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Post by Admin on Apr 2, 2024 11:21:36 GMT -5
Key to ESTHER 1. STATISTICS: Writer, possibly Mordecai; time of writing about 525 B.C.; events of Esther occur before Nehemiah, possibly between chapters 6 and 7 of Ezra; key thought, GOD's providential care of His own; key verse, 4:14; purpose, to explain the origin of the Feast of Purim; key characters, Mordecai and Esther. 2. THEME: Even while in exile, because of their sin and GOD's judgment, still the overruling hand of GOD covered Israel in protecting, providing care. The eventual purpose of GOD is not to be frustrated by satanically inspired plots. 3. OUTLINE: Vashti, the queen, deposed: Esther crowned (1, 2) Haman's plot; Esther's intervention (3-8) The Jews defend themselves and win (9, 10) 4. SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS: Name of GOD is not mentioned but the power of GOD is clearly seen. Ahasuerus was King Xerxes of history whose ill-fated expedition against the Greeks in 480 B.C. is well known. The feast in chapter 1 was in preparation for this military venture. Shushan (Susa), 200 miles east of Babylon, was the winter residence of the Persian kings. Actually, Esther's marriage made possible the granting of Nehemiah's request and through this, the rebuilding of Jerusalem (Nehemiah 2:6). The Feast of Purim (meaning "lot") is still celebrated by the Jewish nation in remembrance of this deliverance from death. 5. OUTSTANDING TEACHINGS: The great truth of GOD's providence finds here an illustration from history. GOD maintains a secret control over the affairs of His people, His hidden hand shifts the scenes as necessary. The eye of faith sees the divine factor in all these happenings. The battle between good and evil is pointed up, with swift judgment for the wicked and overwhelming vindication for the just in the end of the matter. Grace is beautifully illustrated as Esther voluntarily endangers her life and position for her people. Satan's smouldering hatred for GOD and His people finds expression in the conflict between Haman and Mordecai. 6. INTERESTING FEATURES: The longest verse in the Bible is 8:9. Persia seems to have had a well organized postal system (1:22). Mordecai takes his place along with other talented Jews who were high in governmental position in a foreign land (Daniel and Joseph). Ahasuerus was known to have an army of over a million men. 7. KEY TO UNDERSTANDING: You will grasp the message of Esther only as you consider the background. Read the last chapters of II Kings and II Chronicles, also books of Ezra and Nehemiah. Through it all remember the unseen hand of GOD as He directs kings and nations. ~ end of Esther
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Post by Admin on Apr 2, 2024 11:23:13 GMT -5
Key to JOB 1. STATISTICS: Author, actually unknown, possibly Elihu, Moses, or Job; time, Job lived during patriarchal period; time covered, about 140 years; key thought, one cause of human suffering; key verse, 1:21. 2. THEME: Satan accused GOD as not being upright in His dealings with man and, to vindicate Himself, He allowed Satan to afflict this well-to-do man of the East to prove the point. 3. OUTLINE: Satan twice challenged Job's prosperity (1, 2) Three comforters discussed Job's adversity (3-31) Elihu added new explanation (32-37) GOD spoke (38-41) Job's confession and double restoration (42) 4. SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS: Job is a dramatic poem with prologue, many scenes, and an epilogue. It is nonetheless completely true. Possibly the main portion of the book was a public debate with speeches written (13:26). Job was a well known citizen and his tragedy must have occasioned much comment. No book in Scripture reveals so much of Satan's person and character (i.e., his access to the throne of GOD). Since reference is made to the Flood (14:11) and none to destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah or the giving of the Mosaic law, apparently Job preceded the latter two events. Job, of all the books of the Bible, contains the greatest concentration of natural theology, works of GOD in nature. 5. OUTSTANDING TEACHINGS: GOD is seen to be eminently, minutely aware of the inner character as well as the outward fortunes of one man, Job. He pays priceless compliment to this man's integrity (1:8); on Job's side, his constant practice seemed to be a continual offering of sacrifices to GOD, both for himself and his family (cf. I John 1:7-9). If GOD is "buying" the worship of men with gifts of prosperity and health, how can man be a free moral agent? The answer which Job's victory of patience provides is an overwhelming vindication of the honor of GOD. Job worshiped even under extreme adversity. A great problem of humanity, the cause of human sufferings, is largely left unanswered. Why? Because the answer is not always possible to give. As Job did, we must leave our case in the hands of GOD's loving faithfulness. 