Study Notes Ed Underwood

The New Covenant (Jeremiah 31:31-34; Luke 22:20; Hebrews 8:8-12) “Indeed a time is coming,” says the Lord, “when I will make a new covenant with my people.”

(Jeremiah 31:31)

The seventeen Books of Prophecy record the messages of the writing prophets (those whose messages are preserved in writing) God raised up to speak for him following the ministries of the prophets Elijah and Elisha. The failings of the Divided Kingdom Era prompted God to speak to Israel in the north and Judah in the south. They continued to speak to God’s people for over 400 years, including the exile to Babylonia and the return to the Promised Land. (1 Kings 12-Esther)

Studying the Prophets of Israel presents unique interpretative challenges. We must keep in mind the number one principle of interpretation—the Bible can never mean what it never meant. When we place the prophets in their proper literary and historical context a pattern emerges. We begin to see the prophets as Covenant Enforcer Mediators. (Fee and Stuart, How to Read the Bible for All It’ s Worth, p. 167)

The prophets spoke for God to His people concerning the enforcement of terms of their covenant relationship with God. Each spoke to a specific generation of Israel or Judah to enforce the conditional covenant (Mosaic) in the context of the unconditional covenants flowing from the Abrahamic Covenant. Their message can be summed up in these sentences: You are mine! (Unconditional covenants, Romans 11:29). Walk with me and I will bless you. Walk away from me and I will call you back to myself through loving discipline. (Conditional covenant, Romans 9-11)

An exciting aspect of God’s covenant relationship and promises to Israel for New Testament believers is our relationship to the New Covenant God made with Israel. During the days of Jeremiah, when it was obvious that Israel would never keep the Old Covenant, God promised to make a new covenant with Israel and Judah. This New Covenant had to do with the blessings of the Abrahamic Covenant:

Indeed, a time is coming,” says the Lord, “when I will make a new covenant with the people of Israel and Judah. It will not be like the old covenant that I made with their ancestors when I delivered them from Egypt. For they violated that covenant, even though I was like a faithful husband to them,” says the Lord. “But I will make a new covenant with the whole nation of Israel after I plant them back in the land,” says the Lord. “I will put my law within them and write it on their hearts and minds. I will be their God and they will be my people.

“People will no longer need to teach their neighbors and relatives to know me. For all of them, from the least important to the most important, will know me,” says the Lord. “For I will forgive their sin and will no longer call to mind the wrong they have done.” (Jeremiah 31:31-34)

This was the passage to move Origen to name the last twenty-seven books of the Bible the New Testament. It’s also the largest piece of text quoted literally in the New Testament in Hebrews 8:8-12. It’s a key passage in helping us understand how we, as New Testament believers, fit into God’s great plan. God made the covenant with Israel and its ultimate fulfillment will involve the physical descendants of Abraham, the Jews. Yet the New Testament writers make it clear that church-age believers have mysteriously and wonderfully entered into the blessings of the New Covenant:

Before we begin our journey through the Prophets of Israel, it’s important to understand the implications of this critical text for us today.

I. What is the New Covenant? It is a series of promises that God made to Israel and Judah during the darkest days in Old T estament history. These promises are unconditional, unchangeable, and irreversible since they are sealed by God’s oath. The New Covenant replaces the Old Covenant of the Mosaic Law because that covenant had been broken. It is vastly superior to the Old and makes it obsolete. It defines the blessings of the Abrahamic Covenant in glorious and unexpected ways.

Christian, enthusiastically embrace and live out your New Covenant blessings! The term “New Covenant” occurs only here in the Old Testament, though there are numerous references in Isaiah, Ezekiel, and Hosea.

1. The New Covenant was future to Jeremiah’s writing. The Lord would make this New Covenant with all the Israelites—those who had inhabited the Northern and the Southern Kingdom:

2. The blessings of the New Covenant are:

   1. An inner inclination to obey God, an internalization of His Law. “ I will put my law within them and write it on their hearts and minds.” God’s New Covenant will give Israel the inner capacity to obey His righteous commands and enjoy deep intimacy with Him. Ezekiel (36:24-32) and Joel (2:28-32) clarify that this inner power will be the indwelling Holy Spirit.

   2. A firm relationship with God that is secure and eternal.

   3. The knowledge of God: Intimacy never achieved under the Old Covenant.

   4. The forgiveness of sin: Israel’s sins would not only be forgiven, but forgotten. Isaiah clarified this by saying that God’s Substitute would make payment for sin (53:4-6). Jesus announced that His substitutionary death on the Cross would ratify the New Covenant (Matthew 26:27-28; Luke 22:20).

II. What do the New Testament authors say about the New Covenant? God ratified the New Covenant with Israel when Jesus Christ died on the Cross, and the church now operates under this covenant.

1. Jesus inaugurated the New Covenant when He died on the Cross as a substitute for sin (Luke 22:20, Matthew 26:28; Mark 14:24; 1 Corinthians 11:25).

2. New Testament Christians are ministers/servants of a new covenant based upon the Spirit that gives life and therefore our stories of relationship with God are about what the Spirit is doing in our heart (on the inside, 2 Corinthians 3:1-6).

3. New Testament Christians are recipients of the blessings of the Abrahamic Covenant through the promise of the New Covenant. Because of Israel’s unbelief and unfaithfulness to the Old Covenant, the church has been grafted into all the spiritual blessings of the New Covenant (Galatians 3:14; Romans 9:8, 11:17). The four benefits of the New Covenant—inner inclination to obey God, firm relationship, knowledge of God, and forgiveness of sins—belong to all the regenerate of every age since the substitionary death of the Son of God on the Cross. (Hebrews 8:8-12)

4. Since the New Covenant offers final forgiveness based solely upon the death of Christ, there is no further need of a sacrifice for sin. (Hebrews 10:15-18)

III. Does this mean that God is through with Israel? No! The promise was specifically made to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The full spiritual, physical, and national portions of the New Covenant do not belong to the church. Those will be fulfilled in the future. We believe that this will occur during the Millennium, the 1,000-year reign of Christ on earth following His Second Coming.

IV. What does this mean to me? God made the New Covenant with Israel at the Cross. But grace upon grace! Though the church does not replace Israel, mysteriously and gloriously we enter into her New Covenant blessings! We have the Holy Spirit who inclines us to obey God (Romans 8:9; Philippians 2:13). We have a firm relationship with God through Christ which is secure and eternal (1 John 5:11- 13). We have intimacy with God that no one under the Old Covenant could experience (Romans 8:16- 17; 1 John 1:3). And we have forgiveness of sins through the death of Christ (Ephesians 1:7).

