Mark

Original Reader:

The original readers of Mark would have been Roman Christians and believers living in Rome. The Roman Empire was fast paced and dominant. They would have wanted a gospel that was straight to the point; who is Jesus and what did he do? Words like “at once”, “instantly” and “immediately” are used often in describing the disciples response time to following Jesus, the authority Jesus has to heal which propels the fast paced book of Mark forward to captivate a Roman audience (Mark 1:18,42; 2:8). A clue into this is the lack of genealogy the other gospels contain; revealing that the original readers were gentiles and not of the old covenant.  So Jesus’ genealogy is simply “…Jesus the Messiah, the Son of God.”(Mark 1:1) This would reveal the man Jesus; a relatable Savior.

Author:

Mark wrote the book, who served as a translator of Peter and most likely recorded the events as he heard them firsthand. In 1 Peter 5:13; Peter refers to Mark as his son, confirming their friendship. Peter was also the first disciple to be called by God as he depicts in his gospel; revealing his first hand experience of Jesus’ ministry and the addition of each disciple to their crew (Mark 1:16).

Main Theme:

“Almost 40% of this gospel is devoted to a detailed account of the last eight days of Jesus’ life, climaxing in His resurrection… Mark emphasizes the passion and resurrection as the gauge by which the whole of Jesus’ ministry may be measured” (Nelson’s Pg. 317). The majority of time and detailed put exclusively into the death of Christ shows a theme of the Savior Messiah coming and giving his life as the perfect sacrifice.  The story builds in Mark, revealed by Jesus hushing people and not wanting them to spread His name yet. So the pinnacle of understanding of Jesus is in His resurrection. God gives us a picture of what this is like in the story of the blind man in Bethsaida. “…spitting on the man’s eyes, he laid his hands on him and asked, ‘Can you see anything now?’ The man looked around. ‘Yes,’ he said, ‘I see people, but I can’t see them very clearly. They look like trees walking around.’ Then, Jesus places his hands on the man’s eyes again, and his eyes were opened. His sight was completely restored, and he could see everything clearly” (Mark 8:23-25). In this same way, the Messiah Jesus would be first unclear to people, but then it will be clear as day and they will see who he is.

Reason Written:

 Mark was written for the persecuted believers in The Roman Empire to encourage them to hold tight to Jesus and also to boldly proclaim the hope they had to other gentiles. When Jesus sets free the demon possessed man Jesus sent him away to proclaim the power of Jesus only to people in gentile places. This affirmed God’s love of the gentiles. Mark is the only gospel that says Jesus was “…out among the wild animals, and angels took care of him…”(Mark 1:13) This is included to show relation with those believers who were thrown into lions dens for death and would have encouraged them that Gods angels could also take care of them. “Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first among you must be the slave of everyone else. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.” (Mark 10:43-45) In a time of domineering, fear invoking rulers this would have contrasted powerfully and caught their attention. God was more powerful than death itself; yet he was a servant. Jesus encourages us, and the original readers not to have fear or unbelief. He encourages us in a new way of seeing the world from Gods point of view, not merely from a human point of view (Mark 8:33). Even in persecution, suffering for Jesus is worth it. And Jesus understands persecution and suffering with us.

Character & Nature of God:

Jesus describes himself as “I AM” many times. He also is seen as a teacher (4:38, 5:35, 10:35, 10:17, 13:1, 12:14), Son of David (10:47), Prophet (8:30), obedient servant (10:45),  and compassionate (1:41, 6:34). These attributes all focus on the manhood of Jesus and make him relatable as a man. But he is also the son of God (1:1, 3:11), a healer (5:25). He is authoritative over Satan and unclean spirits (1:27; 3:19-30), sin (2:1), the Sabbath (2:27), nature (4:35, 6:45), disease (5:21), death (5:35), the Sabbath (2:27), legalistic tradition (7:1, 14-20), and the temple (11:15).

God’s Redemptive Plan:

Gods redemptive plan is seen in the foreshadowing of the Holy Spirit. “…say what God tells you at that time, for it is not you who will be speaking, but the Holy Spirit” (Mark 13:11) Jesus tells of his resurrection before it happens when he will finish the plan. “I AM. And you will see the Son of Man seated in the place of power at God’s right hand and coming on the clouds of heaven.”

Application:

These gospels are so rich and brimming with incredible revelation of God’s heart and plan. I have a desire to understand them and study them; but with such limited time right now I know I need to rest in God trusting He will bring me back to these books in the right time to go deeper. A powerful picture for me is the women breaking her alabaster jar on Jesus’ feet, pouring out everything we she has that is value because of her revelation of Jesus’ worthiness. In my alabaster jar I poured out my purity to the Lord; something He has given me and restored in me so that I might have the faith and joy of little girl. My alabaster jar is full of this gift the Lord has given me that I want to serve him with and honor him with forever; my purity.

Point of Passion:

“Have faith in God. I tell you in truth, you can say to this mountain, ‘May you be lifted up and thrown into the sea,’ and it will happen” (Mark 11:22-23). This is a beautiful call to live our lives in full faith to Jesus. This kind of faith has no room for being watered down; we must make God our only option; for he is truly the only real mountain mover. For oppressed women living with impossibilities around them having Jesus faith in Jesus is all they have. And the only certainty of hope to cling to.

Matthew

 

What do you see in this book that tells you about the original reader?

The original readers of Matthew would have been a Jewish audience awaiting their Messiah to deliver them from Roman persecution. The Old Testament was quoted or eluded to more in Matthew than any New Testament book (approximately 130 times according to Nelson’s Pg. 242). This reveals the exclusively Jewish focus and desire of the author to portray the Messianic prophecies fulfillment in Jesus. The Jews were awaiting a king to come and rescue them from their oppressors the Romans, in the similar ways they were rescued from Egypt and Babylon but they were majorly missing it. Jesus came to rescue the Jews from the old covenant, not abolishing it but fulfilling it. But still the people “…refuse to listen” (Matthew 12:40). Even John the Baptist exercised this idea as clear as day, showing the Jews they no longer are saved because of their relationship to Abraham, but now because of believing in Jesus and repenting of their sins.

“Prove by the way you live that you have repented of your sins and turned to God. Don’t just say to each other, ‘We’re safe, for we are descendant of Abraham.’ That means nothing, for I tell you, God can create children of Abraham from these very stones. Even now the ax of God’s judgment is poised, ready to sever the roots of the trees. Yes, every tree that does not produce good fruit will be chopped down and thrown into the fire.” Matthew 3:8-10

What do you see in this book that tells you about the author?

