Orangeburg (SC) Church of Christ Audio

After the exile, the Jews began to worship God in Jerusalem again, first setting up the altar, and then laying the foundation of the temple. But work on the temple soon stopped, and remained stopped for about 20 years until God sent the prophets Haggai and Zechariah to encourage the people to continue the work.  Haggai’s first chapter addressed directly the problem of the people building their own houses while God’s house lies in ruins, a message which was effective in getting the people back to work.

Teacher: Justin P. Sivley

As the sixth trumpet sounds, judgement comes from beyond the Euphrates River, much as it had centuries before when Assyria and Babylon came in judgement against Israel and Judah.  These four angels which become an army of horsemen 200,000,000 strong bring a partial judgement against those who dwell on the earth (sinners), all in hopes that they will repent.  But those who survive do not repent, and continue in their sins, setting the stage for a more permanent judgement to come.

Teacher: Justin P. Sivley

After studying Zephaniah 1 this morning, we spend a few minutes this afternoon with a quick overview of the rest of the book, particularly taking note of how even though God was angry with Judah because of their idolatry, he still loved them.  Even though he was going to send judgement, he was also going to preserve a remnant.

When Jesus taught, he often taught in parables.  The stories and illustrations placed a common aspect of life alongside a spiritual truth, which could be grasped by those whose hearts were open.  In the parable of the sower, he speaks to the need to hear and recieve the word of God, and how different attitudes in the heart can make a difference in how the word is able to grow within a person.

Speaker: Justin P. Sivley

Zephaniah was likely a descendent of King Hezekiah, and therefore relative of King Josiah, during whose reign he prophesied. It is speculated the Zephaniah’s prophecy, which focused primarily on the idolatrous practices that Judah had fallen into, was a catalyst for some of Josiah’s reforms during his reign.  In any case, Zephaniah warns that God will not tolerate rivals to his position as the God of His people, and those who worship idols will not be spared God’s judgement.

Teacher: Justin P. Sivley

After a short break, we return to our study of Revelation 9, and the trumpets with which God is warning those who dwell on the earth to repent of sin and turn to him.  In these trumpets we see ways that God, throughout history, has allowed evil into the world to allow men to see the consequences of sin, desiring that they might turn to him.

Teacher: Justin P. Sivley

Habakkuk understood that the world around him was filled with evil.  What he didn’t understand was why God didn’t move against that evil.  God answers the prophet’s question, but the prophet has to learn that the answer isn’t always what we would expect.  Habakkuk helps us to learn these lessons as well, to learn to let go of our desire for control, and let God do what He is going to do.

Speaker: Justin P. Sivley

There are many voices in the world that vie for our attention, but there is one voice above all to which we must listen.  Jesus said that if we abide in his word, we are truly his disciples, and will be set free in the truth.  Who are you listening to?

Speaker: Justin P. Sivley

Habakkuk’s prophecy comes at a time when Judah was in the throes of wickedness, and the prophet had taken notice.  He cries out to God for justice, but has to be prepared to accept justice in whatever way that God chooses to bring it.  Habakkuk teaches us that we cannot be in control, and must trust God’s way and God’s timing in all things.

Teacher: Matt Burleson

Nahum prophesied against the city of Nineveh, about 100-150 years after the days of Jonah. It shows us that repentance must be sustained, or God’s judgement will come.

Teacher: Matt Burleson