Study Notes Ed Underwood

The Prophets of Israel: Mediators of God’s Enforcement of the Covenant

“For the Lord your God is a merciful God, he will not let you down or destroy you, for he cannot forget his covenant with your ancestors that he confirmed by oath to them.” (Deuteronomy 4:31)

The seventeen Books of Prophecy record the messages of the writing prophets (those whose messages are preserved in writing) God raised up to speak for him following the ministries of the prophets Elijah and Elisha. The failings of the Divided Kingdom Era prompted God to speak to Israel in the north and Judah in the south. They continued to speak to God’s people for over 400 years, including the exile to Babylonia and the return to the Promise Land. (1 Kings 12-Esther)

Studying the Prophets of Israel presents unique interpretative challenges. We must keep in mind the number one principle of interpretation—the Bible can never mean what it never meant. When we place the prophets in their proper literary and historical context a pattern emerges. We begin to see the prophets as Covenant Enforcer Mediators. (Fee and Stuart, How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth, p. 167)

“The prophets spoke for God to His people. They functioned to call Israel back to God, which meant a call back to faithfulness to their Covenant relationship with God; i.e., back to the Law of Moses. There was a covenant relationship between God and His people. This covenant contained not only the rules which they are to keep, but it also describes the sorts of punishments that God will necessarily apply to His people if they do not keep the Law, as well as the benefits He will impart to them if they are faithful. What is important is that God does not merely give His Law, but He enforces it. Positive reinforcement is blessing; negative reinforcement is curse. This is where the prophets come in. God announced the enforcement of the Law (both positive and negative) through the prophets.” (Bob Deffinbaugh, Understanding the Writing Prophets, bible.org, p. 4)

I would sum up the message of the prophets in one extended sentence:

Before we begin our journey through the Prophets of Israel, here are some foundational truths concerning their grammatical and historical context:

I. What do we mean by the word “prophecy”? Most people think of a prophecy as a prediction of a future event, a foretelling. Though this is an aspect of the term, it’s inadequate. The Bible doesn’t limit the meaning of prophecy to foretelling the future. The word prophet also means someone who tells forth or proclaims.

1. The prophets did tell the future (foretell), but that was not their primary function. Less than 2% of the Old Testament prophecy is messianic, and less than 5% of the writings of the Prophets of Israel relates to the New Covenant age of the church. Remarkably, less than 1% of all the Old Testament prophecy actually concerns events still future to us as Church Age believers. The bulk of the foretold prophecies of the Prophets of Israel have been fulfilled.

2. From the prophet’s perspective, his primary function was to speak for God to his contemporaries. This is why we need to first establish the primary message to the prophet’s audience and his predictions concerning the near future before we begin trying to ascertain what the prophet was saying about the “way off” future.

II. What was the purpose of the Prophets of Israel? The prophets spoke for God to His people concerning the enforcement of terms of their Covenant relationship with God.

You are mine! Walk with me and I will bless you.

Walk away from me and I will call you back to myself through loving discipline.

(God’s message to His people through the Prophets of Israel)

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1. God had made four Unconditional Covenants with His people, Israel:

   1. Abrahamic Covenant (Genesis 12-15): A literal, eternal, and unconditional “deal” that God

      would give them a land, a seed, and a blessing.

   2. Palestinian Covenant (Deuteronomy 30:1-8): Unconditional and permanent ownership of the Promise Land. However, current possession of the land was conditioned upon obedience to the Mosaic Law. (see below)

   3. Davidic Covenant (2 Samuel 7:14-16): The Seed of David would rule on the throne of the eternal Kingdom.

   4. New Covenant (Jeremiah 31:31-34): The Blessing of forgiveness of sins, the indwelling Spirit, and a new nature would be realized through the Seed of David, Messiah.

2. God and Israel had made one Conditional Covenant, the Mosaic Covenant. God not only gave the people His Law, but He also told them He would enforce it through blessings and cursings.

   1. GodwouldencouragefaithfulnesstotheLawbyblessing(Leviticus26:1-13;Deuteronomy28:1- 14). These blessings included life, health, prosperity, agricultural abundance, respect and safety in the world.

   2. God would discourage unfaithfulness to the Law by cursing, or loving discipline (Leviticus 26:14-39; Deuteronomy 28:15-32, 42). These blessings included death, disease, drought, danger, destruction, defeat, deportation, destitution, and disgrace.

   3. Deuteronomy4:25-31sumsupthisdynamicoftheconditionalcovenant:

After you have produced children and grandchildren and have been in the land a long time, if you become corrupt and make an image of any kind and do other evil things before the Lord your God that enrage him, Iinvokeheavenandearthaswitnessesagainstyoutodaythatyouwillsurelyandswiftlyberemoved from the very land you are about to cross the Jordan to possess. You will not last long there because you will surely be annihilated. Then the Lord will scatter you among the peoples and there will be very few of you among the nations where the Lord will drive you. There you will worship gods made by human hands – wood and stone that can neither see, hear, eat, nor smell. But if you seek the Lord your God from there, you will find him, if, indeed, you seek him with all your heart and soul. In your distress when all these things happen to you in the latter days, if you return to the Lord your God and obey him (for he is a merciful God), he will not let you down or destroy you, for he cannot forget the covenant with your ancestors that he confirmed by oath to them.

III. Who were the prophets speaking to? The chronology of the Prophets of Israel is critical. They were speaking to specific generations of Israel or Judah to enforce the conditional covenant in the context of the unconditional covenants.

The prophets to Israel: Jonah, Amos, and Hosea. The prophets to Judah: Obadiah, Joel, Isaiah, Micah, Nahum, Zephaniah, Habakkuk, Jeremiah (Lamentations). The prophets to the exiles: Ezekiel, Daniel. The prophets to the returning remnant: Zechariah, Haggai, Malachi

IV. What was their message as mediators to enforce the covenants? You are mine! (Unconditional covenants, Romans 11:29). Walk with me and I will bless you. Walk away from me and I will call you back to myself through loving discipline. (Conditional covenant, Romans 9-11)

V. What can we learn from the overarching message of the prophets? When people are in covenant relationship with God He will never revoke His promises. But He loves them too much to ignore them if they stray from faithfulness to Him.

Study Notes Ed Underwood

Song of Solomon: Intimacy in Marriage

Eat, friends, and drink! Drink freely, O lovers! (God to husband and wife, Song of Songs 5:1)

The five Books of Poetry bridge the past of the seventeen Books of History with the future of the seventeen Books of Prophecy. One-third of the Hebrew Bible was written in poetry. The five Poetical Books deal with the present experience of the authors in ways that speak to the experiential present of believers of all time. Though they come from an ancient culture they are timeless in their application. They do not advance the timeline of the nation Israel. The poetry erupts from the hearts of God’s people going through some of the eras and experiences documented in the Books of History.

Song of Solomon, or Song of Songs is a love song written by Solomon. It is a celebration of marital love in Hebrew poetry full of metaphors and imagery depicting the love between husband and wife. Though some feel uncomfortable with a literal interpretation of this highly erotic poem, God created man and woman and personally established and endorsed marriage (Genesis 2:20-24). It shouldn’t surprise us that God included a manual to guide marriage partners in love and lovemaking in His Word.

Admittedly, Solomon seems an unlikely author of a poem on the joy of pure and wholesome love. I believe Solomon wrote this about the only true and pure romance he ever experienced. Song of Songs is a beautiful affirmation of sex in marriage. “The song fills a necessary vacuum in the Scriptures because it endorses sex and celebrates it beyond all expectation. Although abuse is possible and to be avoided, sex is not inherently evil, nor is it limited to a procreative function. Instead, sex enables an experience of love whose intensity has no parallel in this cosmos and serves as a signpost to point to the greater love that lies beyond it. (Richard S. Hess, Song of Songs, p. 35).

The Song of Songs illustrates the God’s love for Israel and Christ’s love for the church. Still, “God’s primary purpose in inspiring this book was to give us revelation concerning the way love between a man and a woman should look.” (Constable, p 5):

The Song of Solomon dispels the erroneous contention that sexuality is sinful while simultaneously reminding us that illicit sex debases one of God’s most precious gifts to humanity.