Although disputed, I believe Matthew authored the book of Matthew. He was a Jewish and would have understood the law and also the challenges the Jewish people would have in recognizing the Messiah. Matthew shares his first, personal encounter of meeting Jesus in a straight forward way, as If it was his own experience (Mtt. 9:9-13). “Matthew would have written in the middle of the first century, probably only a few decades after the events of Jesus’ life and ministry, but before the fall of Jerusalem in AD 70” (SourceView Pg. 1235)

What are the main themes, and repeated ideas in this book, and what is a one sentence summary of the main idea?

WAKE UP YOUR MESSIAH IS HERE!!! The word “fulfilled” or in other words “accomplish” if frequently used in reference to Jesus being the fulfillment of the promised Messiah and coming to accomplish His purpose of establishing a new covenant (Matthew 5:17, 16:16). A theme is revealing that Jesus is the Messiah and fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecies. “I tell you, there is one here who is even greater than the Temple!” (Matthew 12:6) “’You are the Messiah, the son of the living God” (Matthew 16:16)

What is the primary reason this book was written?

This book was written to reveal to the Jews that there long awaited Messiah has come and to help them  realize Jesus was their King. The genealogy that introduces Matthew goes to Abraham, revealing Jesus as the fulfillment: “This is a record of the ancestors of Jesus the Messiah, a descendant of David and of Abraham: Abraham was the father of Isaac…” (Mtt. 1:1-2) A few chapters later though; John warns them that their relation to Abraham will not save them when he says “’We’re safe for we are descendant of Abraham.’ That means nothing, for I tell you, God can create children of Abraham form these very stones.” (Mtt. 3:9)The Old Testament prophecies are quoted in hopes they will realize the truth about Jesus. A verse that displays this idea of revealing the Messiah in a way the Jews would recognize Him is in Matthew 13:13-15:

For they will look, but they don’t really see.

They hear, but don’t really listen or understand.

This fulfills the prophecy of Isaiah that says:

When you hear what I say,

You will not understand.

When you see what I do,

You will not comprehend.

For the hearts of these people are hardened,

And their ears cannot hear,

And they have closed their eyes-

So their eyes cannot see,

And their ears cannot hear,

And their hearts cannot understand,

And they cannot turn to me

And let me hear them.”

What does this book show about the character & nature of God:

Matthew reveals Jesus as the King of the Jews, The Savior, and Deliverer and long awaited Messiah, prophet and a teacher. Something really interesting that stuck out to me in Matthew is Jesus as a friend! Its so precious his bromance with his disciples.

What does this book reveal about God’s redemptive Plan:

I CANT BELIEVE THE FULFILLMENT OF JESUS IS IN MATTHEW! “All the prophets and the law of Moses looked forward to this present time.” (Mtt. 11:13) Now the redemptive plan of Jesus is fulfilled, so God’s redemptive plan shifts onto the church and the new nation to accept Christ and walk into that. We see a new standard of living set with Christ coming in chapter seven.

Personal Application: The application we did in class was really amazing and helped transition into Matthew. We wrote who Jesus was in each gospel. In Matthew He's revealed as King of the Jews, in Mark He's revealed as Obedient Servant, in Luke revealed as the Perfect Man, and in John as the Son of Man. Then, we would take the one we most associated with and write a word that describes Jesus to us. I said "Lover of my soul."

Point of Passion:
The power of words we speak and the way they show what's really in our hearts is revealed; and would be a powerful truth for oppressed women. To understand that they can begin speaking life and truth over themselves that will transform them into women of God. This wonderful truth is found in Matthew 15:18-19.

Luke

Original Reader:

The original readers of Luke would have been gentile believers and non Jews. This book is written to “…most honorable Theophilus…”(Luke 1:3) Theophilus means “lover of God,” giving the impression that the book was written to people who love God. What points to the original readers being gentile lovers of God is the emphasis on Jesus being the Savior of the whole world, not just King of the Jews (Luke 2:32). Also, there is a special emphasis on the poor, outcasts and women. An example can be found in the detail and emphasis of Elizabeth and Mary (Luke 1:5-65). The story of the “…despised Samaritan…” is unique to Luke and is used to show Jesus’ love for all people; including those not liked (10:30-36).

Author:

It is suggested that Luke is the author; as he was an educated Christ following friend of Paul (Colossians 4:10-14). I believe Luke wrote this book, and tradition ascribes it to him. Being a doctor, he focused with caring detail on Jesus’ love for all people; especially the broken, and also reveals the man Jesus as real and relatable.  

Main Idea:

The main idea of Luke is that Jesus came to save all people, Jew and Gentile, and that He loves all nations, genders and types of people (Luke 24:27). Another theme is the prayer life of Jesus highlighted in Luke; revealing an intimacy we can have with God. Jesus choose his disciples after he prayed all night (6:12-16), and 6 other times Luke shows Jesus praying which aren’t included elsewhere (Nelson’s Pg. 325). Luke also contains many parables in the section called “travelogue”(9:51-19:27) marking Jesus’ final journey from Galilee to Jerusalem. Jesus came to teach us what is right; it is found in true intimacy with the father and in loving the hurting and broken of the world.

Reason Written:

Luke was written to expand the teachings and heart of Jesus to believers; especially gentiles. Teachings of Jesus focused on including lost people and going out and sharing the new hope of Jesus is focused upon in Luke. Jesus explains his heart plainly when he says “Healthy people don’t need a doctor- sick people do. I have come to call not those who think they are righteous, but those who know they are sinners and need to repent” (Luke 5:31-32).  

Nature of God:

I want to focus on the compassion of Jesus; a quality of his nature that is brightly revealed throughout Luke. When Jesus is on a cross beside the criminals and one of them repented and Jesus had immediate compassion and told him he would be in Paradise with him (Luke 23:43). Jesus values the woman who poured out her rare perfume and defends her against others for “…she has shown me much love” (Luke 7:44-48) Jesus also has compassion on people and heals them.

Redemptive Plan:

“The Savior- yes, the Messiah, the Lord- has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David…This is my Son, my Chosen One. Listen to him”(Luke 2:11;9:35). This is fulfillment of God redemptive plan to have Jesus be born and be a Savior to the world. Jesus also sheds light on his second coming when he says: “Then everyone will see the Son of Man coming on a cloud with power and great glory” (Luke 21:27).

