Living Faithfully in Babylon

Text: Daniel 1:1–21 (3 minutes to read)

In Daniel 1, young exiles are taken to Babylon, where their faith and identity are tested. Despite pressure to change, Daniel and his friends stay loyal to God, showing how we can live faithfully in a world that pushes us to compromise.

Following the life of Daniel from age 15-85.

"God is not shaping this broken world to fit us, but shaping us with wisdom to navigate it—until the day He makes all things new."

1. Develop a clear and courageous Christian worldview

Equip believers to think biblically, love truth, and resist cultural reprogramming with conviction and grace.

2. Cultivate confidence in prayer and awareness of spiritual realities

Lead the church to take prayer seriously, recognizing its power in shaping history and engaging in spiritual warfare.

3. Strengthen hope in God’s eternal kingdom

Help the church live with enduring hope, grounded in the certainty that Christ’s kingdom will outlast all others.

Introduction

Do you have a song you turn to when you discouraged?

I recommend that you do.

This is a wonderful singing church - there is no song we sing any better than “It is Well with my Soul”

Daniel and his friends did not walk into Babylon with a Bible in their arms - but they did know of the warnings of Jeremiah and would have hidden in their hearts many songs.

Holding onto them and their identity will be the challenge presented to them.

Psalm 137 (KJV)

1 By the rivers of Babylon, there we sat down, yea, we wept, when we remembered Zion.

2 We hanged our harps upon the willows in the midst thereof.

3 For there they that carried us away captive required of us a song; and they that wasted us required of us mirth, saying, Sing us one of the songs of Zion.

4 How shall we sing the LORD’S song in a strange land?

5 If I forget thee, O Jerusalem, let my right hand forget her cunning.

6 If I do not remember thee, let my tongue cleave to the roof of my mouth; if I prefer not Jerusalem above my chief joy.

Song of remembrance. Song of lament. Song of conviction.

Welcome to Babylon

1. Judah: A Small Nation Amidst Giants (Slide)

Judah was a small kingdom situated between powerful empires: Assyria to the northeast, Egypt to the southwest, and Babylon to the east.

Its strategic location made it a crossroads for conflict and conquest.

2. The Rise of Babylon

In 605 BC, Babylon, under King Nebuchadnezzar II, defeated Egypt, becoming the dominant power in the region.

Babylon's expansion led to the conquest of Jerusalem and the exile of many Jews, including Daniel.

3. Daniel's Exile and God's Sovereignty

Daniel and his friends were taken to Babylon to serve in the king's court, facing challenges to their faith and identity.

Despite being in a foreign land, Daniel remained faithful, demonstrating that God's sovereignty extends beyond borders.

4. Babylon was more than a city—it was a cultural empire.

At the time of Daniel, Babylon covered over 2,500 acres, was enclosed by massive walls, and boasted the architectural wonder of the Ishtar Gate, the mighty Euphrates River, and the ziggurat. (slide)

Ancient writers like Herodotus described Babylon's double walls as wide enough for chariots to ride on top—some reports said they were over 80 feet thick and 300 feet tall.

Ziggurat: Believed to be the model for the Tower of Babel, it was a 7-tiered structure rising hundreds of feet into the air, symbolizing Babylonian religious ambition.

Hanging Gardens of Babylon: One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, supposedly built by Nebuchadnezzar II for his wife, with terraced gardens and an advanced irrigation system. (slide)

Extensive canal networks and city planning made Babylon highly organized and advanced for its time.

It was a city of learning, wealth, religion, and political power. It was also a city of idols and confusion. (slide)

Babylon was more than a city—it was a wonder of the ancient world: mighty walls, flowing canals, and the iconic Hanging Gardens. But its greatest ambition was not architecture—it was assimilation.

Today, Babylon lives on—not geographically, but ideologically. Its influence is still felt in:

Because of Babylon’s base-60 math system, we still divide hours into 60 minutes and minutes into 60 seconds—a lasting legacy of Daniel’s world that literally shapes every clock we use today.

Code of Hammurabi influenced later legal systems by promoting the idea that laws should be written, accessible, and enforced.

Our obsession with appearance, success, and status

Our educational systems that elevate secular thought and suppress biblical truth

The relativizing of all values and religions

Babylon: The Counterfeit Kingdom Opposed to God

Revelation uses "Babylon" as a metaphor for a global system of rebellion, wealth, idolatry, and persecution.

Babylon is portrayed as the anti-kingdom, a counterfeit of the New Jerusalem.

While the New Jerusalem is pure and holy, Babylon is the "great harlot", enticing the world away from God.

So much in this book , please go beyond this study. ”Leadership is the art of disappointing people at a rate they can stand."

Transition: The first thing Babylon wants to change is your name—because if it can rename you, it can reshape you.

1. Babylon will try to reshape you, but God defines who you are

Summary: Cultural assimilation begins with a redefinition of who we are.

