Daniel 5:1-12

Many years later King Belshazzar gave a great feast for 1,000 of his nobles, and he drank wine with them. (see Esther 1:1-4, Isaiah 22:12-14) While Belshazzar was drinking the wine, he gave orders to bring in the gold and silver cups that his predecessor, Nebuchadnezzar, had taken from the Temple in Jerusalem. He wanted to drink from them with his nobles, his wives, and his concubines. (see 2 Kings 24:13, Ezra 1:7-11, Daniel 1:1-2) So they brought these gold cups taken from the Temple, the house of God in Jerusalem, and the king and his nobles, his wives, and his concubines drank from them. While they drank from them they praised their idols made of gold, silver, bronze, iron, wood and stone. (see Revelation 9:20-21)

 

Suddenly, they saw the fingers of a human hand writing on the plaster wall of the king's palace, near the lampstand. The king himself saw the hand as it wrote, and his face turned pale with fright. His knees knocked together in fear and his legs gave way beneath him. (see Psalm 69:23, Ezekiel 7:14-18, 21:6-7, Daniel 7:28, Nahum 2:10)

 

The king shouted for the enchanters, astrologers, and fortune-tellers to be brought before him. He said to these wise men of Babylon, "Whoever can read this writing and tell me what it means will be dressed in purple robes of royal honor and will have a gold chain placed around his neck. He will become the third highest ruler in the kingdom!" (see Genesis 41:42-44, Isaiah 47:13, Daniel 5:16, 29, 6:2-3)

 

But when all the king's wise men had come in, none of them could read the writing or tell him what it meant. So the king grew even more alarmed, and his face turned pale. His nobles, too, were shaken. (see Job 18:11-14, Isaiah 21:2-4, Jeremiah 6:24, Daniel 5:6)

 

But when the queen mother heard what was happening, she hurried to the banquet hall. She said to Belshazzar, "Long live the king! Don't be so pale and frightened. (see Daniel 3:9, 6:6) There is a man in your kingdom who has within him the spirit of the holy gods. During Nebuchadnezzar's reign, this man was found to have insight, understanding, and wisdom like that of the gods. Your predecessor, the king--your predecessor King Nebuchadnezzar--made him chief over all the magicians, enchanters, astrologers, and fortune-tellers of Babylon. (see Genesis 41:11-15, Daniel 2:47-48, 4:8-9, 5:14-16) This man Daniel, whom the king named Belteshazzar, has exceptional ability and is filled with divine knowledge and understanding. He can interpret dreams, explain riddles, and solve difficult problems. Call for Daniel, and he will tell you what the writing means." (see Daniel 4:18) 

 

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Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Limited to 15 verses per post.

Daniel 4:28-37

"But all these things did happen to King Nebuchadnezzar. (see Numbers 23:19, Zechariah 1:6) Twelve months later he was taking a walk on the flat roof of the royal palace in Babylon. (see 2 Peter 3:9) As he looked out across the city, he said, 'Look at this great city of Babylon! By my own mighty power, I have built this beautiful city as my royal residence to display my majestic splendor.' (see Habakkuk 2:4-5)

"While these words were still in his mouth, a voice called down from heaven, 'O King Nebuchadnezzar, this message is for you! You are no longer ruler of this kingdom. You will be driven from human society. You will live in the fields with the wild animals, and you will eat grass like a cow. Seven periods of time will pass while you live this way, until you learn that the Most High rules over the kingdoms of the world and gives them to anyone he chooses.'

"That same hour the judgment was fulfilled, and Nebuchadnezzar was driven from human society. He ate grass like a cow, and he was drenched with the dew of heaven. He lived this way until his hair was as long as eagles' feathers and his nails were like birds' claws. (see Daniel 4:25, 5:21)

"After this time had passed, I, Nebuchadnezzar, looked up to heaven. My sanity returned, and I praised and worshiped the Most High and honored the one who lives forever.

    His rule is everlasting,

        and his kingdom is eternal. (see Jeremiah 10:10, Daniel 4:2,                        5:18-21, Revelation 4:9-11, 10:5-7)

    All the people of the earth 

        are nothing compared to him.

    He does as he pleases

        among the angels of heaven

        and among the people of the earth.

    No one can stop him or say to him,

        'What do you mean by doing these things?' (see Job 42:2, 

        Psalm 135:5-7, Isaiah 40:12-17, 42:13, 45:9, Daniel 6:27, 

        Romans 9:20)

"When my sanity returned to me, so did my honor and glory and kingdom. My advisers and nobles sought me out, and I was restored as head of my kingdom, with even greater honor than before. (see 2 Chronicles 33:12-13, Proverbs 22:4)

"Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and glorify and honor the King of heaven. All his acts are just and true, and he is able to humble the proud." (see Exodus 18:10-11, Psalm 33:4-5, Matthew 23:11-12)

 

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Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Limited to 15 verses per post.

 

Daniel 4:16-27

    " ' "For seven periods of time, 

        let him have the mind of a wild animal instead of the mind of a human. 

        [see Daniel 5:21]

    For this has been decreed by the messengers;

        it is commanded by the holy ones,

    so that everyone may know 

        that the Most High rules over the kingdoms of the world.

    He gives them to anyone he chooses--

        even to the lowliest of people." [see 1 Samuel 2:8, Psalm 9:16, 

        Daniel11:21, Romans 13:1]

" 'Belteshazzar, that was the dream that I, King Nebuchadnezzar, had. Now tell me what it means, for none of the wise men of my kingdom can do so. But you can tell me because the spirit of the holy gods is in you.' [see Genesis 41:8, Daniel 4:7, 5:8]

"Upon hearing this, Daniel (also known as Belteshazzar) was overcome for a time, frightened by the meaning of the dream. Then the king said to him, 'Belteshazzar, don't be alarmed by the dream and what it means.'