 

Personal Application: Luke 2:19 "...but Mary kept all these things in her heart and thought about them often." I want to grow in holding revelation or words spoken by God hidden in my heart and so the truth can mature and I can really own it. There is so much wisdom in this idea of guarding the things spoken by God. I almost see it as treasure God gives to us; like a unrefined diamond. He knows what's within the rock, and we also, can know if we let it sit in our hearts and let God shine it and reveal to us the full weight of the truth or revelation He's given.

Point of Passion: Luke 24:32
God values women. This truth would speak powerfully to oppressed ladies who feel unworthy. God allowed women to be the first to discover he had risen. Jesus cared deeply for women and the book of Luke displays this powerfully.

Ezra

Historical Background & Purpose of Prophet:

The Jews were living as exiled foreigners in Babylon under Babylonian rule.  The King of Persia, Cyrus, conquered Babylon and allowed the Jews to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple. Many Jews became comfortable with the lifestyle in Babylon and adopted the ways of life and religion while living in Babylon. Ezra is spurring the people to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple of God. Chapter 1-7 covers 22 years (538-516 B.C.) and 49,897 Jews returning to Jerusalem under the leadership of Zerubbabel. This group of Jews also rebuilt the temple. The latter end of the book, Chapters 7-10, covers the second return to Jerusalem, spanning one year (458-457) and the return of 1,754 Jews under the leadership of Ezra (Nelson’s Chart Pg. 153). God uses Ezra to call out the sin and unfaithfulness of the first group of returned exiles who were taking foreign wives and adopting detestable pagan practices. Ezra’s response is prayer upon hearing about the sin of his people. “But now we have been given a brief moment of grace, for the Lord our God has allowed a few of us to survive as a remnant. He has given us security in this holy place. Our God has brightened our eyes and granted us some relief from our slavery. For we were slaves, but in his unfailing love our God did not abandon us in our slavery. Instead, he caused the kings of Persia to treat us favorably. He revived us so we could rebuild the Temple of our God and repair its ruins. He has given us a protective wall in Judah and Jerusalem. And now, O our God, what can we say after all of this? For once again we have abandoned your commands!” (Ezra 9:6-10) By popular opinion Ezra authored the book. There is a portion of first person narrative (Ezra 7:28-9:15) and “…there is a strong priestly emphasis, and Ezra was a direct priestly descendant of Aaron through Eleazar, Phinehas, and Zadok (7:1-5).”(Nelson’s Pg. 151)

Nature & Character of God:                                                                                            

The book of Ezra testifies to the incredible restoration of God. We see the fulfillment of God’s promise to bring the people back to Jerusalem. We see that God is all powerful; even over the fiercest and most powerful rulers of our day. It says that God “…stirred the heart of Cyrus…” to write a proclamation declaring that all Jews can return to Jerusalem and build God a temple there! (Ezra 1:1-4) God gave the Jews the same favor and support from King Darius of Persia (6:6-12) and King Artaxerxes of Persia (7:12-26). All of these attributes point to God being a gracious God. (Ezra 7:28;9:8) “For we were slaves, but in his unfailing love our God did not abandon us in our slavery.” (Ezra 9:9) Again, the book says God has unfailing love (7:28), and reveals He is a God of grace (9:8), he is a God of security (9:8),God is the restorer of our freedom (9:8) and in all His ways God is just (9:15).

 

God’s Redemptive Plan for Mankind:

The first step of God’s redemptive plan to restore broken, enslaved Israel to Jerusalem was the victory of Cyrus King of Persia over the Babylonian empire; fulfilling Isaiah’s prophesy in 44:28-45:4 (Nelson’s Pg. 154).Ezra ushers in Spiritual revival, holy living and the rebuilding of the temple; fulfilling God desire to restore his people to their promised land. The re-building of the temple (Ezra 3-7:1) is incredible redemption because it represents a heart posture of the Jews desiring to worship God again and live holy lives. This all points to God’s plan to send Jesus as the ultimate redemption. But God must first gather is people together in Jerusalem, cleanse them of their sin and unholy living, and the temple being rebuilt to turn their focus back on God in hopes that they will recognize the Messiah to come.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Nehemiah

Historical Background & Purpose of Prophet:

The Jews were living as exiled foreigners in Babylon under Babylonian rule.  The King of Persia, Cyrus, conquered Babylon and allowed the Jews to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple. Many Jews became comfortable with the lifestyle in Babylon and adopted the ways of life and religion while living in Babylon. Ezra is spurring the people to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple of God. Chapter 1-7 covers 22 years (538-516 B.C.) and 49,897 Jews returning to Jerusalem under the leadership of Zerubbabel. This group of Jews also rebuilt the temple. The latter end of the book, Chapters 7-10, covers the second return to Jerusalem, spanning one year (458-457) and the return of 1,754 Jews under the leadership of Ezra (Nelson’s Chart Pg. 153). God uses Ezra to call out the sin and unfaithfulness of the first group of returned exiles who were taking foreign wives and adopting detestable pagan practices. Ezra’s response is prayer upon hearing about the sin of his people. “But now we have been given a brief moment of grace, for the Lord our God has allowed a few of us to survive as a remnant. He has given us security in this holy place. Our God has brightened our eyes and granted us some relief from our slavery. For we were slaves, but in his unfailing love our God did not abandon us in our slavery. Instead, he caused the kings of Persia to treat us favorably. He revived us so we could rebuild the Temple of our God and repair its ruins. He has given us a protective wall in Judah and Jerusalem. And now, O our God, what can we say after all of this? For once again we have abandoned your commands!” (Ezra 9:6-10) By popular opinion Ezra authored the book. There is a portion of first person narrative (Ezra 7:28-9:15) and “…there is a strong priestly emphasis, and Ezra was a direct priestly descendant of Aaron through Eleazar, Phinehas, and Zadok (7:1-5).”(Nelson’s Pg. 151)

Nature & Character of God:                                                                                            

The book of Ezra testifies to the incredible restoration of God. We see the fulfillment of God’s promise to bring the people back to Jerusalem. We see that God is all powerful; even over the fiercest and most powerful rulers of our day. It says that God “…stirred the heart of Cyrus…” to write a proclamation declaring that all Jews can return to Jerusalem and build God a temple there! (Ezra 1:1-4) God gave the Jews the same favor and support from King Darius of Persia (6:6-12) and King Artaxerxes of Persia (7:12-26). All of these attributes point to God being a gracious God. (Ezra 7:28;9:8) “For we were slaves, but in his unfailing love our God did not abandon us in our slavery.” (Ezra 9:9) Again, the book says God has unfailing love (7:28), and reveals He is a God of grace (9:8), he is a God of security (9:8),God is the restorer of our freedom (9:8) and in all His ways God is just (9:15).

