Podcasts about Zerubbabel

In this Bible Story, God's people are freed from the empire of Babylon and Persia to return home. The exiles journey back to the home of their forefathers. There they rebuilt the temple, and attempted to rebuild their broken hearts. This story is inspired by Ezra 1-6 & Haggai 1-2. Go to https://www.BibleinaYear.com and learn the Bible in a Year.Today's Bible verse is Ezra 3:7 from the King James Version.Episode 168: Cyrus King of Persia, had conquered all that was once Babylon. Because of this, he had learned from King Darius the stories of Daniel's God and his heart grew toward the exiles from Judah. So, in fulfillment of God's Word through Jeremiah, he issued a decree that the exiles could return to Judah if they would like. It took over two years to wipe the dust and rubble from the ruined city. However, while Zerubbabel, one of the exiles returning from Babylon, was rebuilding the temple, he sent away his fellow Israelites. Creating enemies instead of unity. All of this showed that it was not just the city that needed to be rebuilt, but the hearts of the people as well.Hear the Bible come to life as Pastor Jack Graham leads you through the official BibleinaYear.com podcast. This Biblical Audio Experience will help you master wisdom from the world's greatest book. In each episode, you will learn to apply Biblical principles to everyday life. Now understanding the Bible is easier than ever before; enjoy a cinematic audio experience full of inspirational storytelling, orchestral music, and profound commentary from world-renowned Pastor Jack Graham.Also, you can download the Pray.com app for more Christian content, including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Visit JackGraham.org for more resources on how to tap into God's power for successful Christian living.Pray.com is the digital destination of faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.Executive Producers: Steve Gatena & Max BardProducer: Ben GammonHosted by: Pastor Jack GrahamMusic by: Andrew Morgan SmithBible Story narration by: Todd Haberkorn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A spirit is loose in America right now. And it is the same one Israel has been fighting for centuries. In this episode, Lance brings a message that connects what is happening in America's political moment to one of the most overlooked prophecies in the Old Testament. Haggai. Zerubbabel. The remnant that went back to rebuild when Cyrus opened the door. And what happens when God's people get distracted building their own houses and forget about the house of God. He also shares something personal. A revelation about his own lineage that connects him to the Jewish people in a way he never expected. And why he believes the spirit of anti-Semitism is not just a Jewish problem. It is the spirit of antichrist. And it is targeting both Israel and America at the same time. In this episode: * The Haggai prophecy and what it says about Trump, the remnant, and the building project God has for the church right now * Why Trump as a modern-day Cyrus can do what no Christian politician could ever get away with * $1.3 trillion redirected and $88 million now flowing to churches ready to meet real community needs * Lance's personal discovery of Jewish ancestry and what it means for his calling * Why 36% of the church not voting may be the greatest crisis of our time * The spirit behind anti-Semitism and why Israel and America are fighting the same battle Podcast Episode 2212: The Crisis Israel and the United States Faces Together | don't miss this! Listen to more episodes of the Lance Wallnau Show at lancewallnau.com/podcast

In our last episode, we focused on the time of Solomon's Temple, however that temple met its destruction in 586 BC when the Babylonians under Nebuchadnezzar destroyed it. Today, we will uncover the history in the 566-year period between its destruction and the rebuilding of the Temple by Herod the Great. And as we travel back in time, are there any artifacts that have been found that support all the historical events that took place? Tune in to find out!-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------DONATE: https://evidence4faith.org/give/WEBSITE: https://evidence4faith.org/NEWSLETTER: http://eepurl.com/hpazV5BOOKINGS: https://evidence4faith.org/bookings/CONTACT: Evidence 4 Faith, 349 Knights Ave Kewaskum WI 53040 , info@evidence4faith.orgMy goal is that their hearts, having been knit together in love, may be encouraged, and that they may have all the riches that assurance brings in their understanding of the knowledge of the mystery of God, namely, Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. - Colossians 2:2-3

Zerubbabel's hands are working hands, the hands that lay the foundation and bring the work to completion according to God's purpose. Yet many who are in need would rather sit and beg than put their hands to work. Paul understood this, which is why he said he labored more than all the other apostles, lest the grace of God upon him be in vain.

If the Book of Chronicles ends with the decree of Cyrus, the Book of Ezra records what happens when the remnant steps onto the road home. In the Hebrew Scriptures, Ezra and Nehemiah form a single, continuous work, recording a second Exodus. Where the first Exodus delivered Israel from pagan bondage into a wilderness of promise, Ezra-Nehemiah records a deliverance out of pagan exile back into a ruined land, where the promise must be rebuilt stone by stone, altar by altar, and wall by wall. Covering the initial returns from Babylon under Persian decree, the narrative moves in two distinct restored foundations. First, under Zerubbabel, the exiles return to erect the altar and rebuild the Temple amidst fierce local opposition. Decades later, Ezra, a scribe skilled in the Law of Moses, arrives not with masonry tools, but with Holy Scripture, tasked with the spiritual restoration of a prone-to-wander remnant. The northern kingdom is gone, and Judah is now a fragile province, yet the decisive reality is once again theological. The imperial throne of Persia is the instrument with which YHWH fulfills His sovereign word, proclaimed by the prophets. This small, vulnerable remnant is a matter of Gospel necessity. The survival of Judah, the rebuilding of Jerusalem, and the preservation of the Davidic line in Zerubbabel ensure the stage is set for the Anointed One, Jesus of Nazareth to enter human history. Ezra sets the permanent pattern for spiritual renewal: to study the Law of the LORD, to do it, and to teach it. His measure is whether a restored people will guard their hearts against compromise and order their lives around God's presence. The final word of Chronicles was an invitation to go up. Ezra proves that when God opens the way back, He provides the grace, the Word, and the shepherd needed to sustain the journey home.

The prophet receives specific promises about the Millennial period, Joshua the High Priest, Zerubbabel, the "Branch" Jesus, Elijah and Enoch, the rebuilding of Babylon, and more...

The prophet receives specific promises about the Millennial period, Joshua the High Priest, Zerubbabel, the "Branch" Jesus, Elijah and Enoch, the rebuilding of Babylon, and more...

If the Book of Chronicles ends with the decree of Cyrus, the Book of Ezra records what happens when the remnant steps onto the road home. In the Hebrew Scriptures, Ezra and Nehemiah form a single, continuous work, recording a second Exodus. Where the first Exodus delivered Israel from pagan bondage into a wilderness of promise, Ezra-Nehemiah records a deliverance out of pagan exile back into a ruined land, where the promise must be rebuilt stone by stone, altar by altar, and wall by wall. Covering the initial returns from Babylon under Persian decree, the narrative moves in two distinct restored foundations. First, under Zerubbabel, the exiles return to erect the altar and rebuild the Temple amidst fierce local opposition. Decades later, Ezra, a scribe skilled in the Law of Moses, arrives not with masonry tools, but with Holy Scripture, tasked with the spiritual restoration of a prone-to-wander remnant. The northern kingdom is gone, and Judah is now a fragile province, yet the decisive reality is once again theological. The imperial throne of Persia is the instrument with which YHWH fulfills His sovereign word, proclaimed by the prophets. This small, vulnerable remnant is a matter of Gospel necessity. The survival of Judah, the rebuilding of Jerusalem, and the preservation of the Davidic line in Zerubbabel ensure the stage is set for the Anointed One, Jesus of Nazareth to enter human history. Ezra sets the permanent pattern for spiritual renewal: to study the Law of the LORD, to do it, and to teach it. His measure is whether a restored people will guard their hearts against compromise and order their lives around God's presence. The final word of Chronicles was an invitation to go up. Ezra proves that when God opens the way back, He provides the grace, the Word, and the shepherd needed to sustain the journey home.

