It is easy to look around and see that our culture is shifting. Whether it be in the economy, with societal tensions, or even the day-to-day disruptions of a global pandemic, we are all experiencing changes in our lives that leave us with pressure and uncertainties.

But we can be encouraged when we look at the life of Daniel. Daniel stood for God in a culture that stood for man. From the lion's den to the fiery furnace, Daniel leaned into God for strength and courage to face the immense pressure and uncertainty of his culture. He had a unique understanding of God’s unfolding plan for the future.  

This Teaching Notes & Small Group Guides pack includes everything you will need to teach this 6-week series at your church, from editable teaching notes to weekly small group discussion guides.

**Interested in using this series brand at your church? Click here to download the creative series pack that goes along with these teaching notes.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

• Teaching Series Guide (MS Word)

• Teaching Notes (MS Word)

• Small Group Discussion Guides (PDF + MS Word)

SAMPLES

• Week 1 - Teaching Notes

• Week 1 - Small Group Discussion Guide

Week 1 – How To Thrive In Babylon
We are living in an ever-shifting world, unlike any time we have ever known. The culture around us is changing leaving us to wonder, “What’s next, and what should we do”? As always, Christians need to look to the Bible for answers. The Book of Daniel will teach us how to thrive in uncertain times.

Week 2 – The Dream
Most of us have dreams. Some are pretty crazy, some can be scary, and some are pretty good. Sometimes we have a dream and want to know if there is a particular meaning or message attached to it. People have written books to help explain dreams, and some people try to explain our dreams to us. Throughout the Bible, God has used His people to interpret dreams for His purpose and plan. Daniel was one of the people that God used to interpret a dream to glorify Him. 

Week 3 – The Furnace
Today’s culture pushes a desire for money, fancy cars, a big house, clothes, things, possessions, fame, the list goes on and on. We want nice things, and God wants to bless us, but we must be careful not to let the desire for those things become our focus above everything else. When that happens, when fame and fortune are our primary goals, then they become our gods. The Bible tells us that there is only one God, and He should always be first in our lives. When we put God first, He takes care of everything else.

Week 4 – The Handwriting on the Wall
There is a growing culture in America that is rebelling against God, and putting themselves, power, and wealth above everything and everyone. We see this same scenario in the Book of Daniel long after Nebuchadnezzar has died and his grandson has become king. He has forgotten what he had known about his grandfather and his experiences with God. There is a move within the younger culture that is forgetting or turning their backs on God. As believers, we must stand strong in our faith to overcome this world. Daniel stands as an example of a true man of faith and light in a dark world. 

Week 5 – The Lion’s Den
It seems that society and culture are mocking believers more and more because of their faith. The enemy continues to find ways to tempt us and try to pull us away from God. As believers, we must stand strong against those attempts. Life can be difficult because there is so much sin in the world. Daniel thrown into the lion’s den is a strong example for us. Daniel settled his heart on God first and trusted God to take care of him. Our first line of defense, as was for Daniel, is prayer.

Week 6 – The End Times
There is much turmoil in the world today. It seems that things are getting worse all the time. It can be overwhelming and depressing, but believers know that God has a plan and holds our future. One day, maybe in our time and maybe not, the world as we know it will come to an end. Only God knows when. In the meantime, God has work for us to do. We need to stand strong in our faith, be that light in a dark world, and share the gospel with the lost. Getting into the Word everyday, praying, and having a relationship with God will get us through each day. The Book of Daniel is a great place to begin.