God’s Redemptive Plan for Mankind: The first step of God’s redemptive plan to restore broken, enslaved Israel to Jerusalem was the victory of Cyrus King of Persia over the Babylonian empire; fulfilling Isaiah’s prophesy in 44:28-45:4 (Nelson’s Pg. 154).Ezra ushers in Spiritual revival, holy living and the rebuilding of the temple; fulfilling God desire to restore his people to their promised land. The re-building of the temple (Ezra 3-7:1) is incredible redemption because it represents a heart posture of the Jews desiring to worship God again and live holy lives. This all points to God’s plan to send Jesus as the ultimate redemption. But God must first gather is people together in Jerusalem, cleanse them of their sin and unholy living, and the temple being rebuilt to turn their focus back on God in hopes that they will recognize the Messiah to come.

Personal Application:

Nehemiah 9:16-21

I am so moved by the faithful, love of God. The way he upholds his convent despite the attitudes and  rejection He receives from his bride and child Israel. I want to learn to have this love with all people; especially those I live life closely with. This a love that sets God apart from other nations Gods. They would look on and see that even when God wasn’t receiving the honor he deserved, in fact he received complete rebellion, God remained the same. Not only did he stay faithful to them; BUT HE BLESSED THEM. When I bless and love despite what I’m receiving in relationships with those close to me; I’m modeling Jesus to them and to others around me. So powerful!

Point of Passion

For my heart to love on oppressed women coming into their true identities and out of oppression, I want to model Nehemiah’s leadership. Just like Nehemiah encouraged the Israelites in the building of the wall, restoring their identity brick by brick and not losing hope. This is the kind of commitment needed. I want to fight for women to know who God made them and for God to help them realize their callings and dreams and get building!

Zechariah

Historical Background & Purpose of Prophet:

 

Zechariah was a prophet God used to encourage the people to completely finish the temple. Zechariah came from a priestly family, the son of Berechiah and grandson of Iddo, who raised him in Palestine. (Zechariah 1:1) The events taking place in the beginning happened around 520-518. A time when the first return of exiles had been led from Babylon to Jerusalem under Zerubbabel’s leadership and the temple had started to be built. After much persecution and hardship though; they became discouraged. This is why God raised Zechariah up to encourage them to finish. Then, in chapters 9-14 we jump to the time of 480-470, after the temple is built, and Zechariah prophesies about the most glorious infilling of the temple to come: Jesus. Messianic prophesies fill the pages of Zechariah.

God’s character & nature

Zechariah reveals a God who has a magnificent plan and will fulfill it. This can be seen in his plan to rebuild the temple so that Jesus will come and fill it; the ultimate covenant. Jesus is revealed as a servant 4:8), Jesus is revealed as one who wipes away sins (4:9), God is a fair judge, full of mercy, kindness, takes care of widows, orphans, foreigners and the poor and is full of truth. 7:9 In God we find peace, joy and truth. And my favorite of all about Jesus’s character and nature:

“Look, your king is coming to you.

He is righteous and victorious

,yet he is humble, riding on a donkey-

Riding on a donkeys colt.”

Zechariah 9:9

God’s redemptive plan:

We see through the visions and prophesies in Zechariah that God has a redemptive plan for a new covenant where we, the church who believe in Jesus, will be the nation Israel. Within us will be peace everlasting and an indwelling of the Holy Spirit. Messianic prophecies fill Zechariah (9:9-12), as well as prophecies about the Pentecost (12). God’s redemptive plan revealed in Zechariah is sometimes confusing, but all together exciting because we are a part of the nation Israel, redeemed back to God and the fulfillment of many promises in Zechariah. 

Ester

Historical Background & Purpose of Prophet:

The whimsical, fairy tale story of Ester took place between 483-473 B.C. in Babylon, after the first return of Exiles to Babylon.  The name of God isn’t spoken in Ester, but the hand of God at amazing works of God are clear to see. The events described in Ester occurred between 483-473 B.C.  in Babylon, after the first  group of Jews returned to Jerusalem. Whoever wrote the book of Ester would have been educated and had a understanding of Persian customs, the palace at Susa, and details during this period. (Nelson’s Pg. 160) At this time many of Jews that remained in Babylon would living in disobedience, or they were too settled to return to Jerusalem. Whatever the case, we see a huge theme in Ester and purpose for the book being written is to reveal that God cares about our conduct and the way we act. “But Mordecai refused to bow down or show him respect.” (3:2) Because of Mordecai’s commitment to God a decree was written to have a day when all the Jews remaining in Babylon would be slaughtered. But God honors those who honor him and he saved his people by using Ester. Another prominent theme is God’s provinces. Through and through we see the divine hand of God work things together to protect his children. “The book implies that none of this is accidental, that God is firmly in control and is determined to keep His covenant promises to the children of Abraham.” (Nelson’s Pg. 161)

 

Gods character and nature:

Gods providential protection of His people is shown brightly in the book of Ester. God does not abandon His people. God is sovereign. God is redeeming. God took Ester, a young orphan living in a foreign land, and made her queen. (Ester 2:7, 17)  God is the giver of favor and courage to those he calls. God curses those who curse his people, for example, Haman. (Ester 9:6-9) “Since Mordecai… Is of Jewish birth, you will never succeed in your plans against him. It will be fatal to continue opposing him.”(Ester 6:13)

 

Gods Redemptive Plan:

God, again, is the savior of His people and redeems them: foreshadowing Jesus. Also, all the feasting and celebration in Ester foreshadow a joy of salvation and a time when we will have abundance in Jesus. Also, the idea of Ester representing the bride of Christ and the favor she finds with the king can foreshadow a time when we will have intimacy with Jesus fully.  