If the Book of Chronicles ends with the decree of Cyrus, the Book of Ezra records what happens when the remnant steps onto the road home. In the Hebrew Scriptures, Ezra and Nehemiah form a single, continuous work, recording a second Exodus. Where the first Exodus delivered Israel from pagan bondage into a wilderness of promise, Ezra-Nehemiah records a deliverance out of pagan exile back into a ruined land, where the promise must be rebuilt stone by stone, altar by altar, and wall by wall. Covering the initial returns from Babylon under Persian decree, the narrative moves in two distinct restored foundations. First, under Zerubbabel, the exiles return to erect the altar and rebuild the Temple amidst fierce local opposition. Decades later, Ezra, a scribe skilled in the Law of Moses, arrives not with masonry tools, but with Holy Scripture, tasked with the spiritual restoration of a prone-to-wander remnant. The northern kingdom is gone, and Judah is now a fragile province, yet the decisive reality is once again theological. The imperial throne of Persia is the instrument with which YHWH fulfills His sovereign word, proclaimed by the prophets. This small, vulnerable remnant is a matter of Gospel necessity. The survival of Judah, the rebuilding of Jerusalem, and the preservation of the Davidic line in Zerubbabel ensure the stage is set for the Anointed One, Jesus of Nazareth to enter human history. Ezra sets the permanent pattern for spiritual renewal: to study the Law of the LORD, to do it, and to teach it. His measure is whether a restored people will guard their hearts against compromise and order their lives around God's presence. The final word of Chronicles was an invitation to go up. Ezra proves that when God opens the way back, He provides the grace, the Word, and the shepherd needed to sustain the journey home.

If the Book of Chronicles ends with the decree of Cyrus, the Book of Ezra records what happens when the remnant steps onto the road home. In the Hebrew Scriptures, Ezra and Nehemiah form a single, continuous work, recording a second Exodus. Where the first Exodus delivered Israel from pagan bondage into a wilderness of promise, Ezra-Nehemiah records a deliverance out of pagan exile back into a ruined land, where the promise must be rebuilt stone by stone, altar by altar, and wall by wall. Covering the initial returns from Babylon under Persian decree, the narrative moves in two distinct restored foundations. First, under Zerubbabel, the exiles return to erect the altar and rebuild the Temple amidst fierce local opposition. Decades later, Ezra, a scribe skilled in the Law of Moses, arrives not with masonry tools, but with Holy Scripture, tasked with the spiritual restoration of a prone-to-wander remnant. The northern kingdom is gone, and Judah is now a fragile province, yet the decisive reality is once again theological. The imperial throne of Persia is the instrument with which YHWH fulfills His sovereign word, proclaimed by the prophets. This small, vulnerable remnant is a matter of Gospel necessity. The survival of Judah, the rebuilding of Jerusalem, and the preservation of the Davidic line in Zerubbabel ensure the stage is set for the Anointed One, Jesus of Nazareth to enter human history. Ezra sets the permanent pattern for spiritual renewal: to study the Law of the LORD, to do it, and to teach it. His measure is whether a restored people will guard their hearts against compromise and order their lives around God's presence. The final word of Chronicles was an invitation to go up. Ezra proves that when God opens the way back, He provides the grace, the Word, and the shepherd needed to sustain the journey home.

Learn about the powerful role God has given to the Church as the body of Christ, called not just to be saved, but to rule and exercise spiritual authority. This message exposes how the spiritual realm operates and why spiritual territory must be occupied. If the Church does not occupy its rightful place, the kingdom of darkness will take it, as light and darkness cannot rule at the same time. Church have unstoppable power: “And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.” Matthew 16:18 NIV ““Truly I tell you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.” Matthew 18:18 NIV ““Or again, how can anyone enter a strong man's house and carry off his possessions unless he first ties up the strong man? Then he can plunder his house.” Matthew 12:29 NIV Listen to this teaching to learn walking in the authority. Don't miss a weekly sermon! Follow our channel for weekly preaching and share this message with someone today.

Malachi and Jedidiah trusted God through years of closed doors, holding firmly to the promises of Isaiah 45:1–7 that He would break bronze gates and reveal hidden treasures. Meanwhile, Zerubbabel and Hephzibah endured devastating floods, sickness, and loss, finding strength in Isaiah 43:1–7, believing God would remain with them through every fire and river. Their paths eventually crossed, and they discovered that God's faithfulness is revealed both in opening impossible doors and sustaining His people through hardship. Together they embraced the message of Psalm 50:15: "Call upon Me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify Me."

Inspiration & ScriptureHaggai 2:2-9 2 “Speak to Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel, governor of Judah, to Joshua son of Jozadak, the high priest, and to the remnant of the people. Ask them, 3 ‘Who of you is left who saw this house in its former glory? How does it look to you now? Does it not seem to you like nothing? 4 But now be strong, Zerubbabel,' declares the Lord. ‘Be strong, Joshua son of Jozadak, the high priest. Be strong, all you people of the land,' declares the Lord, ‘and work. For I am with you,' declares the Lord Almighty. 5 ‘This is what I covenanted with you when you came out of Egypt. And my Spirit remains among you. Do not fear.'6 “This is what the Lord Almighty says: ‘In a little while I will once more shake the heavens and the earth, the sea and the dry land. 7 I will shake all nations, and what is desired by all nations will come, and I will fill this house with glory,' says the Lord Almighty. 8 ‘The silver is mine and the gold is mine,' declares the Lord Almighty. 9 ‘The glory of this present house will be greater than the glory of the former house,' says the Lord Almighty. ‘And in this place I will grant peace,' declares the Lord Almighty.”

If the Book of Chronicles ends with the decree of Cyrus, the Book of Ezra records what happens when the remnant steps onto the road home. In the Hebrew Scriptures, Ezra and Nehemiah form a single, continuous work, recording a second Exodus. Where the first Exodus delivered Israel from pagan bondage into a wilderness of promise, Ezra-Nehemiah records a deliverance out of pagan exile back into a ruined land, where the promise must be rebuilt stone by stone, altar by altar, and wall by wall. Covering the initial returns from Babylon under Persian decree, the narrative moves in two distinct restored foundations. First, under Zerubbabel, the exiles return to erect the altar and rebuild the Temple amidst fierce local opposition. Decades later, Ezra, a scribe skilled in the Law of Moses, arrives not with masonry tools, but with Holy Scripture, tasked with the spiritual restoration of a prone-to-wander remnant. The northern kingdom is gone, and Judah is now a fragile province, yet the decisive reality is once again theological. The imperial throne of Persia is the instrument with which YHWH fulfills His sovereign word, proclaimed by the prophets. This small, vulnerable remnant is a matter of Gospel necessity. The survival of Judah, the rebuilding of Jerusalem, and the preservation of the Davidic line in Zerubbabel ensure the stage is set for the Anointed One, Jesus of Nazareth to enter human history. Ezra sets the permanent pattern for spiritual renewal: to study the Law of the LORD, to do it, and to teach it. His measure is whether a restored people will guard their hearts against compromise and order their lives around God's presence. The final word of Chronicles was an invitation to go up. Ezra proves that when God opens the way back, He provides the grace, the Word, and the shepherd needed to sustain the journey home.

