Then Nebuchadnezzar came near to the mouth of the burning fiery furnace, and spake, and said, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, ye servants of the most high God, come forth, and come hither. Then Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, came forth of the midst of the fire.
Nebuchadnezzar's address—'Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, ye servants of the most high God, come forth'—represents stunning transformation. Earlier he challenged 'who is that God that shall deliver you out of my hands?' (v. 15); now he acknowledges 'the most high God.' Using their Babylonian names shows he still thinks in pagan categories, but calling them 'servants of the most high God' recognizes superior divine authority. The command 'come forth' implies the furnace door is opened and they can exit—previously instruments of execution, now witnessing deliverance. This public acknowledgment before assembled officials becomes powerful testimony to God's supremacy.
Historical Context
The title 'most high God' (Aramaic: elaha illaya) was used in ancient Near East to acknowledge supreme deity while not necessarily embracing monotheism. Nebuchadnezzar could be placing Yahweh at the head of his pantheon rather than recognizing Him as the only God. Yet this public acknowledgment before Babylon's entire bureaucracy gave testimony to Yahweh's power. Ancient Near Eastern religion readily incorporated new powerful deities into existing pantheons—the shock here is that exclusive monotheism won't allow such accommodation.
Questions for Reflection
How does God use dramatic deliverances to force acknowledgment of His supremacy even from hostile authorities?
What is the difference between acknowledging God as 'most high' versus worshiping Him exclusively as the only true God?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Nebuchadnezzar's address—'Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, ye servants of the most high God, come forth'—represents stunning transformation. Earlier he challenged 'who is that God that shall deliver you out of my hands?' (v. 15); now he acknowledges 'the most high God.' Using their Babylonian names shows he still thinks in pagan categories, but calling them 'servants of the most high God' recognizes superior divine authority. The command 'come forth' implies the furnace door is opened and they can exit—previously instruments of execution, now witnessing deliverance. This public acknowledgment before assembled officials becomes powerful testimony to God's supremacy.