Bold Faith: Lessons from Daniel and Reinhard Bonnke
Summary
Daniel, whose name means "God is my judge," exemplified unwavering faith and obedience to God, much like Reinhard Bonnke, a German evangelist who dedicated his life to preaching the gospel in Africa. Despite facing numerous challenges, both men demonstrated extraordinary courage and trust in God. Daniel, a prophet, stood firm in his faith even when threatened with the lion's den, while Bonnke, an evangelist, persevered in his mission despite initial failures and resistance. Bonnke's vision of a blood-washed Africa, symbolizing salvation through Jesus, fueled his ministry, leading to millions of conversions. His story reminds us that God can use anyone willing to be obedient to His call, regardless of the obstacles they face.
The lives of Daniel and Bonnke teach us three key lessons: walking boldly, praying faithfully, and trusting God to intervene. Daniel's boldness is evident in his refusal to stop praying despite a decree that threatened his life. Similarly, Bonnke's boldness in preaching the gospel, even in hostile environments, demonstrates the power of faith in action. Both men were committed to prayer, which was central to their faith and mission. Daniel's consistent prayer life sustained him through trials, while Bonnke's ministry was undergirded by fervent prayer, leading to miraculous outcomes.
Stepping out in faith is crucial for inviting God's intervention. Daniel's faith led to divine protection in the lion's den, and Bonnke's faith resulted in a spiritual revival across Africa. Their stories illustrate that when we act in faith, we position ourselves to witness God's supernatural work. As believers, we are called to be bold, committed to prayer, and willing to step out in faith, trusting that God will move in ways beyond our understanding.
Key Takeaways:
- Boldness in Faith: Daniel's unwavering commitment to prayer, even when faced with the threat of the lion's den, exemplifies the boldness required to stand firm in faith. His story encourages us to remain steadfast in our beliefs, regardless of external pressures or threats. Similarly, Reinhard Bonnke's boldness in preaching the gospel, despite initial failures and resistance, demonstrates the power of faith in action. [07:24]
- The Power of Prayer: Prayer was central to both Daniel's and Bonnke's lives. Daniel's consistent prayer life sustained him through trials, while Bonnke's ministry was undergirded by fervent prayer, leading to miraculous outcomes. Their stories remind us that prayer is essential for staying faithful to God and witnessing His power in our lives. [26:06]
- Trusting God's Sovereignty: Both Daniel and Bonnke trusted in God's sovereignty, believing that He would intervene in their situations. Daniel's faith led to divine protection in the lion's den, and Bonnke's faith resulted in a spiritual revival across Africa. Their stories illustrate that when we trust in God's sovereignty, we can experience His supernatural work in our lives. [30:57]
- Stepping Out in Faith: Stepping out in faith is crucial for inviting God's intervention. Daniel's and Bonnke's stories show that when we act in faith, we position ourselves to witness God's supernatural work. As believers, we are called to be bold, committed to prayer, and willing to step out in faith, trusting that God will move in ways beyond our understanding. [34:50]
- Perseverance in Mission: Reinhard Bonnke's perseverance in his mission, despite initial failures and resistance, demonstrates the importance of staying committed to God's call. His vision of a blood-washed Africa fueled his ministry, leading to millions of conversions. His story reminds us that God can use anyone willing to be obedient to His call, regardless of the obstacles they face. [42:40]
Youtube Chapters:
- [00:00] - Welcome
- [02:00] - Introduction to Daniel and Reinhard Bonnke
- [05:30] - Reinhard Bonnke's Early Challenges
- [07:24] - Boldness in Faith: Daniel and Bonnke
- [10:45] - Daniel's Unwavering Prayer Life
- [13:30] - Bonnke's Vision of a Blood-Washed Africa
- [17:20] - The Power of Prayer in Ministry
- [20:00] - Trusting God's Sovereignty
- [23:15] - Stepping Out in Faith
- [26:06] - Prayer as the Foundation of Bonnke's Ministry
- [28:49] - The Role of Prayer in Christian Life
- [30:57] - Perseverance in Mission
- [34:50] - Inviting God's Intervention Through Faith
- [38:00] - Conclusion and Call to Action
- [42:40] - The Power in the Blood of Jesus
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide
Bible Reading:
1. Daniel 6:4-10
2. Acts 4:29
3. Joshua 1:9
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Observation Questions:
1. What actions did Daniel take when he learned about the decree against praying to any god or man other than King Darius? How did he respond to this threat? [07:24]
2. How did Reinhard Bonnke's vision of a "blood-washed Africa" influence his ministry, and what challenges did he face in the early years of his evangelistic efforts? [17:20]
3. In Acts 4:29, what did the disciples pray for after being threatened by the authorities, and how does this reflect their priorities in the face of persecution?