Covenants, Gospel, and Protection by Autumn Dickson In the readings this week, we find three changes for the Jews under the kings in Persia. There were three men who helped with these changes. First, we have Zerubbabel, a Jewish governor who worked tirelessly to build the temple. Ezra 5:2 Then rose up Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, and Jeshua the son of Jozadak, and began to build the house of God which is at Jerusalem: and with them were the prophets of God helping them. Then we have Ezra who taught the people the Law of Moses. Nehemiah 8:2-3 2 And Ezra the priest brought the law before the congregation both of men and women, and all that could hear with understanding, upon the first day of the seventh month. 3 And he read therein before the street that was before the water gate from the morning until midday, before the men and the women, and those that could understand; and the ears of all the people were attentive unto the book of the law. And lastly, we have Nehemiah who rebuilt the wall around Jerusalem. Nehemiah 2:17 Then said I unto them, Ye see the distress that we are in, how Jerusalem lieth waste, and the gates thereof are burned with fire: come, and let us build up the wall of Jerusalem, that we be no more a reproach. I want to talk about these three elements of the Jews returning to their homeland and why it's so relevant to the Lord working with us in our day. The three elements are this: covenants, gospel, and protection. When the Lord is seeking to build us and sanctify us and bring us to Him, those are the three elements He uses. It starts with the covenants. Covenants are promises to and from the Lord. They bind us to Him in significant ways and offer us protection. It gives us access to Christ's power. When I think of a covenant with Christ, I always think of it in terms of marriage covenants. Christ often uses the allusion of marriage to describe His relationship with us as well. When two people get married, they make promises to each other. They're going to stand by each other even in imperfection and trial. Traditionally, their finances also merge. Whatever debt or surplus they bring is combined. When we enter into a covenant with Christ, we promise to stand by Him, and He promises to stand by us even in imperfection and trial. Our “finances” merge with His. All of our debt is erased by His infinite surplus but beyond that, we have constant access to that surplus to call upon in times of need or want. This is the first step. We cannot be saved without Christ. We need to be bound to Him in a way that enables Him to save us. Hence, covenants. Hence, Zerubbabel and the temple. The next portion of rebuilding Jerusalem was the Law of Moses. The Law of Moses is often described as the “preparatory gospel.” It helped the people start to figure out Christ and what He meant in their lives. All of the rituals and remembrances were put in place to help them better understand Christ's role. In our day, the Law of Moses is fulfilled and we have the gospel. The gospel, with all of its truth, is taught to us regularly so we can understand Christ in our lives. What good is being bound to Christ if we don't know the point of Him? What good will a covenant do me if I don't know that my sins are paid for and I don't know that I can draw upon His strength and peace and power? We need the covenant, but we also need the information that enables us to draw upon Christ and take effect in our life. The last portion of rebuilding Jerusalem was the wall. City walls were tremendously important. When the walls of Jericho fell, the Israelites were able to immediately take the city. The walls around Jerusalem offered protection from enemies who would want to hurt what was inside of the city. It would be easy to put “protection” under the umbrella of covenants and gospel learning, and it would likewise be accurate to do so. Covenants protect us; covenants are our promises that allow us to call upon Christ in need. That is definitely protection. Gospel learning protects us; understanding our Savior and His love and power keeps us close to Him where we can remain safe. But I want to separate the wall from the temple and Law of Moses readings in order to highlight specific portions of protection. Joseph Smith taught the following regarding the gospel: The fundamental principles of our religion are the testimony of the Apostles and Prophets, concerning Jesus Christ, that He died, was buried, and rose again the third day, and ascended into heaven; and all other things which pertain to our religion are only appendages to it. The gospel (Ezra and the Law of Moses equivalent) is that the apostles and prophets testify of Christ and His mission; everything else is an appendage. The church is an appendage, an important and beautiful appendage, but it is separate. This is what I'm thinking of when I picture the wall around Jerusalem. There are additions to the covenants and gospel that protect us. For example, commandments protect us. The Word of Wisdom protects us from all of the terrible things that can happen when you don't have complete control over your body. The spirit of revelation protects us by warning us about certain situations or leading us towards where we need to be. There are a ton of different church programs that put us in safe and holy places to protect us. City walls were not foolproof. Christ could make our “walls” foolproof, but part of mortality was opposition. Sometimes we leave the walls and find ourselves in trouble. Sometimes the trouble finds us even when we stay behind the walls. However, city walls still provide more protection than we would otherwise have. Not to mention, when an enemy breaches the gate, we still have complete access to our temple covenants and gospel knowledge and that heals us. The opposition hopefully pushes us closer to Christ so that no lasting damage can be done. The stories we find in Ezra and Nehemiah have these overarching themes that point our minds back to Christ and what's important to Him. We see His patterns. We see what He utilizes when He's trying to build us and sanctify us: covenants, the gospel, and spiritual protective barriers. I testify that the scriptures contain beautiful messages that teach us about God's plans and purposes for us. I testify that Christ offers Himself to us by giving us covenants, knowledge concerning His gospel, and specific protections that build a barrier between us and our enemies. I testify that Heavenly Father thought of everything when He came up with His plan, and I testify that He is purposeful in preparing us to come home. Autumn Dickson was born and raised in a small town in Texas. She served a mission in the Indianapolis Indiana mission. She studied elementary education but has found a particular passion in teaching the gospel. Her desire for her content is to inspire people to feel confident, peaceful, and joyful about their relationship with Jesus Christ and to allow that relationship to touch every aspect of their lives. Autumn was the recipient of FAIR's 2024 John Taylor Defender of the Faith Award. The post Come, Follow Me with FAIR – Ezra 1; 3–7; Nehemiah 2; 4–6; 8– Part 2 – Autumn Dickson appeared first on FAIR.

If the Book of Chronicles ends with the decree of Cyrus, the Book of Ezra records what happens when the remnant steps onto the road home. In the Hebrew Scriptures, Ezra and Nehemiah form a single, continuous work, recording a second Exodus. Where the first Exodus delivered Israel from pagan bondage into a wilderness of promise, Ezra-Nehemiah records a deliverance out of pagan exile back into a ruined land, where the promise must be rebuilt stone by stone, altar by altar, and wall by wall. Covering the initial returns from Babylon under Persian decree, the narrative moves in two distinct restored foundations. First, under Zerubbabel, the exiles return to erect the altar and rebuild the Temple amidst fierce local opposition. Decades later, Ezra, a scribe skilled in the Law of Moses, arrives not with masonry tools, but with Holy Scripture, tasked with the spiritual restoration of a prone-to-wander remnant. The northern kingdom is gone, and Judah is now a fragile province, yet the decisive reality is once again theological. The imperial throne of Persia is the instrument with which YHWH fulfills His sovereign word, proclaimed by the prophets. This small, vulnerable remnant is a matter of Gospel necessity. The survival of Judah, the rebuilding of Jerusalem, and the preservation of the Davidic line in Zerubbabel ensure the stage is set for the Anointed One, Jesus of Nazareth to enter human history. Ezra sets the permanent pattern for spiritual renewal: to study the Law of the LORD, to do it, and to teach it. His measure is whether a restored people will guard their hearts against compromise and order their lives around God's presence. The final word of Chronicles was an invitation to go up. Ezra proves that when God opens the way back, He provides the grace, the Word, and the shepherd needed to sustain the journey home.

