Daniel was named after and written by a Jew of noble descent who was captured as a teenager and taken into exile during the reign of King Jehoiakim (609-597 BC). He spent most of his life in the Babylonian court until the fall of Babylon. His life in exile spanned from the first year of the reign of the Babylonian king, Nebuchadnezzar, in 605 BC to the third year of the reign of the Medo-Persian King Cyrus (536 BC). Some scholars argue for a second-century BC date during the time of Antiochus IV Epiphanes (175-164 BC), who oppressed God’s people, based on detailed prophecies of events in the middle of the second century and on alleged historical inconsistencies. These scholars also propose a later date based on the language used, especially words borrowed from Persian and Greek, arguing that their use requires a later date. This would mean that an unnamed person who attributed the book to Daniel, a historical figure, wrote it.

I believe that Daniel, in fact, wrote the book in the sixth century BC for these reasons.

1. Jews and Christians historically have affirmed the sixth-century date and Daniel’s authorship.
2. Current knowledge of the sixth century is incomplete and limited. All the words that were used are unknown.
3. God often announced his plans in advance through his prophets. The Bible itself bears witness to this fact. God demonstrated his sovereignty and encouraged his followers, especially in times of difficulty. God carefully plans events and brings them to a perfect conclusion. Nothing takes God by surprise, and no one can derail his plans.
4. Greeks and Persians were likely in the Babylonian court (just as there were Hebrews). This could easily account for the use of the words borrowed from those languages.
5. The book of Daniel was accepted without question by the Qumran community, which cared for the Dead Sea Scrolls.

The book of Daniel is divided into two halves, each with its own genre. The first six chapters are historical narratives about Daniel and his three friends, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. These Hebrews epitomize faithful living in exile. They model a lifestyle of faithfulness to God in a strange world that is not their home.

Key Themes:

1. It is possible to be faithful in the midst of a broken and fallen world (even in exile).
2. God can deliver his faithful servants even from the most powerful kings and enemies.
3. God is sovereign: he humbles the proud and exalts the humble.
4. Believers are often persecuted, but God will judge the kingdoms of this world. The world is often a place of torment and persecution for believers, but the Lord will judge the kingdoms of this world and bring them to an end. God’s kingdom and reign will never end.
5. God delivers repentant sinners from their sins
6. Prayer is a significant weapon in spiritual warfare. The cosmic conflict between good and evil is a reality.
7. God limits the time and reach of the enemy
8. Believers are to be patient and faithful in a hostile world; God alone will bring deliverance.

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Part 1: The Historical Narrative

God Blesses Obedience

Chapter 1 begins with the enactment of God’s judgment on Israel because of their sinful rebellion. Nebuchadnezzar’s troops besieged Jerusalem, and the Lord gave King Jehoiakim into his hand. Notice that this was the Lord’s doing. Nebuchadnezzar ordered his chief eunuch to bring some of the king’s royal family and noblemen to Babylon, youth without blemish, of good appearance, and skillful in all wisdom, endowed with knowledge, competent to serve in the king’s palace. Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah were among those taken into captivity. These were their Hebrew names. The eunuch gave them Babylonian names: Daniel’s name was changed to Belteshazzar, Hananiah to Shadrach, Mishael to Meshach, and Azariah to Abednego. This renaming method was used as a strategy to assimilate citizens of conquered nations into the Babylonian kingdom

Read verses 8-21. Daniel resolved himself not to be defiled by the king’s food and wine. He asked the chief eunuch to test Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah for ten days, allowing them to eat vegetables and to drink water. After ten days, the Hebrews should be compared to the other captives. If the Hebrews do not favor well, then the eunuch can do with them as he pleases. God gave them favor with the chief, and he granted Daniel’s request. At the end of the trial period, Daniel and his friends were better in appearance than the other captives who ate the king’s food. So the steward continued to give them vegetables and water instead of the king’s food and wine. God gave the Hebrews learning, still, and understanding. In addition, Daniel was able to interpret dreams and visions. When the king met with the captives, the Hebrews appeared to be in the best condition and they found favor with the king. In every matter of wisdom and understanding, they were ten times better than all the magicians and enchanters in the kingdom.