"Belteshazzar replied, 'I wish the events foreshadowed in this dream would happen to your enemies, my lord, and not to you! [see 1 Samuel 3:11-18, 2 Samuel 18:31-33, Daniel 7:15, 28, 8:27] The tree you saw was growing very tall and strong, reaching high into the heavens for all the world to see. It had fresh green leaves and was loaded with fruit for all to eat. Wild animals lived in its shade, and birds nested in its branches. That tree, Your Majesty, is you. For you have grown strong and great; your greatness reaches up to heaven, and your rule to the ends of the earth. [see Jeremiah 27:6-7, Daniel 2:37-38]

" 'Then you saw a messenger, a holy one, coming down from heaven and saying, "Cut down the tree and destroy it. But leave the stump and the roots in the ground, bound with a band of iron and bronze and surrounded by tender grass. Let him be drenched with the dew of heaven. Let him live with the animals of the field for seven periods of time."

" 'This is what the dream means, Your Majesty, and what the Most High has declared will happen to my lord the king. You will be driven from human society, and you will live in the fields with the wild animals. You will eat grass like a cow, and you will be drenched with the dew of heaven. Seven periods of time will pass while you live this way, until you learn that the Most High rules over the kingdoms of the world and gives them to anyone he chooses. [see Psalm 75:7, 107:39-40, Jeremiah 27:5, Daniel 4:33, 5:21] But the stump and roots of the tree were left in the ground. This means that you will receive your kingdom back again when you have learned that heaven rules. [see Daniel 4:31]

" 'King Nebuchadnezzar, please accept my advice. Stop sinning and do what is right. Break from your wicked past and be merciful to the poor. Perhaps then you will continue to prosper.' " [see Genesis 41:33-37, 1 Kings 21:28-29, Psalm 41:1-3, Proverbs 28:13, Isaiah 55:6-7, Ezekiel 18:21-22, Jonah 3:7-10]

 

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Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Limited to 15 verses per post.

 

Daniel 4:1-15

King Nebuchadnezzar sent this message to the people of every race and nation and language throughout the world: "Peace and prosperity to you! [see Daniel 6:25]

 

"I want you all to know about the miraculous signs and wonders the Most High God has performed for me. [see Daniel 3:25-27, 4:17, 24-25, 34]

 

    How great are his signs, 

        how powerful his wonders! [see Deuteronomy 4:34, Psalm 77:19-20, 

        Isaiah 25:1]

    His kingdom will last forever, 

         his rule through all generations. [see Daniel 2:44-45, 6:26]

 

"I, Nebuchadnezzar, was living in my palace in comfort and prosperity. [see Psalm 30:6, Isaiah 47:7] But one night I had a dream that frightened me; I saw visions that terrified me as I lay in my bed. So I issued an order calling in all the wise men of Babylon, so they could tell me what my dream meant. [see Genesis 41:8, Daniel 2:2-3] When all the magicians, enchanters, astrologers, and fortune-tellers came in, I told them the dream, but they could not tell me what it meant. [see Isaiah 44:24-25, Jeremiah 27:9-10, Daniel 2:7] At last Daniel came in before me, and I told him the dream. (He was named Belteshazzar after my god, and the spirit of the holy gods is in him.) [see Daniel 1:7]

 

"I said to him, 'Belteshazzar, chief of the magicians, I know that the spirit of the holy gods is in you and that no mystery is too great for you to solve. Now tell me what my dream means. [see Genesis 41:38, Ezekiel 28:3, Daniel 1:20, 2:47-48, 5:11]

 

" 'While I was lying in my bed, this is what I dreamed. I saw a large tree in the middle of the earth. [see Ezekiel 31:3-4] The tree grew very tall and strong, reaching high into the heavens for all the world to see. It had fresh green leaves, and it was loaded with fruit for all to eat. Wild animals lived in its shade, and birds nested in its branches. All the world was fed from this tree. [see Jeremiah 27:6-7, Ezekiel 31:5-7, Matthew 13:32, Luke 13:19]

 

" 'Then as I lay there dreaming, I saw a messenger, a holy one, coming down from heaven. [see Deuteronomy 33:2, Psalm 89:7, Daniel 8:13] The messenger shouted, [see Revelation 10:3, 18:2]

     

    "Cut down the tree and lop off its branches! 

        Shake off its leaves and scatter its fruit! 

    Chase the wild animals from its shade 

        and the birds from its branches. [see Jeremiah 51:5-6, 

        Ezekiel 31:10-14, Matthew 3:10, 7:19]

    But leave the stump and the roots in the ground, 

        bound with a band of iron and bronze 

        and surrounded by tender grass. 

    Now let him be drenched with dew of heaven, 

        and let him live with the wild animals among the plants of the field." ' " 

        [see Job 14:7-9]

 

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Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Limited to 15 verses per post.

 

 

Daniel 3:16-30

Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego replied, (see Daniel 1:7, 3:12) "O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you. If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God whom we serve is able to save us. He will rescue us from your power, Your Majesty. (see 1 Samuel 17:32-37, Psalm 27:1-2, Isaiah 26:3-4, Jeremiah 1:6-8) But even if he doesn't, we want to make it clear to you, Your Majesty, that we will never serve your gods or worship the gold statue you have set up." (see Joshua 24:15, 1 Kings 19:14-18)

 

Nebuchadnezzar was so furious with Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego that his face became distorted with rage. He commanded that the furnace be heated seven times hotter than usual. (see Leviticus 26:18-28) Then he ordered some of the strongest men of his army to bind Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego and throw them into the blazing furnace. So they tied them up and threw them into the furnace, fully dressed in their pants, turbans, robes, and other garments. And because the king, in his anger, had demanded such a hot fire in the furnace, the flames killed the soldiers as they threw the three men in. (see Daniel 2:15) So Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, securely tied, fell into the roaring flames.

 

But suddenly, Nebuchadnezzar jumped up in amazement and exclaimed to his advisers, "Didn't we tie up three men and throw them into the furnace?"