If the Book of Chronicles ends with the decree of Cyrus, the Book of Ezra records what happens when the remnant steps onto the road home. In the Hebrew Scriptures, Ezra and Nehemiah form a single, continuous work, recording a second Exodus. Where the first Exodus delivered Israel from pagan bondage into a wilderness of promise, Ezra-Nehemiah records a deliverance out of pagan exile back into a ruined land, where the promise must be rebuilt stone by stone, altar by altar, and wall by wall. Covering the initial returns from Babylon under Persian decree, the narrative moves in two distinct restored foundations. First, under Zerubbabel, the exiles return to erect the altar and rebuild the Temple amidst fierce local opposition. Decades later, Ezra, a scribe skilled in the Law of Moses, arrives not with masonry tools, but with Holy Scripture, tasked with the spiritual restoration of a prone-to-wander remnant. The northern kingdom is gone, and Judah is now a fragile province, yet the decisive reality is once again theological. The imperial throne of Persia is the instrument with which YHWH fulfills His sovereign word, proclaimed by the prophets. This small, vulnerable remnant is a matter of Gospel necessity. The survival of Judah, the rebuilding of Jerusalem, and the preservation of the Davidic line in Zerubbabel ensure the stage is set for the Anointed One, Jesus of Nazareth to enter human history. Ezra sets the permanent pattern for spiritual renewal: to study the Law of the LORD, to do it, and to teach it. His measure is whether a restored people will guard their hearts against compromise and order their lives around God's presence. The final word of Chronicles was an invitation to go up. Ezra proves that when God opens the way back, He provides the grace, the Word, and the shepherd needed to sustain the journey home.

If the Book of Chronicles ends with the decree of Cyrus, the Book of Ezra records what happens when the remnant steps onto the road home. In the Hebrew Scriptures, Ezra and Nehemiah form a single, continuous work, recording a second Exodus. Where the first Exodus delivered Israel from pagan bondage into a wilderness of promise, Ezra-Nehemiah records a deliverance out of pagan exile back into a ruined land, where the promise must be rebuilt stone by stone, altar by altar, and wall by wall. Covering the initial returns from Babylon under Persian decree, the narrative moves in two distinct restored foundations. First, under Zerubbabel, the exiles return to erect the altar and rebuild the Temple amidst fierce local opposition. Decades later, Ezra, a scribe skilled in the Law of Moses, arrives not with masonry tools, but with Holy Scripture, tasked with the spiritual restoration of a prone-to-wander remnant. The northern kingdom is gone, and Judah is now a fragile province, yet the decisive reality is once again theological. The imperial throne of Persia is the instrument with which YHWH fulfills His sovereign word, proclaimed by the prophets. This small, vulnerable remnant is a matter of Gospel necessity. The survival of Judah, the rebuilding of Jerusalem, and the preservation of the Davidic line in Zerubbabel ensure the stage is set for the Anointed One, Jesus of Nazareth to enter human history. Ezra sets the permanent pattern for spiritual renewal: to study the Law of the LORD, to do it, and to teach it. His measure is whether a restored people will guard their hearts against compromise and order their lives around God's presence. The final word of Chronicles was an invitation to go up. Ezra proves that when God opens the way back, He provides the grace, the Word, and the shepherd needed to sustain the journey home.

If the Book of Chronicles ends with the decree of Cyrus, the Book of Ezra records what happens when the remnant steps onto the road home. In the Hebrew Scriptures, Ezra and Nehemiah form a single, continuous work, recording a second Exodus. Where the first Exodus delivered Israel from pagan bondage into a wilderness of promise, Ezra-Nehemiah records a deliverance out of pagan exile back into a ruined land, where the promise must be rebuilt stone by stone, altar by altar, and wall by wall. Covering the initial returns from Babylon under Persian decree, the narrative moves in two distinct restored foundations. First, under Zerubbabel, the exiles return to erect the altar and rebuild the Temple amidst fierce local opposition. Decades later, Ezra, a scribe skilled in the Law of Moses, arrives not with masonry tools, but with Holy Scripture, tasked with the spiritual restoration of a prone-to-wander remnant. The northern kingdom is gone, and Judah is now a fragile province, yet the decisive reality is once again theological. The imperial throne of Persia is the instrument with which YHWH fulfills His sovereign word, proclaimed by the prophets. This small, vulnerable remnant is a matter of Gospel necessity. The survival of Judah, the rebuilding of Jerusalem, and the preservation of the Davidic line in Zerubbabel ensure the stage is set for the Anointed One, Jesus of Nazareth to enter human history. Ezra sets the permanent pattern for spiritual renewal: to study the Law of the LORD, to do it, and to teach it. His measure is whether a restored people will guard their hearts against compromise and order their lives around God's presence. The final word of Chronicles was an invitation to go up. Ezra proves that when God opens the way back, He provides the grace, the Word, and the shepherd needed to sustain the journey home.

95 Years of Waiting by Autumn Dickson I'm going to give you a bit of a timeline to help you follow what is going on with these chapters. The bible is not chronological, and so it can get confusing. There are different names for the same people, and different names for the same ethnicity of people. Ezra also jumps around which isn't particularly helpful. So here is a brief timeline to help you keep track of where we're at. There are three main waves of Jews returning to Jerusalem. Context: Babylonians were the ones who took Jews away from their homeland. Cyrus easily defeats Babylon, and now Persia is in charge with a more tolerant hand. The first wave happens with Zerubbabel, a Jewish governor, and Jeshua (Joshua) is the priest who helps with the religious portion of returning to Jerusalem. This happens under Cyrus, and the temple foundation is laid. About 50,000 people have returned, and they brought sacred temple treasures with them. Opposition stalls the rebuilding of the temple. Cyrus has a son, but he's not mentioned much and there is simply more stalling that occurs from local opposition. Then Darius takes over, and he finds Cyrus' decree to let the Jews go back and build. The work resumes. It is still Zerubbabel and Jeshua who are leading the rebuilding. The temple is completed, and Passover is celebrated. Haggai and Zechariah were prophets who became involved at this stage in urging the continuation of rebuilding. Xerxes comes onto the throne. He is also known as Ahasuerus. Jewish rapport is building in high places within Persia, and this is the king who marries Esther. Now we get our second wave of people returning to Jerusalem. Artaxerxes comes on to the throne. He is sympathetic to Jews, possibly influenced by Esther. Ezra is part of this second wave, and he goes and starts teaching the Law of Moses again. Unfortunately, letters of opposition once again stop the work. Then there is our third wave. Thirteen years later, Nehemiah gains sympathy from Artaxerxes. He is the cup-bearer, and the king notices Nehemiah is sad. He allows Nehemiah to go and build the wall (which affords great stability and protection to the Jews against all of the local opposition). The king even gives Nehemiah resources to do so. Despite continued opposition, Nehemiah finishes the wall in 52 days. The people celebrate the Feast of Tabernacles. This entire timeline, from the first wave of Jews under Cyrus to when Nehemiah finishes building the wall around Jerusalem, occurs over approximately 95 years. 95 years of waiting. There were 70 years of exile under Babylon, and then there was another 95 years of waiting until they truly got any momentum in rebuilding their home. Despite the decrees of kings, the Jews found their work halted again and again and again by local enemies, primarily the Samaritans who held long-standing rivalries with Judah. And maybe that's my message this week. The Lord is patient even when we're anxious to reach our happy ending. Maybe we keep finding moments where we've finally “made it” only to have things fall apart again. Perhaps we find ourselves in the trenches, and it feels like no one is listening. God knew exactly where His people were, and He was not as worried about rebuilding His temple as He was about rebuilding His people. After all, the temple isn't the end-all. The temple is a tool to get to the end-all: a redeemed House of Israel. Perhaps it's time to realign our goals with the Lord. I'm going to keep referring to the goal of “rebuilding the temple and walls of Jerusalem,” but you can insert whatever goals you're currently working towards. I'm sure it was discouraging for the Jews to face all of that opposition. I'm sure it was discouraging every time a page turned, and they thought it was “finally time.” Perhaps they kept thinking, “This is it,” only to get halted all over again. I wonder if they felt like they were taking one step forward and ten steps back. Interestingly enough, the Lord sees the entire process differently. Where you see ten steps back, He sees 11 steps in the correct direction for His goal. The Lord wasn't just rebuilding Jerusalem; He was rebuilding His people. And despite the fact that it likely made them feel broken down, those trials were an important part of their refining process. He was making them powerful by helping them face obstacle after obstacle. I can only imagine how much more they appreciated their home because of how much longer it took to rebuild it, and that was really the successful part for the Lord. They had a holy city, but more importantly, He had a people who loved their holy city. If you're struggling to find peace in the midst of the ups and downs of trying to find your “happy ending,” might I make a recommendation? Prayer. Prayer is not about changing the Lord's mind or getting yourself out of a situation. Prayer is about talking with the Lord so that you see the way that He sees. So turn to prayer; not just so you can ask Him to save you but so that you can see how He is actively working within your life. Perhaps He might even show you how the seeming setbacks are the exact stepping stones you need. He has a glorious goal in mind: you. I testify that the Lord remains with us through the ups and downs. I testify that even when we're doing His work, He purposefully allows for opposition because opposition is an important ingredient for His goal. He can't accomplish His goal without that opposition so don't despair. It's all part of the plan. He loves you. He's got this. He knows exactly what He's doing. Autumn Dickson was born and raised in a small town in Texas. She served a mission in the Indianapolis Indiana mission. She studied elementary education but has found a particular passion in teaching the gospel. Her desire for her content is to inspire people to feel confident, peaceful, and joyful about their relationship with Jesus Christ and to allow that relationship to touch every aspect of their lives. Autumn was the recipient of FAIR's 2024 John Taylor Defender of the Faith Award. The post Come, Follow Me with FAIR – Ezra 1; 3–7; Nehemiah 2; 4–6; 8– Part 1 – Autumn Dickson appeared first on FAIR.