4. How did the sermon describe the role of prayer in both Daniel's and Bonnke's lives, and what outcomes did their commitment to prayer lead to? [26:06]
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Interpretation Questions:
1. What does Daniel's unwavering commitment to prayer, even in the face of danger, teach us about the importance of maintaining spiritual disciplines under pressure? [07:24]
2. How does Reinhard Bonnke's perseverance in his mission, despite initial failures, illustrate the concept of trusting in God's sovereignty and timing? [17:20]
3. In what ways does the prayer of the disciples in Acts 4:29 challenge modern believers to prioritize boldness in their faith over personal safety or comfort?
4. How can the stories of Daniel and Bonnke inspire believers today to step out in faith, trusting that God will intervene in their circumstances? [34:50]
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Application Questions:
1. Reflect on a time when you faced external pressure to compromise your faith. How did you respond, and what might you do differently in the future to stand firm like Daniel? [07:24]
2. Reinhard Bonnke's vision led to a significant impact in Africa. What vision or calling has God placed on your heart, and what steps can you take to pursue it despite potential obstacles? [17:20]
3. The disciples prayed for boldness in Acts 4:29. What specific area of your life requires more boldness in sharing your faith, and how can you pray for that this week?
4. Daniel's consistent prayer life was central to his faith. How can you establish a more consistent prayer routine, and what changes might you need to make to prioritize prayer in your daily life? [26:06]
5. Consider a situation where stepping out in faith could invite God's intervention. What is one practical step you can take this week to act in faith, trusting God to work in that situation? [34:50]
6. Joshua 1:9 encourages believers to be strong and courageous. Identify a current challenge you are facing and discuss how you can apply this verse to overcome fear and move forward with confidence.
7. How can the example of Daniel and Bonnke's perseverance encourage you to remain committed to God's call, even when facing resistance or setbacks? [30:57]
Devotional
Day 1: Boldness in Faith
Daniel's unwavering commitment to prayer, even when faced with the threat of the lion's den, exemplifies the boldness required to stand firm in faith. His story encourages us to remain steadfast in our beliefs, regardless of external pressures or threats. Similarly, Reinhard Bonnke's boldness in preaching the gospel, despite initial failures and resistance, demonstrates the power of faith in action. Both men show that boldness in faith is not about the absence of fear but about choosing to act in faith despite it. Their lives remind us that true boldness is rooted in a deep trust in God and a commitment to His purposes. [07:24]
Daniel 6:10-11 (ESV): "When Daniel knew that the document had been signed, he went to his house where he had windows in his upper chamber open toward Jerusalem. He got down on his knees three times a day and prayed and gave thanks before his God, as he had done previously. Then these men came by agreement and found Daniel making petition and plea before his God."
Reflection: Think of a situation where you feel pressured to compromise your faith. How can you choose to act boldly in faith today, trusting in God's strength and guidance?
Day 2: The Power of Prayer
Prayer was central to both Daniel's and Bonnke's lives. Daniel's consistent prayer life sustained him through trials, while Bonnke's ministry was undergirded by fervent prayer, leading to miraculous outcomes. Their stories remind us that prayer is essential for staying faithful to God and witnessing His power in our lives. Prayer is not just a ritual but a lifeline that connects us to God's heart and purposes. It empowers us to face challenges with courage and to see God's hand at work in ways we might not expect. [26:06]
Colossians 4:2-3 (ESV): "Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ, on account of which I am in prison."
Reflection: Consider your current prayer habits. How can you deepen your prayer life to align more closely with God's will and experience His power in your daily circumstances?
Day 3: Trusting God's Sovereignty
Both Daniel and Bonnke trusted in God's sovereignty, believing that He would intervene in their situations. Daniel's faith led to divine protection in the lion's den, and Bonnke's faith resulted in a spiritual revival across Africa. Their stories illustrate that when we trust in God's sovereignty, we can experience His supernatural work in our lives. Trusting God means acknowledging that He is in control, even when circumstances seem overwhelming or uncertain. It is about surrendering our plans and desires to His greater wisdom and purpose. [30:57]
Isaiah 46:9-10 (ESV): "Remember the former things of old; for I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me, declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, 'My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose.'"
Reflection: Identify an area in your life where you struggle to trust God's sovereignty. What steps can you take today to surrender this area to Him and trust in His perfect plan?
Day 4: Stepping Out in Faith
Stepping out in faith is crucial for inviting God's intervention. Daniel's and Bonnke's stories show that when we act in faith, we position ourselves to witness God's supernatural work. As believers, we are called to be bold, committed to prayer, and willing to step out in faith, trusting that God will move in ways beyond our understanding. Taking steps of faith often involves risk and uncertainty, but it is in these moments that we see God's power and provision most clearly. [34:50]
Hebrews 11:8 (ESV): "By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to a place that he was to receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going."
Reflection: What is one step of faith you feel God is calling you to take? How can you move forward in obedience, trusting that God will guide and provide for you?