Malachi

 

Historical background & Purpose of Prophet:

Little is known about the prophet Malachi, except that his name means “My Messenger.” It is hard to establish a date for Malachi, but the sins he is calling out and themes he expresses would fit well with Nehemiah and Ezra’s time (Steve during lecture). This would also fit with the explanation of time given in Nelson’s on pg 275: “Nehemiah had come to Jerusalem in 444 B.C. to rebuild the city walls, but returned to Persia in 432 B.C. On his return to Palestine (425 B.C.), Nehemiah dealt with the sins described in Malachi. Thus it is likely that Malachi proclaimed his message while Nehemiah was absent between 432 and 435 B.C.”

God character and Nature:

“I have always loved you…”(Malachi 1:2) God is a God of eternal love. God is a God who is faithful, holding up his covenant. (Malachi 2:5)  God is full of truth, he’s a teacher, he’s good and righteous. (Malachi 2:6) God is a “…blazing fire that refines metal, or like a strong soap that bleaches clothes.” (Malachi 3:2) This passage shows God as a redeemer, refiner and the cleanser of our sins. “I am the Lord, and I do not change.”(Malachi 3:6) God is constant and consistent.

God’s redemptive plan:

The end of Malachi is brimming with parts of God’s plan to prepare his people for Jesus. John the Baptist was prophesied about as “…the voice of one crying in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord.’” (Malachi 3:1, Matthew 3:3) This was fulfilled 300 years later. Nelson’s Complete Book of Bible Maps and Charts gives an amazing visual about God’s redemptive plan to send Jesus (Pg. 276) Malachi prophesies that a messenger of the covenant will to the temple and purify His people (3:1,3), Christ comes to bring judgment (4:1), As the sun of righteousness Christ will heal His people (4:2), John the Baptist will be his forerunner, preparing the way (3:1, 4:5).

“But for you who fear my name, the Sun of righteousness will rise with healing in his wings. And you will go free, leaping with joy like calves let out to pasture. On the day when I act, you will tread upon the wicked as if they were dust under your feet.” (Malachi 4:2-3)

Personal Application

“…the Lord witnessed the vows you and your wife made when you were young. But you have been unfaithful to her, though she remained your faithful partner, the wife of your marriage vows. Didn’t the Lord make you one with your wife? In body and spirit you are his. And what does he want? Godly children from your union. So guard your heart; remain loyal to the wife of your youth.” Malachi2:14-15

In this season I feel like God is destroying all my preconceived ideas or dreams about covenants, and in their place building a firm foundation for the outstanding beauty and truth found in covenant. The seriousness of vows and covenants we make before God regarding marriage and giving our lives to him are very important and matter to God. In this verse we see the key to protecting our covenants so we can remain faithful. The key is an action: we must protect our hearts. And what is the reward? Not only joy and oneness in marriage (I can imagine!) but also we see a blessing from God that comes forth: children! In the same way; when we take seriously our covenant we’ve made with Jesus and stay faithful to him it will take hard work and guarding our heart; but we will have fruit in our lives.

Point of Passion:

Malachi was written to shake a complacent people from going through the motions of life. For oppressed women discovering Jesus this book would speak to Gods hatred of half-heartedness. We must come fully into our true identity and fight to keep God’s perspective. Another theme addressed in Malachi is disappointment when things don’t look how we thought. We must create a foundation of believe in the character and goodness of God, remembering our identity so we will not be disillusioned by challenges.

Haggai

Historical Background and Purpose of Prophet:

Haggai. Straight to the point. In the time of Haggai the Israelites had turned their focus from God to themselves. Focusing on building up their lives and become comfortable, they neglected to build the temple. “Why are you living in luxurious houses while my house lies in ruins? (Haggai 1:4) His purpose was to call the people back to putting the Lord first. Haggai returned to Babylon with Zerubbabel and worked alongside Zachariah rebuilding the walls and temple. “All four sermons of Haggai are precisely dated in the year 520 B.C., the second year of the reign of Darius I, King of Persia.” (Nelson’s Pg. 265)

Character and Nature of God:

Haggai reveals that God is a jealous God, demanding to be the priority for His children. Twice, intermixed with rebukes, God comforts his children by saying “I am with you, says the Lord.” (Haggai 1:13, 2:4) In the midst of confusion and distraction, God wanted his character to shine through. He cares for us and is always with us. God’s whole purpose and desire for them to build the temple is so He can use it to fulfill prophesy and their messiah and savior can come. God is selfless in his love.

Redemptive plan:

Jesus is prophesied about and the new covenant he will bring.

“I will fill this place with glory, says the Lord of Heavens Armies…The future glory of this temple will be greater than its past glory, says the Lord of Heaven’s Armies. And in this place I will bring peace. I, the Lord of Heaven’s Armies, have spoken!” (Haggai 2:7-9)

Jesus and the new covenant he will bring is the future glory!!!!

Haggai asked a question to the priest, high lighting a foreshadowing of Jesus and the new covenant. In the Old Testament covenant, if you were to touch a leper you would be made un-clean, in the same way touching a bleeding women would make you unclean. Therefore, un-cleanliness in the Old Testament was more powerful than who were healthy or pure or clean. Haggai’s question will bring light to a new covenant that will make clean what was once un-clean.  

Personal Application

“I am with you, says the Lord!”

“…So the Lord sparked the enthusiasm if the whole remnant.” (Haggai 1:13-14)

Knowing God is with us always is so powerful! It should spark something in my heart. This knowing of His presence and care for me. A spark is light, and it is hot to the touch. I want people to sense this heat in my heart and life and see this light! I want this truth permeate my heart; a knowing of the nearness of God.

