READ: Dan. 4:1–27: … till you know that the Most High rules …
Now King Nebuchadnezzar speaks in the first person. He has experienced who God is, how far His power reaches, and how He saves His people. So now—does he still consider the God of heaven just another “idol,” like the gods of conquered peoples? Or does he now know Him as the only Sovereign, on whom he himself depends?
What has Nebuchadnezzar learned? The first three verses give the impression that he genuinely believes in God and praises Him—using language straight out of the Psalms! But the rest of the chapter will show whether this despot has truly repented or if he still clings to the polytheism of his time.
Nebuchadnezzar is about to be tested. By now he is about thirty years older. He dreams of a tree in the center of the earth, growing so tall it reaches the heavens. This tree—representing himself—is admired by all, feeding and sheltering all creatures. It is glorious and beautiful.
But then a heavenly messenger arrives with a call to chop it down. Its glory is over. Only a stump and roots are left, bound with iron. His mind and life will be changed. Once exalted like a god among men, he will now become less than human, living among animals.
As he fears the dream is about himself, he still turns to his wise men. Once again, only Daniel is able to interpret it.
Daniel is initially shocked and wishes the dream were for someone else. But as God’s prophet, he tells the truth: You are the tree. You will be driven away and live like an animal, until you acknowledge that God is the Most High.
Daniel ends with wise counsel (v.27): Repent! Show mercy to the poor. Nebuchadnezzar must become humble before God, recognize Him as the one true ruler. He must abandon his pride and self-indulgence and care for the needy.
What is God’s purpose in doing this to the king?
Sing: Ps. 1:1,2