Persecution

Here’s how we get to king Darius, who was a Mede and not Babylonian.

Daniel 5:22-31 NIV [22] “But you, Belshazzar, his son, have not humbled yourself, though you knew all this. [23] Instead, you have set yourself up against the Lord of heaven. You had the goblets from his temple brought to you, and you and your nobles, your wives and your concubines drank wine from them. You praised the gods of silver and gold, of bronze, iron, wood and stone, which cannot see or hear or understand. But you did not honor the God who holds in his hand your life and all your ways. [24] Therefore he sent the hand that wrote the inscription. [25] “This is the inscription that was written: mene, mene, tekel, parsin [26] “Here is what these words mean: Mene : God has numbered the days of your reign and brought it to an end. [27] Tekel : You have been weighed on the scales and found wanting. [28] Peres : Your kingdom is divided and given to the Medes and Persians.” [29] Then at Belshazzar’s command, Daniel was clothed in purple, a gold chain was placed around his neck, and he was proclaimed the third highest ruler in the kingdom. [30] That very night Belshazzar, king of the Babylonians, was slain, [31] and Darius the Mede took over the kingdom, at the age of sixty-two.

Archaeological and historical records indicate that Belshazzar was actually the son of Nabonidus, another king of Babylon who ruled after Nebuchadnezzar.

It's possible that Belshazzar was considered a "son" of Nebuchadnezzar in a broader sense, perhaps as a descendant or through a connection to the royal line.

Nebuchadnezzar recognized Daniel's abilities and appointed him to high positions of authority in the Babylonian government. Daniel continued to excel in his service to the kingdom, earning the trust and favor of King Darius.

Daniel regained prominence under King Belshazzar.

Belshazzar, faced with the mysterious writing on the wall, remembers Daniel's wisdom and summons him. Daniel interprets the writing, foretelling the fall of Babylon. In recognition of his wisdom, Belshazzar elevates Daniel to the position of "the third ruler in the kingdom."

Daniel 5:11-16, 29 NIV [11] There is a man in your kingdom who has the spirit of the holy gods in him. In the time of your father he was found to have insight and intelligence and wisdom like that of the gods. Your father, King Nebuchadnezzar, appointed him chief of the magicians, enchanters, astrologers and diviners. [12] He did this because Daniel, whom the king called Belteshazzar, was found to have a keen mind and knowledge and understanding, and also the ability to interpret dreams, explain riddles and solve difficult problems. Call for Daniel, and he will tell you what the writing means.” [13] So Daniel was brought before the king, and the king said to him, “Are you Daniel, one of the exiles my father the king brought from Judah? [14] I have heard that the spirit of the gods is in you and that you have insight, intelligence and outstanding wisdom. [15] The wise men and enchanters were brought before me to read this writing and tell me what it means, but they could not explain it. [16] Now I have heard that you are able to give interpretations and to solve difficult problems. If you can read this writing and tell me what it means, you will be clothed in purple and have a gold chain placed around your neck, and you will be made the third highest ruler in the kingdom.”

[29] Then at Belshazzar’s command, Daniel was clothed in purple, a gold chain was placed around his neck, and he was proclaimed the third highest ruler in the kingdom.

Daniel's enemies, who were jealous of his position and influence, conspired against him and tricked King Darius into issuing a decree that no one could pray to any god other than the king for thirty days.

Daniel 6:1-9 NIV [1] It pleased Darius to appoint 120 satraps to rule throughout the kingdom, [2] with three administrators over them, one of whom was Daniel. The satraps were made accountable to them so that the king might not suffer loss. [3] Now Daniel so distinguished himself among the administrators and the satraps by his exceptional qualities that the king planned to set him over the whole kingdom. [4] At this, the administrators and the satraps tried to find grounds for charges against Daniel in his conduct of government affairs, but they were unable to do so. They could find no corruption in him, because he was trustworthy and neither corrupt nor negligent. [5] Finally these men said, “We will never find any basis for charges against this man Daniel unless it has something to do with the law of his God.” [6] So these administrators and satraps went as a group to the king and said: “May King Darius live forever! [7] The royal administrators, prefects, satraps, advisers and governors have all agreed that the king should issue an edict and enforce the decree that anyone who prays to any god or human being during the next thirty days, except to you, Your Majesty, shall be thrown into the lions’ den. [8] Now, Your Majesty, issue the decree and put it in writing so that it cannot be altered—in accordance with the law of the Medes and Persians, which cannot be repealed.” [9] So King Darius put the decree in writing.

Daniel, however, refused to obey the decree and continued to pray to God three times a day.

