'Who Rules the Nations?'


Daniel 4 is the final story about King Nebuchadnezzar.

In Daniel chapter 2, we saw how only Daniel was able to describe Nebuchadnezzar's troubling dream of the metal statue and interpret its meaning. This knowledge and wisdom was God given. We saw therefore how God reveals.

In chapter 3, we saw how Nebuchadnezzar sought to compel everyone in his administration to worship the huge golden idol he had set up. When Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego refused out of their obedience to the one true God they were cast into the fiery furnace. Through this we saw how God rescues.

In chapter 4, we find Nebuchadnezzar at the height of his power troubled by yet another disturbing dream which again only Daniel can interpret. Through this dream, its meaning and its fulfilment, we see how Nebuchadnezzar is finally taught the lesson that God rules.


Main Points:

  1. The King's Dream (v 1- 18)
  2. The Prophet's Message (v 19-27)
  3. The LORD's Rule (v 28-37)

Questions For Reflection:

  1. What is the key lesson of Daniel 4 that is set out in verses 17, 25 & 32?
    In what ways have we seen Nebuchadnezzar denying this truth in how he exercises his rule in Daniel chapter 1-4? How do we see rulers still doing this today?

  2. Look at Mark 10:35-45. How does Jesus exercise his rule and what is that rule contrasted with?

  3. In what areas of life do you exercise authority? Assess the manner in which you exercise that authority - does it resemble that of Jesus or Nebuchadnezzar? What needs to change in order that it follows the example of Jesus?