God Reveals What Is Hidden

In chapter 2, Nebuchadnezzar had a disturbing dream that none of the Babylonians could interpret. The king called the magicians, enchanters, sorcerers, and the Chaldeans to interpret the dream. They asked him to tell them the dream so they could interpret it, but Nebuchadnezzar told them they had to tell him the dream and interpret it, or they would be torn limb from limb. If they could tell the king his dream and interpret it, they would be rewarded with gifts and great honor. The king did not trust the Chaldeans. The Chaldeans responded by saying that no one could do what the king had commanded. The king was furious and commanded that all the wise men in Babylon be killed. The king’s men sought to kill Daniel and his companions. Daniel asked the captain of the army, “Why is the decree of the king so urgent?” The captain told Daniel all that had transpired. Daniel asked the king to set a time for him to interpret the dream. Daniel went into the house and told his friends what was going on. He asked them to seek mercy and pray that God would give Daniel the dream and the interpretation so that they would not be killed. God revealed the mystery to Daniel in a vision that night. Daniel praises God for revealing the deep and hidden things to him. God made known to Daniel and his friends the king’s matter.

The captain took Daniel to the king. Daniel told the king, “No wise men, enchanters, magicians, or astrologers can show to the king the mystery that the king has asked, but there is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries, and he has made known to King Nebuchadnezzar what will be in the latter days” (2:27-28). The king saw a great image. The head was made of fine gold. Its chest and arms are of silver, its middle and thighs are of bronze, its leg is of iron, and its feet are partly of iron and partly of clay. A stone struck the feet and broke them. The image fell, and the clay, iron, bronze, silver, and gold were all destroyed, but the stone that struck the image became a great mountain and filled the whole earth. Babylon was the head of gold. Another kingdom inferior to Babylon will rise after Babylon (silver), and a third kingdom (bronze) will follow. The fourth kingdom made of iron will crush all the previous kingdoms. This kingdom will be divided into two parts, one strong (iron) and the other brittle (clay). They will mix with one another in marriage, but like the feet, they will be unable to hold together. Another kingdom will arise. It will break all the previous kingdoms into pieces, and it shall stand forever.

The gold kingdom represented Babylon (like the lion with wings of an eagle in 7:4). The silver kingdom was the Medo-Persian Empire (bear raised up on one side 7:5). The Greek Empire was the iron (leopard with four wings and four heads 7:6). The Roman Empire was characterized as legs of iron and feet of iron and clay (terrifying beast with iron teeth 7:7). The stone represented the messianic kingdom (Antichrist = little horn uttering great boasts (7:8-11).

Nebuchadnezzar prompted Daniel and recognized his God as the God of gods and Lord of kings. He reveals mysteries. He gave Daniel gifts and made him ruler over the whole province and the chief among the wise men. Daniel appointed Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego over the affairs of Babylon.

Faith Under Fire

Chapter 3 tells the story of the Hebrew children in the fiery furnace. Nebuchadnezzar made an image of gold that was 90 feet high and 9 feet wide. All the leaders of the people came to the dedication. Everyone was commanded by the king to bow and worship the image he set up when they heard music playing. Those who did not bow would be thrown into the burning fiery furnace. The Chaldean officials who were jealous of the Hebrews saw this event as an opportunity to rid the land of the Jews. They reported to the king that Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego did not serve the Babylonian gods nor did they bow to the image that Nebuchadnezzar had set up. The king summoned the Hebrews and again warned them of the consequences of refusing to bow to the image. He asked, “And who is the god who will deliver you out of my hands?” (3:15). The Hebrews answered, “O Nebuchadnezzar, we have no need to answer you in this matter. If this be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of your hand, O king. But if not, be it known to you, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the golden image that you have set up” (3:16-18). This response infuriated the king. The furnace was heated seven times as much as it was usually heated. Some of the king’s mighty men bound Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, and cast them into the furnace. The heat from the furnace was so great that it consumed the men who threw the Hebrews into the fire. The king was astonished as he looked into the fire. He asked, “Did we not cast three men bound into the fire?” The people confirmed the truthfulness of the king’s inquiry. The king answered and said, “But I see four men unbound, walking in the midst of the fire, and they are not hurt; and the appearance of the fourth is like a son of the gods” (3:25). The Hebrews were released. The king again acknowledged the Hebrews’ god as the Most High. Not a hair on their heads was singed, nor did their clothes smell of smoke. The king ordered all the Babylonians to worship the God of the Hebrews. One question remains for me from the text. Where was Daniel?