 

"Yes, Your Majesty, we certainly did," they replied.

 

"Look!" Nebuchadnezzar shouted. "I see four men, unbound, walking around in the fire unharmed! And the fourth looks like a god!" (see Psalm 91, Isaiah 43:2, Jeremiah 1:8, 19)

 

Then Nebuchadnezzar came as close as he could to the door of the flaming furnace and shouted: "Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, servants of the Most High God, come out! Come here!" So Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego stepped out of the fire. (Deuteronomy 4:20, 1 Kings 8:50-51, Daniel 3:17-18) Then the high officers, officials, governors, and advisers crowded around them and saw that the fire had not touched them. Not a hair on their heads was singed, and their clothing was not scorched. They didn't even smell of smoke! (see Hebrews 11:33-34)

 

Then Nebuchadnezzar said, "Praise to the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego! He sent his angel to rescue his servants who trusted in him. They defied the king's command and were willing to die rather than serve or worship any god except their own God. (see Psalm 34:6-10, Isaiah 37:33-37, Daniel 6:19-22, Acts 5:17-20, 12:5-11)  Therefore, I make this decree: If any people, whatever their race or nation or language, speak a word against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, they will be torn limb from limb, and their houses will be turned into heaps of rubble. there is no other god who can rescue like this!" (see Ezra 6:6-12)

 

Then the king promoted Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego to even higher positions in the province of Babylon. (see Daniel 2:49, 3:12) 

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Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Limited to 15 verses per post.

 

 

Daniel 3:1-15

King Nebuchadnezzar made a gold statue ninety feet tall and nine feet wide and set it up on the plain of Dura in the province of Babylon. (see Isaiah 46:6-7, Jeremiah 16:19-20, Daniel 2:31, Habakkuk 2:18-19) Then he sent messages to the high officers, officials, governors, advisers, treasurers, judges, magistrates, and all the provincial officials to come to the dedication of the statue he had set up. So all these officials came and stood before the statue King Nebuchadnezzar had set up. (see Daniel 6:1-9)

 

Then a herald shouted out, "People of all races and nations and languages, listen to the king's command! (see Daniel 4:1, 6:25-28, Revelation 14:6-7) When you hear the sound of the horn, flute, zither, lyre, harp, pipes, and other musical instruments, bow to the ground to worship King Nebuchadnezzar's gold statue. Anyone who refuses to obey will immediately be thrown into a blazing furnace." (see Jeremiah 29:20-23, Matthew 13:40-43, Revelation 9:1-12, 14:9-11)

 

So at the sound of the musical instruments, all the people, whatever their race or nation or language, bowed to the ground and worshiped the gold statue that King Nebuchadnezzar had set up.

 

But some of the astrologers went to the king and informed on the Jews. (see Ezra 4:11-16, Esther 3:8-10) They said to King Nebuchadnezzar, "Long live the king! You issued a decree requiring all the people to bow down and worship the gold statue when they hear the sound of the horn, flute, zither, lyre, harp, pipes, and other musical instruments. That decree also states that those who refuse to obey must be thrown into a blazing furnace. But there are some Jews--Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego--whom you have put in charge of the province of Babylon. They pay no attention to you, Your Majesty. They refuse to serve your gods and do not worship the gold statue you have set up."

 

Then Nebuchadnezzar flew into a rage and ordered that Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego be brought before him. (see Daniel 3:19) When they were brought in, Nebuchadnezzar said to them, "Is it true, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, that you refuse to serve my gods or to worship the gold statue I have set up? (see Isaiah 46:1, Daniel 3:1) I will give you one more chance to bow down and worship the statue I have made when you hear the sound of the musical instruments. But if you refuse you will be thrown immediately into the blazing furnace. And then what god will be able to rescue you from my power?" (Exodus 5:1-2, Isaiah 36:18-20, Jeremiah 50:1-3, Daniel 2:47)

 

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Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Limited to 15 verses per post.

 

Daniel 2:39-49

"But after your kingdom comes to an end, another kingdom, inferior to yours, will rise to take your place. After that kingdom has fallen, yet a third kingdom, represented by bronze, will rise to rule the world. (see Daniel 7:4-6) Following that kingdom there will be a fourth one, as strong as iron. That kingdom will smash and crush all previous empires, just as iron smashes and crushes everything it strikes. The feet and toes you saw were a combination of iron and baked clay, showing that this kingdom will be divided. Like iron mixed with clay, it will have some of the strength of iron. But while some parts of it will be as strong as iron, other parts will be as weak as clay. This mixture of iron and clay also shows that these kingdoms will try to strengthen themselves by forming alliances with each other through intermarriage. But they will not hold together, just as iron and clay do not mix. (see Psalm 2:1-3, Daniel 7:7, 23)

 

"During the reigns of those kings, the God of heaven will set up a kingdom that will never be destroyed or conquered. It will crush all these kingdoms into nothingness, and it will stand forever. (see Psalm 2:4-9, 145:13, Isaiah 9:7, Ezekiel 37:24-28, Revelation 11:15) That is the meaning of the rock cut from the mountain, though not by human hands, that crushed to pieces the statue of iron, bronze, clay, silver, and gold. The great God was showing the king what will happen in the future. The dream is true, and its meaning is certain." (see Daniel 2:29-30, Revelation 22:6)

 

Then King Nebuchadnezzar threw himself down before Daniel and worshiped him, and he commanded his people to offer sacrifices and burn sweet incense before him. (see Leviticus 26, Daniel 3:4-7, Acts 10:24-27, 14:13-20, Revelation 19:10, 22:8-9) The king said to Daniel, "Truly, your God is the greatest of gods, the Lord over kings, a revealer of mysteries, for you have been able to reveal this secret." (see Deuteronomy 10:17, 2 Samuel 7:22-24, Daniel 3:28, Amos 3:7)

 

Then the king appointed Daniel to a high position and gave him many valuable gifts. He made Daniel ruler over the whole province of Babylon, as well as chief over all his wise men. (see Genesis 41:39-43, Daniel 2:6, 5:16) At Daniel's request, the king appointed Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego to be in charge of all the affairs of the province of Babylon, while Daniel remained in the king's court. (see Daniel 3:30)

 

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Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Limited to 15 verses per post.