Day 5: Perseverance in Mission
Reinhard Bonnke's perseverance in his mission, despite initial failures and resistance, demonstrates the importance of staying committed to God's call. His vision of a blood-washed Africa fueled his ministry, leading to millions of conversions. His story reminds us that God can use anyone willing to be obedient to His call, regardless of the obstacles they face. Perseverance in mission requires a steadfast focus on God's promises and a willingness to endure challenges for the sake of His kingdom. [42:40]
Galatians 6:9 (ESV): "And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up."
Reflection: Reflect on a mission or calling you believe God has placed on your heart. What obstacles are you facing, and how can you persevere in faith, trusting that God will bring about His purposes in His perfect timing?
Quotes
Daniel, the name Daniel, I think I've said this before in the Hebrew it means God is my judge and Daniel the prophet lived up to that he didn't care what other people said God was his judge and he would be judged by God and God alone it is something that I wish and pray for myself that that is the person and the man I will be that God will be my judge and him and him alone. [00:00:01] (36 seconds)
Reinhard was a German evangelist and his mission and his mandate that he felt God give him was to go over to South Africa or to Africa and to preach the gospel to Africa while he was over there he started preaching as an evangelist for a particular denomination I can't remember the denomination it's completely gone from my mind but while he was there preaching as a young man it didn't happen for him. [00:01:19] (39 seconds)
You see things changed for Reinhard when one night he had a dream you know we talk about this how God speaks in visions and dreams well God gave Reinhard a dream or a vision and what Reinhard saw was the outline of the continent of Africa and all of a sudden it became red and he knew that what God was showing him was Africa blood washed washed in the blood of Jesus set free in the blood of Jesus cleansed in the blood of Jesus and he heard a voice that he says is God's voice that's all he can say and it said Africa shall be saved. [00:02:42] (59 seconds)
Reinhard's gone to be with the Lord now but he's one of the heroes of the faith the faith that I want to talk about you see we stand on the shoulders of giants their ceiling is our floor so don't look at the heroes that we talk about Muller Nehemiah Moses Jeffries Daniel Reinhard don't look at these people and think well that's what God did no that is what God does. [00:05:35] (43 seconds)
All God's asking for from each one of us is to be obedient to his will and we will change a nation like Daniel who stood firm amid adversity Bonnke faced numerous challenges in his mission yet both of these men demonstrated extraordinary courage and unwavering trust in God though their callings were different Daniel being a prophet Reinhard being an evangelist they still show tremendous courage and obedience to God commitment to prayer and trust in God's sovereignty. [00:07:07] (69 seconds)
When Daniel was forbidden to pray he refused to compromise despite the fact that he was threatened with the lion's den he continued to boldly pray to his God Daniel 6 4 to 10 then the high officials and the satraps sought to find a ground for complaint against Daniel with regard to the kingdom but they could find no grounds for complaint or any fault because he was faithful and no error or fault was found in him. [00:08:56] (37 seconds)
Daniel knew this and still he went home and he prayed to god and god alone he was unswerving or unwavering in his faithfulness to his god nothing would stop him from speaking to his god bonky or reinhard he used to go to places that didn't want to hear the gospel and he would preach the gospel many of these places would try to keep him out he faced the resistance of those around him that didn't want his god preached in their country. [00:13:58] (61 seconds)
You see reinhardt didn't let the enemy stop him he continued to pray he continued to fast but for nine years he was not allowed entry into nigeria we'll talk a little bit more about what happens when god opens a door that the enemy has tried to close but for reinhardt it didn't stop him okay he couldn't go into nigeria but he could go into other places in africa and so he did and he took his tents with him hundreds of thousands of people reached with the gospel because he was obedient to the call because in faith believing in what god had said to him with that faith rising up in him he moved and spoke with boldness the message that he'd been given jesus saves jesus is king. [00:15:58] (73 seconds)
Number two their commitment to prayer and the presence of god is something we can learn from daniel in daniel 6 we see how prayer was central to daniel's faith and devotion even when faced with persecution daniel's commitment to prayer was so steadfast that he continued his routine of praying three times a day despite the king's decree that anyone who prayed to any god or human other than king darius would be thrown into the lion's den. [00:20:37] (30 seconds)
Prayer was central to reinard's mission as well the crusades that reinard put on were marked by powerful prayer often as a precursor to the evangelistic outreach that saw millions come to know jesus Bonnke believed in the power of prayer as the foundation for seeing lives transformed and miracles happen. His ministry, which focused on salvation and healing, was birthed in prayer. [00:22:33] (38 seconds)
You see, Reinhard believed in prayer because he knew that he couldn't do what God had called him to do unless it was soaked in prayer. So for weeks, maybe even months before a crusade would take place in Africa, there would be a team of people praying in the land. They would go to the site that the crusade was about to take place and they would pray over that site. [00:25:45] (27 seconds)
Stepping out in faith is a vital aspect of the Christian life. Because it invites God to intervene. It invites God into a situation. You see, when we act in faith, we position ourselves to see God move in ways that exceed natural limits. Both Daniel and Reinhard highlight the transformative power of stepping out in faith. And how it invites God to intervene supernaturally in ways that go well beyond our understanding. [00:31:55] (45 seconds)