Point of Passion

When we come to Jesus it can seem like an overwhelming thing when we focus on ourselves. In our own strength, we can’t clean ourselves up, get healed and healthy. We can become greatly discouraged when we look to ourselves, not God for restoration. Just like the Israelites discouragement in building the wall. It seemed like such a big task, like impossibility. And truly it was. But thanks to God who rebuilds the broken walls in our lives. It is his strength in us!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jeremiah

Jeremiah

Historical Background & Purpose of Prophet:

“…his word burns in my heart like a fire. It’s like a fire in my bones! I am worn out trying to hold it in! I cant do it! (Jeremiah 20:9) This is how Jeremiah expresses feeling if he were to hold in God’s messages of “…violence and destruction…” against Judah. This caused Jeremiah to weep and wail, for it pained him deeply that destruction and God’s judgment was coming for his people and land. (Jeremiah 9:10, 48:5) Jeremiah, with a burdened heart and eyes full of tears, prophesied to Judah about Gods coming judgment. During Jeremiahs forty year ministry to Judah we see the grief of Gods heart expressed through Jeremiah as he proclaims condemnation on rebellious Judah. Jeremiah prophesied, and pleaded, with Judah to turn from their corrupt ways and repent. The first stage of Jeremiah’s ministry happened during a time when Judah was threatened by Assyria and Egypt, the second stage right before and during Babylon’s siege of Judah and finally to Jerusalem and Egypt post exile. (Nelson’s 209)

Character & Nature of God:

The book of Jeremiah reveals God’s broken heart over sin and when his children (Israel and us) rebel against him. “My wayward children, come back to me, and I will heal your wayward hearts.” (Jeremiah 3:22) Gods justice is revealed in this book, and many would say we see God’s judgment. This is true, but what God communicates louder than judgment is His desire to restore Israel. He wants to be Israel’s husband (2:1-3, 3:1-18, 31:31, 31-34), Israel’s father (3:19, 31:9, 20), Israel’s shepherd (23:1-4, 31:10), Israel’s vinedresser (2:21), Israel’s physician (8:18-9:1, 30:12-17), and Israel’s potter (18:20).

God's Redemptive Plan:

“The day is coming when I will make a new covenant with the people of Israel and Judah. This covenant will not be like the one I made with their ancestors when I took them by the hand and brought them out of the land of Egypt. They broke that covenant, though I loved them as husband loves his wife. But this is the new covenant I will make with the people of Israel on that day; I will put my instructions deep within them, and I will write them on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people.” (Jeremiah 31:31-33) This new coming that Jeremiah prophesies about reveals Gods desire for mankind to be affected in their hearts and internalize the covenant. Jesus is also foreshadowed, brining hope to Judah of a perfect ruler coming to set all thing right! (Jeremiah 23:1-7)

Personal Application

 

Jeremiah 17:7-8

“But blessed are those who trust in the Lord and have made the Lord their hope and confidence. They are like trees planted along a riverbank with roots that reach deep into the water. Such trees are not bothered by the heat or worried by long months of drought. Their leaves stay green, and they never stop producing fruit.” This verse really caught my attention because it seems to capture the secret of living a lifetime with God. When God becomes my everything; my hope in all situations and my confidence in all areas of my life I will be blessed. If I trust in Him my blessing if that He will always be my provision and provide all that I need. When hard seasons come, tragedy strikes or when I feel dry and empty I will not be shaken. Not only will I not be shaken, but I will flourish, and even better produce life  in the hard times. This truth is so powerful. I will start working on memorizing this verse since it so powerfully speaks to me! 

 

Point of Passion

Jeremiah 6: 16

 

“Stop at the crossroads and look around. Ask for the old, godly way, and walk in it. Travel its path, and you will find rest for your soul.”

This verse stood out to me for women seeking Jesus in the midst of oppression. When growing in trust and in Jesus we must wait on the Lord in everything. We become holy by the blood of Jesus, but we walk in that holiness when we make choices that align with our new identity. "Ask for the old, godly way..." would mean looking to the word of God and righteous women around us. It might not seem cool or relevant to us; but when we walk in truth we find ultimate freedom in Jesus and rest for our souls.

Daniel

DANIEL

Historical Background & Purpose of Prophet:
Daniel, the writer of this book (7:19, 8:18, 9:3, 10:15), was taken to Babylon as a young boy during the first exile of Judah. 605-536 B.C. are the seventy years spanning Daniels ministry. These seventies years would have been the entire exile of Israel in Babylonia and ends with the displaced Jew’s returning home.

 His original readers and hearers would have been his fellow Jews in Babylon; and also Babylonians. The purpose would have been to reveal that the God of Israel was still their God, is all powerful, and was going to protect and preserve them. Even the King ruling over them, King Nebuchadnezzar, recognized their God exclaims “…There is no other god that can rescue like this!” (Daniel 3:29)This book was compiled after the Israelites were released to return to their nation under the rule of King Cyrus.

Character and Nature of God:

This book screams the soverignity of God. Many times the text tells us that God gave authorites over Daniel, Hananiah (Shadrach), Mishael (Meshach), and Azaraiah (Abednego) “…respect and affection…”(1:9)  and caused them to have favor by granting them “…an unusual aptitude…”(1:17) and “…special ability…”(1:17) to stand out and have favor. God also humbles the proud and is full of justice. One of many examples of this is when God takes Nebuchadnezzar’s kingdom and makes him live a pathetic life for seven years.(43:7) It is also God’s extraordinary grace to restore to him his kingdom. God is also a faithful God. Daniel knew this deeply and lived in such a way that showed this. An example of this would be Daniels prayer in Chapter nine when seventy years have passed and He prays, reminding God of his promise for them to only be exiled 70 years. God is also a great rescuer. He rescues Hananiah, Mishael and Azaraiah from the fire (3:13-27) and rescues Daniel from the lion’s den (6:19-23). He also rescues his people from the great power of Babylon. \

God's Redemptive Plan:

There are two messianic prophecies found in Daniel:

“As my vision continues that night, I saw someone like a son of man coming with the clouds of heaven. He approached the Ancient One and was led into his presence. He was given authority, honor, and sovereignty over all the nations of the world, so that people of every race and nation and language would obey him. His rule is eternal- it will never end. His kingdom will never be destroyed.” (7:13-14)

“After this period of sixty-two sets of seven, the Anointed one will be killed, appearing to have accomplished nothing, and a ruler will arise whose armies will destroy the city and the temple.” (9:26)

Personal Application

“If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God whom we serve is able to save us. He will rescue us from your power, Your majesty. But even if he doesn’t, we want to make it clear to you, your majesty, that we will never serve your gods or worship the gold statue you have set up.” Daniel 3:17-18

Oh my goodness! Lord give me this kind of faith in you! A faith that isn't build on a foundation of experience of what I've seen God do, nor what I’ve prayed and seen God answer. But a faith built on a strong foundation of the truth of God. Knowing that God is still God if he answers my prayers how I think he should or not. With a death sentence on their lives, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego made a bold declaration of faith in God. Believing that His character was always good and that God was for them; whether or not he rescued them from the fire. I have already shared this revevlation with two people; but will share it with a few more so it continues to get into my heart and becomes my personal revelation.