 

Daniel 2:31-38

"In your vision, Your Majesty, you saw standing before you a huge, shining statue of a man. It was a frightening sight. The head of the statue was made of fine gold. Its chest and arms were silver, its belly and thighs were bronze, its legs were iron and its feet were a combination of iron and baked clay. As you watched, a rock was cut from a mountain, but not by human hands. It struck the feet of iron and clay, smashing them to bits. (see Daniel 8:19-25) The whole statue was crushed into small pieces of iron, clay, bronze, silver, and gold. Then the wind blew them away without a trace, like chaff on a threshing floor. (see Psalm 1:4, Isaiah 17:12-14, Hosea 13:1-3) But the rock that knocked the statue down became a great mountain that covered the whole earth.

 

"That was the dream. Now we will tell the king what it means. Your Majesty, you are the greatest of kings. The God of heaven has given you sovereignty, power, strength, and honor. (see Isaiah 47, Jeremiah 27-28, Ezekiel 26) He has made you the ruler over all the inhabited world and has put even the wild animals and birds under your control. (see Jeremiah 25:7-11) You are the head of gold."

 

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Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Limited to 15 verses per post.

 

Daniel 2:16-30

Daniel went at once to see the king and requested more time to tell the king what the dream meant.

 

Then Daniel went home and told his friends Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah what had happened. He urged them to ask the God of heaven to show them his mercy by telling them the secret, so they would not be executed along with the other wise men of Babylon. [see Genesis 18:22-32, Isaiah 37:1-4]

 

That night the secret was revealed to Daniel in a vision. Then Daniel praised the God of heaven. [see Numbers 12:6-9]

 

He said, "Praise the name of God forever and ever, for he has all wisdom and power. [see 1 Chronicles 29:10-13, Job 12:13]

 

"He controls the course of world events; he removes kings and sets up other kings. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the scholars. [see Job 12:17-21, Psalm 75:6-7]

 

"He reveals deep and mysterious things and knows what lies hidden in darkness, though he is surrounded by light. [see Job 12:22, Psalm 139:11-12, James 1:17, 1 John 1:5]

 

"I thank and praise you, God of my ancestors, for you have given me wisdom and strength. You have told me what we asked of you and revealed to us what the king demanded."

 

Then Daniel went in to see Arioch, whom the king had ordered to execute the wise men of Babylon. Daniel said to him, "Don't kill the wise men. Take me to the king, and I will tell him the meaning of his dream." [see Daniel 12:13-14]

 

Arioch quickly took Daniel to the king and said, "I have found one of the captives from Judah who will tell the king the meaning of his dream!" [see Genesis 41:14-16), Daniel 5:13-16]

 

The king said to Daniel (also known as Belteshazzar), "Is this true? Can you tell me what my dream was and what it means?" Daniel replied, "There are no wise men, enchanters, magicians, or fortune-tellers who can reveal the king's secret. [see Daniel 5:7-8] But there is a God in heaven who reveals secrets, and he has shown King Nebuchadnezzar what will happen in the future. Now I will tell you your dream and the visions you saw as you lay on your bed. [see Genesis 40:8, 41:16, Daniel 2:45] While Your Majesty was sleeping, you dreamed about coming events. He who reveals secrets has shown you what is going to happen. And it is not because I am wiser than anyone else that I know the secret of your dream, but because God wants you to understand what was in your heart."

 

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Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Limited to 15 verses per post.

 

Daniel 2:1-15

One night during the second year of his reign, Nebuchadnezzar had such disturbing dreams that he couldn't sleep. He called in his magicians, enchanters, sorcerers, and astrologers, and he demanded that they tell him what he had dreamed. As they stood before the king, he said, "I have had a dream that deeply troubles me, and I must know what it means." (See Genesis 41:1-7)

 

Then the astrologers answered the king in Aramaic, "Long live the king! Tell us the dream, and we will tell you what it means."

 

But the king said to the astrologers, "I am serious about this. If you don't tell me what my dream was and what it means, you will be torn limb from limb, and your houses will be turned into heaps of rubble! But if you tell me what I dreamed and what this dream means, I will give you many wonderful gifts and honors. Just tell me the dream and what it means!"

 

They said again, "Please, Your Majesty. Tell us the dream, and we will tell you what it means." (see Esther 4:10-14)

 

The king replied, "I know what you are doing! You're stalling for time because you know I am serious when I say, 'If you don't tell me the dream, you are doomed.' So you have conspired to tell me lies, hoping I will change my mind. But tell me the dream, and then I'll know that you can tell me what it means." (see Isaiah 41:21-24)

 

The astrologers replied to the king, "No one on earth can tell the king his dream! And no king, however great and powerful, has ever asked such a thing of any magician, enchanter, or astrologer! The king's demand is impossible. No one except the gods can tell you your dream, and they do not live here among people." (see Genesis 41:8-16)

 

The king was furious when he heard this, and he ordered that all the wise men of Babylon be executed. And because of the king's decree, men were sent to find and kill Daniel and his friends. (see Daniel 3:13-18)

 

When Arioch, the commander of the king's guard came to kill them, Daniel handled the situation with wisdom and discretion. He asked Arioch, "Why has the king issued such a harsh decree?" So Arioch told him all that had happened. (see Daniel 2:24)

 

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Limited to 15 verses per post.

