The Most High God - Daniel 4:1-3

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Chapter 3 ended with King Nebuchadnezzar making a decree that no one could say anything against Shadrach, Meschach, and Abed-nego's God. While this is a step in the right direction, the king didn't actually state that God was the only God, just that He was the most powerful. What happened next?

Daniel 4:1-3 (KJV)
¹ Nebuchadnezzar the king, unto all people, nations, and languages, that dwell in all the earth; Peace be multiplied unto you.
² I thought it good to shew the signs and wonders that the high God hath wrought toward me.
³ How great are his signs! and how mighty are his wonders! his kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and his dominion is from generation to generation.

Notice that this section is written in the first person. It appears that these are the actual words of King Nebuchadnezzar.

Verse 1 serves as an introduction to the speaker of this section. It is Nebuchadnezzar, himself. Who is he writing (or speaking) to? He is addressing all people, nations, and languages that dwell in the earth. Obviously, this really only included the peoples and nations that were under his rule, but it does point to the great extent of the Babylonian Empire. What did the King wish to be multiplied to these people, nations, and languages? He wished peace for them.

What is the topic of Nebuchadnezzar's speech (verse 2)? He wanted to show all the signs and wonders that God had done. What signs and wonders was he talking about? Actually, the signs and wonders haven't been revealed yet. They will be discussed in Daniel 4:4-37. So, this first part of chapter 4 is a kind of introduction to the rest of the chapter.

What does King Nebuchadnezzar conclude about the signs and wonders of God (verse 3)? They are great and mighty. He further stated that God had an everlasting kingdom and His dominion (authority) lasts from generation to generation. In other words God's kingdom will last forever.

This is pretty amazing considering that we're talking about a pagan king. What ever God revealed to the king in chapter 4 made a great impression on him. However, the question is, did the message reach his heart? Stay tuned to find out.

What has God shown to you? Have you realized that He is great and mighty and that His kingdom will last forever? More importantly, has the realization of God's might and power reached your heart and caused you to turn to Him, to desire a relationship with Him, and to serve Him? Perhaps, Daniel chapter 4 will be a help to you!