God Is Sovereign

In chapter 4, Nebuchadnezzar had another troubling dream. This time, he saw a giant tree whose top touched the heavens. As Nebuchadnezzar watched, an angel commissioned by God to execute judgment on the world ordered the tree cut down. The tree was destroyed, but the stump remained for seven periods of time. The number seven implies completion. Most ancient and modern scholars have argued for seven years. Daniel identified the tree as Nebuchadnezzar. It acknowledged the king’s power and might. Nebuchadnezzar would be removed from his place of power and influence. He also would go mad and behave like a wild animal. The kingdom would be protected until Nebuchadnezzar learned to honor the true God. There was hope of restoration. When Nebuchadnezzar recognized that God is sovereign and that all human kingdoms are subject to him. Daniel called the king to repentance. If Nebuchadnezzar had humbled himself, God would not have needed to humble him further. Nebuchadnezzar arrogantly remained in his sin. So God had to humble the king, taking away his authority. Nebuchadnezzar lived like a wild animal, eating grass. His hair and nails grew unchecked like a wild animal. At the end of God’s appointed time of judgment, the king raised his eyes to heaven, and his reason was restored. God used Daniel’s faithfulness to bring light to this Gentile.

God Judges Nations and Rulers

Chapter 5 moves forward in time to the days of the last king of Babylon, Belshazzar. Belshazzar threw a great feast. During the feast, he called for the vessels of gold and silver that had been seized from the Jerusalem temple. As the king was partying, a mysterious hand appeared and wrote on the wall. While the message was clearly visible, it was not easily understood. The king was terrified. The king, like Nebuchadnezzar, offered a great reward for whoever could interpret the message. The queen, likely Belshazzar’s mother, reminded the king of Daniel’s ability to interpret dreams and visions. Daniel alone was able to decipher the message. The Lord had numbered the days of Belshazzar’s kingdom because he had been weighed in the balance and found wanting (5:21). The kingdom would be divided and given to the Medes and the Persians. The Belshazzar kingdom and his life ended that night. Darius the Mede became king over the conquered Babylonians.

Chapter 6 contains the famous story of Daniel in the lions’ den. Daniel’s faithfulness to God and the success he enjoyed with the kings earned him some powerful enemies. Daniel’s underlings came together to plot against Daniel. They proposed a new law to King Darius. For the next 30 days, no one was to petition any god or man except the king himself. Anyone who broke this law would be cast into the lions’ den. The suggested law was appealing to Darius for political reasons. It would unite the people around Darius’ leadership. The king could rescind the law, but he would lose face in doing so. Unmoved by the new law, Daniel continued to face toward Jerusalem and pray to God three times daily. The officials who plotted against Daniel first reaffirmed the unchangeability of the law. Darius wanted to deliver Daniel, but he was forced to condemn Daniel to the lions’ den. The king ended the sentence by stating, “May your God, whom you serve continually, deliver you” (6:16). The king fasted that night and was unable to sleep. At daybreak, he hurried to the den of lions to find out Daniel’s fate. God sent his angel to shut the mouths of the lions and to protect Daniel. The king was delighted and ordered that Daniel be brought up out of the lions’ den. Those who had attempted to entrap Daniel were thrown into the den of lions with their families. The lions overpowered them before they reached the bottom of the den. Darius acknowledged the true God and decreed that all the people tremble and fear Daniel’s God.