6. INTERESTING FEATURES: Job is referred to in Ezekiel 14 and James 5. Job's sickness may have been elephantiasis. The LORD gave Job twice as much as he had before (42:10). He lived 140 years after his family and prosperity were restored to him, seeing four generations of descendants. 7. KEY TO UNDERSTANDING: Read the book carefully but do not become lost in the morass of human argument. Keep in view Job's problem - who was to plead his case before GOD's court? The answer in chapters 31-41 satisfied Job and must satisfy us too. ~ end of Job
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Post by Admin on Apr 2, 2024 11:24:19 GMT -5
Key to PSALMS 1. STATISTICS: Writers were David (73), Asaph (12), Sons of Korah (12), Solomon (2), Heman (1), Ethan (1), Moses (1), Anonymous (48). Time of composition, over 1000 years from Moses (1500 B.C.) to Ezra (450 B.C.) The title "Psalm" means a composition set to music; key word, worship; key thought, GOD is near; key psalm, 23. 2. THEME: This collection of musical poems, divinely inspired and covering the complete range of human emotion and experience, was and is the praise book of Israel and the core of their religious worship. It is the book of the heart as well as the songbook of the redeemed today. Without doubt, it is the most widely known and used book of world's literature. 3. OUTLINE: There are five groups of psalms corresponding somewhat to the five books of the Pentateuch (divisions are approximate): David's songs (1-41) Devotional group (42-72) Liturgical group (73-89) Anonymous group (90-106) Psalms written late (107-150) Each group closes with a glorious doxology. 4. SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS: The psalms were written largely with a view to musical accompaniment, especially instrumental. Many instruments were used including the winds, such as the shofar, or ram's horn; stringed, harp; percussion, timbrel and cymbals. Many were acrostics (initial letter of each succeeding verse was alphabetized) such as 9, 10, 25, 34, 37, 111, 112, 119, 145. Imprecatory psalms called forth the wrath of GOD upon the enemies of GOD and His people. These include: 52, 58, 59, 69, 109, 140. An important theme is the person and work of CHRIST. Our LORD suggested this in Luke 24:44. Psalms are quoted 90 times in the New Testament. They teach morality, history and appreciation of prophecy. 5. OUTSTANDING TEACHINGS: GOD's omnipotence (107:25-29); His omniscience (147:4, 5); His holiness (99:9); His justice (11:4-7); His mercy (86:15); His faithfulness (119:90). Israel and Jerusalem are the subject of many psalms showing GOD's great affection for the city of the great King. No other book in the Bible so magnifies the Word of GOD. There is much evidence substantiating the inspiration of the Scriptures. Many psalms were produced under great crises. Psalm 51 was the occasion of David's great sin; Psalm 18, David's deliverance. Psalms 22, 23, 24 form a trilogy about the theme of the Shepherd representing the cross, the crook and the crown. 6. INTERESTING FEATURES: The word "Selah" evidently means a musical pause; it is therefore not to be spoken. Psalm 136 has all of its 26 verses ending with the same words: "for his mercy endureth forever." The following psalms are prophetic of Christ: 2, 8, 9, 16, 22, 24, 31, 41, 45, 46, 67, 69, 72, 89, 93, 110, 118, 132. The Septuagint credited Psalms 1 and 119 to Ezra the priest, and that they were the last to be added to the canon of the Psalms. The psalms of "ascent" were generally sung when pilgrimages were being made to temple feasts. The last five psalms are called the "hallelujah psalms" as they begin and end with the expression, "Praise ye the LORD." There are 21 psalms which refer to the history of Israel from the time of the Exodus to the days of restoration. 7. KEY TO UNDERSTANDING: The book of Psalms deals with life - your life. You will find the cause and the cure of every problem in this remarkable book. No matter where else you read in the Bible, also continue to read the Psalms. The key is to read, study, memorize, love them. ~ end of Psalms ~
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Post by Admin on Apr 2, 2024 11:32:51 GMT -5
