Becoming Better Under the Teaching of Our King,Pastor W. F. Kumuyi

Texts: Daniel 1:3-5, 8, 17-20; Hebrews 1:1-4

In the kingdom of Babylon, King Nebuchadnezzar sought to refine and develop young men who were without blemish, wise, and capable. He aimed to train them with the knowledge and language of the Chaldeans so they could serve in his palace. But Daniel and his three Hebrew friends chose a higher path—dedication to the divine wisdom of God. Today, our Heavenly King, Jesus Christ, calls us to be better—better than the world, better than yesterday, better in righteousness, wisdom, and understanding. This study explores how believers can become better under the divine tutelage of our King.

1. The Experiential Knowledge That Makes Us Better Than the Worldly-Wise

Reference: Daniel 1:17-20

1.1 Personal Experience through the Knowledge of Our Lord

God granted Daniel and his friends skill in learning and wisdom, and Daniel gained understanding in visions and dreams. This experiential knowledge comes not from books alone but through a relationship with God. Scriptures such as Proverbs 19:2, Luke 1:77-79, and 2 Peter 1:3-4 highlight how divine knowledge brings life, godliness, and salvation.

1.2 Purifying Exchange in His Knowledge and Liberation by the King

Acts 4:13 shows how unlearned men became powerful witnesses because they had been with Jesus. Divine knowledge transforms ignorance into inspiration. As 2 Corinthians 2:14 explains, Christ causes us to triumph and spreads His knowledge through us.

1.3 Powerful Enduement through the Knowledge and Lordship of the King

Luke 24:49 and Isaiah 40:29-31 speak of the promise of power from on high. It’s not enough to know—we must be endued with the Holy Ghost to live out God’s will. As we wait upon the Lord, we are empowered and renewed.

2. The Essential Wisdom That Maintains Us Stronger Than Worldly Warriors

Reference: Daniel 1:17-20

2.1 Fuller Wisdom of the Scriptures for Believers

According to 2 Timothy 3:15-17, the Scriptures make us wise unto salvation. Earthly wisdom lacks the fullness required for eternal life. Psalms 19:7 reminds us that God’s word is perfect and life-transforming.

2.2 Flawless Wisdom of the Saviour, the Better

Christ, in whom are hidden all treasures of wisdom and knowledge (Colossians 2:3), makes us complete. He is our wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption (1 Corinthians 1:24, 30).

2.3 Faulty Wisdom in the Society of the Base

Worldly wisdom—rooted in envy, strife, and deceit—is sensual and demonic (James 3:14-17). True wisdom begins with the fear of the Lord (Job 28:28), not with intellectualism or pride.

3. The Elevated Vision That Moves Us Higher Than Worldly Workers

Reference: Daniel 1:17, 20

3.1 Profitable Visions and Dreams for Spirit-Filled Saints

Daniel was given prophetic visions of future events. These weren’t ordinary dreams, but divine revelations (Daniel 2:19, 28-29, 45). God still gives elevated vision to those who walk in the Spirit.

3.2 Perverting Vanity of Dreamers Among Sightless Seekers

Deuteronomy 13:1-8 and Jeremiah 23 warn of false prophets and deceptive dreams. Not all visions come from God. We must test every spirit and remain grounded in God’s word.

3.3 Promised Victory of the Devoted Visionaries

God rewards those who stay faithful with elevated wisdom, understanding, and vision. Just as Daniel and his friends were found ten times better than all others (Daniel 1:20), so shall we be if we abide in Christ.

Conclusion

We serve a greater King than Nebuchadnezzar—our Lord Jesus Christ, who is far better than angels and all earthly kings (Hebrews 1:4). As we submit to His teaching, pursue His knowledge, and walk in His Spirit, we too can become ten times better. Let us learn, grow, and shine as lights in a dark world.