In our journey of faith, we often find ourselves caught between two cities: the loud, enticing city of Babylon and the serene, divine city of God. This sermon series, “Exiles and Ambassadors,” explores the spirit of Babylon and its pervasive influence throughout history and into our modern lives. As believers, we are called to be aware of these influences and to choose the path that leads us closer to God.

The Two Cities

Every morning, before our feet hit the floor, we wake up between two cities. Babylon, with its bright lights and loud slogans, promises more—more success, more pleasure, more of everything. It appeals to our flesh, urging us to build our own heaven on earth. In contrast, the city of God, the New Jerusalem, calls us to slow down, remember who we are, and rest in the presence of God. It is a city illuminated by the Lamb, built on the foundations of divine presence rather than human pride.

The Spirit of Babylon

The spirit of Babylon is ancient yet ever-present, subtly influencing our lives through lies and distractions. It no longer needs lions to attack us; it uses lies to ensnare us. It whispers that we can be our own gods, bending truth to our preferences. This spirit seeks to disciple us through consumption, while the Kingdom of God transforms us through communion with Jesus.

The Model of Resistance: Daniel’s Example

In Daniel chapter one, we find a powerful model of resistance to the spirit of Babylon. Daniel and his friends, taken into exile, faced a system designed to reshape their identity and worldview. Yet, Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the king’s food, symbolizing his refusal to be indoctrinated by Babylon’s ways. This act of resistance highlights the importance of maintaining our identity in God amidst cultural pressures.

The Four Courses of Babylon

1. Identity Formation: Babylon seeks to rename us, shifting our identity from God-given to culture-defined. It labels us by our abilities, productivity, and popularity, but God calls us His beloved, chosen, and redeemed.
2. The Menu of Compromise: Babylon feeds our desires, offering indulgence that leads to spiritual dullness. It distracts us with endless scrolling, hustle, and comparison, while Jesus offers a feast that truly satisfies.
3. The Gospel of Babylon: Babylon indoctrinates our minds, reshaping our worldview through constant messaging. It redefines love, freedom, and truth, but we are called to renew our minds with God’s Word.
4. The Demand for Worship: Ultimately, Babylon demands our worship, offering idols that promise fulfillment without surrender. Yet, like Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, we must stand firm, worshiping only the true God.

Conclusion

As exiles and ambassadors, we are called to resist the spirit of Babylon and embrace the Kingdom of God. This requires intentionality in our daily lives—choosing Scripture before screens, remaining rooted in prayer, and carrying the presence of God into the world. Let us commit to being transformed by the renewing of our minds, standing firm in our identity as God’s beloved, and living as ambassadors of His Kingdom.

Call to Action

This week, consider the voices you are listening to and the tables at which you are dining. Are you being discipled by the world or by the Word? Let us resolve to feast on the presence of God, allowing Him to transform our cravings and renew our minds. Together, we can resist the spirit of Babylon and live as faithful exiles and ambassadors in this world.