Return From Exile (Mar 31)
We have been covering the Bible
by time sequence, phase by phase
OT1: Five Books of Laws incl Job.
OT2: Israel History to King David
from Joshua to 1 Chron + Psalms
as well as Reign of King Solomon
in 2nd Chron & Wisdom Poetry.
In OT Phase 3, we see decline
of the two Divided Kingdoms.
OT3A: 1 Kings & minor prophets.
OT3B: 2K1-17 & Prophets incl Isaiah
up to Israel’s Dispersion in 722BC.
OT3C: 2K18-25 & Prophets incl Jer
up to Judah’s Dispersion in 586BC.
Followed by Ezekiel & Daniel.
And then the return from exile,
namely Esther, Ezra & Nehemiah.
Continuing, we will meditate on
the last three prophetic books
of the Old Testament following
the return from exile. Listed below
are the background condition and
issues during that period of time.
Haggai (520 BC)
“Consider your ways” and “Finish
what you have begun” are the
resounding calls of the prophet
Haggai as he tries to awaken the
people spiritually. They have just
returned from exile in Babylonia
and are discouraged by the
destruction in the city.But Haggai’s
message brings encouragement,
particularly to the governor,
Zerubbabel, who must inspire
the people. I am with you, declares
the Lord as the people are called
to rebuild and fight against future
oppression. There is hope and
future blessing for their obedience!
Zechariah (520 BC)
Using colourful visions and
consoling sermons to portray
God’s glorious future plans for
His covenant people, Zechariah
encourages the workers engaged
in rebuilding the temple. Although
early enthusiasm has waned,
the task is an important one,
for the temple will be the focal
point of the ministry of Israel’s
coming Messiah. God will keep
His promises to His people, and
fasting will turn to feasting when
Messiah arrives. So put away sin,
finish the temple, and await the
Messiah with eager excitement.
Malachi (440 BC)
Years after the restoration from
exile, the spiritual condition of
God’s people deteriorated. Again
they have lapsed into the same
sins that brought about captivity.
They tithe sporadically, ignore
the Sabbath and intermarry with
unbelievers. Their hearts have
grown hard and their love for God
has grown cold, yet Malachi comes
to remind the people of God’s love
for them. Malachi’ final warning
about the purifying Day of the Lord
marks the close of the OT period
which is followed by 400 years
of silence in the biblical record.
Friends, Look out for the expository
meditation as it shows God is
in control of situations and will
strengthen our faith in Him.
Shalom/chris