Daniel 1:8-21

But Daniel was determined not to defile himself by eating the food and wine given to them by the king. He asked the chief of staff for permission not to eat these unacceptable foods. (see Leviticus chapter 11)  Now God had given the chief of staff both respect and affection for Daniel. (See Exodus 11:3, Psalm 106:46, Proverbs 16:7) But he responded, "I am afraid of my lord the king, who has ordered that you eat this food and wine. If you become pale and thin compared to the other youths your age, I am afraid the king will have me beheaded."

 

Daniel spoke with the attendant who had been appointed by the chief of staff to look after Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. "Please test us for ten days on a diet of vegetables and water," Daniel said. "At the end of the ten days, see how we look compared to the other young men who are eating the king's food. Then make your decision in light of what you see." The attendant agreed to Daniel's suggestion and tested them for ten days.

 

At the end of the ten days, Daniel and his three friends looked healthier and better nourished than the young men who had been eating the food assigned by the king. So after that, the attendant fed them only vegetables instead of the food and wine provided for the others.

 

God gave these four young men an unusual aptitude for understanding every aspect of literature and wisdom. And God gave Daniel the special ability to interpret the meanings of visions and dreams. 

When the training period ordered by the king was completed, the chief of staff brought all the young men to King Nebuchadnezzar. The king talked with them, and no one impressed him as much as Daniel, Hananiah Mishael, and Azariah. So they entered the royal service. Whenever the king consulted them in any matter requiring wisdom and balanced judgment, he found them ten times more capable than any of the magicians and enchanters in his entire kingdom.

 

Daniel remained in the royal service until the first year of the reign of King Cyrus. (from 605 BC to 539 BC)

 

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Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Limited to 15 verses per post.

 

Daniel 1:6-7

Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah were four of the young men chosen, all from the tribe of Judah. The chief of staff renamed them with these Babylonian names: Daniel was called Belteshazzar. Hananiah was called Shadrach. Mishael was called Meshach. Azariah was called Abednego.

 

Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah were four of the young men chosen, all from the tribe of Judah.

Ezekiel 14:14  "Even if Noah, Daniel, and Job were there, their righteousness would save no one but themselves, says the Sovereign LORD." [see all chapter 14]

Ezekiel 28:3  "You regard yourself as wiser than Daniel and think no secret is hidden from you." [see verses 1-24]

Matthew 24:15  "The day is coming when you will see what Daniel the prophet spoke about--the sacrilegious object that causes desecration standing in the Holy Place." [see all chapter 24, also Daniel 9:27, 11:31, 12:11]

 

The chief of staff renamed them with these Babylonian names: 

Daniel ["God is my judge" or "God has judged"]was called Belteshazzar ["Bel, a Babylonian god, protects his life".] 

Hananiah ["the LORD is grace"] was called Shadrach [possibly meaning "command of Aku," another Babylonian god.] 

Mishael ["who is God?"] was called Meshach ["who is Aku?".] 

Azariah ["the LORD helps"] was called Abednego ["servant of Nego/Nebo," another Babylonian god.] 

Daniel 2:49  At Daniel's request, the king appointed Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego to be in charge of all the affairs of the province of Babylon, while Daniel remained in the king's court. [see all chapter 2]

Daniel 3:16-18  Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego replied, "O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you. If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God whom we serve is able to save us. He will rescue us from your power, Your Majesty. But even if he doesn't, we want to make it clear to you, Your majesty, that we will never serve your gods or worship the gold statue you have set up." [see all chapter 3]

Daniel 4:7-8  "When all the magicians, enchanters, astrologers, and fortune-tellers came in, I told them the dream, but they could not tell me what it meant. At last Daniel came in before me, and I told him the dream. (He was named Belteshazzar after my god, and the spirit of the holy gods is in him.)" [see all chapter 4]

Daniel 5:12   "This man Daniel, whom the king named Belteshazzar, has exceptional ability and is filled with divine knowledge and understanding. He can interpret dreams, explain riddles, and solve difficult problems. Call for Daniel, and he will tell you what the writing means." [see all chapter 5]

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Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Limited to 15 verses per post.

 

Daniel 1:3-5

Then the king ordered Ashpenaz, his chief of staff, to bring to the palace some of the young men of Judah's royal family and other noble families, who had been brought to Babylon as captives. "Select only strong, healthy, and good-looking young men," he said. "Make sure they are well versed in every branch of learning, are gifted with knowledge and good judgment, and are suited to serve in the royal palace. Train these young men in the language and literature of Babylon." The king assigned them a daily ration of food and wine from his own kitchens. They were to be trained for three years, and then they would enter the royal service.

 

Then the king ordered Ashpenaz, his chief of staff, to bring to the palace some of the young men of Judah's royal family and other noble families, who had been brought to Babylon as captives.

Isaiah 39:7  " 'Some of your very own sons will be taken away into exile. They will become eunuchs who will serve in the palace of Babylon's king.' " (see all chapter 39, also 2 Kings 20:12-19)

2 Kings 24:15-16  Nebuchadnezzar led King Jehoiachin (Jehoiakim's son) away as a captive to Babylon, along with the queen mother, his wives and officials, and all Jerusalem's elite. He also exiled 7,000 of the best troops and 1,000 craftsmen and artisans, all of whom were strong and fit for war. (see verses 1-17)

 

"Select only strong, healthy, and good-looking young men," he said. "Make sure they are well versed in every branch of learning, are gifted with knowledge and good judgment, and are suited to serve in the royal palace. Train these young men in the language and literature of Babylon." 

Daniel 1:17  God gave these four young men an unusual aptitude for understanding every aspect of literature and wisdom. And God gave Daniel the special ability to interpret the meaning of visions and dreams. (see verses 6-7)

 

The king assigned them a daily ration of food and wine from his own kitchens. 

Daniel 1:8  But Daniel was determined not to defile himself by eating the food and wine given to them by the king. He asked the chief of staff for permission not to eat these unacceptable foods.

Daniel 1:10  But he responded, "I am afraid of my lord the king, who has ordered that you eat this food and wine. If you become pale and thin compared to the other youths your age, I am afraid the king will have me beheaded."