If the Book of Chronicles ends with the decree of Cyrus, the Book of Ezra records what happens when the remnant steps onto the road home. In the Hebrew Scriptures, Ezra and Nehemiah form a single, continuous work, recording a second Exodus. Where the first Exodus delivered Israel from pagan bondage into a wilderness of promise, Ezra-Nehemiah records a deliverance out of pagan exile back into a ruined land, where the promise must be rebuilt stone by stone, altar by altar, and wall by wall. Covering the initial returns from Babylon under Persian decree, the narrative moves in two distinct restored foundations. First, under Zerubbabel, the exiles return to erect the altar and rebuild the Temple amidst fierce local opposition. Decades later, Ezra, a scribe skilled in the Law of Moses, arrives not with masonry tools, but with Holy Scripture, tasked with the spiritual restoration of a prone-to-wander remnant. The northern kingdom is gone, and Judah is now a fragile province, yet the decisive reality is once again theological. The imperial throne of Persia is the instrument with which YHWH fulfills His sovereign word, proclaimed by the prophets. This small, vulnerable remnant is a matter of Gospel necessity. The survival of Judah, the rebuilding of Jerusalem, and the preservation of the Davidic line in Zerubbabel ensure the stage is set for the Anointed One, Jesus of Nazareth to enter human history. Ezra sets the permanent pattern for spiritual renewal: to study the Law of the LORD, to do it, and to teach it. His measure is whether a restored people will guard their hearts against compromise and order their lives around God's presence. The final word of Chronicles was an invitation to go up. Ezra proves that when God opens the way back, He provides the grace, the Word, and the shepherd needed to sustain the journey home.

This is the third preaching series of Pastor Zerubbabel. Remember how the Holy Spirit clothes us inwardly and learn the vital importance of aligning our speech with the Holy Spirit as the Bride of Christ so that God's Glory will be revealed in our Life. Everyone is encouraged to participate in the Watchmen Prayer Program to speak only what the Spirit says over their personal lives, ministry, and nation. Don't miss a weekly sermon! Follow our channel for weekly preaching and share this message with someone today.

We are all stewards of what God has entrusted to us: our time, gifts, calling, relationships, opportunities, finances, health, words, thoughts, and spiritual lives. A wise and faithful steward values where they are and what they have in their hands. Rather than trying to escape our present season, we should ask, “What am I doing with what God has given me?” Faithfulness begins by recognizing that nothing God entrusts to us is insignificant.“Do not despise these small beginnings, for the LORD rejoices to see the work begin, to see the plumb line in Zerubbabel's hand.” - Zechariah 4:10 NLTGod rejoiced when He saw the plumb line in Zerubbabel's hand because it represented obedience, progress, and faithful stewardship. The work was not finished, but Zerubbabel had begun using what was in his hand. Donot look down on your current season, assignment, or opportunity because it seems small. Value where God has planted you, faithfully steward what He has given you, and trust Him to bring the work to completion!Restore Church | Yorkville, ILSunday Mornings | 10 AMJordan & Melissa Gash, Pastorshttps://www.restorechurchyorkville.com

Old Testament Ezra 1; 3-7; Nehemiah 2; 4-6; 8 | The Apostle D. Todd Harrison In this sacred message, The Apostle D. Todd Harrison unlocks the divine pattern of restoration, governance, spiritual warfare, and covenant identity found in Ezra 1; 3–7 and Nehemiah 2; 4–6; 8 — chapters that reveal how God rebuilds His people, His house, and His purpose in every generation.The Apostle D. Todd Harrison speaks from a rare and extraordinary lineage:Through two distinct genealogical lines, he is a direct descendant of King Cyrus the Great — the only person besides Jesus Christ whom God Himself calls “My Messiah” (Isaiah 45). Cyrus was the world leader chosen by God to release the Jews from Babylonian captivity and empower them to rebuild the Temple in Jerusalem.He is also a direct descendant of Zerubbabel, the Davidic governor who oversaw the physical rebuilding of the Temple and restored the worship of the True God in Jerusalem.This dual lineage — Cyrus the liberator and Zerubbabel the builder — gives The Apostle D. Todd Harrison a uniquely authoritative voice when teaching on restoration, rebuilding, and divine governance."I testify that Jesus Christ is our Lord, Savior, and Redeemer. He is ALIVE TODAY!In the name of Jesus Crist, amen.The Apostle D. Todd HarrisonDirect Apostle of Jesus ChristCalled directly by the Lord Himself—just as Paul was on the Damascus Road (Galatians 1:1; Acts 26:13–20)“Not of men, neither by man, but by Jesus Christ, and God the Father, who raised him from the dead.” — Galatians 1:1Set apart by the Lord according to the ancient pattern Now in the Seventh Year of Global Apostolic Ministry to All NationsDescendant of the 6th‑Generation LDS General Authority Richards FamilyDescendant of the covenant royal lineage of David and Solomon, and all their descended biblical kings appointed by God and recorded throughout the Old Testament, whose line carried the Messianic promise

→ Watch on YouTube → Detailed Show Notes(00:00) King Cyrus of Persia overtakes Babylon. He believes the Jewish people Babylon conquered should be able to go home.(01:51) The books of Ezra and Nehemiah provide brief accounts of the rebuilding of the temple and the walls of Jerusalem. Zerubbabel and Jeshua work alongside the Jews and inspire them as they rebuild. Haggai and Zechariah are prophets during this time.(04:29) The historical timeline of Second Temple Judaism. There is emphasis among the Jews on keeping the Law. Many apocalyptic texts, though preserved and read by some, are not made canon.(08:32) Our enemies may try to discourage, mock, and conspire against the rebuilding of Zion, but this work will continue even if at times it seems to falter.(24:30) The people of the land that opposed the rebuilding of Jerusalem were the Samaritans. They also read Torah, believed in Moses' prophetic mission, and loved God. They offered to help rebuild the Jerusalem temple, but were forbidden. The Lord needs people outside the church to help.(33:44) How we should respond to opposition as we rebuild Zion.(42:32) George Q. Cannon relates the experience of building the Nauvoo Temple during great persecution. We should defend the faith as we build the kingdom.(49:10) The work of rebuilding is accomplished through the guidance of prophets. Sacrifices and feasts commence again during the Second Temple Period. → For more of Bryce Dunford’s podcast classes, click here. → Enroll in Institute → YouTube → Apple Podcasts → Spotify → Amazon Music → Facebook The post Ep 382 | Ezra; Nehemiah, Come Follow Me 2026 (July 27-August 2) appeared first on Talking Scripture.

