Michael Pawelke is a guest on the Global Missions Podcast from SEND International.

Global Missions Podcast

Michael Pawelke takes us to the Old Testament and shares 3 timeless missions principles from the book of Daniel. Michael highlights the testimony of Old Testament people in a foreign context who emerged as leaders with incredible influence.

Full episode

Notes:

• The book of Daniel is timeless and relevant particularly to the theme of missions. It includes the story of young people who have been extracted from their homes and placed in a foreign context. They emerge as leaders and have incredible influence, credibility, and respect.
• In Chapter 1, the goal of the Babylonians was to change the worldview, religion and morality of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego.
• Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego wanted to have a good relationship with the Babylonians but did not want to violate principles and values. They refused to eat the king’s food, but gave an alternative. In this they demonstrated wisdom.
• Under pressure we must remain faithful to our biblical convictions, but look for alternative ways of meeting requests or invitations from others.
• In Chapter 3, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego show courage by refusing to bow down and worship a golden image. They wanted to maintain relationship with King Nebekenezer but demonstrated courage by refusing to worship anyone but God.
• When we are people of integrity, consistency and courage, people take notice. This can lead to a platform from which to be heard.
• Devotion to God is seen in Chapter 6 in Daniel’s routine spiritual disciplines. It is also demonstrated in the longevity, stability, and credibility of Daniel’s life over decades.
• Daniel modelled spiritual disciplines which are the underlying practice for all followers of Christ.
• Daniel’s consistent, stable, and credible witness left a mark on people around him and extended his platform of influence.
• Wisdom, courage, and devotion gave Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego a platform of influence.
• We need to cultivate spiritual practices that will be with us for the rest of our days. These practices anchor us and give us stability and keep us from quitting. Our spiritual practices need to be “automatic”.
• Missions is all about relationship. Relationship builds trust. When people trust us as individuals they will be more willing to trust our message.

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