Norm Spohr’s sermon “Hold the Line” focuses on how believers can remain steadfast in their faith amid a world of constant change and moral compromise. Drawing from the example of Daniel and his companions in Babylon, Norm calls Christians to maintain conviction, integrity, and courage in a culture that pressures them to conform.
Main Points
1. The World Is Characterized by Change
Norm begins by observing that change defines our age—politically, socially, and spiritually. Yet while the world’s values and standards shift, God’s Word remains unchanging. Followers of Christ must decide where they stand amid these currents of change.
2, Agents of Godly Change
Though people often speak of “changing the world,” Norm explains that genuine, lasting change begins with individuals transformed by God. Like Moses, Joseph, Esther, and Daniel, believers can influence their surroundings by faithfulness and obedience, not by political or cultural power.
3. Daniel’s Example: Conviction in a Foreign Land (Daniel 1)
Daniel, taken from Judah to serve in Babylon, resolved not to defile himself with the king’s food. Norm highlights Daniel’s quiet courage—he “held the line” by honoring God’s commands even when far from home and surrounded by pressure to compromise.
• Daniel’s refusal was not rebellion but steadfast faith.
• God honored his faithfulness, giving him favor and wisdom.
• Holding the line does not mean isolation but integrity—being in the world yet not of it.
4. Three Qualities Needed to Hold the Line
• Conviction: Know what you believe and why.
• Courage: Stand firm even when it costs something.
• Consistency: Remain faithful over time, not just in moments of crisis.
Norm points out that Daniel exemplified all three, from youth through old age.
5. Lessons for Today’s Believers
• Cultural and moral pressures are increasing, especially against biblical truth.
• Christians must be clear about who they serve and what boundaries they will not cross.
• Faithfulness may bring opposition, but God is sovereign and honors those who trust Him.
• The command to “hold the line” is not about aggression but about steadfast witness—standing firm in grace and truth.
Conclusion
Norm concludes that every Christian, like Daniel, is living in “Babylon”—a society often at odds with God’s values. To hold the line is to remain loyal to Christ, to act with integrity even when unseen, and to trust God to bring about His purposes through obedient servants. The sermon ends with an exhortation:
Stand firm. Be faithful. Hold the line for the Lord.