Key to PROVERBS 1. STATISTICS: The word "proverb" means a short, pithy, axiomatic saying, particularly appropriate for oral teaching. Writers, Solomon (1:1); Agur (30:1), a personal friend of Solomon; King Lemuel (31:1), thought to be another name for Solomon. Key thought, value of wisdom; key verse, 9:10; time of writing covers about 300 years (25:1). 2. THEME: Solomon was the wisest man the earth has ever produced (I Kings 3:12). In a day when comparatively few could read and write, the teaching, secular and sacred, was largely by the "proverbial" method, "precept upon precept; line upon line" (Isaiah 28:10). Solomon's wisdom was really GOD's and these sayings profitably fit into life in whatever age they are used. 3. OUTLINE: Wisdom especially for young (1-9) Various subjects for all (10-24) Hezekiah's collection (25-29) Added by Agur and Lemuel (30, 31) 4. SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS: What Psalms is to the devotional life, Proverbs is to the practical life. Here is concentrated common sense. In its method of teaching, Proverbs is closely related to the Sermon on the Mount and the Epistle of James. Some proverbs were based on actual experiences, such as 1:7; 4:14. 5. OUTSTANDING TEACHINGS: Underlying emphasis is that true wisdom comes from fear of (reverence for) the LORD. The law of GOD given in the Pentateuch is supported by the admonitions of Proverbs. Wisdom is always GOD's way. Many other subjects are dealt with: chastity, proper use of riches, consideration for the poor, control of the tongue, honesty, justice, humanity, cheerfulness, common sense. 6. INTERESTING FEATURES: Perhaps greatest of all proverbs is 3:5, 6. Excellent life verse. Writer shows real knowledge of nature: ants, spiders, conies. Respect for parents a subject most proverbs concerned with. 7. KEY TO UNDERSTANDING: In the structure of Proverbs, GOD recognizes the ability and limitation of the human mind. Here are mottoes for life, short and easily remembered. ~ end of Proverbs
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Post by Admin on Apr 2, 2024 11:34:33 GMT -5
Key to ECCLESIASTES 1. STATISTICS: The title "Ecclesiastes" means the Preacher, or the Words of the Preacher. Writer, Solomon (1:1); time of writing, about 975 B.C. key verse, 2:11; key thought, emptiness of earthly things; key word, vanity. 2. THEME: Although Solomon was an unusual and gifted king, he allowed sin to have dominion. His marital alliances turned his heart from the sincere worship of GOD and resulted in emptiness of life and leanness of soul. We have no record of his repentance from such sin, and possibly this monologue was his repentance. 3. OUTLINE: Introduction of writer (1) Vanity the result of experiment (2, 3) Vanity the result of observation (3-8) Mysteries and a conclusion (9-12) 4. SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS: It is a book of human philosophy on: "Is Life Worth Living?" Gloomiest outlook of any book in the Bible; no mention of term "JEHOVAH," a name of GOD associated with the covenant of redemption. 5. OUTSTANDING TEACHINGS: Although both Job and Ecclesiastes are philosophical treatises on life's problems, the former closes on a happy note while the latter ends on a mournful one. The difference is - no philosophy is complete without GOD. How exceedingly frightful it is to exclude GOD's truth about Heaven and eternity. The solution to life's problem is hinted at: there is a divine providence if you will seek it; when you remember GOD and acknowledge Him, vanity is turned into verity, and vexation into satisfaction. Under the sun there is no profit, but why not look beyond the sun? 6. INTERESTING FEATURES: The "conclusion" (12:13, 14) is still an "under the sun" conclusion. This book was read at the Jewish Feast of Tabernacles. Our LORD's commentary on the matter for which Solomon had no answer is found in Luke 12:15: "And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth." 7. KEY TO UNDERSTANDING: Use the material in Ecclesiastes only after remembering that it is "under the sun" (human, limited) wisdom. Actually the truth in this book should always be supplemented by other (divine truth). ~ end of Ecclesiastes ~
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Post by Admin on Apr 2, 2024 11:37:37 GMT -5