I. LOVE GROWS: The story begins and unfolds. The reader witnesses the age-old theme of man and woman falling in love through the interplay of cameos by the main characters. (1:1-3:5)

II. LOVE CELEBRATED: God’s manual on sex includes a most glorious wedding celebration and a most pointed message—sex is limited to the institution of marriage. (3:6-11)

Messiah: A Type of Christ. In the Old Testament, Israel is regarded as the bride of Yahweh (Isaiah 54:5-6, Jeremiah 2:2, Hosea 2:16-20). The New Testament views the church as the bride of Christ (2 Corinthians 11:2, Ephesians 5:23-25; Revelation 19:7-9, 21:9). The Song of Songs illustrates both.

III. LOVE CONSUMMATED: The lovers come together in a beautifully written dialogue picturing their joy in each other in vivid detail. God speaks a blessing over them as they enjoy His gift of sexuality and intimacy in marriage. Eat, friends, and drink! Drink freely, O lovers! (4:1-5:1)

Song of Solomon: Sex is a gift from God with a purpose—

to enhance intimacy between husband and wife!

IV. LOVE STRUGGLES: Always practical, the Bible also depicts the tensions and troubles of this “marriage made in heaven.” Misunderstandings following the honeymoon strain the relationship. The sorrow of the lovers and the meddling of friends is an all too familiar pattern for the realities of marital love. (5:2-6:13)

V. LOVE RECONCILED: Realistic but uncompromising, the divine record of love reveals what God expects from troubled marital lovers—the hard and messy work of reconciliation. (7:1-8:4)

VI. LOVE MATURES: The final picture is hopeful and encouraging. A love that overcomes tough times is stronger and able to experience the full blessings of intimacy before God. (8:5-14)

SONG OF SONGS AND YOU: The practical wisdom of Solomon’s Song is vital in a world gone crazy with illicit sex and a church sometimes embarrassed by the subject of sex.

1. The Bible unashamedly endorses sexual intimacy between husband and wife. There at least six reasons for sex between husband and life:

   1. Procreation—to create life (Genesis 1:28)

   2. Intimacy—sex increases the emotional and spiritual intimacy between husband and wife (Genesis 2:24)

   3. Knowledge—communication between husband and wife concerning sex can increase understanding and appreciation of one another’s needs and desires in other areas of life. (Genesis 4:1) The Hebrew word for “sexual intercourse” is the word “to know.” Through God’s gracious gift of sexual intimacy, a wife and a husband gain intimate and exclusive knowledge of one another they have with no one else. NOTE: THE ENTIRE POEM IS DIALOGUE!!!!!

   4. Pleasure—sexual intimacy brings mutual pleasure to husband and wife. (Proverbs 5:15, 18- 19; Song of Solomon)

   5. Defense against temptation—sexual availability and attentiveness protect both spouses from temptations to adultery. (1 Corinthians 7:2, 5)

   6. Comfort—sexual intimacy comforts during difficult times. (2 Samuel 12:24)

2. The Bible unashamedly forbids sex between anyone other than your legal, heterosexual spouse. Here are the reasons for sex between any other two people on earth or in history:

   NONE! RUN, STUPID! (1 Corinthians 6:18)

There is no more lovely, friendly, charming relationship, communion or company than agood marriage. ~Martin Luther

Study Notes Ed Underwood

Ecclesiastes Life Is Empty without God

Fear God and keep his commandments, because this is the whole duty of man.

(Ecclesiastes 12:13)

The five Books of Poetry bridge the past of the seventeen Books of History with the future of the seventeen Books of Prophecy. One-third of the Hebrew Bible was written in poetry. The five Poetical Books deal with the present experience of the authors in ways that speak to the experiential present of believers of all time. Though they come from an ancient culture they are timeless in their application. They do not advance the timeline of the nation Israel. The poetry erupts from the hearts of God’s people going through some of the eras and experiences documented in the Books of History.

Ecclesiastes records an intense quest for meaning, purpose and satisfaction in life. I believe Solomon wrote the book during the latter years of his reign (971-931 B.C.), after he turned back to God following years of inattention and even rebellion. The lessons of the futility of seeking happiness from the experiences of “life under the sun” or “life on earth” (2:24, 8:17) were fresh in the experience of the repentant King of Israel. Solomon’s “intent in his writing is to pass judgment on man’s misguided endeavors at mastering life by pointing out its limits and mysteries. He would prefer that man replace such false and illusory hopes with a confidence based on the joy of creation as God’s gift.” (Ernest W. Hengtenberg, A Commentary on Ecclesiastes, p. 15)

The Book of Ecclesiastes exposes the emptiness of seeking meaning in life on earth apart from God. The key word is vanity, also translated emptiness or futile, occurs thirty-seven times. Life under the sun, also translated life on earth, occurs twenty-nine times. Due to the injustices, inconsistencies, and seeming irrationality of life, earthly pursuits inevitably end in dissatisfaction and frustration.

The only way to make sense of this world is to view life from God’s perspective. Solomon refers to God as Elohim (Powerful Creator) forty-one times in the book rather than Yahweh (Covenant-Keeping Redeemer). This emphasizes the universality of the truths for all people, not just followers of the God of the Bible. God will ultimately judge all people. Therefore we should “Fear God and keep his commandments, for that is the whole duty of man” (12:13-14):

Solomon lays out his argument clearly. True satisfaction in life can only be found by looking beyond this world. If life on this earth is all there is, then all is futile (2:24). But for those who fear God and keep His commandments (12:13-14) life is full of meaning and purpose.

I. THE TEACHER’S MAIN IDEA: Following a one-verse introduction Solomon states his theme: Everything is absolutely futile. (1:1-11)

II. THE TEACHER’S PROOF: Solomon proves that he knows what he’s talking about from personal experience. He catalogues his amazing pursuits and his lifelong quest for meaning. He’s tried it all— wisdom, works, women, and wealth. Unsatisfied and empty, he concludes that all life on earth has to offer is disappointment and confusion. (1:12-6:12)

Messiah: A Type of Christ in Ecclesiastes. This book about the emptiness of life on earth constantly refers to the God of Creation (Elohim). Solomon admits that God is the unmoved mover of history, but that men and women remain ignorant of His power (3:11). He concludes that only the “one shepherd” (12:11) can provide real satisfaction, joy, and wisdom. Jesus calls Himself the “Good Shepherd” who offers His life freely to all who believe (John 10:7-10).

Ecclesiastes: Life is meaningless apart from reverence for God! III. THE TEACHER’S RECOMMENDATION OF A BETTER OPTION: The best this life has to offer is a self-disciplined life that will bring only temporary blessing or prosperity. The “good life” is only attained by turning to God and trusting Him enough to do what He says. (7-12)

A. THE FUTILITY OF SELF-INDULGED PLEASURES AND ACHIEVEMENTS: Living for sensual pleasure is the worst option. Living to achieve is a somewhat better option. Nevertheless the only way to enjoy the fruit of self-effort is to remember that it’s fleeting. (7:1-9:12)

B. EVEN THE WISEST MUST GET OLD AND DIE: Unlike fools who engage in meaningless talk and pursuits, wise people live the best life on earth. But even the wisest become feeble and wonder what it is all about. (9:13-12:7)

C. ONLY REVERENCE FOR GOD TRULY SATISFIES: Real living begins and ends with relationship with God. Don’t look “under the sun” for meaning in life but beyond the sun to the “one Shepherd.” (12:8-14)

IV. ECCLESIASTES AND YOU: The futility of human pleasure, effort, and achievement directs men and women, boys and girls to the only sane path of life: abandoned trust in and obedience to the God of the Bible!