Why would people rebuilding God's temple start by building a wall against their own neighbors? Dr. Christina Olson explores Ezra and Nehemiah, the imperfect leaders, contested history, and hard boundary lines that bridge the Old and New Testaments.SHOW NOTES/TRANSCRIPTSEnglish: https://tinyurl.com/podcastOT231ENFrench: https://tinyurl.com/podcastOT231FRGerman: https://tinyurl.com/podcastOT231DEPortuguese: https://tinyurl.com/podcastOT231PTSpanish: https://tinyurl.com/podcastOT231ESYOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/537P7zjqtQYALL EPISODES/SHOW NOTESfollowHIM website: https://www.followHIMpodcast.comFREE PDF DOWNLOADS OF followHIM QUOTE BOOKSNew Testament: https://tinyurl.com/PodcastNTBookOld Testament: https://tinyurl.com/PodcastOTBookBook of Mormon: https://tinyurl.com/PodcastBMBook WEEKLY NEWSLETTERhttps://tinyurl.com/followHIMnewsletter SOCIAL MEDIAInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/followHIMpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/followhimpodcastTIMECODE0:00 - Part 1 - Dr. Christina Olson1:48 First impressions of Ezra and Nehemiah4:15 Dr. Olson's bio7:38 Come, Follow Me Manual8:25 What these names mean9:45 Recap the exile and archeological evidence14:59 First and Second Temple Periods17:54 Why rebuild?19:00 Ezra-Nehemiah as bridge to the New Testament23:45 Cyrus's edict and the return home26:04 Why Ezra-Nehemiah is such a difficult read30:59 The pattern of an ancient temple-building account35:43 “Strangers in a strange land” – Identity and memory39:29 Genealogies and staking a claim40:00 Zerubbabel and Jeshua return44:51 Weeping and joy at the temple foundation46:13 The adversaries arrive47:55 Exclusion and God using imperfection52:41 How present-day conflicts get written57:18 Letters of accusation to the Persian king1:01:12 Tatnai's inquiry and Darius's decree1:05:15 Temple dedication and Passover1:07:52 End of Part 1 - Dr. Christina OlsonThanks to the followHIM team:Steve & Shannon Sorensen: Cofounder, Executive Producer, SponsorDavid & Verla Sorensen: SponsorsDr. Hank Smith: Co-hostJohn Bytheway: Co-hostDavid Perry: ProducerKyle Nelson: Marketing, SponsorLisa Spice: Client Relations, Editor, Show NotesWill Stoughton: Video EditorKrystal Roberts: Translation Team, English & French Transcripts, WebsiteAriel Cuadra: Spanish TranscriptsAmelia Kabwika: Portuguese TranscriptsHeather Barlow: Communications DirectorSydney Smith: Social Media, Graphic Design "Let Zion in Her Beauty Rise" by Marshall McDonaldhttps://www.marshallmcdonaldmusic.com

Genesis 3:10 NIV [10] He answered, “I heard you in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked; so I hid.” In this audio Pastor Zerubbabel Mengistu teaches how the Holy Spirit provides the ultimate antidote to spiritual nakedness, fear, and timidity. Just as the Holy Spirit transformed Peter from fearful to bold, God wants to clothe you with power. This audio is the continuation of Part 1: https://on.soundcloud.com/BAmRbpHV6c9eIp5zGO Listen to discover how you can step out to receive the Holy Spirit's power, love, and self-discipline by simple faith today! Living by the power of the Holy Ghost! Make sure to follow us so that you will get weekly preaching updates: https://soundcloud.com/bezachurch Have a blessed time listening!

“Does anyone remember this house—this Temple—in its former splendor? How, in comparison, does it look to you now? It must seem like nothing at all! But now the Lord says: Be strong, Zerubbabel. Be strong, Jeshua son of Jehozadak, the high priest. Be strong, all you people still left in the land. And now get to work, for I am with you, says the Lord of Heaven's Armies. My Spirit remains among you, just as I promised when you came out of Egypt. So do not be afraid.' “For this is what the Lord of Heaven's Armies says: In just a little while I will again shake the heavens and the earth, the oceans and the dry land. I will shake all the nations, and the treasures of all the nations will be brought to this Temple. I will fill this place with glory, says the Lord of Heaven's Armies. The silver is mine, and the gold is mine, says the Lord of Heaven's 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 ‭2‬:‭3‬-‭9‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Glory doesn't always look impressive. 

Genesis 3:10 NIV [10] He answered, “I heard you in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked; so I hid.” God's voice brings life and healing. So why did Adam hide from it in fear? The problem wasn't God's voice, it was the state of Adam's conscience. A guilty conscience acts like a dirty window, It distorts the light. While Adam tried to cover things over with external leaves, God's real focus is our inner clothing. Through the blood of Jesus, our consciences are cleansed so we can step out of hiding and live free from condemnation. Listen to this 30min Life changing audio and make sure you followed us so that you will get weekly preaching updates.

“On August 29 of the second year of King Darius's reign, the Lord gave a message through the prophet Haggai to Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel, governor of Judah, and to Jeshua son of Jehozadak, the high priest. “This is what the Lord of Heaven's Armies says: The people are saying, ‘The time has not yet come to rebuild the house of the Lord.'” Then the Lord sent this message through the prophet Haggai: “Why are you living in luxurious houses while my house lies in ruins? This is what the Lord of Heaven's Armies says: Look at what's happening to you! You have planted much but harvest little. You eat but are not satisfied. You drink but are still thirsty. You put on clothes but cannot keep warm. Your wages disappear as though you were putting them in pockets filled with holes! “This is what the Lord of Heaven's Armies says: Look at what's happening to you! Now go up into the hills, bring down timber, and rebuild my house. Then I will take pleasure in it and be honored, says the Lord. You hoped for rich harvests, but they were poor. And when you brought your harvest home, I blew it away. Why? Because my house lies in ruins, says the Lord of Heaven's Armies, while all of you are busy building your own fine houses. It's because of you that the heavens withhold the dew and the earth produces no crops. I have called for a drought on your fields and hills—a drought to wither the grain and grapes and olive trees and all your other crops, a drought to starve you and your livestock and to ruin everything you have worked so hard to get.”‭‭Haggai‬ ‭1‬:‭1‬-‭11‬ ‭NLT‬‬ We don't have a resource problem. We have an excuse problem. Obedience isn't waiting for ideal conditions. Obedience is taking the next faithful step.

