Visión 2023 (parte 3) - La Gracia De Daniel 22/01/2023
Vision for the Year
Introduction and Welcome
- The speaker expresses excitement about sharing God's vision for the year, welcoming both in-person and online attendees.
- Emphasizes that the messages are not just sermons but a dance of God's vision, highlighting a challenge to act rather than just receive revelations.
Call to Action
- The central message is "Go and do," stressing the importance of being guided by the Holy Spirit in actions taken in God's name.
- Discusses the necessity of being sent by Jesus, emphasizing community within the church as essential for effective ministry.
Biblical Examples and Application
- References biblical examples where Jesus focused efforts on areas with greater fruitfulness, illustrating God as a wise investor.
- Highlights the need to apply known principles of God actively; mere knowledge without application leads to ineffective action.
Unity and Purpose
- Stresses that believers should work together rather than alone, aligning with previous teachings on community from Nathan.
Strategic Expansion of God's Kingdom
Understanding Our Mission
- Introduces a subtopic on strategically extending God's kingdom through intentional actions based on prayer and devotion.
- Cites Matthew 13:11, indicating that understanding divine mysteries will be revealed this year for reaching their generation effectively.
Divine Strategy Revelation
- Refers to Daniel 2:22, emphasizing that God knows hidden things and provides light in darkness—essential for strategic planning.
The Grace of Daniel
Prophetic Insights
- Discusses 2 Peter 1:19 regarding prophetic words serving as guidance during dark times while not replacing Scripture's authority.
Characteristics of Daniel's Grace
- Describes "the grace of Daniel" as special favor for those who resist worldly influences (Babel), encouraging obedience without waiting for visible results.
- Warned against seeking personal fame or recognition when acting under this grace; true obedience comes from genuine faithfulness.
Understanding the Dangers of Greed and the Spirit of Babylon
The Importance of Biblical Knowledge
- Emphasizes that true identity should not be based on human opinions but grounded in God's word, warning against a generation of Christians lacking biblical knowledge.
The Perils of Greed
- Discusses how greed, defined as love for wealth and desire for more, is dangerous; Paul warns that those living in greed will not inherit the kingdom of heaven.
- Highlights the misconception among some churchgoers who seek God primarily for material gain, stressing that one cannot serve both God and wealth.
The Grace of Daniel in Babylon
- Introduces a devotional focused on "the grace of Daniel in times of Babylon," indicating a need to pray for this grace amidst current challenges.
Historical Context of Babylon
- Explains Babylon's historical significance, tracing its origins back to the Tower of Babel where humanity sought independence from God.
- Notes that the spirit behind Babel reflects rebellion against divine authority, paralleling Satan's desire to usurp God's throne.
Spiritual Implications of Babylon
- Describes how governments influenced by a spirit akin to Babylon pursue self-sufficiency and oppression rather than empowerment.
- Defines biblical Babylon as representing lust and evil influences, with references to its role in prophetic events outlined in Revelation 17 and 18.
Understanding the Spirit of Babylon
The Identity of Babylon
- The speaker references Revelation 17:5-6, discussing the mysterious identity of "the great Babylon," which has been interpreted in various ways (e.g., Catholic Church, United States, Russia).
- Babylon is described as the "mother of all prostitutes" and symbolizes everything evil and detestable in the world. The wine she drinks represents the blood of God's people who were martyred for their faith.
Current Manifestations of Babylon
- The speaker notes that Babylon openly presents itself today, celebrating its identity with pride rather than shame. This spirit is likened to a modern-day Sodom and Gomorrah.
- Historical attempts to rebuild Babylon have failed, aligning with prophecies indicating it would remain desolate (Isaiah 13:17-20).
Prophetic Insights on Judgment
- After judging Israel for idolatry, God also judged Babylon. This pattern suggests future judgment against nations embodying this spirit.
- There is a warning about being seduced by the spirit of Babylon, which may lead to judgment against the church due to its own impurities.
Characteristics and Influence of Babylon
- The speaker emphasizes caution against being influenced by Babylon's allure—offering quick rewards and prestige while opposing God.
- Examples from history illustrate how powerful figures (like King Tyre during Ezekiel's time) reflect this same corrupting influence associated with Satan.
Daniel's Grace Amidst Corruption
- In times when the spirit of Babylon thrives, there is an increase in visible evil in society (e.g., inappropriate content in children's media).
- Despite overwhelming darkness, believers are encouraged that God provides what they need during spiritual warfare.
Qualities Needed for Resistance
- The discussion shifts to Daniel’s grace—thriving in a pagan environment without losing integrity or devotion.
- Key characteristics highlighted include self-control (Daniel 1:8), courage (Daniel 5:22–23), integrity (Daniel 6:4), and devotion—qualities essential for navigating current challenges.
This structured summary captures key insights from the transcript while providing timestamps for easy reference.
