For Young People
Rescued From a Fiery Furnace!
Instructions: Do this exercise in quiet surroundings. As you read the scriptures, imagine that you are part of the event. Visualize the scene. Hear the voices. Feel the emotions of the characters. Let the account come to life.
Main characters: Shadrach, Meshach, Abednego, and Nebuchadnezzar
Summary: The faith of three young Hebrews is put to the test.
1 ANALYZE THE SCENE.—READ DANIEL 3:1-30.
Describe the sounds that you “heard” when reading verses 3-7.
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Describe the appearance of the fiery furnace, as you imagine it.
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What emotions do you sense in the voice of Nebuchadnezzar as he commands that the furnace be heated up seven times more than is customary? (Reread verses 19 and 20.)
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Describe the appearance of the fourth man in the furnace, as you picture him. (Reread verses 24 and 25.)
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What qualities do you notice in Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego as they address Nebuchadnezzar in verses 16-18?
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2 DIG DEEPER.
Using research materials at your disposal, find out the measurement of a cubit, and then calculate the dimensions of the image that Nebuchadnezzar made. (Reread verse 1.)
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When you compare verses 19 and 20 with verses 28 and 29, what type of person does Nebuchadnezzar seem to be?
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3 APPLY WHAT YOU LEARNED. WRITE DOWN WHAT YOU LEARNED ABOUT . . .
Showing respect for those in authority.
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The importance of standing up for what you believe.
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Jehovah’s support during times of trial.
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FOR FURTHER APPLICATION.
In what circumstance is your faith likely to be tested?
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How will the account of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego help you to remain faithful?
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4 WHAT ASPECT OF THIS ACCOUNT IS MOST MEANINGFUL TO YOU, AND WHY?
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If you don’t have a Bible, ask Jehovah’s Witnesses for one, or read it online at www.watchtower.org