A. Rewrites your history (vv. 1–2)

Daniel 1:1–2“1 In the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim king of Judah came Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon unto Jerusalem, and besieged it. 2 And the Lord gave Jehoiakim king of Judah into his hand, with part of the vessels of the house of God: which he carried into the land of Shinar to the house of his god; and he brought the vessels into the treasure house of his god.”

Nebuchadnezzar believed he conquered Jerusalem, but Daniel reveals the Lord gave Jehoiakim into his hand.

History is reframed to glorify man, not God.

The true narrative is that God's purposes are behind all world events.

Prophets like Jeremiah foretold Babylon’s conquest as God's appointed discipline

God allowed Judah to be captured by Babylon to judge sin, fulfill His covenant warnings, and ultimately restore a purified people.

B. Retrains your mind (vv. 3–5)

Daniel 1:3–5“3 And the king spake unto Ashpenaz the master of his eunuchs, that he should bring certain of the children of Israel, and of the king’s seed, and of the princes; 4 Children in whom was no blemish, but well favoured, and skilful in all wisdom, and cunning in knowledge, and understanding science, and such as had ability in them to stand in the king’s palace, and whom they might teach the learning and the tongue of the Chaldeans. 5 And the king appointed them a daily provision of the king’s meat, and of the wine which he drank: so nourishing them three years, that at the end thereof they might stand before the king.”

They were immersed in Babylonian literature and language for three years.

This was a total cultural immersion, designed to create insiders.

Babylon still educates us to forget who God is and who we are.

Older fish to the younger fish. How is the water?

Recenlty heard on a podcast hot the 1970s were a decade of deep parental anxiety and a cultural scramble to interpret, protect, and sometimes control a generation that seemed to be growing up in an entirely new world.

C. Renames your identity (vv. 6–7)

Daniel 1:6–7“6 Now among these were of the children of Judah, Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah: 7 Unto whom the prince of the eunuchs gave names: for he gave unto Daniel the name of Belteshazzar; and to Hananiah, of Shadrach; and to Mishael, of Meshach; and to Azariah, of Abednego.”

Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah had names tied to Israel’s God.

Their new names honored false gods like Bel, Aku, and Nabu.

This renaming was a form of soft indoctrination.

Transition: Babylon can take your location, your name, even your language—but it cannot take your heart unless you surrender it.

Story of Daniel and friends around the water cooler. Let’s imagine a conversation between Daniel and some of his classmates at Babylon University—where names, gods, and worldviews collide.

2. Lasting faithfulness begins with resolve, not a reaction.

Summary: Standing strong outwardly starts with purposing in your heart inwardly.

A. Daniel purposed in his heart (v. 8)

Daniel 1:8 “8 But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king’s meat, nor with the wine which he drank: therefore he requested of the prince of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself.”

He made a pre-decision not to defile himself.

The battle for holiness is won or lost in the heart before it’s seen in public.

Faithfulness requires forethought, not reaction.

B. He protested with humility and wisdom (vv. 9–13)

Daniel 1:9–13“9 Now God had brought Daniel into favour and tender love with the prince of the eunuchs. 10 And the prince of the eunuchs said unto Daniel, I fear my lord the king, who hath appointed your meat and your drink: for why should he see your faces worse liking than the children which are of your sort? then shall ye make me endanger my head to the king. 11 Then said Daniel to Melzar, whom the prince of the eunuchs had set over Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, 12 Prove thy servants, I beseech thee, ten days; and let them give us pulse to eat, and water to drink. 13 Then let our countenances be looked upon before thee, and the countenance of the children that eat of the portion of the king’s meat: and as thou seest, deal with thy servants.”

He did not demand his way but appealed with gentleness and wisdom.

He acknowledged the fears of the authorities and offered a reasonable test.

His character earned him a hearing and eventually, favor.

C. God honored their faith with favor (vv. 14–16)

Daniel 1:14–16“14 So he consented to them in this matter, and proved them ten days. 15 And at the end of ten days their countenances appeared fairer and fatter in flesh than all the children which did eat the portion of the king’s meat. 16 Thus Melzar took away the portion of their meat, and the wine that they should drink; and gave them pulse.”

After ten days, they looked healthier than those eating royal food.

Their faith was vindicated in both body and witness.

Babylon took notice—not of defiance, but of divine blessing.

Transition: When we remain faithful, God doesn’t just protect us—He promotes His purposes through us.

3. God equips faithful servants to thrive—even in exile.

Summary: God gives wisdom, strength, and endurance to those who stand for Him.

A. God gave wisdom (v. 17)

Daniel 1:17 “17 As for these four children, God gave them knowledge and skill in all learning and wisdom: and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams.”

Wisdom was not merely natural—it was supernaturally given.

Daniel also received a prophetic gift, preparing him for later service.

God equips us for the assignments He gives us.