Characteristics of Daniel: Humility and Prudence
Humility in Daniel's Character
- Daniel exemplified humility, avoiding those who display arrogance or spiritual pride. He serves as a model for believers to distance themselves from such individuals.
- The scripture references Daniel 10:17 and the importance of humility are highlighted, emphasizing that true spirituality is marked by modesty rather than self-exaltation.
Spiritual Insight and Assertiveness
- Daniel possessed remarkable assertiveness, not only understanding his present circumstances but also having visions extending to the end times. His knowledge included recognizing archangels by name and their roles.
- Key scriptural references include Daniel 7:9-12 and Daniel 10:5, showcasing his deep spiritual insight into divine mysteries.
The Importance of Prudence
- Prudence was another significant trait of Daniel’s character; it is essential for navigating dangerous situations wisely, as illustrated through experiences shared from Indonesia where Christians face persecution.
- A biblical example is provided where prudence saved lives; missionaries were trained to act wisely in perilous environments to avoid unnecessary danger. This contrasts with reckless behavior often mistaken for faithfulness.
Strategic Action Over Impulsivity
- Emphasizing strategic action, the speaker notes that imprudent actions can lead to dire consequences, referencing how Daniel approached King Nebuchadnezzar's decree with tact instead of bravado. This approach preserved his life and those of others in Babylonian captivity.
- The need for listening to the Holy Spirit for guidance on both what actions to take and how to execute them effectively is stressed as crucial for believers today.
Living by Principles Based on Identity
- The discussion shifts towards living according to principles rooted in one's identity as a child of God rather than reacting out of urgency or neediness when crises arise (e.g., praying only when children stray). This principle reflects a consistent faith practice throughout life rather than sporadic responses during emergencies.
- An example from Daniel 3:16–18 illustrates unwavering faith despite threats; Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego refused to worship false gods regardless of potential consequences because they understood their identity in God clearly. They chose principle over fear or survival instinct alone.
Moral Conflicts and Spiritual Guidance
The Importance of Spiritual Values
- Emphasizes the danger of idolizing family over spiritual values, reminding that God cares for families more than individuals do.
- Discusses how many justify their moral compromises under the guise of seeking protection or comfort from God.
Trusting in God Amidst Anxiety
- Highlights that anxiety is not a test but rather a manifestation of lack of self-control and trust in God.
- Stresses that worrying does not equate to being tested; it reflects a failure to trust God's plan.
Moral Conflicts Faced by Daniel
- Introduces six moral conflicts faced by Daniel, relevant to contemporary believers.
1. Pagan Intemperance vs. Scrupulous Abstinence
- Describes Daniel's refusal to consume food sacrificed to idols, prioritizing his emotional, spiritual, and physical health.
2. Pagan Magic vs. Celestial Wisdom
- Contrasts reliance on worldly solutions (like medication for depression) with divine wisdom as exemplified by Daniel's understanding of dreams.
3. Idolatry vs. Faithfulness to God
- Warns against compromising faith for material needs or societal pressures, citing examples from Daniel’s life.
4. Pride of a Pagan King vs. Sovereignty of God
- Discusses Nebuchadnezzar's downfall due to pride, illustrating God's ultimate authority over earthly rulers.
5. Sacrilege Against Sacred Things
- Addresses the threat posed to sacred beliefs and practices, emphasizing the need for reverence towards God's presence.
Conclusion: The Role of Reverence in Faith
- Concludes with the importance of fearing God alongside loving Him; true reverence leads believers toward holiness.
Understanding God's Providence and the Example of Daniel
The Challenge of Misinterpreting Scripture
- The speaker discusses how people often misinterpret scriptures about God's protection, using them out of context or without considering prior verses that set the requirements for such promises.
- Emphasizes that despite malicious plots against individuals, faith in God's providence is crucial, as illustrated by the story of Daniel in the lion's den (Daniel 6:1-28).
Characteristics of Daniel's Faith
- Highlights Daniel's commitment to prayer and his refusal to compromise his beliefs even in a pagan environment, showcasing his courage and dedication.
- Encourages listeners to study the entire book of Daniel, noting that it concludes with a promise from God for those who seek His grace.
Promises for Believers
- Mentions a specific promise found in Daniel 12:3 and verse 10 regarding those who win souls, indicating blessings for those who actively extend God's kingdom.
- Stresses that while blessings are important, believers should focus on their responsibilities and actions rather than solely on personal gain.
The Call to Action
- Urges believers to aspire to be like Daniel—shining brightly through understanding and teaching righteousness amidst challenges.
- A prayer is offered for listeners seeking the grace of Daniel, emphasizing empowerment to act boldly in faith.
Assurance of Divine Presence
- Concludes with a prayer for protection and provision during difficult times, affirming that God will walk alongside believers through trials just as He did with Daniel.
- Reinforces the idea that divine providence grants identity, self-control, and devotion to God amid adversity.