Daniel 3:17
Verse
Context
Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego Accused
16Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego replied to the king, “O Nebuchadnezzar, we have no need to answer you in this matter. 17If the God whom we serve exists, then He is able to deliver us from the blazing fiery furnace and from your hand, O king.18But even if He does not, let it be known to you, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the golden statue you have set up.”
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
If it be so - Thou mayest cast us into the furnace; the terror of it has no effect on our minds to induce us to alter the resolution we have taken, nor shall the fire change our purpose. We serve a God who is able to deliver us. Should he not, we are equally determined; but we are satisfied that in some way or other he will deliver us out of thy hand. Thy power cannot affect us in the kingdom of our God to which we shall ascend from thy furnace, should he permit the fire to kindle upon us. "Render to Caesar the things which are Caesar's," is a maxim of Jesus Christ; but when Caesar arrogates to himself the things that are the Lord's, then, and in such cases, his authority is to be resisted. God does not desire Caesar's things; Caesar's must not have the things of God.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
If it be so--VATABLUS translates, "Assuredly." English Version agrees better with the original. The sense is, If it be our lot to be cast into the furnace, our God (quoted from Deu 6:4) is able to deliver us (a reply to Nebuchadnezzar's challenge, "Who is that God that shall deliver you?"); and He will deliver us (either from death, or in death, Ti2 4:17-18). He will, we trust, literally deliver us, but certainly He will do so spiritually.
John Gill Bible Commentary
If it be so,.... That we must be cast into the fiery furnace, as thou hast threatened: our God whom we serve; for though they did not serve the gods of the Babylonians, they did not live without God in the world; they believed in the one true God, the God of Israel, their covenant God and Father; whom they worshipped, had an interest in, and who had and would have a regard for them: he, say they, is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace; either to prevent their being cast into it, or to preserve them unhurt in it, and to bring them safe out of it: instances of his power in other cases, such as the passage of the Israelites through the Red sea safe, when their enemies were drowned, with others, confirmed their faith in this: and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king; they might have a well grounded hope and persuasion of deliverance, arising partly from former instances of the divine power and goodness in such like cases; and partly from the consideration of the glory of God, which would be greatly conspicuous herein; and chiefly because of the king's defiance of God, and blasphemy against him, which they had reason to believe would be taken notice of; for it does not appear that they had any foresight of certain deliverance, or any secret intimation of it to them, or a full assurance of it, as is evident by what follows:
Daniel 3:17
Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego Accused
16Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego replied to the king, “O Nebuchadnezzar, we have no need to answer you in this matter. 17If the God whom we serve exists, then He is able to deliver us from the blazing fiery furnace and from your hand, O king.18But even if He does not, let it be known to you, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the golden statue you have set up.”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
1) Ministry From Spring Harvest - Chapter 1
By George Verwer3.2K59:26ResolvedDAN 1:8DAN 3:17In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of remembering four key words that represent divine principles and truth. He shares his personal struggle to be a spiritual Daniel in the face of Satan's attacks. The speaker warns the audience not to be surprised if they are tempted or face challenges even in a Christian gathering like Spring Harvest. He encourages the audience to purpose in their hearts and minds to live for God and not the devil, and emphasizes the significance of discipline and discipleship in following Christ.
(Daniel: The Man God Uses #2) the Revelation of Christ
By Ed Miller1.6K1:01:12DanielDAN 1:8DAN 2:28DAN 3:17In this sermon, the preacher discusses the dream of a statue or man with different body parts made of different materials. He explains that these represent different kingdoms, starting with Babylon and followed by the Medes and Persians. The preacher emphasizes the importance of understanding this symbolism before moving on to the next stages in the life of the man. The sermon also highlights the role of Christ as the stone that will destroy the kingdoms of this world and establish an everlasting kingdom.
If the Vision Tarry (Light, and Then a Fight)
By Hans R. Waldvogel70428:46VisionDAN 3:17In this video, the speaker reflects on the incredible transformation that has taken place in the last 25 to 50 years. They highlight the increase in knowledge and acceptance of divine healing and the baptism of the Holy Ghost. The speaker encourages viewers to remain faithful to the life they have and to trust in God's plan for the future. The video ends with a message of gratitude and a promise to see viewers in the next video.
Bible Survey - Daniel
By Peter Hammond1EXO 23:2DAN 1:4DAN 2:44DAN 3:17DAN 5:23DAN 6:22DAN 7:14DAN 12:3HEB 11:32Peter Hammond preaches on the life of Daniel, a wise and righteous prophet who remained faithful to God despite being exiled to Babylon. Daniel's integrity and courage in the face of moral conflicts and idolatry serve as powerful examples for believers. Through Daniel's visions and prophecies, we see God's power over the past, present, future, and eternity, emphasizing the importance of never compromising our faith and trusting in God's deliverance and protection.