Daniel 1:15-16  At the end of ten days, Daniel and his three friends looked healthier and better nourished than the young men who had been eating the food assigned by the king. So after that, the attendant fed them only vegetables instead of the food and wine provided for the others. (see verses 8-16)

 

They were to be trained for three years, and then they would enter the royal service. 

Daniel 1:18-20  When the training period ordered by the king was completed, the chief of staff brought all the young men to King Nebuchadnezzar. The king talked with them, and no one impressed him as much as Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. So they entered the royal service. Whenever the king consulted in any matter requiring wisdom and balanced judgment, he found them ten times more capable than any of the magicians and enchanters in his entire kingdom.

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Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Limited to 15 verses per post.

 

Daniel 1:1-2

During the third year of King Jehoiakim's reign in Judah, King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon came to Jerusalem and besieged it. The LORD gave him victory over King Jehoiakim of Judah and permitted him to take some of the sacred items from the Temple of God. So Nebuchadnezzar took them back to the land of Babylon and placed them in the treasure house of his god.

 

During the third year of King Jehoiakim's reign in Judah, King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon came to Jerusalem and besieged it.

2 Kings 24:1-4  During Jehoiakim's reign, King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon invaded the land of Judah. Jehoiakim surrendered and paid him tribute for three years but then rebelled. Then the LORD sent bands of Babylonian, Aramean, Moabite, and Ammonite raiders against Judah to destroy it, just as the LORD had promised through is prophets. These disasters happened to Judah because of the LORD's command. He had decided to banish Judah from his presence because of the many sins of Manasseh, who had filled Jerusalem with innocent blood. The LORD would not forgive this. (see Jeremiah 25:1-11, 2 Kings 23:26-27, 2 Kings 21:1-18)

 

The LORD gave him victory over King Jehoiakim of Judah and permitted him to take some of the sacred items from the Temple of God. So Nebuchadnezzar took them back to the land of Babylon and placed them in the treasure house of his god. 

Isaiah 39:3-6  Then Isaiah the prophet went to King Hezekiah and asked him, "What did those men want? Where are they from?" Hezekiah replied, "They came from the distant land of Babylon."  "What did they see in your palace?" asked Isaiah. "They saw everything," Hezekiah replied. "I showed them everything I own--all my royal treasuries." Then Isaiah said to Hezekiah, "Listen to this message from the LORD of Heaven's Armies: 'The time is coming when everything in your palace--all the treasures stored up by your ancestors until now--will be carried off to Babylon. Nothing will be left,' says the LORD." (see all chapter 39)

Jeremiah 27:21-22  "Yes, this is what the LORD of Heaven's Armies, the God of Israel, says about the precious things still in the Temple, in the palace of Judah's king, and in Jerusalem: 'They will all be carried away to Babylon and will stay there until I send for them,' says the LORD. 'Then I will bring them back to Jerusalem again,' "

2 Kings 24:13  As the LORD had said beforehand, Nebuchadnezzar carried away all the treasures from the LORD's Temple and the royal palace. He stripped away all the gold objects that King Solomon of Israel had placed in the Temple.

2 Chronicles 36:18-19  The king took home to Babylon all the articles, large and small, used in the Temple of God, and the treasures from both the LORD's Temple and from the palace of the king and his officials. Then his army burned the Temple of God, tore down the walls of Jerusalem, burned all the palaces, and completely destroyed everything of value. (see all chapter 36, 2 Kings 25:1-21, Jeremiah 52:4-27)

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Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Limited to 15 verses per post.

 

Jude 1:24-25

Now all glory to God, who is able to keep you from falling away and will bring you with great joy into his glorious presence without a single fault. All glory to him who alone is God, our Savior through Jesus Christ our Lord. All glory, majesty, power, and authority are his before all time, and in the present, and beyond all time! Amen.

 

Now all glory to God, who is able to keep you from falling away and will bring you with great joy into his glorious presence without a single fault.

Romans 16:25-27  Now all glory to God, who is able to make you strong, just as my Good News says. This message about Jesus Christ has revealed his plan for you Gentiles, a plan kept secret from the beginning of time. But now as the prophets foretold and as the eternal God has commanded, this message is made known to all Gentiles everywhere, so that they too might believe and obey him. All glory to the only wise God, through Jesus Christ, forever. Amen.

2 Corinthians 4:14  We know that God, who raised the Lord Jesus, will also raise us with Jesus and present us to himself together with you. (see all chapter 4)

Philippians 1:9-10  I pray that your love will overflow more and more, and that you will keep on growing in knowledge and understanding. For I want you to understand what really matters, so that you may live pure and blameless lives until the day of Christ's return. (see verses 3-11)

1 Thessalonians 5:23-24  Now may the God of peace make you holy in every way, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless until our Lord Jesus Christ comes again. God will make this happen, for he who calls you is faithful. (see verses 12-28)

2 Peter 3:17-18  You already know these things, dear friends. So be on guard; then you will not be carried away by the errors of these wicked people and lose your own secure footing. Rather you must grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. All glory to him, both now and forever! Amen. (see all chapter 3)

Luke 1:46-48  Mary responded, "Oh, how my soul praises the Lord. How my spirit rejoices in God my Savior! For he took notice of his lowly servant girl, and from now on all generations will call me blessed." (see verses 46-56)

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Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Limited to 15 verses per post.

 

Jude 1:22-23

And you must show mercy to those whose faith is wavering. Rescue others by snatching them from the flames of judgment. Show mercy to still others, but do so with great caution, hating the sins that contaminate their lives.

 

And you must show mercy to those whose faith is wavering.

Matthew 5:7  "God blesses those who are merciful, for they will be shown mercy."