Faithfulness Is Rewarded

Chapter 6 contains the famous story of Daniel in the lions’ den. Daniel’s faithfulness to God and the success he enjoyed with the kings earned him some powerful enemies. Daniel’s underlings came together to plot against Daniel. They proposed a new law to King Darius. For the next 30 days, no one was to petition any god or man except the king himself. Anyone who broke this law would be cast into the lions’ den. The suggested law was appealing to Darius for political reasons. It would unite the people around Darius’ leadership. The king could rescind the law, but he would lose face in doing so. Unmoved by the new law, Daniel continued to face toward Jerusalem and pray to God three times daily. The officials who plotted against Daniel first reaffirmed the unchangeability of the law. Darius wanted to deliver Daniel, but he was forced to condemn Daniel to the lions’ den. The king ended the sentence by stating, “May your God, whom you serve continually, deliver you” (6:16). The king fasted that night and was unable to sleep. At daybreak, he hurried to the den of lions to find out Daniel’s fate. God sent his angel to shut the mouths of the lions and to protect Daniel. The king was delighted and ordered that Daniel be brought up out of the lions’ den. Those who had attempted to entrap Daniel were thrown into the den of lions with their families. The lions overpowered them before they reached the bottom of the den. Darius acknowledged the true God and decreed that all the people tremble and fear Daniel’s God.

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Part 2: Apocalyptic Visions

The purpose of this section is to assure the people of God that in spite of persecution and suffering, God is in control. He will ultimately be victorious. When God triumphs, the powers and authorities of this world will be defeated and judged. The saints will be vindicated and rewarded (7:26-27).

The Kingdoms to Come

Chapter 7 introduces four great beasts that represent four great kingdoms. These kingdoms seem to defy control. Each beast was more frightening than the preceding one. Most interpreters see these four kingdoms representing the same ones as discussed in Daniel 4; Babylon, Medo-Persians, Greeks, and Rome. The ten horns could refer to the Caesars. There were actually 12, but two reigned only for a very short period. The Ancient of Days, described in 7:9-12, uses much of the same imagery as Revelation 1, which describes the risen Christ. God conquers the beast. Daniel uses the term son of man, a title that Christ ascribed to himself. He is served and worshiped by all the nations. Many biblical scholars identify the little horn as the antichrist. The phrase “a time, times, and half a time refers to three and a half times. This supports the view that the antichrist and the beastly kingdoms of this world will oppress the saints, but their time is limited by God. The beasts will finally be tamed and destroyed. Daniel’s response was to ponder this vision.

God’s Messenger Explains the Visions

Chapter 8 relates the vision of the Ram, the Goat, and the Little Horn. The Ram with two horns represents the Medo-Persian Empire. One horn is longer than the other, referring to the fact that the Persians were stronger than the Medes. The Goat with a single horn refers to the Greek Empire initiated largely by Alexander the Great. He destroyed the mighty Medes and Persians, but when he died, his kingdom was divided among four of his generals. Daniel’s vision is so accurate that interpreters who do not think the Bible can contain predictive prophecy claim that the text was not written in the sixth century BC, but rather after these events occurred. The little horn represents Antiochus IV Epiphanes, who desecrated the temple by sacrificing a pig there. The angel Gabriel explains to Daniel that the vision refers to future events. The vision is given to prepare God’s people for what is going to happen.

The Power of Prayer in Spiritual Warfare

Chapter 9 addresses Daniel’s prayer for his people. Daniel read Jeremiah and concluded that the seventy years of judgment in exile were nearing an end. Daniel prays to God seeking mercy on Jerusalem. Daniel is probably about 80 years of age at this time. Daniel repents of his sin and the sins of the people, asking for forgiveness and mercy. Daniel’s prayer begins with adoration and praise. Gabriel again appears to Daniel. There are various interpretations of the seventy weeks or seventy sevens. Most scholars believe the best interpretation is 70 times seven years, or 490 years, but they apply it to different periods. The main point is that the sovereign God has set the appointed times, and his people should not lose heart. The sacrificial system comes to an end.

The Cosmic Battle

Chapter 10 reports that a heavenly messenger appears to Daniel and brings news about a cosmic conflict. Daniel alone saw the vision. In this spiritual warfare, God’s messenger was delayed for 21 days by the prince of the kingdom of Persia, an evil angel (demon). While God’s messenger was delayed, the demon lacked the power to thwart the angel’s mission. Michael, one of the chief angels, came to help the messenger. The messenger came to help Daniel understand what would happen to his people in the latter days. The book of truth referred to in 10:21 likely refers to God’s plan for his people and for the world. Spiritual warfare is real. Satanic forces continue their attacks against God’s people, but God continues to strengthen and sustain his people. He uses his own angels to sustain his people.