Praying towards Jerusalem served as a symbolic act of focusing their hearts and minds on God's presence and the spiritual center of their faith, even while living in exile. Jerusalem was the center of Jewish religious life. It was the location of the Temple, where sacrifices were offered to God.

In exile, Daniel faced the constant temptation to assimilate into Babylonian culture. Praying towards Jerusalem helped him maintain a strong connection to his heritage, his people, and his God. Praying three times a day was likely a well-established practice among devout Jews, reflecting a consistent and dedicated commitment to their faith.

1 Kings 8:29-30 NIV [29] May your eyes be open toward this temple night and day, this place of which you said, ‘My Name shall be there,’ so that you will hear the prayer your servant prays toward this place. [30] Hear the supplication of your servant and of your people Israel when they pray toward this place. Hear from heaven, your dwelling place, and when you hear, forgive.

When Daniel's enemies caught him praying, they reported him to the king, who was forced to throw Daniel into a den of lions. God, however, sent an angel to shut the lions' mouths, and Daniel was unharmed.

Daniel had faith in God that’s why he refused to obey the king and his faith in God and His sovereignty he was willing to die because he trusted God.

Daniel 6:13-23 NIV [13] Then they said to the king, “Daniel, who is one of the exiles from Judah, pays no attention to you, Your Majesty, or to the decree you put in writing. He still prays three times a day.” [14] When the king heard this, he was greatly distressed; he was determined to rescue Daniel and made every effort until sundown to save him. [15] Then the men went as a group to King Darius and said to him, “Remember, Your Majesty, that according to the law of the Medes and Persians no decree or edict that the king issues can be changed.” [16] So the king gave the order, and they brought Daniel and threw him into the lions’ den. The king said to Daniel, “May your God, whom you serve continually, rescue you!” [17] A stone was brought and placed over the mouth of the den, and the king sealed it with his own signet ring and with the rings of his nobles, so that Daniel’s situation might not be changed. [18] Then the king returned to his palace and spent the night without eating and without any entertainment being brought to him. And he could not sleep. [19] At the first light of dawn, the king got up and hurried to the lions’ den. [20] When he came near the den, he called to Daniel in an anguished voice, “Daniel, servant of the living God, has your God, whom you serve continually, been able to rescue you from the lions?” [21] Daniel answered, “May the king live forever! [22] My God sent his angel, and he shut the mouths of the lions. They have not hurt me, because I was found innocent in his sight. Nor have I ever done any wrong before you, Your Majesty.” [23] The king was overjoyed and gave orders to lift Daniel out of the den. And when Daniel was lifted from the den, no wound was found on him, because he had trusted in his God.

We have said that faith in action results in praise. The king, realizing his mistake, issued a new decree that everyone in the kingdom should worship the God of Daniel.

Daniel 6:23-28 NIV [23] The king was overjoyed and gave orders to lift Daniel out of the den. And when Daniel was lifted from the den, no wound was found on him, because he had trusted in his God. [24] At the king’s command, the men who had falsely accused Daniel were brought in and thrown into the lions’ den, along with their wives and children. And before they reached the floor of the den, the lions overpowered them and crushed all their bones. [25] Then King Darius wrote to all the nations and peoples of every language in all the earth: “May you prosper greatly! [26] “I issue a decree that in every part of my kingdom people must fear and reverence the God of Daniel. “For he is the living God and he endures forever; his kingdom will not be destroyed, his dominion will never end. [27] He rescues and he saves; he performs signs and wonders in the heavens and on the earth. He has rescued Daniel from the power of the lions.” [28] So Daniel prospered during the reign of Darius and the reign of Cyrus the Persian.

Lessons from Daniel's Life:

Faithfulness in the face of temptation: Daniel's commitment to God's laws and his refusal to compromise his faith, even in the face of temptation, are a powerful example for us today.

Daniel's willingness to risk his life rather than deny his faith is a testament to the power of courage and conviction.

The importance of prayer: Daniel's consistent prayer life and his reliance on God for wisdom and guidance are a reminder of the importance of prayer in our own lives.

Daniel's story demonstrates God's sovereignty and provision, even in the midst of difficult circumstances.

Daniel's life is a powerful example of what it means to be a hero of faith. His commitment to God, his courage in the face of persecution, and his reliance on prayer are all qualities that we can learn from and strive to emulate in our own lives. As we reflect on Daniel's story, may we be inspired to deepen our own faith and to trust in God's sovereignty and provision, no matter what challenges we may face.

Application:

Personal Reflection: Spend time reflecting on your own relationship with God. Are there areas where you need to grow in your faith and obedience?
Prayer: Pray for strength to remain faithful to God in all circumstances, and for wisdom to discern His will for your life.
Action Steps: Identify one specific area where you can demonstrate greater faithfulness to God this week.

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