1. Do you know the “one Shepherd,” the “Good Shepherd” who wants to give you a life that is full of meaning and purpose—His life, eternal life? (John 10:7-10; 6:47)

2. What preoccupies your life right now? Life’s pleasures? Life’s achievements? The Wisdom of Life? Or your relationship with God? Before you answer that, consider these clear indicators of the truth concerning you:

   1. Where are you investing your time? What do your schedule priorities reveal?

   2. Where are you investing your money? What do your budget priorities reveal?

   3. What do your dreams about the future reveal?

   4. What do your conversations with others about the church and God’s people reveal?

3. What do you feel God wants you to do about your answer to the last question?

If we find ourselves with a desire that nothing in this world can satisfy, the most probable explanation is that we were made for another world.

C.S. Lewis

Study Notes Ed UnderwoodProverbs: Skillful LivingFearing the Lord is the beginning of moral knowledge (Proverbs 1:7).

The five Books of Poetry bridge the past of the seventeen Books of History with the future of the seventeen Books of Prophecy. One-third of the Hebrew Bible was written in poetry. The five Poetical Books deal with the present experience of the authors in ways that speak to the experiential present of believers of all time. Though they come from an ancient culture they are timeless in their application. They do not advance the timeline of the nation Israel. The poetry erupts from the hearts of God’s people going through some of the eras and experiences documented in the Books of History.

Have you ever learned a lesson the hard way? For many of life’s lessons the hard way is the only way, but a lot of the wrecks we encounter through the years could be avoided with a little wisdom.

What if I told you that I knew of a book that held treasures of wisdom designed by God to teach you to live skillfully? What if I went on to explain that this isn’t a large book, that you could read it in one sitting, and that it contained over 900 inspired precepts—timeless teaching for everyday living?

Would you hurry to your bookstore or navigate to amazon.com and purchase this amazing book that has the potential to teach you how to live so that you don’t have to learn all your lessons the hard way?

This book exists, but you don’t need to spend any money to buy it...if you already own a Bible! One of the most practical books in the Old Testament is Proverbs—a collection of short, pithy statements of inspired truth and wisdom. Proverbs deals with wisdom and stupidity, justice and revenge, diligence and laziness, poverty and wealth, bosses and employees, life and death. These maxims give us God’s principles for godly living.

It takes only a few seconds to read one of God’s proverbs, but the dedicated Christian will spend a lifetime living out the implications of that truth. Not surprisingly, skillful living begins with your attitude toward God:

To fear God is to relate your entire world to Him as you stand in awe of Him, and determine to trust Him by humbly depending on Him as you do what He says.

I. Proverbs is one of only a few books of your Bible that spells out its purpose.

1. Title: Proverbs is a collection of five separate books of proverbs. Verse 1 introduces the entire book and chapters 1-9 in particular. A proverb is a “truth tested by time” (von Rad, Wisdom in Israel, p. 74). But the Hebrew book of Proverbs contains the truths tested by time in Israel’s experience with the Living God. (1:1)

2. Purpose: Proverbs teaches the foundational skill of life—how to live before God and others in practical righteousness. The two purposes of the book move the reader toward this life...

   1. By providing moral judgment and sensitivity (1:2a,3-4).

   2. By providing mental clarity and insight (1:2b,5-6)

Proverbs: The key to skillful living is fear of the Lord! C. Theme: The key statement for Proverbs is the key statement for all the wisdom literature and for skillful living.

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of moral knowledge. (1:7)

1. “Fear of the Lord” is “not only a correct way of thinking about God but a correct relationship with Yahweh. It is an affectionate reverence that results in humbly bowing to the Father’s will. It is a desire not to sin against Him because His wrath is so awful and His love is so awesome.” (Dr. Tom Constable, Proverbs, p 8).

2. “Beginning” views fear of the Lord not only as the starting point but the controlling principle of knowledge. “What the alphabet is to reading, notes to reading music, and numerals to mathematics, the fear of the Lord is to attaining the revealed knowledge of this book.” (Waltke,Proverbs, p. 181)

3. “Knowledge” is not just a collection of facts in the brain. This knowledge is the knowledge of truth from the objective perspective of God as He has revealed it in His revelation.

II. The Proverbs will teach you how to live skillfully, how to avoid learning some lessons the hard way if...

A. If the controlling principle of your life is your fear of the Lord—your correct thinking about Him and your correct relationship with Him.

1. Is He the One you stand in awe of everyday? 2. Is He the One you bow to in obedience every day? 3. Is He the One you know personally because you have believed in His Son, Jesus Christ? 4. Is He the One you know better every day as you walk with His Son, Jesus Christ?

B. If you connect wisdom and instruction in your everyday life. The releasing principle of your life is connecting wisdom and instruction. (1:2)

1. Wisdom means “skill” and instruction means “discipline”.

2. Skill in life grows as our knowledge of God and His Word comes under the control of His Spirit to unleash His creative purposes for our lives.

C. If you read it!

Where is the wisdom we have lost in knowledge? Where is the knowledge we have lost in information? T. S. Eliot

Study Notes Ed Underwood

Psalms Worship Manual For the Lord is good. His loyal love endures, and he is faithful through all generations.

(Psalm 100:5)

The five Books of Poetry bridge the past of the seventeen Books of History with the future of the seventeen Books of Prophecy. One-third of the Hebrew Bible was written in poetry. The five Poetical Books deal with the present experience of the authors in ways that speak to the experiential present of believers of all time. Though they come from an ancient culture they are timeless in their application. They do not advance the timeline of the nation Israel. The poetry erupts from the hearts of God’s people going through some of the eras and experiences documented in the Books of History.

At least seven authors contributed to the book of Psalms. These rich writings were compiled over a period of 1,000 years of Israel’s history—from the time of Moses (Psalm 90) to the return from Exile in Babylonia (Psalm 126). The term “Psalm” comes from a Greek word meaning “a song sung to the accompaniment of a plucked instrument.” Used as the temple hymnbook of the Kingdom Period, the Psalms express the spectrum of human emotion—praise to God in good times, fear of enemies in bad times, and an overriding confidence in the character of God.

Written to different audiences under many circumstances the psalms cover a vast historic and topical range. This makes them relevant to every reader of every generation. The five books were written over several centuries. As individual psalms were written, some were used in Israel’s worship. Over the years various leaders including David (1 Chronicles 15:16), Hezekiah (2 Chronicles 29:30) and Ezra (Nehemiah 8) collected groups of Psalms into small anthologies. Finally these collections were united and edited into the five books themselves.