Conflict among the Nations

Chapter 11 reveals future earthly conflicts among the nations. This selective history occurs from the time of Daniel until the end of the world and God’s final conclusive victory. God’s sovereignty is again affirmed. He is in control. Many scholars believe that 11:39 again refers to the antichrist. At the time of the end a major battle will take place with armies from the north and south (the battle of Armageddon).

Eternal Life or Damnation

Chapter 12 refers to the end times. There will be much tribulation, but God’s people will be delivered; everyone whose name is written in the book will rise to everlasting life. Those whose names are not in the book will rise to shame and eternal damnation. Daniel was told to shut up and seal the book to preserve it for future generations.

“ .  . . do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7, ESV).

I have always believed in prayer, but in the past six months, my faith in prayer has grown exponentially. When you cannot see how things will turn out, how do you deal with anxiety and fear about the future? I went through a really tough time beginning in March as my body started to deteriorate rapidly, and I did not know if I would make it. I was filled with anxiety and uncertainty. Had preached my last sermon? Had I taught my last class? I read this passage and spent a lot of time in prayer. I knew that my family, friends, colleagues, church members, students, former students, classmates, teammates, coaches, professors, and people all over the world (some I knew and some I didn’t) were praying for me. The prayers of God’s people, especially those who are righteous, have a powerful effect (James 5:16). I am so grateful for God’s grace, goodness, and response during this dark time.

Despite feeling anxious, I had a sense of calm in the middle of the chaos. The incredible miracle-working God was with me, always faithful and so kind and gracious. Someday, we will all die unless we are alive when the Lord returns. For Christians, death brings ultimate healing – no more pain, sorrow, tears, suffering, heartaches, or death. Christ is the victor who has conquered it all! I surrender to him, acknowledging my life is in his hands. 

Philippians 4:4 commands us to rejoice always. How can we rejoice in the midst of anxiety, uncertainty, and when we are struggling with hope? I turned to our righteous God. His mercy has never failed me, and it never will. I take great joy and comfort in that truth. Romans 5:3-5 proclaims, “. . . we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance,and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us” (ESV). Max Anders wrote “The peace of God comes from prayer involving both asking God for earthly needs and thanking God for his presence and provision. The expression appears only here in the New Testament. God’s peace reflects the divine character, which lives in serenity, totally separate from all anxiety and worry. Joy replaces anxiety in life, so Paul advises the Philippians not to be anxious about anything. The cure for anxiety? Prayer! Worry and anxiety come from focusing on your circumstances. . .”^[1] Instead of stressing about things, try praying about them. Talk to God about what you need and express gratitude for all he has done. Worrying never solves anything, but praying always will. Jesus warned against worrying. It is like looking at God and saying, “I don’t trust you.” The New Living Bible states it this way, “Don’t worry about anything; Instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done.” (Philippians 4:6).

The peace of God comes through praying about everything. Do not worry, pray, always thanking God for his presence and provision. God’s peace flows from his divine character, totally separating us from all anxiety and worry. In our humanity, we cannot grasp this kind of peace and confidence. It is beyond our comprehension. It is only available through Christ Jesus our Lord. Do not worry, pray. That is the key to the Lord’s peace. 

Yes, I believe in prayer. I have been going through some tough health concerns recently, but God has been with me every step of the way. I totally trust in him and know that I can count on the Lord. I started the process to see if I could qualify for a liver transplant on July 3. In four intense days, I went through every test and procedure needed to determine if I was a viable candidate for a transplant. Normally, that process takes 4 to 5 months. On July 9, the liver and kidney transplant teams unanimously approved me for the replacement of both organs! After going through all the insurance protocols, I was put on the transplant waiting list. Just 32 hours later, I was offered both organs from a single donor! On July 19th, both organs were installed through 12 1/2 hours of surgeries, 9 1/2 hours by the liver team and 3 hours by the kidney team. I am convinced that this was nothing less than a miracle of God! I could never earn God’s favor, nor could I do anything to deserve it. I know some people wait for years before securing one organ for a transplant. The only way this timetable could have happened is through the work of the Lord. It is unheard of. My recovery has been remarkable, timely, and successful. I spoke publicly for the first time less than 2 months after my surgeries. 