Key to SONG OF SOLOMON 1. STATISTICS: Other titles given: "Song of Songs" (Hebrew) meaning the best of Solomon's 1005 songs (I Kings 4:32), "Canticles" meaning song of songs (Latin). Writer is undoubtedly Solomon; time of writing, about 1000 B.C.; type of book, dramatic poem; key thought, the delights of married love (spiritual); key phrase, "beloved"; key verse, 6:3. 2. THEME: This is an oriental poem setting forth the tender joys of intimate love. The characters are Solomon and his bride. The spiritual application reveals the love which is between JEHOVAH and Israel, and between CHRIST and the Church. 3. OUTLINE: The dialogue suggest dividing at: (1) 1:1-2:6; (2) 2:7-3:5; (3) 3:6-5:1; (4) 5:2-6:9; (5) 6:10-8:4; (6) 8:5-14. 4. SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS: Like Hebrew poetry, this Song passes suddenly from speaker to speaker and from scene to scene. The identification is usually by the pronouns used. The names of principal characters: Shelomoh (Solomon - masculine, Prince of Peace) and Shulamith (Shulamite - feminine, Seeker of Peace) correspond, as for example, Julius and Julia; Frank and Frances. The marriage bond is a favorite figure used by many of the Prophets and the Apostles to represent GOD's relationship to His people. 5. OUTSTANDING TEACHINGS: The elder daughter in a poor family was apparently charged with the burden and responsibility of much of the labor. She tended the herds and tilled the family vineyard which belonged to King Solomon. One day as she was caring for the flock, she saw a handsome stranger, and they became friends with great affection for each other. One day the stranger departed but promised to return. She believed him, trusted him and awaited the fulfillment of his promise. Apparently, no one else in the village did. She waited long and dreamed often. And one day he did return, at the head of a glorious procession, and claimed her as his bride. Another interpretation presupposed what was held by some that the Shulamite was Solomon's bride. Some reasoned that it must have been the daughter of Pharaoh; some the lovely Abishag whom Solomon may have married early in his reign (I Kings 1:3; 2:20-25). 6. INTERESTING FACTS: The name of GOD is not mentioned throughout the book. Shunem was a village on the southwest slope of little Hermon. This book was always read at the Jews' Passover Feast. Some regarded the book as a collection of songs to be sung at a marriage feast. 7. KEY TO UNDERSTANDING: A true appreciation of the value of the Song is reserved for those whose hearts are wholly given over to Christ. To them the relationship is quite understandable, and the truths plain. ~ end of Song of Solomon
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Post by Admin on Apr 2, 2024 11:38:39 GMT -5
Key to ISAIAH 1. STATISTICS: Writer, Isaiah a prophet living in the reigns of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz and Hezekiah, kings of Judah (758-694 B.C., cf. 1:1); type of book, judgment-history-prophecy; theme, GOD's deliverance; key thought, the coming Messiah; key verse, 9:6,7. 2. THEME: Isaiah was the greatest of the writing prophets. With exceptional ability he advised and counseled kings, denounced evil, threatened judgment and added the priceless hope of a better day of peace, blessing and righteousness. Tradition states that his long ministry of 60 years embracing good and bad times, good and bad kings, ended in a violent death under wicked King Manasseh. 3. OUTLINE: Judgment against Judah, Israel and surrounding nations (1-35). An exceptional page of history showing GOD's deliverance (36-39). Looking into near future (Christ's first coming), far future (40-66). Two main divisions: 39 chapters on judgment; 27 with note of comfort. 4. SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS: The self dedication that arose from his vision as a youth (6:1) imbued all his writing. Isaiah's style is lofty and rhetorical. He used many vivid figures of speech along with biting sarcasm and ridicule. As a poet, orator, statesman and prophet he was bold, fearless and thoroughly sincere. Whether before a king or a multitude he did not hesitate to denounce sin or predict judgment. Contemporaries were: Hosea, Nahum and Micah. 5. OUTSTANDING TEACHINGS: Isaiah's vision and response explain his tremendous accomplishments (6:1-13). Dedicated men of his type are greatly needed in every age. As a young man he observed his country's high degree of power and prosperity, rivaling the days of Solomon. Prosperity brought on internal greed and worldliness. True worship deteriorated into formality and hypocrisy and GOD called on His ministers to show the inevitability of judgment for sinful conduct. One of the Old Testament's greatest prophecies is 7:14 where our LORD's virgin birth is foretold. A passage of more than unusual interest (14:12-17) reveals the nature of Satan's rebellion and its consequence. Many of Isaiah's prophecies dealt with then current problems. Before him were the threatening ambitions of Assyria and Egypt with the kingdom of Judah in between. On its borders were the peoples of Syria, Moab, Philistia and Edom. It was concerning the destiny of these nations that he wrote. One of the most remarkable predictions of the entire Bible was the naming of Cyrus as GOD's deliverer for His people some 200 years before his birth (41:25; 44:28-45:5). The climax of the prophet's messianic message is chapter 53. 6. INTERESTING FEATURES: Our LORD quoted 61:1, 2 in the synagogue in Nazareth (Luke 4:17-20). A great national prayer of Isaiah is in 63:7-19 Because of its salvation content, some have called Isaiah the fifth gospel. Hezekiah's most unusual answer to prayer is recorded in chapter 37. 7. KEY TO UNDERSTANDING: You will greatly love the book of Isaiah. Read it with a background of the four gospels. Rejoice also in its foreview of coming blessing and glory. ~ end of Isaiah