 

Point of Passion

 

Nebuchadnezzar, the King of Babylon who took the Jews into exile, their enemy and oppressor, was humbled by God. God is more powerful than all our oppressors and will humble the proud. For oppressed woman to understand that a day is coming when there oppressor will be punished and humbled by God is so encouraging. What God is like our God? So good! Also, Daniel prays in the promises of God for his people that they will be released from oppression and be able to return to their homelands. Once we start walking into the truth of God and the fullness of life, we have a responsibility to pray this into action for other women who are oppressed. God will bring freedom and is faithful to fulfill his promises. We need to partner with him!

 

Lamentations

Lamentations

Historical Background & Purpose of Prophet:
Lamentations is an overwhelmingly sad poem written by Jeremiah after the siege of his people to Babylon and the destruction of Jerusalem. This Hebraic poem transports you next to Jeremiah, seats you upon ashes of ruin, and fills your dry eyes with tears. “I will never forget this awful time, as I grieve over my loss. Yet I still dare to hope when I remember this: The faithful love of the Lord never ends! His mercies never cease. Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning. I say to myself: ‘The Lord is my inheritance; therefore, I will hope in him!” (Lamentations 3:20-24) Theses words spoken by Jeremiah reveal the glimmer of hope that remained. This poem was probably written to the few Israelites that remained in the land. The year would have been shortly after 586 B.C., when the fall of Jerusalem took place. Through this poem we do a see a theme of renewal. Nelson’s uses a graph for expressing this theme of renewal (Pg. 217):

SinàSuffering (1:8)

         SorrowàRepentance (1:20)

                         PrayeràHope (3:19-24)

                                        FaithàRestoration (5:21)

Character & Nature of God:

This book reveals the steadfast love of God. It is a miracle that even in the most horrifying, tragic moments of Jeremiahs life He can still proclaim the hope of God. This is true testament that God is always with us and cares deeply for us! “But Lord, you remain the same forever!” (Jeremiah 5:19) God is the restorer of joy (5:21), God is faithful (3:22), God is merciful (3:23), God is full of goodness and salvation (3:25-26), God disciplines those He loves (2:27).

God's Redemptive Plan:

God’s hatred of sin and rebellion towards Him does not end in punishment, but ends in redemption! This book ends with two questions:

“…have you utterly rejected us? Are you angry with us still?” (Jeremiah 5:22)

We see through the scriptures that God does not stop here! God’s plan is always redemption! This book makes us long for the new covenant Jeremiah prophesied about before the siege. In prophesies to Jeremiah before the siege God already shared his magnificent plan with Jeremiah about his plan to redeem Israel. “Joy has left our hearts; our dancing has turned to morning.” (Lamentations 5:15) But God’s plan has already been revealed in Jeremiah 31:3: “I will rebuild you, my virgin Israel. You will again be happy and dance merrily with your tambourines.” May we always remember this! Even before God disciplines us He has a plan to restore us! What an overwhelming great God! I’m so in love!!

Personal Application

Lamentations 3:18-25

“I cry out, ‘My splendor is gone! Everything I had hoped for from the Lord is lost!’ The thought of my suffering and homelessness is bitter beyond words. I will never forget this awful time, as I grieve over my loss. Yet I still dare to hope when I remember this: The faithful love of the Lord never ends! His mercies never cease. Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin fresh each morning. I say to myself, ‘The Lord is my inheritance; therefore, I will hope in him!’The Lord is good for those who depend on him, to those who search for him.”

This verse spoke so much of an enduring, constant faith in Jesus regardless of circumstances. I want to be unshaken in my faith and security I find in Jesus. I felt like the Lord gave me an idea to re-write this in my own words and ponder what it can mean to me personally in my life.

God I’m desperate,

My confidence and identity is gone.

All I expected from you hasn’t come to pass!

When I think about my loneliness and confusion I feel so hopeless.

I will always remember these feelings,

When my heart is full of despair.

Yet I’m shaken with one resounding truth when I remember:

The Faithful love of God is enough.

His mercies never run out and His faithfulness is greater than what I feel.

Every morning there is fresh grace.

Ill exclaim to myself:

“Jesus is everything my heart has! He is my inheritance and my hope is found in Him!”

The Lord is good to those who make Him there fortress and seek him.

Point of Passion 

“Restore us, O Lord, and bring us back to you again! Give us back the joys we once had!”

For a women coming out of oppression this verse would greatly encourage her heart. This cry of the heart is so powerful! God is the ultimate restorer and will complete the work he started in us. Not only will he bring us back to us, not only will he fully heal us, but he will completely restore our hope!

Ezekiel

Ezekiel

Historical Background & Prophet Purpose:

Ezekiel, the writer of the book, received the visions from God while in exile in Babylonia. They were intended for his fellow Jews living exiled in a pagan nation. The Jews needed to know and hold steadfast to the words given Ezekiel to remain confident that the God of Israel was still God. Ezekiel was a priest called by God to be a prophet, during the reign of Jehoiakim with his call came huge sacrifice. God killed his wife as a sign to the exiled Jews that Jerusalem would be destroyed. (Ezekiel 24:16-24) Ezekiel’s heart burned with the Lord’s for the Jews in Jerusalem still awaiting their time of exile. Ezekiel felt the pain and frustration of Judah’s persistent disobedience and sin and God asks him, “Do you think that I like to see wicked people die?... of course not! I want them to turn from their wicked ways and live. However, if righteous people turn from their righteous behavior and start doing sinful things and act like the other sinners, should they be allowed to live? No, of course not!” (Ezekiel 18:23-24)

Character & Nature of God:

A huge part of Gods character seen in Ezekiel is God’s judgment on Judah and on surrounding nations (Ezekiel 25-29). Gods redemption also screams off the pages when He gives Ezekiel the a vision of the  valley of dry bones signifying the Spirit of God breathing fresh life into a once died and exiled people. (Ezekiel 37:1-14) The eight concluding chapters of the book finish by revealing Gods ultimate redemption of Israel with detailed specifications for the restoration of the temple, the city and the land (Ezekiel 40-48). God is a refining God and uses heat and hard situations to cleanse his people (Ezekiel 22:17-22, 24:1-4). God also takes covenant seriously. “Now this is what the Sovereign Lord says: I will give you what you deserve, for you have taken your solemn vows lightly by breaking your covenant”(Ezekiel 16:59).

What does the book show about Gods redemptive plan?