My story is unique, and I am so grateful for the grace God has shown me. I am so undeserving, but I am forever thankful. He has given me a new lease on life. God is not finished with me yet. I cannot fully understand what all this means, but I know He wants me to continue investing in the next generation of students and ministers. I also believe He wants me to share the incredible message of the gospel with everyone I meet. 

Some of you are facing tough trials right now, but I want you to know that God is with you every step of the way. He is never going to leave or abandon you (Hebrews 13:5-6). So, take a deep breath and pray. He will be there for you, guiding you through this difficult time. Trust him and enjoy the goodness and grace of the Lord. He is with you even during the storm.

I am overwhelmed by the goodness of God.  With every breath that I am able, I will proclaim the grace and goodness of God. “For me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain (Phil 1:21).”

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^[1]Max M. Anders, M. Galations-Colossians, vol. 8, (Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers, 1999), 261.

“And one of the scribes came up and heard them disputing with one another, and seeing that he answered them well, asked him, ‘Which commandment is the most important of all Jesus answered, ‘The most important is, Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength^’” (Mark 12:28-30, ESV).

Academic excellence is another of the four core values of North Greenville University. When Jesus asked what was the greatest commandment of all, he immediately responded by quoting a passage from Deuteronomy 6:4-5. Jesus stated that the greatest commandment is to love God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength. What did Jesus mean by calling believers to love God with their minds? Christianity is a rational faith. It is important for believers to give a reasonable defense of the faith to unbelievers in our culture. Since many people in the United States do not have respect for or even knowledge about God’s Word, it is increasingly important to defend the faith through apologetics that are grounded in philosophy that is biblically faithful and addresses the key questions of life such as how did life begin, what is our identity, does life have a purpose, how do we determine what is right and what is wrong, can we find redemption, what can heal the divisions in our world, is there any hope, and how are we to live?^[1]

In truth, all academic disciplines point to God. That is why theology has been referred to as the queen of the sciences by many academicians historically. Thomas Aquinas considered theology a science because it addresses both natural and special revelation. During the Middle Ages, theology was named queen of the sciences, a view affirmed by the philosopher Immanuel Kant. In Medieval universities, the various disciplines of learning knew they needed an overarching objective standard. The Bible fulfilled this role. However, this truth has been denied by many scholars who hold to naturalism. They stress the need to deny God’s existence and teach that an educated person must move beyond a belief in the supernatural. Perhaps the primary motivation of at least some who hold this view is that if there is no God, there is no accountability. Therefore, everyone can do what is right in his/her own eyes (Judges 21:25). The problem with this philosophy of life invariably infringes on the rights of others and forces them to live under the authority and the oppression of the voices of those who are in power. The absence of law always leads to chaos.

Because North Greenville University is Christ-Centered and Biblically Faithful, every academic discipline must integrate faith and learning. The College of Business and Entrepreneurship teaches that the best professional practices are rooted in the principles of the Bible such as treating people well, serving others, building leaders, and developing excellence. The College of Communication and Fine Arts embodies the richness of creation and beauty. They train educators, worship leaders, actors, actresses, artists, and communicators how to influence the culture in a positive way, bringing glory to God. Christian Studies prepares students for the rigorous academic study of the Scriptures and their application. They shape hearts that are spiritually sensitive to focus on academics, preparing ministers, intercultural leaders, youth ministers, educators, and others. Humanities teach the lessons of history, the richness of literature and creativity, and the use of languages to understand and reach the world. The School of Criminal Justice trains students to live out the command to do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with God (Micah 6:8). Through social research and counseling, psychology helps students to make sense of the world and teaches ways to serve and help others. The sciences discover and affirm God’s design and purpose for creation. Students are prepared to be teachers and researchers, impacting the world for the glory of God. Education trains teachers to integrate faith through the learning process instilling biblical values in the lives of others. Teaching is a calling from Christ, the master teacher. Students are trained as teachers not only to fully equip their students academically, but to fully equip them for life through love, grace, and forgiveness. Wellness and the health sciences affirm the wonder and intricacies of the human body and teach people how to enjoy life and health through physical education and outdoor leadership. Sports management offers a platform for influence in athletics, coaching, ministry, and missions. Mathematics reveal order, consistency, and truth.^[2]

Academic excellence is the goal of every institution of higher learning. What sets NGU apart from most other institutions, is our holistic approach to education, instilling the biblical faith into every academic pursuit. We prepare students for more than a career. We prepare them for life to impact the culture and for eternity as students become transformational leaders for church and society.