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Post by Admin on Apr 2, 2024 11:40:15 GMT -5
Key to JEREMIAH 1. STATISTICS: Writer, Jeremiah (name means "JEHOVAH exalted") priest-prophet to Judah; time of ministry, 626-584 B.C., preceding Babylonian captivity; general theme, warnings of impending judgments; key verse, 1:18; key thought, "go and cry." 2. THEME: Jeremiah, an Aaronic priest, was called to undertake an exceedingly difficult ministry to Judah. He counseled and warned kings (Josiah, Jehoahaz, Jehoiakim, Jehoiachin and Zedekiah) and people of impending judgment, but they only called him a pessimist. He began his ministry about 70 years after the death of Isaiah and lived to see the city destroyed. He was carried captive to Egypt. 3. OUTLINE: Jeremiah's personal history was interwoven among his prophecies. Josiah's reign (1-12) Jehoiakim's reign (13-20; 25, 26, 35, 36) Zedekiah's reign (21-24; 27-34; 37-39) During Babylonian captivity (40-44) Concerning the surrounding nations (45-52) 4. SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS: Written against background of contest between three nations (Assyria, Egypt and Babylonia). Prophecies are not in chronological order, but written with tenderness and pathos. He has been called the "weeping prophet" due to his intimate concern for the sufferings of the people. Yet in the performance of his God-given ministry, he was fearless, faithful and uncompromising. Jeremiah was contemporary with Zephaniah, Habakkuk, Daniel and Ezekiel. 5. OUTSTANDING TEACHINGS: At this time there was an abundance of false prophets. These proclaimed peace as Jeremiah announced war; they foretold prosperity as Jeremiah told of coming trouble. The false prophets were spoken of as patriots, Jeremiah a traitor. An important prediction regarding Jeconiah (Jehoiachin or Coniah) in 22:28-30 is a strong proof for the virgin birth of Christ, for Joseph the husband of Mary was descended from him (Matthew 1:12, 16). Jeremiah's writings speak largely of the destiny of surrounding nations of Moab, Ammon, Elam (Persia). 6. INTERESTING FEATURES: Next to Psalms, Jeremiah is the longest book in the Bible. As predicted in chapters 51, 52 Babylon was never rebuilt. Jeremiah mentions the exact time of the captivity (70 years, 25:9-11). 7. KEY TO UNDERSTANDING: Jeremiah's sorrow is GOD's sorrow, Jeremiah's predicted judgment is GOD's. You can best understand by looking at sin and unrighteousness through GOD's eyes in whatever age you live. ~ end of Jeremiah ~
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Post by Admin on Apr 2, 2024 11:41:04 GMT -5
Key to LAMENTATIONS 1. STATISTICS: Writer, Jeremiah; date written, presumably during the three months period between the destruction of Jerusalem and the expedition into Egypt (589 B.C.); key thought, destruction, desolation; key verse, 1:1. 2. THEME: This is a series of funeral hymns composed by the weeping prophet, Jeremiah, following the brutal destruction he had witnessed. He was overcome with grief even though he had been predicting this judgment for many years. 3. OUTLINE: There are 5 chapters or poems. The first 2 and the 4th are composed of 22 verses as an acrostic; the 3rd has 66 verses or 22 triplets, each triplet with the same initial letter. The last chapter has 22 verses as an acrostic but not in alphabetical form. 4. OUTSTANDING TEACHINGS: This book is mostly remarkable for the great variety of pathetic images it presents, expressing the deepest sorrow. On the other hand, it is rich in expressions of penitence and trust which are offered to GOD by the afflicted one. As Jeremiah, stunned and heartbroken, viewed the destruction of the city, he understood fully that the judgment had been overwhelmingly justified on GOD's part (3:22) but he pleaded for a return of GOD's mercy (3:32, 33). 5. INTERESTING FEATURES: Lamentations is read in Jewish synagogues on the ninth day of the fourth month (July), which is the day of the destruction of the city of Jerusalem (Jeremiah 52:6, 7). Following the captivity, Jerusalem was rebuilt and again became a great and powerful city. But the needed lesson was not learned, and in A.D. 70 it was again destroyed. 6. KEY TO UNDERSTANDING: Just as these words are not only Jeremiah's, but GOD's, so the grief is not only the prophet's, but GOD's grief. ~ end of Lamentations