James 2:13  There will be no mercy for those who have not shown mercy to others. But if you have been merciful, God will be merciful when he judges you. (see also James 3:17)

Matthew 9:13  Then he added, "Now go and learn the meaning of this Scripture: 'I want you to show mercy, not offer sacrifices.' (Hosea 6:6, Micah 6:6-8) For I have come to call not those who think they are righteous, but those who know they are sinners." (see verses 9-13)

Matthew 18:33  " 'Shouldn't you have mercy on your fellow servant, just as I had mercy on you?' " (see verses 21-35)

 

Rescue others by snatching them from the flames of judgment. Show mercy to still others, but do so with great caution, hating the sins that contaminate their lives. 

Amos 4:11  "I destroyed some of your cities, as I destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah. Those of you who survived were like charred sticks pulled from a fire. But still you would not turn to me,"says the LORD. (see all chapter 4)

Zechariah 3:2-5  "I, the LORD, reject your accusations, Satan. Yes, the LORD, who has chosen Jerusalem, rebukes you. This man (see verse 1) is like a burning stick that has been snatched from the fire." Jeshua's clothing was filthy as he stood there before the angel. So the angel said to the others standing there, "Take off his filthy clothes." And turning to Jeshua he said, "See, I have taken away your sins, and now I am giving you these fine new clothes." Then I said, "They should also place a clean turban on his head." So they put a new priestly turban on his head and dressed him in new clothes while the angel of the LORD stood by. (see all chapter 3)

Revelation 3:4-5  "Yet there are some in the church in Sardis who have not soiled their clothes with evil. They will walk with me in white, for they are worthy. All who are victorious will be clothed in white. I will never erase their names from the Book of Life, but I will announce before my Father and his angels that they are mine." (see verses 1-6)

Matthew 10:32-33  "Everyone who acknowledges me publicly here on earth, I will acknowledge before my Father in heaven. But everyone who denies me here on earth, I will also deny before my Father in heaven." (see verses 26-42, also Luke 12:8-9)

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Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Limited to 15 verses per post.

 

Jude 1:20-21 Part 2 of 2

But you, dear friends, must build each other up in your most holy faith, pray in the power of the Holy Spirit, and await the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ, who will bring you eternal life. In this way, you will keep yourselves safe in God's love.

 

and await the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ, who will bring you eternal life. In this way, you will keep yourselves safe in God's love.

Titus 2:12-13  And we are instructed to turn from godless living and sinful pleasures. We should live in this evil world with wisdom, righteousness, and devotion to God, while we look forward with hope to that wonderful day when the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ will be revealed. (see verses 11-14)

Hebrews 9:28  ... so also Christ was offered once for all time as a sacrifice to take away the sins of many people. He will come again, not to deal with our sins, but to bring salvation to all who are eagerly waiting for him. (see verses 11-28)

Hebrews 12:5-6  And have you forgotten the encouraging words God spoke to you as his children? He said, "My child, don't make light of the LORD's discipline, and don't give up when he corrects you. For the LORD disciplines those he loves, and punishes each one he accepts as his child." (Proverbs 3:11-12) (see verses 5-13)

1 Peter 2:23-24  He did not retaliate when he was insulted, nor threaten revenge when he suffered. He left his case in the hands of God, who always judges fairly. He personally carried our sins in his body on the cross so that we can be dead to sin and live for what is right. By his wounds you are healed. (see verses 13-25, also Isaiah 53)

Philippians 3:20  But we are citizens of heaven, where the Lord Jesus Christ lives. And we are eagerly waiting for him to return as our Savior.

Hebrews 7:27-28  Unlike those other high priests, he does not need to offer sacrifices every day. They did this for their own sins first and then for the sins of the people. But Jesus did this once for all when he offered himself as the sacrifice for the people's sins. The law appointed high priests who were limited by human weakness. But after the law was given, God appointed his Son with an oath, (see verse 21), and his Son has been made the perfect High Priest forever. (see verses 11-all chapter 8)

James 1:12  God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.

John 17:15-16  "I'm not asking you (God the Father) to take them out of the world, but to keep them safe from the evil one. They do not belong to this world any more than I do." (see all chapter 17)

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Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Limited to 15 verses per post.

 

Jude 1:20-21 Part 1 of 2

But you, dear friends, must build each other up in your most holy faith, pray in the power of the Holy Spirit, and await the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ, who will bring you eternal life. In this way, you will keep yourselves safe in God's love.

 

But you, dear friends, must build each other up in your most holy faith, pray in the power of the Holy Spirit,

Ephesians 6:18  Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere. (see verses 18-20)

Colossians 2:6-7  And now, just as you accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord, you must continue to follow him. Let your roots grow down into him, and let your lives be built on him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness. (see all chapter 2)

1 Thessalonians 5:10-11  Christ died for us so that, whether we are dead or alive when he returns, we can live with him forever. So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing.

Romans 8:26-27  And the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness. For example, we don't know what God wants us to pray for. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words. And the Father who knows all hearts knows what the Spirit is saying, for the Spirit pleads for us believers in harmony with God's own will. (see verses 26-30)

Ephesians 3:16-17  I pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources he will empower you with inner strength through his Spirit. Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God's love and keep you strong. (see verses 14-21)

Philippians 4:6  Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. (see verses 4-9)

Colossians 1:9-10  So we have not stopped praying for you since we first heard about you. We ask God to give you complete knowledge of his will and to give you spiritual wisdom and understanding. Then the way you live will always honor and please the Lord, and your lives will produce every kind of good fruit. All the while, you will grow as you learn to know God better and better. (see verses 3-14)

1 Thessalonians 5:17  Never stop praying. (see verses 12-22)

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Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Limited to 15 verses per post.

 

Jude 1:17-19

But you, my dear friends, must remember what the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ predicted. They told you that in the last times there would be scoffers whose purpose in life is to satisfy their ungodly desires. These people are the ones who are creating divisions among you. They follow their natural instincts because they do not have God's Spirit in them.

 

But you, my dear friends, must remember what the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ predicted.