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^[1]See Chuck Colson and Nancy Pearcey, How Now Shall We Live? (Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House, 1999) and John P. Newport, Life’s Ultimate Questions (Dallas: Word, 1989). 

^[2]Much of this paragraph is adapted from the NGU website and other university documents. 

“For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. And no creature is hidden from his sight, but all are naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must give account” (Hebrews 4:12-13, ESV).

Biblical faithfulness is another one of the four core values of North Greenville University. What is so special about the Bible and why should we be faithful to its teachings? As the verses above state, “The word of God is living and active.” The biblical text refers to Jesus as the living Word of God (John 1:1-17) and to the Scriptures as the written Word of God (2 Tim 3:16). The written Word of God, the Bible, is the infallible, inerrant record through which God reveals himself to us. The Bible is not a word about God, but rather it is the very word of God. It is true without any mixture of error (see “The Baptist Faith and Message 2000”) because the biblical writers spoke directly from God as they were moved by the Holy Spirit. If mortals were the authors of the Scriptures alone, they could not be trusted. I am very much aware of most of my imperfections and my fallibility as you are of yours. But God moved the authors of the Scriptures by the power of the Holy Spirit to record exactly what God wanted to communicate without error (2 Pet 2:20-21).

All we know about God is what he has chosen to reveal to us. God is the source of the Bible; it is God-breathed or inspired. 2 Timothy 3:15-17 reveals that the Scriptures are able to teach salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. The Bible teaches, reproves, corrects, and trains believers in righteousness, equipping them for every good work. To be biblically faithful is to place the Bible as the standard for all of life. It is the lens through which believers see and interpret the world. The Scriptures reveal the light of God that pierces through the darkness. Nothing can be hidden from him. He sees all and holds us accountable for our thoughts and actions. The Bible is the standard for all faith and practice.

A word of warning: the Bible, in its entirety, is God-breathed. Many people fall into error when they magnify one text of Scriptures above all others. They often make that text the lens through which the rest of the Bible is read. This practice is flawed and leads to error and improper interpretation. The Bible in its entirety is the lens through which we interpret God’s revelation. When properly understood, the Bible never contradicts itself. The most reliable interpretation of the Scriptures is through the Bible itself.

NGU represents these unchanging truths to the university family, local churches, and our culture. The university is unapologetically committed to biblical faithfulness. It is the standard through which our lives, churches, and cultures must be evaluated. If we are to build transformational leaders for church and society, we must be Biblically Faithful and Christ-Centered (see last week’s “Weekly Walk”).

Steps to Biblical Faithfulness

1. Read the Bible. If the Bible is the standard for faith and practice, we must know what it says.
2. Pray that the Lord would illuminate the truth of his Word to you.
3. Determine to use the Bible as your compass for life. When culture and popular opinion flows against the truth of God’s Word, determine to follow the objective standard that God reveals to you and reject the subjective standards of the culture. Cultural winds are inconsistent in the way they blow, but God’s way is consistent and always better than your way.
4. Apply God’s Word to your life. How will you put into practice what God has revealed to you from his Word?
5. Pray for the leadership of NGU. May we be found biblically faithful to God’s eternal purposes.

“If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth” Col 3:1-2 (ESV).

Christ-Centered is one of the four core values of North Greenville University. There are really only two ways that people live their lives, Christ-centered or self-centered. One of the surprising confessions of newlyweds is that they never realized how selfish they were before they married someone. A major part of our sinful nature is that we want things our way, but Christ’s way is always better. Jesus is the Messiah, the anointed one of God. He is the only Savior, Lord of lords, King of kings, fully God, and fully man. He is both the center and the subject of all of life for believers. Only Jesus can turn our selfishness into being centered in Christ.