B. God gave influence (vv. 18–20)

Daniel 1:18–20“18 Now at the end of the days that the king had said he should bring them in, then the prince of the eunuchs brought them in before Nebuchadnezzar. 19 And the king communed with them; and among them all was found none like Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah: therefore stood they before the king. 20 And in all matters of wisdom and understanding, that the king enquired of them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and astrologers that were in all his realm.”

They were found ten times better than the rest.

Babylon could not ignore the excellence of God’s servants.

Excellence, not compromise, is what earns long-term influence.

C. God gave longevity (v. 21)

Daniel 1:21 “21 And Daniel continued even unto the first year of king Cyrus.”

Daniel outlived the Babylonian empire and served into the Persian era.

His consistency flowed from his early resolve.

God sustains those who build their lives on conviction, not convenience.

Conclusion: Resolve now, or you will conform later

Daniel 1 does not just invite us to admire Daniel—it challenges us to become like him.

We are not waiting to be taken to Babylon—we are already living in it. The world pressures us to fit in, bow down, and be quiet. But like Daniel, we must resolve now, before the pressure rises, that we will not be defiled.

Don’t wait until the spotlight is on you to choose your identity.

Don’t wait until the temptation is fierce to decide your values.

Now is the time to draw the line. Now is the time to choose holiness over compromise. Now is the time to be faithful in Babylon.

[Scene opens in a courtyard of the Babylonian learning center. Daniel and his friends are conversing with three Babylonian students.]

Adapa: So, my name comes from the first mortal—son of the gods Enlil and Ninlil. Pretty impressive, right?

Ninurta: And mine means “Lord of the Earth”—god of war, rain, and the south wind.

Nabu: Named after the god of wisdom and writing—son of Marduk himself. (Turns to Daniel) Do Hebrews do the same thing with names?

Daniel: Yes. My name means “God is my Judge.”

Adapa: Ouch. That’s intense. Sounds like your God is just waiting for you to mess up so He can punish you.

Daniel: It’s not like that. In our history, judges weren’t only legal figures—they were also leaders, deliverers, and guides. To say “God is my Judge” means He is involved in my life. It’s a comfort, not just a warning.

Ninurta: Still sounds stifling. Too many rules.

Azariah: Think of it this way—you play the lyre, right?

Ninurta: Of course.

Azariah: And you follow a musical score, don’t you? You’re only free to make beautiful music when you submit to the notes. That’s how we see God’s law—like music. Discipline that leads to freedom.

Mishael: Though we’re not just machines obeying rules. The Torah gives us principles, and we must think, pray, and apply them with wisdom.

Azariah: Exactly. The notes guide the music, but the musician brings it to life. There’s room for personality, interpretation—freedom.

Nabu: Okay, but judgment still sounds harsh. If God is holy and there’s a final judgment, aren’t you in trouble too?

Daniel: Yes, I’m not perfect. But judgment means my life has meaning. Accountability gives dignity. Without it, what I do doesn’t matter—and then I don’t matter.

Hananiah: That’s why my name is important too. It means, “The Lord shows grace.”

Adapa: Grace? What’s that?

Hananiah: Grace is God giving us what we don’t deserve. I didn’t earn my life, my family, or even the mercy shown to me during Jerusalem’s fall. It’s all a gift.

Nabu: Wait—so Daniel worships the judge, and you worship the gracious one? Sounds like two gods.

All Hebrews (together): No! There is only one God.

Mishael: And my name means, “Who is like God?” The answer is: no one. He is unique—beyond comparison. That’s what Isaiah taught us.

Azariah: And mine is “The Lord helps.” God has helped us personally—through His Word, through His prophets. Even now, we are standing because of His help.

Nabu: Sounds like you're interpreting things to suit your beliefs. How do you know God helps you? Maybe you’re just projecting your hopes—like we invent our gods.

Azariah: That’s a fair question. But let me ask you something: How do you know your girlfriend loves you?

Nabu: (Laughs) Fair enough.

Azariah: You can’t prove love like a math problem, but you can perceive it. So watch us. If God is real, you’ll see His hand in our lives.

[Suddenly, ASHPENAZ enters.]

Ashpenaz: Attention, all foreign students! To aid your integration into Babylonian society, you will receive new names. Your Hebrew names are to be retired—effective immediately.

(He reads from a scroll)

Daniel, you are now Belteshazzar – “May Bel protect his life.”

Hananiah, you are Shadrach – “Command of Aku.”

Mishael, you are Meshach – “Who is like Aku?”

Azariah, you are Abednego – “Servant of Nabu.”

These names will be used in all official records. That is all.

[Ashpenaz exits. Awkward silence.]

Daniel: They can change our names... but not our identity.

Mishael: Meshach? A mockery of my real name. Babylon mocks our God, but He remains the same.

Azariah: Let them write what they want on their records. Among ourselves, we know who we are.

Hananiah: And our God knows too.

Adapted from an idea in: John C. Lennox, Against the Flow: The Inspiration of Daniel in an Age of Relativism (London: SPCK Publishing, 2024), Chapter 1, "What’s in a Name?"