"What does shaking of heaven mean? v7 treasures of all nations --> Desire of all nations in other translations?" "I wonder of Jesus' ancestry through Zerubbabel since both Luke & Matthew have Zerubbabel and Shealtiel but between Zerubbabel & Jesus and Shealtiel & David they differ. I'm also trying to think if there is any passage that has gentiles as treasures or if this is an interpretation without much precedent?" "On the cross, did Jesus only bear the judgement/sin of his people or everyone (the whole world)?" "Jesus has taken the judgment that we deserve and we are saved from eternal judgement but do we experience judgement like the people did in Haggai 1? How did God keep his promises from Jeremiah 22 of not allowing Josiah's line to rule?" "How does God choose individuals to become prophets? In a modern context, how do we know if it is a true calling from God or what we internally desire?"

Today's Promise: Zechariah 4:6 Have you ever faced a challenge that seemed too big to overcome? Maybe God has placed something before you that feels impossible. Today's promise reminds us that we don't accomplish God's purpose through our own strength, abilities, or resources.   In Zechariah 4:6, God told Zerubbabel that the temple would not be rebuilt by human effort but "by My Spirit." The same promise is true for you today. When God calls you to something, He provides everything you need to accomplish it.   The mountain before you may look overwhelming, but it is no match for the power of the Holy Spirit working within you. You don't have to rely on your wisdom, strength, or ability. God's Spirit gives you the power to fulfill His purpose.    

The returning exiles came home full of hope, but the reality was brutal. The land was ravaged, neighbors were hostile, and the temple project came to a complete stop for many years. The people lost heart and focused on their own houses while God’s house sat in ruins. God had to send Haggai and Zechariah to convince the […]

What do you do when sixteen years of effort leaves you with nothing but a foundation? God's answer to Zerubbabel cuts through every excuse and every obstacle: not by might, not by power, but by My Spirit. If you have been grinding away on something God called you to and wondering why it feels like nothing is moving, this is the word you need. The Holy Spirit never runs dry, and God does not abandon what He starts.

Sermon Outline: "You Can Get There from Here" I. Introduction: The Divine Waymaker Overcoming the World's Directions: In the natural world, when asking for directions, people might discouragingly tell you, "You can't get there from here." However, God specializes in impossible routes. No matter your starting point or how dead-end your situation seems, God can get you to your divine destination. The Invisible Path: Reading from Psalm 77:19, Pastor Rhonda highlights that God's road often leads straight through the sea and mighty waters—paths that no one even knew existed, leaving no human footsteps behind. The God of Action: Citing Psalm 77:13-14, we serve a great God who actively makes things happen and pulls His people out of the worst kind of trouble. II. Point 1: Start Right Here (The Beauty of the Sanctuary) Choosing a New Path: In Psalm 84, the sons of Korah write about longing for the courts of the Lord. This is significant because their ancestor, Korah, rebelled and was destroyed. Yet, his descendants chose a different path. You may come from generations of brokenness, but you can choose today to serve the Lord. Proximity Over Position: The house of God is beautiful not because of its physical architecture or staging, but because it is where God's people gather to corporately meet with Him. A Day in His Courts: According to the Psalmist, a single day in God's courts is better than a thousand days spent anywhere else. Proximity to God trumps any secular privilege—even a debt-free million-dollar resort or a palace. Strength to Strength: In the sanctuary, believers draw dynamic strength from one another's testimonies—seeing brothers and sisters who have conquered cancer, beaten addictions, and defied medical odds. Together, they pass through the Valley of Baca (weeping) and turn it into a place of fresh, living springs. III. Point 2: Remember God's Track Record The Roundabout Way: When God delivered Israel out of Egypt (Exodus 14), He intentionally did not lead them along the shortest route through Philistine territory. God stated His strategy: He knew that if they faced an immediate battle, they would get discouraged and turn back. Strategic Position vs. Apparent Mistake: God purposefully led them on a roundabout way through the wilderness to camp at a perceived dead end at Baal Zephon. To Pharaoh and the enemy, it looked like they were wandering aimlessly and trapped by the wilderness. The Enemy's Trap: What the world or the enemy labels as a disastrous mistake is actually God's hidden strategy. God didn't build a dead end to trap His people; He built a trap to eliminate their enemy. IV. Point 3: Trust the God Who Takes You Through the Obstacle Through, Not Around: When the crisis hit at the Red Sea, God did not build a bridge over it, send boats to carry them, or take them around it. He took them straight through it. The obstacle itself became the road. Night Season Operations: God blew back the waters all through the night season. When you are in your own dark night season and cannot see a way forward, that is precisely when God is operating behind the scenes to clear your pathway. The Mystery of the Dolphin Skins: In Exodus 26:11, God instructs Moses to cover the ceiling of the Tabernacle's tent of meeting with dolphin skins. While finding sea creatures in the middle of a dry wilderness seems impossible, Jewish history and various scholars suggest a powerful reason: As the Israelites crossed the Red Sea with walls of water stacked high on either side, they could see the marine life. They carried those skins into the wilderness as a permanent structural reminder in their ceiling to look up and remember: “We did not get here by ourselves; it was the Lord who redeemed us.” The Right to Cross Over: Because the blood of Jesus has purchased you, you are legally classified as the redeemed of the Lord, giving you an absolute right to cross over your barriers. V. Point 4: Trust the Process from the Manger to the Throne God's Unconventional Pathways: Throughout history, God has continuously built unexpected avenues of deliverance using unlikely people: He anointed a heathen king named Cyrus to march through the Euphrates River at night to overthrow Babylon and deliver His weeping people. He anointed a simple cupbearer named Nehemiah to stand before King Artaxerxes to secure the rebuilding of Jerusalem's ruined walls. Shouting to the Mountain: When holy projects stop halfway and leave you in disappointment, we must speak the prophetic words of Zechariah 4:7: Cry "Grace, grace" to the mountain, and it shall be leveled into a plain. The Humble Arrival: When the King of Kings arrived, He bypassed the expected pathways of Middle Eastern royalty—the velvet tapestries, marble floors, and royal heralds. Instead, He started in a dusty, earthy manger filled with straw and the smell of livestock. Palace Transmutations: God took a route no human saw coming. If God can navigate a path from a low, dirty manger straight to the right hand of the Throne, He can take the "manger" situations of your life and turn them into a palace. VI. Conclusion: No Throne Without the Cross The Strategic Weapon: The cross was naturally a site of execution, sin, deep shame, and public humiliation. The religious elite and demonic principalities assumed Jesus could never reach the throne from such a low place of defeat. Returning to the Feet of the Cross: The cross is not just the entry point of your salvation; it is your ongoing structural weapon against the enemy. When you are bullied by fear, intrusive thoughts, or defeat, return to the feet of the cross where the veil was torn, sin was destroyed, and shame was paid back. The Third Day Resurrection: The apparent defeat of the cross was turned around on the third day when Jesus was triumphantly resurrected from the tomb. Because of that structural victory, God has highly exalted Him and given Him a name that reigns supreme over cancer, sickness, debt, and every dead-end trap of the enemy. Scripture Index Here are the primary scriptures read, cited, or expounded upon during the service: Psalm 77:19 > "Thy way is in the sea, and thy path in the great waters, and thy footsteps are not known." Psalm 77:13-14 > "Thy way, O God, is in the sanctuary: who is so great a God as our God? Thou art the God that doest wonders: thou hast declared thy strength among the people." Psalm 84:1-2 > "How amiable [lovely] are thy tabernacles, O Lord of hosts! My soul longeth, yea, even fainteth for the courts of the Lord: my heart and my flesh crieth out for the living God." Psalm 84:6-7 (Referenced) – Passing through the Valley of Baca [weeping] and making it a well, as they go from strength to strength. Psalm 84:10 > "For a day in thy courts is better than a thousand. I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God, than to dwell in the tents of wickedness." Exodus 14 (Referenced) – The account of God leading Israel the roundabout way through the wilderness to camp at Baal Zephon, and Pharaoh assuming they were trapped. Isaiah 51:9-10 (Paraphrased) – Awaking the arm of the Lord to put on strength as in ancient generations, drying up the great deep to make a road for the redeemed to cross over. Exodus 26:11 / Exodus 36:19 (Referenced) – The structural command to cover the tent of the Tabernacle with a covering of dolphin skins [badger/sea-cow skins in some translations]. Zechariah 4:7 > "Who art thou, O great mountain? before Zerubbabel thou shalt become a plain: and he shall bring forth the headstone thereof with shoutings, crying, Grace, grace unto it." Isaiah 51:11 (Referenced) – The redeemed of the Lord returning and coming with singing unto Zion, with everlasting joy upon their heads. Numbers 6:24-26 (The Benediction) > "The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace." "Thanks for listening! For more information, visit churchoftheharvest.com. Don't forget to follow us on Facebook and YouTube @cothcleveland.

