Wiersbe’s Commentary on Daniel 4:28–35

 Warren Wiersbe’s commentary on Daniel, found in his book Be Resolute (Daniel): Determining to Go God's Direction, provides practical and theological insights into the text, emphasizing God’s sovereignty and the dangers of pride. Below is a summary of Wiersbe’s commentary on Daniel 4:28–35, based on his approach in the Be series, which focuses on biblical theology, practical application, and accessible exegesis for lay readers.

Context of Daniel 4:28–35

Daniel 4 recounts King Nebuchadnezzar’s humbling experience, where his pride leads to divine judgment. In verses 28–35, the narrative describes the fulfillment of God’s warning through Daniel’s interpretation of the king’s dream: Nebuchadnezzar’s pride results in a period of insanity, living like a beast, until he acknowledges God’s sovereignty.

Wiersbe’s Commentary on Daniel 4:28–35

1. The Fulfillment of God’s Warning (vv. 28–30):
   • Wiersbe notes that Nebuchadnezzar had been warned by Daniel to repent and avoid judgment (v. 27). However, a year later, the king’s pride resurfaces as he boasts, “Is not this great Babylon, that I have built for the house of the kingdom by the might of my power, and for the honour of my majesty?” (v. 30, KJV). Wiersbe emphasizes that this moment of self-exaltation, where Nebuchadnezzar takes credit for Babylon’s grandeur, directly provokes God’s judgment. He highlights the contrast between human pride and God’s sovereignty, a central theme in Daniel. Nebuchadnezzar’s failure to give glory to God illustrates the danger of self-sufficiency.
2. God’s Judgment Executed (vv. 31–33):
• Wiersbe underscores the immediacy of God’s response: “While the word was in the king’s mouth, there fell a voice from heaven” (v. 31). This sudden judgment—Nebuchadnezzar’s descent into madness, living like a beast for “seven times” (likely seven years)—demonstrates God’s power to humble the proud instantly. Wiersbe points out that this judgment was not only punitive but also redemptive, designed to teach Nebuchadnezzar that “the most High ruleth in the kingdom of men” (v. 32). He connects this to the broader biblical principle that God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble (James 4:6).
• Wiersbe likely draws attention to the vivid imagery of Nebuchadnezzar’s condition—eating grass, hair like eagles’ feathers, nails like birds’ claws—as a humbling reversal of his royal status. This serves as a warning to readers about the consequences of pride and the futility of human achievements apart from God.
3. Nebuchadnezzar’s Repentance and Restoration (vv. 34–35):
   • Wiersbe highlights the turning point in verse 34: “I Nebuchadnezzar lifted up mine eyes unto heaven, and mine understanding returned unto me.” This act of looking to heaven signifies repentance and submission to God’s authority. Wiersbe sees this as a moment of genuine humility, where the king acknowledges God’s eternal dominion and power. He likely emphasizes that Nebuchadnezzar’s restoration—both mentally and to his throne—demonstrates God’s mercy and purpose in discipline, which is to bring about repentance and transformation.
   • In verse 35, Wiersbe would focus on Nebuchadnezzar’s confession: “All the inhabitants of the earth are reputed as nothing: and he doeth according to his will in the army of heaven, and among the inhabitants of the earth.” This statement reflects a profound theological shift, recognizing God’s absolute sovereignty. Wiersbe would likely connect this to the broader message of Daniel: God is in control of history, nations, and individuals, and no one can challenge His will. He might also draw parallels to other Scriptures, such as Psalm 115:3 or Isaiah 40:17, to reinforce this truth.
4. Practical Application:
   • Wiersbe’s commentaries are known for their practical applications. For this passage, he likely encourages readers to examine their own hearts for pride, as Nebuchadnezzar’s story serves as a warning against self-exaltation. He might challenge believers to give glory to God for their accomplishments and to trust in His sovereign rule, especially in difficult times. Wiersbe would also emphasize the hope of restoration, noting that God’s discipline is not meant to destroy but to lead to repentance and renewed faith.
   • He may pose reflective questions, such as: “Are you taking credit for what God has done in your life?” or “How can you cultivate humility to avoid the consequences of pride?” These align with his style of providing thought-provoking questions for personal or group study.

Key Themes in Wiersbe’s Commentary

• God’s Sovereignty: Wiersbe repeatedly underscores that Daniel 4 teaches God’s absolute authority over all human rulers and events. Nebuchadnezzar’s humbling is a vivid illustration of this truth.
• The Danger of Pride: Pride leads to judgment, but God offers mercy to those who repent. Wiersbe sees Nebuchadnezzar’s experience as a universal lesson for believers.
• Redemptive Discipline: God’s judgment on Nebuchadnezzar was not merely punitive but aimed at leading him to repentance and a deeper understanding of God’s rule.

Note on Sources

While I don’t have direct access to Wiersbe’s full commentary text for Daniel 4:28–35, this summary is based on his general approach in the Be series, as described in reviews and excerpts, and the biblical text’s themes as interpreted by similar commentators. For the complete commentary, I recommend consulting Be Resolute (Daniel) by Warren W. Wiersbe, available through retailers like Amazon or Christianbook.com.