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Post by Admin on Apr 2, 2024 11:45:25 GMT -5
Key to Ezekiel 1. STATISTICS: Writer, Ezekiel (means "GOD will strengthen"), a priest-prophet carried to Babylon by Nebuchadnezzar (597 B.C.); time of ministry, 26 years (593-567 B.C.); key verses, 3:17-19; key thought, visions and predictions. 2. THEME: Ezekiel was part of the company of captives taken to Babylon by Nebuchadnezzar in 597 B.C., ten years before the destruction of Jerusalem (II Chronicles 36:6, 7). He was placed in a Jewish community by the river Chebar. There he ministered to the exiles who expected momentarily to be allowed to return. His first predictions concerned the destruction of Jerusalem. Following this unhappy event, he consoled and encouraged the captives by predictions of eventual restoration and future blessings. His book is largely taken up with visions, symbolical illustrations, prophecies about surrounding nations, and messianic predictions. 3. OUTLINE: Predictions about Jerusalem (1-24) Predictions about the Gentile nations (25-32, 35) Predictions about coming restoration (33-48) 4. SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS: Message directed to the "house of Israel" calling attention to the coming restored nation of 12 tribes (12:6, 10; 24:24, 27). Writing is vigorous and forceful, style vivid and graphic. His visions, object lessons, symbolic actions (mainly the latter) were extremely painful and difficult (i.e., dumbness, lying in one position for a year, eating loathsome food). The phrase "they shall know that I am the LORD" is found 24 times. Ezekiel is described as "son of man" 93 times. 5. OUTSTANDING TEACHINGS: Although Ezekiel did not mention Jeremiah, or even his letter to the exiles (Jeremiah 29), he prophesied ten years concerning the destruction of Jerusalem. Then following the fulfillment, changed to surrounding nations and the coming time of restoration. As does Isaiah he refers to the fall of Satan in 28:11-19. Prophecies concerning Tyre were made in detail and have been fulfilled completely in campaigns of Nebuchadnezzar and Alexander the Great. As a priest, Ezekiel witnessed the desecration and desolation of the temple and looked forward past the temples of Nehemiah and Herod to the marvelous edifice of the millennium. 6. INTERESTING FEATURES: Much of Ezekiel's utterances remain yet to be fulfilled. The "Plant of Renown" (34:29) evidently refers to the "Branch" (Isaiah 11:1). The sins of Judah (Israel) are thoroughly pictured and denounced as GOD showed why the exile had to take place. 7. KEY TO UNDERSTANDING: If you keep in mind these three points: Israel's grievous sins; GOD's inexorable judgment; GOD's unfailing promises of blessing, you will easily understand Ezekiel's book. ~ end of Ezekiel
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Post by Admin on Apr 2, 2024 11:46:30 GMT -5
Key to DANIEL 1. STATISTICS: Writer, Daniel (name means "GOD is Judge"), a prince of the Davidic line and a captive from Judea in the first group taken to Babylon by Nebuchadnezzar in 606 B.C. (II Kings 24:14). Daniel lived 90 years, 72 of these as a high government official. Key thought, world empires; key verse, 1:20; type of book, personal history - world prophecy; time covered, 72 years (4 dynasties). 2. THEME: Because he "purposed in his heart" GOD exalted him, and as a result of his righteous living he became Prime Minister in Babylon. During this time he received a series of visions depicting the major divisions of world history, particularly as they affect the Jewish nation. 3. OUTLINE: Historical (1-6) Prophetic (7-12) 4. SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS: Two languages used: 2:4-7:28 in Aramaic (similar to ancient Chaldee) written for Gentiles and dealing with world history; the rest of the book in Hebrew for Daniel's people and dealing with GOD's leading and preservation of His own. First section (1-6), Daniel is spoken of in the third person; in last section {7-12) Daniel himself is narrator. Daniel was contemporary to leaders at time of exile: Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Jeshua (Ezra 3:2), and Zerubbabel. Daniel undoubtedly knew of the 70-year exile prophesied by Jeremiah (25:12; 29:10). Three times called "greatly beloved" (9:23; 10:11, 19), Daniel was courageous, consistent, sincere, diligent, a man of great prayer. 