The psalms were used in the two temples and some were part of the liturgical service. They also served as an individual and communal devotional guide. The Book of Psalms is quoted more times in the New Testament than any other book. The Lord referred to the Psalms often during His earthly ministry. And the singing of psalms was a regular part of worship in the early church (Ephesians 5:19):

More than any other book in the Bible, Psalms reveals what a heartfelt, soul-starved, single-minded relationship with God looks like. The psalmists present Yahweh as king of the universe who is establishing His just rule on earth in and through His people, Israel. They pray for the realization of His rule over all Creation and encourage praise and trust in Him. They are journals of people who believe in a loving, gracious, faithful God in a world that keeps falling apart. Some of these people are: DAVID: 73 psalms cite David as author. The New Testament adds Psalms 2 and 95 to the list. David’s wide experience as the warrior-shepherd-king and his deep love of God combine to produce some of the deepest thoughts in Scripture. ASAPH: Israel’s worship leader under David and Solomon wrote 12 psalms (50, 73-83). His style is distinctive, forceful, and spiritual. He is called a prophet and poet (2 Chronicles 29:20; Nehemiah 12:46) SONS OF KORAH: This guild of singers and composers wrote 10 psalms. SOLOMON: Israel’s most powerful king and the wisest man of history wrote 2 psalms (72, 127). MOSES: Psalm 90, the oldest psalm was written by Israel’s great deliverer. DAVID’S MUSICIANS: Two of King David’s favorite musicians penned two psalms (Heman, 88; Ethan, 89). ORPHAN PSALMS: The 39 remaining psalms are anonymous, though some of these are traditionally attributed to Ezra.

Messiah: Several psalms anticipated the life and ministry of the Lord Jesus, the One who came centuries later as Israel’s promised Messiah (anointed one). Every specific messianic prophecy in the Book of Psalms was fulfilled in Christ.

Psalms: Honestly turning to God with our messy lives! Four rules of interpretation should guide modern readers of these rich treasures of wisdom:

1. 1)  When the superscription gives the historical event, the psalm should be interpreted from that historical perspective. But when it is not given, never speculate trying to reconstruct the historical occasion of the psalm.

2. 2)  Some of the psalms are associated with definite aspects of Israel’s worship (5:7; 66:13). This can help greatly in understanding those psalms.

3. 3)  Many of the psalms use definite structure and motifs. Three types of psalms follow definite patterns of construction.

   1. a)  Praise Psalms such as 150 revolve around the word “praise” or the joyous “hallelujah.” Psalm 117 follows this pattern of an introductory call to worship, the reason for praise, then the recapitulation or a renewed summons to praise God.

   2. b)  Thanksgiving Psalms such as 48 are a public acknowledgment of God’s activity on behalf of the nation Israel or the psalmist. Psalm 138 follows this pattern of an introduction where the worshiper announces his intention to give thanks, a main section recounting the worshiper’s experience, and then a conclusion which again testifies to God’s gracious act.

   3. c)  Lament Psalms such as 22 begin with a direct cry to God. They are really expressions of praise— praise offered to God in the time of His absence. Psalm 22 follows this form very closely: Address to God, Complaint, Confession of Trust, Petition, Words of Assurance, Vow of Praise.

PSALMS AND YOU: “Of all the books in the Old Testament the Book of Psalms most vividly represents the faith of individuals in the Lord. The Psalms are the inspired responses of human hearts to God’s revelation of Himself in law, history, and prophecy. Saints of all ages have appropriated this collection of prayers and praises in their public worship and private mediations.” (Allen P. Ross, “Psalms,” in The Bible Knowledge Commentary: Old Testament, p. 779)

When we walk with God through life, the Psalms will become our hymnbook, our prayer book, our refuge in times of deepest anguish. Why? Because the inspired words of the original poets express every redeemed heart’s feelings toward God—our praises, doubts, anger, anguish, trust, rest, and joy.

A. Read the Psalms for spiritual benefit.

1. They are your guide to worship. 2. They help you relate honestly to God. 3. They must be read devotionally.

B. Read the Psalms unafraid of your emotions.

1. The poetry is messy and disordered, just like life.

2. The poetry is spiritual therapy.

3. The poetry gives us a category of lament to express our disappointment in God.

4. The poetry gives us a category of cursing to express our emotions to God—but always as prayers!

May your reading of these songs of trust bless your heart as you relate to the God whose love is always loyal and whose glory is always to be revealed...to those who trust!

Study Notes Ed Underwood

Job: Worship in the Face of Suffering

“I know that you can do all things; no purpose of yours can be thwarted.”

(Job to God, Job 42:2)

The five Books of Poetry bridge the past of the seventeen Books of History with the future of the seventeen Books of Prophecy. One-third of the Hebrew Bible was written in poetry. The five Poetical Books deal with the present experience of the authors in ways that speak to the experiential present of believers of all time. Though they come from an ancient culture they are timeless in their application. They do not advance the timeline of the nation Israel. The poetry erupts from the hearts of God’s people going through some of the eras and experiences documented in the Books of History.

Job lived during the patriarchal era of Abraham (Ezekiel 14:14; James 5:11). I believe Moses wrote the book based upon the oral tradition of the story he learned while living in Midian, adjacent to Uz (1:1). Adept at writing poetry (Psalm 90), Moses recast the story in Hebrew poetry under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. It’s a beautiful piece dealing with the deepest crisis of faith for those who trust in the God of the Bible: Why do the righteous suffer if God is loving and all-powerful? The central issue for the sufferer is, “How can I go on believing in God when life is so hard?” “To sufferers in all ages the book of Job declares that less important than fathoming the intellectual problem of the mystery of suffering is the appropriation of its spiritual enrichment through the fellowship of God.” (Henry McKeating, The Central Issue of the Book of Job,” Expository Times 82:8 (May 1971):246)

The Book of Job moves the reader from the problem of suffering to the relationship of the sufferer with their God. Job learns to trust in the goodness and power of his God when life isn’t good. Keep in mind that Job’s experience is limited to chapters 3-37. Only the reader has the divine perspective of chapters 1-2 and is able to “read ahead” to chapters 38-42. This is the way it is for sufferers. Suffering is real time with no tangible evidence that God is good and cares. Those sufferers who trust in the goodness of their God and worship Him as their caring Redeemer will know the real-time of intimacy with Him during the long days of suffering:

The story of Job reports the transforming crisis in the life of a follower of God who lived four thousand years ago. Job’s trust in God (chapters 1-2) changes to complaining and growing self-defense on the basis of his performance (3-31). Finally, God speaks and Job learns his place in the relationship. God is the Sovereign; Job is the worshiper (38-42).

I. JOB’S UNDESERVED SUFFERING: Satan challenges God’s rule with the charge that no one loves God from pure motives, but only for material blessings. God refutes Satan’s lie by allowing him to strike Job with two series of tragedies. In his sorrow Job laments the day he was born but does not deny God (1-2).

II. JOB’S “COMFORTERS”: Job’s friends come to “comfort” him. After a week of silence, a three round debate follows. His friends say Job must be suffering because of his sin. But Job insists that they are wrong and finally cries out to the Lord as his only judge and refuge (3-37).

A. JOB’S FRIENDS: Simplistic assumptions hurt Job deeply as he shifts his confidence from human resources to his Redeemer (3-32).

Messiah: Job acknowledges a Redeemer (19:25-27) and longs for a Mediator (9:33; 25:4; 33:23). Ultimately Christ is the answer to Job’s question. He identifies with our sufferings (Hebrews 4:15) and is our Mediator (1 Timothy 2:5).

Job: Trust God enough to worship Him during times of suffering!

B. JOB’S COMPLAINT CHALLENGED: Elihu rightly exposes Job’s real problem: His preoccupation with self-justification instead of glorifying God. (32-37).

III. GOD’S ANSWER: The LORD forces Job to look to the faithfulness of God, His Redeemer, who brings good for his own even out of evil and according to His purposes. This time Job acknowledges his error with a worshiping heart (38-42).