Christ-centeredness begins with a personal relationship with Jesus through faith and repentance. He is Lord of all. He lived a life of human flourishing (life to its fullest) while revealing to us the perfection of our Creator. Jesus was in the beginning with God, the active agent in creation. He is God. He is the living Word of God who became flesh and lived among humanity. He is full of grace and truth. Grace without truth leads to permissiveness. It breeds deception, compromise, and a false view of freedom. It can even become an excuse to sin by rationalizing the behavior. On the other hand, truth without grace leads to an empty orthodoxy that reveals itself as legalism. It breeds self-righteousness and arrogance which ironically may appear on the surface as humility but is, in reality, a false humility. Jesus was full of grace and truth, the perfect balance. Being centered in Christ is to embrace this balance of grace and truth. Jesus spoke the truth seasoned with grace and he expressed grace within the bounds of truth.

NGU must be Christ-Centered if we are to fulfill our mission of building transformational leaders for church and society. Spiritual formation is at the heart of this task. Transformation is usually caught more than taught. As we live lives reading and applying God’s Word, exhibiting a life of prayer by seeking God’s leadership, and modeling personal holiness as we walk alongside others) in their spiritual journeys, we are intentionally building transformational leaders. 

As a Christ-Centered community, we must pray for all of our constituents. Spend time in prayer for our students. Faculty members may want to pray over their class rosters, remembering every student in every class. You might be the only person praying for that student. Ask God to bring conviction, repentance, and faith to the lives of unbelievers. Ask God to show you how to grow in your faith, balancing grace and truth. It is a privilege to be a part of this Christ-centered community that seeks to live as academic disciples of Christ.

“You shall be holy, for I the Lord your God am holy” (Lev 19:2b, ESV).

The concept of personal holiness has become blasé for many contemporary believers even while it remains a central precept of spiritual formation. This loss of personal holiness has also infiltrated the church. I believe a lack of holiness is the greatest barrier to spiritual awakening in our nation.

In my quiet time on 1 Samuel 5-6, I was reminded of how seriously God takes holiness. People were judged in tangible ways for their rejection of God’s call to holiness. Yahweh is holy and he calls his people to holiness. Biblically, the term normally means “to be set apart.” It is used widely in the Bible but ultimately points to God as the one who is qualitatively different or set apart from creation. In the New Testament, holiness takes on the sense of ethical purity or freedom from sin resulting in godly living.^[1]

Action Plan

1. Personal holiness begins with me. I need to ask the Holy Spirit to reveal my sins to me. I will write down each one of them, confessing and repenting of my sin, asking God in his mercy to forgive me and cleanse me. I will read Psalm 51, asking God to create a new heart in me and to restore the joy of his salvation.
2. I will refuse to allow sin to reign in my mortal body (Rom 6:12-14). Sin has no dominion over me since I am in Christ Jesus and he has set me free from the bondage of sin.
3. I will work with the Holy Spirit to live a godly life. Jesus, who knew no sin, became sin for our sake so that in him we could become the righteousness of God (2 Cor 5:21). God imputed the righteous of Christ to us, making us holy through his salvific work. However, while we have been delivered from the dominion of sin, we still find sin at work in our lives attempting to retake the territory the enemy lost through salvation. Jerry Bridges refers to this conflict as “The Battle for Holiness.”[2] I will resolve to be obedient to God’s revealed truth rather than my sinful flesh in this battle.
4. I will pray consistently for spiritual awakening on our campus and in our nation. As I examined the details of spiritual awakenings in the biblical text and in more recent history, I discovered that God moved his people to pray for spiritual awakening, the evangelization of the lost, and the growth of disciples and the local church before God sent awakening.
5. I will share my faith regularly with unbelievers. It is easy for us who work in a Christian context to become isolated from building relationships with unbelievers. I will find ways to enter the world of those who do not know Jesus. It could be in a relationship with a neighbor, a student here at NGU, other scholars in my field, parents whose children play sports or instruments with my children, etc. The “Who’s Your One” emphasis begins with praying regularly for an unbeliever that you know and to have gospel conversations for the purpose of leading this person to faith in Christ. When a person receives Christ, the disciple making process begins. Who’s your one?

Holiness is not optional for those who follow Christ. Hebrews 12:14 states, “Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord” (ESV). God takes holiness seriously. Do you?

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^[1]S. Grenz, D. Guretzki, & C. F. Nordling C. F. in Pocket Dictionary of Theological Terms (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1999), 60.

[2]Jerry Bridges, The Pursuit of Holiness (Colorado Springs: NavPress, 1978, 1996, 2006), 59.