5. OUTSTANDING TEACHINGS: The power of steadfast resolution illustrated in introduction to Daniel's character (king's meat and bowing to image refused). The "lion's den" experience late in Daniel's life (age 70) spoke of his complete confidence in GOD. It was a rugged test, but how worthwhile (chapter 6). The testimony of the greatest monarch who ever lived (according to GOD's estimate in 2:37, 38) ought to be required reading for all rulers, both great and small. (See chapter 4). While all Daniel's prophecies deal with Gentile world empires, the viewpoint is always, as it were, over the shoulder of Daniel's people, the Jewish nation. The prophecy of Daniel's 70 weeks (Hebrew, "heptads" or sevens) anticipated the two comings of Israel's Messiah. The last "seven" refers to the Great Tribulation period still in the future. 6. INTERESTING FEATURES: Daniel, not mentioned by name in Hebrews 11, is referred to as one who "stopped the mouths of lions" (v. 33). Ministry of angels (good and bad) suggested in 8:16; 10:13. Many Bible scholars believe Belshazzar (5:2, 18) was really the grandson of Nebuchadnezzar, and was co-ruler with his absent father, Nabonidus. Cyrus the Persian, who conquered Babylon and later released the Jews, was possibly influenced by the statesman, Daniel, reading the prophecies to him. 7. KEY TO UNDERSTANDING: First satisfy your heart with the entire trustworthiness of Daniel in the first six chapters. Then, supply yourself with ample time and dependable study helps for the exacting and thrilling experience of understanding the remainder of his book. ~ end of Daniel ~
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Post by Admin on Apr 2, 2024 11:47:38 GMT -5
Key to HOSEA 1. STATISTICS: Writer, Hosea (name means "salvation"), prophet for more than 60 years to Israel (10 tribes) 790-722 B.C. Key thought, warnings of judgment, key verse, 1:2; type of book, a personal object lesson applied to the sins of the nation. 2. THEME: The Northern Kingdom had enjoyed great temporal prosperity under Jeroboam II, but became increasingly idolatrous and morally corrupt. Hosea was called to denounce sin and warn of inevitable judgment. His experience with his prodigal wife was to be an object lesson to Israel regarding her relationship to GOD. 3. OUTLINE: Hosea's personal object lesson (1-3) The message of rebuke, punishment and coming pardon (4-14) 4. SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS: Hosea's style is concise and abrupt; there are many figures of speech and some intermixed metaphors; but the prophet's sincere sympathy is clearly seen. The writer was described as the "prophet of divine love." Contemporary with Isaiah (in Judah), Hosea prophesied during the reigns of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz and Hezekiah, kings of Judah. 5. OUTSTANDING TEACHINGS: The outward prosperity under Jeroboam II sowed seeds of spiritual anarchy and decay. The princes were murderers, profligates; the priests were deceitful, shameless; the people sank to the lowest level of indecency and idolatry. It was against this condition that Hosea was called to minister. Through the prophet's own bitter sorrow with his wife's behavior, he was able to comprehend in a measure GOD's grief over the spiritual adultery of His people. 6. INTERESTING FEATURES: Hosea's children were named for spiritual lessons. Among his remarkable predictions are those which foretold the downfall of Samaria; the deliverance of Judah; the punishment of Judah; the final restoration of both Israel and Judah. 7. KEY TO UNDERSTANDING: GOD has the same grief over the spiritual conditions of unfaithful Christians today. The message of Hosea is current and exceedingly pertinent. ~ end of Hosea
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Post by Admin on Apr 2, 2024 11:50:04 GMT -5
Key to JOEL 1. STATISTICS: Writer, Joel (name means "Jehovah is GOD"), probably earliest of the Judean prophets who prophesied in the reigns of Joash and Uzziah (II Chronicles 23-26). Key thought, judgment and restoration; key verse, 2:13; time, 810-795 B.C., possibly later). 2. THEME: Joel, evidently not a priest, was an inhabitant of Jerusalem in the time of comparative prosperity and was called of GOD to show similarity of devastating plague of locusts and an accompanying drought, to calamities coming on the nation for its sins. As is frequently the case, Joel looks forward prophetically to the future glorious restoration and subsequent events. 3. SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS: May have been contemporary with Amos and Hosea in Israel. The prophet's style is clear and vigorously descriptive. 