The following charts from Dr. Tom Constable help us sort through the answers to the question, “Why do the godly suffer?”

PERSON(S)

Job’s Wife Job’s Three Friends

Job Elihu God

PERSON(S)

Job’s Wife Job’s Three Friends Job Elihu God

ANSWER

God is unfair God is disciplining (punishing) them because of their sin God wants to destroy them because of sin God wants to direct (educate) them because of ignorance God wants to develop them to demonstrate His glory

EPISTEMOLOGICAL BASE

Empiricism Rationalism Rationalism Human inspiration Revelation

EV ALUA TION

Never Sometimes

Sometimes Sometimes Always

IV. JOB AND YOU: “The book of Job makes an outstanding contribution to the theology of God and man. God is seen as sovereign, omniscient, omnipotent, and caring. By contrast, man is seen as finite, ignorant, and sinful. And yet, even in the face of suffering, man can worship God, confident that His ways are perfect and that pride has no place before Him.” (Roy Zuck, A Theology of the Old Testament, p. 232)

A. Trying to comfort the suffering? Job’s three friends started well by simply showing up and being with him for a week. Then they started trying to explain the why’s of suffering. This almost never helps. The sufferer needs your presence and love more than your words and your theology.

1. Suffering? Don’t waste it by trying to figure out your God. Let Him redeem it by growing deeper in your relationship with Him as you trust Him and worship Him in spite of the pain.

2. Perspective! Don’t ever think that what you see on earth is all that’s going on in the universe. There is personal evil and wickedness in this world that is always challenging the goodness of our God. When we worship Him in spite of the pain we prove them wrong.

Study Notes Ed Underwood

Esther God’s Unfailing Protective Love

The chronology of Esther’s time is important:

“It may very well be that you have achieved royal status for such a time as this.”

(Mordecai to Queen Esther, Esther 4:14)

The fifth major unit within the seventeen Historical Books is referred to as the Post Exilic Period. The books of Ezra, Nehemiah, and Esther record Israel’s “second exodus,” this one from exile in Babylonia. This mini-exodus that only involved a returning remnant came in three waves. Zerubbabel rebuilt the temple in the first wave of 50,000. After God foiled a Satanic plot to exterminate God’s people in Persia, godly Esther reigns as Queen of Persia. Eighty-one years after Zerubbabel’s return, Ezra brings 5,000 Jews to Jerusalem to rebuild their godly culture. Finally, Nehemiah leads the third and last return to Jerusalem to rebuild the walls. This was the time when the prophets Haggai, Zechariah and Malachi spoke.

Ezra 1-6

Restoration under Zerubbabel 538-515 First Return (50,000) Rebuild the Temple Haggai-Zechariah

Esther

58-year gap No Journeys Home Life in Persia

Reformation under Ezra

457 Second Return (2,000) Rebuild the People

Reconstruction under Nehemiah 444-425

Third Return

Rebuild the Walls Malachi

Esther

Ezra 7-10

Nehemiah

The events of book of Esther occurred during the reign of the Persian King Ahasuerus (Greek name, Xerxes) from the planning session for his ill-fated war against Greece (1:3-21, 483 B.C.) to the institution of the Feast of Purim (9:24-28, 473 B.C.). It covers a span of 10 years. I believe the author wrote the book soon after the year the Jews defended themselves and instituted the Feast of Purim (473 B.C). “The lovely story of Esther provides the great theological truth that the purposes of God cannot be stymied because He is forever loyal to His covenant with His eternally elected nation.” (Eugene H. Merrill, “A Theology of Ezra-Nehemiah and Esther, in A Biblical Theology of the Old Testament, pp. 205)

The Book of Esther demonstrates how God has remained faithful to His promises in the face of worldwide conspiracies against the Jews and the unfaithfulness of His people. God’s name does not occur in the book, though His sovereign hand is obvious in the narrative. A plot to exterminate God’s people is thwarted by the brilliance of Mordecai and the momentary courage of Queen Esther:

Although Israel had failed as God’s people and seemed hopelessly exiled, God had not forgotten His covenants with Abraham and David. His mighty and merciful hand worked through the Gentiles to restore a true form of worship and true worshippers separated to Himself in the land of promise. It would be to the descendants; these restored and purified worshipers that Messiah would come to be worshipped in Spirit and truth. The lesson for God’s people is clear: God is always working to move His agenda forward. The darkest days cannot extinguish the light of God’s truth and grace.

I. CONSPIRACY AGAINST THE JEWS: God’s hand of providence and protection is evident as He works behind the scenes to put Esther into power and Mordecai into the King’s favor even before the evil Haman determines to exterminate Mordecai along with the Jews. (1-4)

A. ESTHER’S CORONATION: The Persian king Ahasuerus hosts a great banquet celebrating his dominion over 127 nations. But Queen V ashti undermines ever ything with her insolent disobedience. The volatile Ahasuerus deposes his queen and the beautiful Jewess Esther becomes queen of Persia just in time to save her king from an assassin, thanks to her uncle, Mordecai. (1-2)

Esther: God’s promises are more powerful

than the schemes of His enemies and the failures of His people!

Thirteen Year Gap

B. HAMAN’S PLOT: Haman becomes captain of the princes (Prime Minister) and demands the worship of the people. Mordecai refuses to bow down. With murderous rage, Haman plots for a year to eliminate all Jews. He casts lots (purim) daily to determine the best day to launch his holocaust. His decree moves Mordecai to challenge Esther to risk her life for the sake of her people. He convinces her that she has been called to her high office for this exalted purpose. (3-4)

Attention to detail! Haman was a descendant of the Amalekites. Had Joshua and the tribes of Israel (Exodus 17:14, Deuteronomy 25:17-19) or Saul (1 Samuel 15:1-35) been obedient to God’s command and destroyed all of the Amalekites there would have been no Haman.

II. DELIVERANCE OF THE JEWS: After fasting, Esther appears before the king. The king hasn’t called for her in more than 30 days. If she enters his chambers without being beckoned, she risks death, unless the king raises his golden scepter. Esther speaks up and her people are saved. (5-10)

A. HAMAN’S RUIN: Fortified with faith, Esther courageously enters the king’s court inviting the king and Haman to a banquet. She uses this banquet as an opportunity to invite them to a second banquet. Before the second banquet takes place however, three events happen in rapid sequence. Haman builds an enormous gallows on which to hang Mordecai. Ahasuerus discovers Mordecai’s previously overlooked act of bravery. And Haman is forced to endure the humiliation of bestowing on Mordecai the honor which he himself so greedily craved. At the second banquet, Esther uncovers the plot against her people, and Haman is hanged on his own gallows. (5-7)

B. ISRAEL’S VICTORIES: Haman is dead, but his murderous decree against the Jews lives on. A subsequent decree giving the Jews permission to fight back leads to mighty victories for God’s people. The Feast of Purim is inaugurated to henceforth commemorate this historic deliverance of the Jewish people. (8-10)

Messiah: This book reveals another satanic threat to destroy the Jewish people and thus, the messianic line. God continues to preserve His people in spite of opposition and danger, and nothing can prevent the coming of Messiah.