The Secret of Spiritual Power (E)
By G.D. Watson0EST 4:16DAN 3:171CO 15:58JAS 1:12REV 12:4G.D. Watson preaches about the abiding secret of power in serving Jesus, emphasizing the willingness to consent to seeming failure for the sake of Christ. He highlights the importance of dying to self in our work, allowing God to receive all the glory and accomplish greater results than we can imagine. Watson urges believers to be willing to be counted as failures in the eyes of the world, just as many great faith leaders like Luther, Wesley, and Muller had to endure. He stresses the need to carry a spirit of 'but if not' in our hearts, facing tests and trials with unwavering faith.
Godly Conduct Under Persecution
By William Burnett0PSA 23:4PRO 17:3ISA 43:1DAN 3:17MAT 28:20JHN 16:33ROM 8:311CO 10:212CO 4:17HEB 13:5William Burnett preaches on the lessons from Daniel chapter 3, emphasizing the importance of trusting God in the midst of trials, even when facing unbearable circumstances. He warns against distorting truth, exaggerating it, and turning it into an idol, highlighting the dangers of idolizing one truth at the expense of others. Burnett also discusses the influence of religion in political systems, the power of music in idolatry, and the misconception that faith guarantees deliverance from all troubles. He concludes by stressing the presence of God in the fire of trials, reminding believers that they are never alone in their struggles.
Homily 1 on the Statues
By St. John Chrysostom0JOB 1:21ECC 2:1ISA 1:17DAN 3:17LUK 16:25ROM 8:181CO 15:321TH 2:18JAS 5:17John Chrysostom preaches about the importance of enduring tribulations and afflictions for the sake of God, highlighting the examples of saints like Job, Paul, and the Apostles who faced immense hardships yet remained steadfast in their faith. He emphasizes the need to give thanks to God in all circumstances, even when faced with losses or challenges, as it leads to a greater reward in the future life. Chrysostom urges the congregation to rebuke and correct blasphemers in the city, showing that Christians are the guardians and saviors of the community, and encourages them to emulate the zeal and courage of the saints in standing up for righteousness and truth.
The Jesus Family in Communist China - Part 4
By Dr. D. Vaughan Rees0GEN 29:11PSA 139:12DAN 3:17MAT 11:28MAT 20:16MRK 9:35JAS 5:16Dr. D. Vaughan Rees preaches about the remarkable incidents from the life of the Ye-Su Chia-ting, showcasing the power of faith, honesty, and transformation through encounters with Jesus. The testimonies include miraculous interventions in trials, conversions from opium addiction and idol worship, dreams guiding acts of kindness, and the impact of unwavering faith in the face of Communist opposition. These stories illustrate the unwavering dedication, sacrificial service, and profound spiritual experiences of the early Chinese Christians amidst challenging circumstances.
The Remnant Principle - 4
By Chip Brogden0DAN 3:17DAN 4:26DAN 5:22JHN 3:30EPH 1:10PHP 3:21COL 1:18HEB 12:6REV 19:10Chip Brogden preaches on the theme 'The heavens do rule' from Daniel 4:26b, highlighting the spiritual conflict faced by the Remnant in Babylon, where the enemy attacks but the Lord delivers, demonstrating the establishment of the Testimony through adversity. The Testimony is not just words but a life lived, overcoming by the word of the Testimony, showing Christ's preeminence over sin, self, and satan. The sermon emphasizes that Heaven governs Earth through the Remnant, with God refining and subduing all things to Christ's preeminence, even using the enemy to accomplish His purposes.
1 Corinthians 6:15-16
By St. John Chrysostom0DAN 3:17MAT 26:411CO 6:17John Chrysostom preaches about the importance of honoring our bodies as members of Christ, warning against the defilement that comes from immorality and the need to flee from sin. He emphasizes that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, urging believers to glorify God in both body and spirit. Chrysostom uses the example of the Three Children in the fiery furnace to illustrate the courage and faithfulness required to stand firm in the face of temptation and persecution, ultimately glorifying God through their actions.
Helpful Hints in the Study of God's Word
By George Mueller0Spiritual NourishmentMeditation on ScripturePSA 119:23PSA 119:81PRO 30:8ISA 26:9JER 36:8DAN 3:17JHN 16:131CO 10:112TI 3:16JAS 1:5George Mueller emphasizes the importance of meditation on God's Word as a means to nourish the inner man and strengthen prayer. He encourages believers to seek wisdom from God and to trust in His ability to provide guidance and understanding through the Scriptures. Mueller highlights that daily reading and meditation on both the Old and New Testaments is crucial for spiritual growth and understanding. He reminds us that the Holy Spirit is our teacher, helping us to grasp the truths of Scripture and apply them to our lives. Ultimately, he calls believers to find joy and nourishment in God's Word, which is essential for their spiritual well-being.
The Heart of Worship
By Keith Malcomson0GEN 22:52SA 12:20JOB 1:20DAN 3:17MAT 15:22JHN 4:22REV 11:15Keith Malcomson emphasizes the importance of true worship, contrasting it with the contemporary worship culture that lacks depth and true submission to God. He highlights examples of true worship from the Bible, such as Job's response to tragedy, David's submission in times of grief, Abraham's obedience in sacrificing his son, and the humility displayed by individuals like the woman washing Jesus' feet. True worship involves acknowledging God's nature, attributes, and claims, and it will be tested in times of trial and fire, revealing its authenticity.