4. OUTSTANDING TEACHINGS: One of the worst calamities which can come on an agricultural people is a plague of locusts or grasshoppers. Literally, they devour every leaf and blade of green grass in their path. How intensely graphic would be the warning which would promise similar disaster from an enemy invasion. Joel's greatest prophecy concerns the outpouring of the HOLY SPIRIT, first at Pentecost (2:28, 32; Acts 2:16-21) and then in greater fulness at the end of the "times of the Gentiles." Apparently, the prophet emphasized the warring aspect of the times of the end of the age as he calls for plowshares to be turned to swords, and pruning hooks into spears (see Micah 4:3). The great assemblage in the valley of Jehoshaphat (3:2) evidently concerns the judgment of the Gentile nations at the end of the Tribulation period (Matthew 25:32). 5. KEY TO UNDERSTANDING: Joel is another of GOD's great worthies, called upon to add an indispensable part to the great tapestry of truth. The Apostle Peter built his entire message on the day of Pentecost on the prophecy of Joel. ~ end of Joel [/b][/font]
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Post by Admin on Apr 2, 2024 11:50:58 GMT -5
Key to AMOS 1. STATISTICS: Writer, Amos, a herdsman-gardener of Tekoa (village south of Bethlehem, 1:1); date of writing 785-750 B.C.; ministered to Israel (Northern Kingdom); key thought, unrighteousness brings judgment; key word, captivity; key verse, 4:12; contemporary of Hosea. Prophesied during the reign of Jeroboam II (in Israel) while Uzziah (II Chronicles 26) was king in Judah. 2. THEME: This Judean was sent by GOD to warn Israel of impending judgment if the nation did not repent. During the long prosperity under Jeroboam II and consequent sin, corruption and idolatry, he prophesied judgment and closed his ministry by calling attention to the future restoration and glory of the nation Israel. 3. OUTLINE: There are three divisions: prophecies concerning other nations (1-2); concerning Israel (3:1- 9:10); future blessing (9:11-15). 4. SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS: The prophet's style of writing is simple and reflects his herdsman background. There is also clarity, directness and practical application. Amos has certain familiarity with the message of Deuteronomy (cf. 2:10 with Deuteronomy 29:5; 4:6-10 with Deuteronomy 28:22). Amos opens with a statement (1:2) and closes his prophecies with the same exhortation suggesting acquaintance with Joel. 5. OUTSTANDING TEACHINGS: Amos strongly suggests the inevitability of judgment for the sins of surrounding nations, but that the GOD who must punish sin there, must also punish sin in Israel. The logic is inescapable. The book follows the general prophetical pattern; with warnings of coming judgment, then with promises of eventual blessing. 6. INTERESTING FEATURES: Amos is quoted in the New Testament by Stephen in Acts 7:42, 43 and by James in Acts 15:15- 17. 7. KEY TO UNDERSTANDING: Though Israel was outstandingly wicked, GOD was gracious and patient. He is still the same today. ~ end of Amos ~
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Post by Admin on Apr 2, 2024 11:53:59 GMT -5
Key to OBADIAH 1. STATISTICS: Writer, Obadiah (background unknown), name means "Servant of the Lord"; time of writing, 586-583 B.C.; key verse, 21; prophesied to Judah; was contemporary with Jeremiah. 2. THEME: The Edomites, descendants of Esau, were bitter enemies of Israel. When Judah was captured and Jerusalem destroyed by Nebuchadnezzar (586 B.C.), the Edomites sided with the conquerors and assisted them hoping to receive a portion of the desolated land for themselves. Concerning this, GOD inspired Obadiah to prophesy against Edom telling them that their time was coming, "there shall not be any remaining" of that nation. 3. SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS: There are no references from Obadiah in the New Testament. More than 20 predictions are given in the Old Testament regarding Edom. Most in Obadiah, but also Isaiah 34, 63; Jeremiah 49 and Ezekiel 35. 4. OUTSTANDING TEACHING: The right to judge Israel GOD reserves for Himself. Other nations (such as Edom) He will severely judge. Indications are in Malachi 1:3-5 that He had done so by 400 B.C. Present ruins of Edom are impressive. No less than 300 cities are in desolate ruins today, including Petra or Sela. Nothing more is known of Edom following A.D. 70. Edom was not to rise again, but for Israel there is promise of future glory. 5. INTERESTING FEATURES: Obadiah is the shortest book in the Old Testament. King Herod, the one responsible for the slaughter of innocent babies in Matthew 2:16-18, was an Edomite (Idumean). 6. KEY TO UNDERSTANDING: It is imperative that we view Obadiah's utterances from the standpoint of GOD's over-all purpose. Edom became illustrative of any nation that failed to recognize GOD's eventual purpose for His chosen people. ~ end of Obadiah
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