III. ESTHER AND YOU: Neither Mordecai nor Esther could be classified as godly Jews. They chose the pleasures of Persia over the hardships of their homeland (Ezra 1-6). They were eager to save their nation and their people, but they did not seem to have a warm and growing relationship with God. No one forced Esther into Ahaseurus’s harem where she ate unclean food (2:9) and did not disclose that she was a Jewess for five years (2:16). This masquerade that both she and Mordecai pulled off had to involve pagan worship. Mordecai was a brilliant politician and a nationalist for his people the Jews. But if he were that dedicated to God he would have followed Zerubbabel to Jerusalem to rebuild the Temple. Nevertheless, God used their momentary courage and faith in the covenant to do a mighty work to protect His people and remain faithful to His covenant.

1. Beware of anti-Semitism! Esther exposes the Satanic roots of anti-Semitism. It teaches us that in spite of worldwide conspiracies against the Jews they are God’s covenant people and He defends them for the sake of His covenant.

2. Mordecai and Esther were no Ezra or Nehemiah! God is more powerful than the failures and weaknesses of His people. In spite of the trajectory of their lives as unfaithful Jews, God decided to use them to move His plan forward. It’s never too late to exercise courageous faith in the God who saved you from your sin. “If we are unfaithful, he remains faithful, since he cannot deny himself” (2 Timothy 2:13).

3. Mordecai and Esther lived in a time when the enemies of God threatened their lives! God is more powerful than the schemes of His enemies. In spite of their hopeless situation, God was working behind the scenes to move protect His people. “You are from God, little children, and have conquered them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world” (1 John 4:4).

Study Notes Ed Underwood

Nehemia: Return from Exile: Rebuild the Walls

“Our enemies...knew that this work had been accomplished with the help of our God.”

(Nehemiah 6:15-16)

The fifth major unit within the seventeen Historical Books is referred to as the Post Exilic Period. The books of Ezra, Nehemiah, and Esther record Israel’s “second exodus,” this one from exile in Babylonia. This mini-exodus that only involved a returning remnant came in three waves. Zerubbabel rebuilt the temple in the first wave of 50,000. After God foiled a Satanic plot to exterminate God’s people in Persia, godly Esther reigns as Queen of Persia. Eighty-one years after Zerubbabel’s return, Ezra brings 5,000 Jews to Jerusalem to rebuild their godly culture. Finally, Nehemiah leads the third and last return to Jerusalem to rebuild the walls. This was the time when the prophets Haggai, Zechariah and Malachi spoke.

The chronology of Nehemiah’s time is important:

Ezra 1-6

Restoration under Zerubbabel 538-515 First Return (50,000) Rebuild the Temple Haggai-Zechariah

Esther

58-year gap No Journeys Home Life in Persia

Reformation under Ezra

457 Second Return (2,000) Rebuild the People

Reconstruction under Nehemiah 444-425

Third Return

Rebuild the Walls Malachi

Esther

Ezra 7-10

Nehemiah

The book of Nehemiah covers the 20-plus years of history from the year Nehemiah first heard the news of conditions in Jerusalem (445 B.C.) to the early years of Darius’ reign in Persia (423 B.C.). Most of the events took place in 444 B.C.—when he arrived in Jerusalem and rebuilt the walls within 52 days (chapters 1-7), and in 432-432 B.C.—when he returned to institute spiritual reforms in partnership with Ezra (chapters 8-13). I believe Nehemiah wrote the book while in his 60s, soon after Darius replaced Artaxerxes (4423 B.C.). “The books of Ezra and Nehemiah reflect some of the bleakest and most difficult days in Israel’s long Old Testament history. Though the Exile was over and a remnant people was in process of rebuilding the superstructures of national life, the prospects for success paled in comparison of the halcyon days of the past when the Davidic kingdom dominated the entire eastern Mediterranean world. What was needed was a word of encouragement, a message of hope in the God who had once blessed His people above all nations of the earth and who had promised to do so again.” (Eugene H. Merrill, “A Theology of Ezra-Nehemiah and Esther, in A Biblical Theology of the Old Testament, pp. 200-201)

The Book of Nehemiah demonstrates how God uses His people in fulfilling His promises. Ezra the priest and Nehemiah the cupbearer were God’s choice to guide Israel to accomplish seemingly impossible tasks. Nehemiah was one of the greatest leaders of Israel:

Although Israel had failed as God’s people and seemed hopelessly exiled, God had not forgotten His covenants with Abraham and David. His mighty and merciful hand worked through the Gentiles to restore a true form of worship and true worshippers separated to Himself in the land of promise. It would be to the descendants; these restored and purified worshipers that Messiah would come to be worshipped in Spirit and truth. The lesson for God’s people is clear: God is always working to move His agenda forward. The darkest days cannot extinguish the light of God’s truth and grace.

I. REBUILDING THE WALLS: God stirs the heart of a privileged Jew (Nehemiah) to take bold action for his people and the welfare of Jerusalem. 40 year-old Nehemiah relies on God and leads with courage to build the walls in record time in spite of intense external and internal opposition. Jerusalem now exists in its historical location pursuing its historical religion—Judaism. (1-7)

God uses leaders who work hard, pray even harder, and refuse to quit!

Thirteen Year Gap

The cupbearer of a Persian king was the ultimate insider. Nehemiah had the king’s complete trust and confidence. Esther is Artaxerxes’ stepmother. She must have been influential in Nehemiah’s appointment to such a high office.

1. PREPARING TO BUILD: The project to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem fails and they are torn down again. Nehemiah cannot tolerate the news from his homeland and takes courageous action. Thirteen years after Ezra and ninety-four years after Zerubbabel, Nehemiah goes to Jerusalem to inspect the walls and plan their restoration. (1-2)

2. BUILDING: Opposition quickly arises, but Nehemiah presses on in bold faith and effective leadership. The project is completed in an incredible fifty-two days, and even the enemies recognize that it can only have been accomplished with the help of God. (3-7)

II. RESTORING THE PEOPLE: The construction of the walls is followed by the consecration and consolidation of the people. Ezra and Nehemiah lead the people in repentance for the sins of the Jews and resolve to remain pure from foreign influence. (8-13)

RENEWING THE COVENANT: Ezra again leads the people toward revival by reading and teaching the Word of God. This revival takes the same course of the reforms Ezra led thirteen years before. (8-10)

OBEYING THE COVENANT: Unfortunately, Ezra’s revival is short-lived; and Nehemiah, who returned to Persia in 432 BC, makes a second trip to Jerusalem about 425 BC to reform the people. He cleanses the temple, enforces the Sabbath, and requires the people to put away their foreign wives (11-13).

Messiah: In the book of Nehemiah the Old Testament historical books end leaving everything restored except the king. The temple is rebuilt, Jerusalem is reconstructed and secure, the covenant is renewed, and the people are reformed. The messianic line is intact, but the King is yet to come. The decree of Artaxerxes in his twentieth year (2:1) marks the beginning point of Daniel’s prophecy of the Seventy Weeks (Daniel 9:25-27). The Messiah will come at the end of the sixty-nine weeks, and this is exactly when Jesus Christ showed up—AD 33! The decree took place on March 4, 444 BC. 69 weeks x 7 years = 483 years or 173,880 days (using the 360-day prophetic year). This leads to March 29, AD33—the exact day of the Triumphal Entry! (Luke 19:28-40)

III. NEHEMIAH AND YOU: Nehemiah worked hard, prayed harder, and refused to quit!

1. “Nehemiah’s singleness of purpose, attention to detail, willingness to delegate authority, dedication to service, and dependence on God were combined in a man who can simply be labeled as a servant of God.” (Merven Breneman, Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther, p. 59) Would the people you lead in your life, your work, and your home describe you in this way? How do you feel you can become a more “Nehemiah-like” leader?

2. Nehemiah worked hard! Do you? The best way to find out if you’re the type of person who works hard is to ask someone who loves you enough to tell you the truth.

3. Nehemiah prayed even harder! Do you? What would your Heavenly Father say about your prayer life? Are you one of His children He hears from a lot when you’re going through tough times? Or do you sulk because you “don’t think prayer works”?

4. Nehemiah refused to quit! Do you? Is your history in meeting challenges the history of a persevering leader or a quitter?

Ed Underwood Study Notes

 

Return from Exile: Zerubbabel and Ezra

“I will bring you back to the place from which I exiled you” (Jeremiah 29:14).

The fifth major unit within the seventeen Historical Books is referred to as the Post Exilic Period. The books of Ezra, Nehemiah, and Esther record Israel’s “second exodus,” this one from exile in Babylonia. This mini-exodus that only involved a returning remnant came in three waves. Zerubbabel rebuilt the temple in the first wave of 50,000. After God foiled a Satanic plot to exterminate God’s people in Persia, godly Esther reigns as Queen of Persia. Eighty-one years after Zerubbabel’s return, Ezra brings 5,000 Jews to Jerusalem to rebuild their godly culture. Finally, Nehemiah leads the third and last return to Jerusalem to rebuild the walls. This was the time when the prophets Haggai, Zechariah and Malachi spoke.

The chronology of Ezra’s time is important:

538-515 BC

483-473 BC

457 BC

444-425 BC

Zerubbabel

Ezra 1-6

First Return Rebuild the Temple

Esther Book of Esther No Journeys Home Life In Persia

Ezra

Ezra 7-10

Second Return Rebuild the People

Nehemiah Book of Nehemiah Third Return Rebuild the Walls

The book of Ezra covers the 92 years of history from the decree of Cyrus allowing the Jews to return (538 B.C.) to Nehemiah’s first trip back to Jerusalem (446 B.C.). Most of the events took place from 538- 515 B.C.--Zerubbabel’s return (chapters 1-6), and in 458 B.C.—Ezra’s return (chapters 7-10). The events of the Book of Esther occurred between chapters 6 and 7. I believe Ezra wrote the book soon after Nehemiah arrived in Jerusalem (446 B.C.). “The message is addressed to the postexilic community of Jews who wonder if there is any hope of political and religious restoration. Its central thrust is that there is indeed hope but that hope must be incarnated in rebuilding the rebuilding of the Temple, the cultus [worshiping community], and the priesthood.” (Eugene H. Merrill, “A Theology of Ezra-Nehemiah and Esther, in A Biblical Theology of the Old Testament, p. 190)

Ezra wrote the book to show how God fulfills His promise to return His people to the their land. He sovereignly protected His people by a powerful empire while they were in captivity. They even prospered in their exile! Then, right on prophetic schedule (Jeremiah 29:10-14) God raised up pagan kings who were sympathetic to their cause and encouraged them to rebuild their homeland. Ezra traces the dramatic re- establishment of the worship of YHWH separate from all foreign influence:

Although Israel had failed as God’s people and seemed hopelessly exiled, God had not forgotten His covenants with Abraham and David. His mighty and merciful hand worked through the Gentiles to restore a true form of worship and true worshippers separated to Himself in the land of promise. It would be to the descendants, these restored and purified worshipers that Messiah would come to be worshipped in Spirit and truth. The lesson for God’s people is clear: God is always working to move His agenda forward. The darkest days cannot extinguish the light of God’s truth and grace.

I. RESTORING WORSHIP IN THE TEMPLE: God stirs the heart of a Persian king (Cyrus) to release the Jews and charge them to rebuild the temple in Jerusalem—an event prophesied 200 years before (Isaiah 44:28). With Zerubbabel as their leader only 49,897 of the two to three million Jews respond to the call. (1-6)

The “lost tribes” are not entirely lost. Those who returned were primarily from the tribes of Judah, Benjamin, and Levi; but it is evident that representatives from the other ten tribes eventually returned as well.

Ezra: When life overwhelms you, turn to God’s Word. Study it; do it; teach it!

1. COMMISSION OF THE TEMPLE BUILDERS: God’s people return to their shattered homeland, rebuild the altar and reinstate the sacrifices as they prepare to reconstruct the temple. The foundation is laid, causing joy and optimism among the workers, but bringing tears of sadness to those who recalled the incomparable splendor of the former temple. (1-3).

2. COMPLETION OF THE TEMPLE: Pagan peoples who hate the Jews try to stop the project in two ways. First, they make deceitful offers to help. When Zerubbabel fails to compromise they openly attack God’s people and bring false accusations to the authorities. For fifteen years the discouraged and disobedient Jews neglect their commission to rebuild the temple. The prophets Haggai and Zechariah call the people to repentance and God responds by overthrowing the existing Persian regime. The new king (Darius) overrules the opposition to the temple project by the wicked Persian governor of Palestine, Tattenai. Finally, 23 years after the arrival of the first pilgrims, the temple is completed. (4-6)

Messiah: Though the temple is restored, God’s glory does not return. The glory, which departed during the Babylonian defeat (Ezekiel 8-11), does not enter the new temple at this time. After 400 years of silence God’s next prophet, John the Baptist would point to the Lamb of God and all would behold His glory—the glory of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth (John 1:14).

BACK IN PERSIA: A 58-year gap between the accounts of the first two returns is well documented by the Book of Esther. The Jews in Persia had other things on their mind—survival against an evil Satanic plot to destroy their race!

AND AROUND THE WORLD: Having failed in his diabolical plan to thwart God’s plan of redemption, Satan moved swiftly to raise up counterfeit systems of righteousness worldwide. As God prepared His people for their Messiah in Israel during the time of the Book of Ezra (538-444 BC), Satan raised up Gautama Buddha in India (560-480 BC), Confucius in China (551-479 BC), and Socrates in Greece (470- 399 BC).

II. RESTORING PURITY: Eighty-one years later God stirs the heart of another Persian king (Artaxerxes 1) to give Ezra the priest authority to bring people and contributions for the temple in Jerusalem. 1,753 leaders experience God’s protection and provision during the 900-mile journey to their homeland. (7-10)

COMMISSION OF THE SPIRITUAL LEADERS: After praying and fasting, Ezra and his caravan begin the four-month journey. Their enthusiasm for their mission grows as they see God’s powerful hand on their life. (7-8)

COMPLETION OF SPIRITUAL REFORM: When Ezra discovers that the people and the priests have intermarried with foreign women, he calls for repentance and offers a great intercessory prayer on their behalf. Their confession and response to the Word of God brings about a great revival and changes lives. (9-10)

III. EZRA AND YOU: God’s people should never doubt His ability to accomplish His will. The Jews were far from home and the Promised Land filled with pagan peoples. But God was working behind the scenes. He worked through pagan, godless rulers and passionate, God-fearing leaders to re- establish worship separate from all foreign influence. His people would never again follow false gods!

1. God can and will do seemingly impossible things to remain faithful to His promises to His people. (Tom Constable)

2. God is always working, but usually in surprising and jarring ways.

3. When the days seem dark and without hope, do what Ezra did: Study God’s Word; do what God’s Word says to do, and teach God’s word to others (Ezra 7:10).