Christians and culture: Where do we draw the line?

Four young exiled Hebrew men, Daniel, Hanniah, Mishael and Azariah, had been transported from their homeland of Israel into exile in Babylon, where they were prepared by the powerful ruler to serve the Government of the empire.

King Nebuchadnezzar wanted to fully acculturate the four young Hebrews. So he imposed Babylonian names on them: Belteshazzar, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego. He educated them with Babylonian literature and told them they would now eat from his table.

The four friends accepted their new nicknames. Like all nicknames, they had no choice. They willingly engaged in education, and excelled, with God's help. But they drew a line at the food. They refused to consume the produce of The King’s table. It was a step too far in their acculturation. Although small, it was important to them to remain faithful to God.