Homily 4 on Matthew
By St. John Chrysostom0DAN 3:17MAT 25:35HEB 11:38John Chrysostom preaches about the importance of imitating the faith and courage of the three young men in the fiery furnace, who chose to remain faithful to God even in the face of great danger. He emphasizes the need to prioritize spiritual wealth over material riches, urging believers to show compassion and generosity towards the poor and needy. Chrysostom warns against the dangers of idolizing wealth and exhorts listeners to find true glory in humility, self-restraint, and gratitude towards God, even in times of adversity.
Trusting God (Is He Willing, and Is He Able?)
By Hans R. Waldvogel0Trusting GodFaith in God's PromisesPSA 125:1DAN 3:17MAT 24:35LUK 5:12ROM 10:17Hans R. Waldvogel emphasizes the importance of trusting God, asserting that true faith is believing in God's promises even when we cannot see or feel them. He illustrates that those who trust in the Lord are steadfast like Mount Zion, unshakeable amidst the chaos of the world. Waldvogel encourages believers to recognize God's willingness and ability to heal and deliver, reminding them that faith comes from hearing God's word. He challenges the congregation to step out in faith, relying on God's promises rather than their circumstances or feelings. Ultimately, he calls for a deeper understanding of God's character and His unwavering commitment to His people.
"He Could Not Be Hidden"
By Chip Brogden0DAN 3:17MAT 5:14MAT 10:27MRK 7:24JHN 3:30JHN 4:23JHN 14:6ACT 4:201CO 3:16REV 22:20Chip Brogden emphasizes the eternal purpose of God to increase Christ and decrease everything else, as seen in John the Baptist's words 'He must increase, but I must decrease.' This principle reveals that everything God does is to magnify Jesus and diminish what is not of Him, a spiritual law that is constantly at work. Jesus, indwelling believers, cannot be hidden and is continually expanding within them, challenging the illusion of a manageable deity and the fear of man. Brogden urges listeners to cooperate with God's increasing work, like Daniel, rather than resist it out of fear, emphasizing the importance of worshiping God in spirit and truth.
Desperate Days
By Charles E. Cowman02CH 20:12DAN 3:17MAT 26:39MRK 9:24ACT 12:5ROM 4:182CO 12:9HEB 11:6Charles E. Cowman preaches on the importance of faith during desperate days, emphasizing that faith is essential to please God and that it sustains and solves desperate situations. Desperation, seen throughout the Bible, often becomes the platform for God's miraculous interventions and man's growth in wisdom. The sermon highlights various biblical accounts, such as the Old Testament deliverances, the faith of the three Hebrew children facing the fiery furnace, and Jesus' desperate moments in Gethsemane, showcasing how faith triumphs over despair.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
If it be so - Thou mayest cast us into the furnace; the terror of it has no effect on our minds to induce us to alter the resolution we have taken, nor shall the fire change our purpose. We serve a God who is able to deliver us. Should he not, we are equally determined; but we are satisfied that in some way or other he will deliver us out of thy hand. Thy power cannot affect us in the kingdom of our God to which we shall ascend from thy furnace, should he permit the fire to kindle upon us. "Render to Caesar the things which are Caesar's," is a maxim of Jesus Christ; but when Caesar arrogates to himself the things that are the Lord's, then, and in such cases, his authority is to be resisted. God does not desire Caesar's things; Caesar's must not have the things of God.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
If it be so--VATABLUS translates, "Assuredly." English Version agrees better with the original. The sense is, If it be our lot to be cast into the furnace, our God (quoted from Deu 6:4) is able to deliver us (a reply to Nebuchadnezzar's challenge, "Who is that God that shall deliver you?"); and He will deliver us (either from death, or in death, Ti2 4:17-18). He will, we trust, literally deliver us, but certainly He will do so spiritually.
John Gill Bible Commentary
If it be so,.... That we must be cast into the fiery furnace, as thou hast threatened: our God whom we serve; for though they did not serve the gods of the Babylonians, they did not live without God in the world; they believed in the one true God, the God of Israel, their covenant God and Father; whom they worshipped, had an interest in, and who had and would have a regard for them: he, say they, is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace; either to prevent their being cast into it, or to preserve them unhurt in it, and to bring them safe out of it: instances of his power in other cases, such as the passage of the Israelites through the Red sea safe, when their enemies were drowned, with others, confirmed their faith in this: and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king; they might have a well grounded hope and persuasion of deliverance, arising partly from former instances of the divine power and goodness in such like cases; and partly from the consideration of the glory of God, which would be greatly conspicuous herein; and chiefly because of the king's defiance of God, and blasphemy against him, which they had reason to believe would be taken notice of; for it does not appear that they had any foresight of certain deliverance, or any secret intimation of it to them, or a full assurance of it, as is evident by what follows: