Sermon Date: Jan. 12 & 13, 2013 Sermon Title: With A Little Help From My Friends Sermon Text: Daniel 1 – 3 Introduction
Discussion
During the 2012 Olympics we witnessed one of the greatest races in the history of track and field. In the 100-meter finals we saw Usain Bolt, the fastest man in recorded history win a second consecutive Olympic record. However, in that race he also challenged the entire group to run faster. That effort produced the fasted times ever recorded for the entire team, places 2nd-5th. In this example, we are able to see what can happen when individuals are connected to a “Group” that is motivated and shares a common goal. The story of Daniel and his friends will challenge us to seek out these types of relationships, it will challenge us to grow in character and deepen our relationship with God. Read Daniel 3 1. Why do you think it’s important to be connected to a community/group? What are the benefits? What are the disadvantages? 2. While Daniel stood up for what he believed was right in the Babylonian culture, he did not stand-alone. He had friends like Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego where he found support; he faced life with them (Daniel 1:3-7), shared prayer requests (2:17-18), and got to see them stand up for what was right (3:16-18). Can you name three people that you have this kind of relationship with? If not, who do you think can eventually become like one of these friends to you? 3. Have you been a good spiritual friend and model of character for someone else? If not, who has God placed in your heart lately? How can you begin to either pray for or reach out to this individual?
Application
4. Review Daniel 3. According to v.1-6 what was at risk when disobeying the king? How did having a community of friends help them through this situation? 1. Share of a time when you had to lean on group of friends in order to get through a difficult time? What did you learn from that experience? 2. The story of the three Hebrew boys is one of faith, courage, and character. They believed that God was good enough to rescue them from the blazing furnace, but even if he had another plan for them, they refused to serve other Gods (v.17-18). What fears have caused you to be hesitant to share your faith with others or to take steps of courage? 3. What can you learn from Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego and how can their example help you face your fears?