Hebrews 1:1-4  So we must listen very carefully to the truth we have heard, or we may drift away from it. For the message God delivered through angels has always stood firm, and every violation of the law and every act of disobedience was punished. So what makes us think we can escape if we ignore this great salvation that was first announced by the Lord Jesus himself and then delivered to us by those who heard him speak? And God confirmed the message by giving signs and wonders and various miracles and gifts of the Holy Spirit whenever he chose.

2 Peter 3:2  I want you to remember what the holy prophets said long ago and what our Lord and Savior commanded through your apostles.

 

They told you that in the last times there would be scoffers whose purpose in life is to satisfy their ungodly desires. 

2 Peter 3:3-4  Most importantly, I want to remind you that in the last days scoffers will come, mocking the truth and following their own path. They will say, "What happened to the promise that Jesus is coming again? From before the times of our ancestors, everything has remained the same since the world was first created."

1 Timothy 4:1  Now the Holy Spirit tells us clearly that in the last times some will turn away from the true faith; they will follow deceptive spirits and teachings that come from demons.

2 Timothy 3:1-2  You should know this, Timothy, that in the last days there will be very difficult times. For people will love only themselves and their money. They will be boastful and proud, scoffing at God, disobedient to their parents, and ungrateful. They will consider nothing sacred. (see verses 1-9)

 

These people are the ones who are creating divisions among you. They follow their natural instincts because they do not have God's Spirit in them. 

1 Corinthians 2:14-15  But people who aren't spiritual can't receive these truths from God's Spirit. It all sounds foolish to them and they can't understand it, for only those who are spiritual can understand what the Spirit means. Those who are spiritual can evaluate all things, but they themselves cannot be evaluated by others. (see verses 6-16)

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Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Limited to 15 verses per post.

 

Jude 1:14-16 Part 2 of 2

Enoch, who lived in the seventh generation after Adam, prophesied about these people. He said, "Listen! The LORD is coming with countless thousands of his holy ones to execute judgment on the people of the world. He will convict every person of all the ungodly things they have done and for all the insults that ungodly sinners have spoken against him." (1 Enoch 1:9) These people are grumblers and complainers, living only to satisfy their desires. They brag loudly about themselves, and they flatter others to get what they want.

 

"He will convict every person of all the ungodly things they have done and for all the insults that ungodly sinners have spoken against him." (1 Enoch 1:9)

Matthew 12:34-37  "You brood of snakes! How could evil men like you speak what is good and right? For whatever is in your heart determines what you say. A good person produces good things from the treasury of a good heart, and an evil person produces evil things from the treasury of an evil heart. And I tell you this, you must give an account on judgment day for every idle word you speak. The words you say will either acquit you or condemn you." (see verses 22-37)

2 Thessalonians 1:7-9  And God will provide rest for you who are being persecuted and also for us when the Lord Jesus appears from heaven. He will come with his mighty angels, in flaming fire, bringing judgment on those who don't know God and on those who refuse to obey the Good News of our Lord Jesus. They will be punished with eternal destruction, forever separated from the Lord and from his glorious power. (see all chapter 1)

 

These people are grumblers and complainers, living only to satisfy their desires. They brag loudly about themselves, and they flatter others to get what they want. 

Psalm 5:9  My enemies cannot speak a truthful word. Their deepest desire is to destroy others. Their talk is foul, like the stench from an open grave. Their tongues are filled with flattery. (see all Psalm 5)

1 Peter 4:4-5  Of course, your former friends are surprised when you no longer plunge into the flood of wild and destructive things they do. So they slander you. But remember that they will have to face God, who stands ready to judge everyone, both the living and the dead. (see verses 1-11)

Philippians 2:14-15  Do everything without complaining and arguing, so that no one can criticize you. Live clean, innocent lives as children of God, shining like bright lights in a world full of crooked and perverse people.

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Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Limited to 15 verses per post.

 

Jude 1:14-16 Part 1 of 2

Enoch, who lived in the seventh generation after Adam, prophesied about these people. He said, "Listen! The LORD is coming with countless thousands of his holy ones to execute judgment on the people of the world. He will convict every person of all the ungodly things they have done and for all the insults that ungodly sinners have spoken against him." (1 Enoch 1:9) These people are grumblers and complainers, living only to satisfy their desires. They brag loudly about themselves, and they flatter others to get what they want.

 

Enoch, who lived in the seventh generation after Adam, prophesied about these people.

Genesis 5:21-24  When Enoch was 65 years old, he became the father of Methuselah. After the birth of Methuselah, Enoch lived in close fellowship with God for another 300 years, and he had other sons and daughters. Enoch lived 365 years, walking in close fellowship with God. Then one day he disappeared because God took him. (see verses 18-24)

Hebrews 11:5  It was by faith that Enoch was taken up to heaven without dying--"he disappeared, because God took him." For before he was taken up, he was known as a person who pleased God.

 

He said, "Listen! The LORD is coming with countless thousands of his holy ones to execute judgment on the people of the world." 

Jeremiah 25:31  " 'His cry of judgment will reach the ends of the earth, for the LORD will bring his case against all the nations. He will judge all the people of the earth, slaughtering the wicked with the sword. I, the LORD, have spoken.' " (see verses 15-38)

Psalm 37:12-13  The wicked plot against the godly; they snarl at them in defiance. But the LORD just laughs, for he sees their day of judgment coming. (see all Psalm 37)

Psalm 1:4-5  But not the wicked! They are like worthless chaff, scattered by the wind. They will be condemned at the time of judgment. Sinners will have no place among the godly. (see all Psalm 1)

Joel 3:12-13  "Let the nations be called to arms. Let them march to the valley of Jehoshaphat. There I, the LORD, will sit to pronounce judgment on them all. Swing the sickle, for the harvest is ripe. Come, tread the grapes, for the winepress is full. The storage vats are overflowing with the wickedness of these people." (see all chapter 3) 

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Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Limited to 15 verses per post.