Gods Restoration of Mankind:
Chapter 36:28-38 is God’s promises of restoration for Israel. “…When I cleanse you from your sins, I will repopulate your cities, ad the ruins will be re-built.” (36:33) Also, God’s promise to make the dry bones of Israel have life again; the restoration of their people. (37:5) The ultimate redemption for all God’s children is the temple layout God gives to Ezekiel in the last eight chapters; 40-48. The main redemptive differences we see when comparing to other temples are: a prince making sacrifices instead of a priest, the equal tribal allotments, and Gods glory being in full restoration with a square temple.

Zephaniah, Obadiah, Habakkuk

Zephaniah

Historical Background & Purpose of prophet:

When God first called Zephaniah to call back Judah from there sin it was prior to the reforms made by King Josiah after the discovering the scroll in 628 B.C.. We can believe that Zephaniah’s ministry spanning 635-625 B.C., would have been an influential factor in the reforms made. Zephaniah was the great-great grandson of King Hezekiah and a distantly related to King Josiah (Zephaniah 1:1). Although King Josiah’s reforms seemed good and holy, they simply masked Judah’s idolatry worship and corruption. Zephaniahs purpose was to warn Judah of God’s judgment on their sins if they do not turn from their evil and repent. Shortly after King Josiah and Zephaniah died the Babylonians conquered Judah, leading them into exile and destroying the temple. But not all hope was lost, as we see a ray of hope spoken about “The coming day of the Lord.” It is within these words of the Lord we see the hope and plan of God’s restoration revealed.

Character & Nature of God:

Zephaniah reveals God’s hatred of sin and halfheartedness towards Him. He cannot stand it when his children add other gods to worship and praise him along with other idols (Zephaniah 1:5-6). This reveals God’s fierce jealousy to be our only God; not only because He is worthy of our everything but because He knows best and desires nothing to entangle us. God’s judgments and justice is revealed (Jeremiah 1:2-7), and also God’s restoration and care for His people is expressed (Jeremiah 3:9-20). My favorite -passage that captures this caring, all powerful, restorative God is found in Jeremiah 3:16-17: “Cheer up Zion! Don’t be afraid! For the Lord your God is living among you. He is a mighty savior. He will take delight in you with gladness. With his love, he will calm all your fears. He will rejoice over you with singing.” God also cares for the “…weak and helpless ones…” and will “deal severely with all who have oppressed…” them. (Zephaniah 3:19)

God's Redemptive Plan for mankind revealed:

Zephaniah prophesies of God’s redemptive plan for Israel; but on a much larger scale expresses God’s redemption of all his children in the last days. In Zephaniah 3:8-13 we see God’s ultimate judgement on the world in the end time and also God’s restorative plan! (quote verse) God also speaks of the days where he will set right the injustice done to his people and redeem us. The Lord says …”I will gather you together and bring you home again. I will give you a good name, a name of distinction, among all the nations of the earth, as I restore your fortunes before their very eyes. I, the Lord, have spoken!” (Zephaniah 3:18-20)

Obadiah

Historical Background & Purpose of Prophet:

It is heavily disputed when Obadiah prophesied total destruction upon Edom. Obadiah was from Judah and did not come from a priestly or kingly family. He was just an ordinary man whom God gave a vision to concerning the brutal judgment to come upon Edom. The Edomites were descendants of Esau, Jacob/Israel’s half brother. Leading up to this moment are many years of feud between these divided relatives. This book was written to the Israelites as an encouragement that their God was bigger than their bullies. The first eighteen verses announce the destruction of Edom because of her pride and sin against Judah. This book is full of comfort to Judah as God destroys Edom, and especially the last five verses about restoration and deliverance in the Day of the Lord. 

Character & Nature of God:

Obadiah highlights Gods unrelenting anger and judgment upon Edom. God says “You have been deceived by your own pride… I will bring you crashing down. (Obadiah 1:3,4) This verse also reveals that God hates pride. This book shows the father heart of God; he will defend his children and avenge all who hurt them. This book also reveals that God is loyal and loving.

God's Redemptive Plan for mankind:

The book of Obadiah as a whole reveals God redemptive plan to rescue us from those who have oppressed us. God will judge and punish those who persecute His children. A day is coming when our enemy, satan, will be utterly “…destroyed forever...”(Obadiah 1:10) This is Gods redemptive plan for mankind; for us to “…reclaim our inheritance…” and to have “…the Lord himself…” be our king.(1:17, 21)

Habakkuk

Historical background & Purpose of Prophet:

Habakkuk wrote the book before the Babylonians siege of Jerusalem, around 610-605 B.C., the pinnacle of Judah’s rebellion against God. Habakkuk sees the lack of repentance in Judah and the first two-thirds we see an intimate and honest time of Habakkuk seeking the Lord and desiring to understand His ways and judgment. Throughout the question asking and confusion, Habakkuk exclaims “But the righteous will live by their faithfulness to God.”(Habakkuk 2:4) He ends by singing a song of praise to God. He understood that the goodness of God would shape his understanding; not his circumstances. “Even though the fig trees have no blossoms, and there are no grapes on the vines; even though the olive crop fails, and the fields lie empty and barren; even though the flocks die in the fields, and the cattle barns are empty, yet I will rejoice in the Lord! I will be joyful in the God of my salvation!” (Habakkuk 3:17-18)

Character & Nature of God:

Habakkuk shows us, yet again, Gods hatred of idolatry and injustice. “What sorrow awaits you who build cities with money gained through murder and corruption!”(Habakkuk 2:12) “What sorrow awaits those who say to wooden idols, ‘Wake up and save us!’”(Habakkuk 2:19) This book also shows us that God isn’t afraid of our hard questions and seeking. God is full of justice (Habakkuk 1:6-7) and jealous, calling it sin when we put our trust in anything but him.(Habakkuk 1:11) In the end we can find hope and joy in God alone, our strength and salvation. (Habakkuk 3:17-19) God is faithful to his promises.

God's Redemptive Plan:

God gives Habakkuk a vision for a future time concerning the end when He will tear down the proud and the “…the righteous will live by their faithfulness to God. Judah and Israel seems scattered; but God will redeem them and bring them together. “It describes the end, and it will be fulfilled. If it seems slow in coming, wait patiently, for it will surely take place. It will not be delayed.” (Habakkuk 2:3) Although God full restoration seems slow in coming to us, God is faithful and He will fulfill it!