Do Not Despise Small Beginnings Zachariah 4:10 “Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin, to see the plumb line in Zerubbabel's hand.” I heard this verse in a sermon I was listening to on the Elevation Podcast.  The sermon was given by Jabin Chavez.  This verse was a small part of his sermon and yet when he said it something inside me said that someone listening to this episode needs this verse right now.  Someone needed to hear that is it ok that things aren't going as fast as you wanted or happening as big as you wanted.  Someone needed to hear that we don't have to be discouraged with our small beginnings.  I know this verse is for me, and yet I felt as though I was not the only one who needed to hear it.  This verse is telling us not to despise small beginnings as this is often how our prayers are answered.  Are you looking around and thinking this does not look like you thought it would?  You thought you would be further along at this point in your life.  You thought you business would be more successful.  You thought you would be married, or you thought you would have kids.  You thought it would look different. The “it” is different for each one of us and yet many of us share this common disappointment.  Why is this?  Why do we wish we were further along instead of enjoying the ride to get to where we are going?  I think we want to be further along because that is what the world seems to care about and we often get caught up in the world instead of what God wants.  The world tells us that we are defined by what we have.  We strive to have the biggest car, the biggest house, the best job, the most stuff.  We think this makes us worthy because that is what society tells us.  This is not what God tells us.  God tells us in Matthew 19:30 “But many who are first will be last, and the last will be first.”   God does not look at our lives the way society does.  He is not looking to see who has the most stuff, the biggest house, or the best job.  God is looking to see, “Did you help out those in need?” “Did you love your neighbor as yourself?” “Did you follow His ways and put Him first?” These are the things God is judging.   Even when we know this, even when we know the things God is calling us to, we can still feel discouraged because, “we haven't helped enough people yet,” or “we haven't loved well enough yet.”  Whether it is in our regular life, or our spiritual life, we can often tend to be discouraged with our progress.  How many of us have said, "I should be praying more,” “I should trust more,” or “I should rely on God more?” We all have times when we aren't happy with our progress and this verse is the perfect verse to remember when we start to have these thoughts.   Many of us can get the idea in our heads that God is up there, sitting on His thrown, looking down on us and judging us because He is not pleased with our progress.  We picture Him just shaking His head and saying, “Really, again?” or “I can't believe they haven't learned that yet.”  I think this verse is telling us that we are wrong.  God isn't up there judging our progress and being disappointed.  He is up there watching and smiling at every small step in the right direction that we take.  He is reassuring us not to worry if are beginnings are small because at least we are beginning.   Pastor Chavez was saying that often times the answers to our prayers come in seed form.  We want God to just give us the answer with all the details all worked our perfectly and yet that is not often how it works.  It does happen like that sometimes and we Praise God every time it does. Often we will pray about something and God will give us an idea and then we need to take that idea and cultivate it.  This takes time.  It takes time and lots of listening to God to figure our what He is calling us to do with our lives.  However, even when we know what our calling is, it is often revealed in stages.  I am not sure anyone gets handed a roadmap for their whole life's mission all at one time.  We often feel called to one thing, which then leads to another thing, which leads to another thing and so on.  I am sure this is intentional because we get the skills to do the next level of things while we are learning to do the first level.  I can imagine it is also intentional because if we knew where our 40 years of hard work was going to lead us, we might not say yes to that first step.   If I knew that saying yes to attending a retreat when I was in college would lead me to having a personal encounter with the Holy Spirit, which would lead me to help start a whole revivial of the Charismatic Renewal in the Catholic Church, would I still go to that retreat, or would I be overwhelmed with that much responsibility.  Honestly I don't know. I am grateful for those who attended the retreat that is now known as the Duquesne Weekend and has marked the beginning of the Catholic Charismatic Renewal.  I am sure their lives changed immensely on that weekend and they helped lead the Charismatic Renewal one step at a time.  I can imagine they wanted it to spread quicker because once you know the power of the Holy Spirit you want everyone else to have that experience too.  However, they went at the pace God took them and I am sure God was happy with their small beginnings.  I will actually put a link for a description of the Duquesne Weekend in the show notes as it was an incredible experience for all involved and is really interesting to read about. (Click Here for article) You might be looking at your life and thinking you are not where you wanted to be or where you thought you would be and yet God is looking at your life and saying, “You are right where I want you to be.”  Most of the time we have no idea of the amazing things God has planned for our lives.  It's when we do have some idea that we get impatient and we want those amazing things now.  God's timing is perfect.  If we want something now and God has not given it to us yet, there is a reason.  Most likely, we are not ready for it yet.  God knows our hearts.  He knows what we will do with what we are given.  God's ways are not our ways and His thoughts are not our thoughts.  We do not understand a lot of the things God does.  We often can't understand His timing.  This is because we are looking at a very tiny piece of the puzzle and God gets to see the whole picture.   I think what God is telling us with this verse is “Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin.” He doesn't want us to despise the small beginnings because He gave us those small beginnings.  Also, we shouldn't judge our ending on the small beginnings because we don't know what these small beginnings will grow into.  One saying the pastor said in his sermon that I really liked was that you can cut open an apple and count the number of seeds in it.  However, you have no idea how many apples are in one seed.  Only God can make your endeavors fruitful.  We won't know how much fruit will come from each seed, each idea you have, until it is fully grown.  Keep nurturing your ideas, keep working at them,  don't get discouraged if you aren't where you thought you would be, God will get you there in His perfect timing. Dear Heavenly Father, I ask you to bless all those who listen to this episode today.  Lord, help us to be content, happy, even joyous over our small beginnings, knowing your timing is perfect.  Help us to be patient as we wait for the amazing things you have called us to come to fruition.  Help us to see clearly what you are calling us to and how we get there.  We love you, Lord, we want what you want.  We want our wills to be aligned with your will. Please help us.  We are so grateful for all the desire you placed in our hearts.  Please help us cultivate those desires and be patient while we wait for your perfect timing.  We ask all of this in accordance with your will and in Jesus' holy name, Amen! Thank you so much for joining me on this journey to walk boldly with Jesus!  I am so glad to be back with all of you this week.  II just want to remind you that you can pick up an autographed copy of my book on my website.  You can also sign up for my newsletter there.  walkbodlywithjesus.com I look forward to meeting you here again tomorrow.  Remember, Jesus loves you, and so do I!  Have a blessed day. www.findingtruenorthcoaching.comCLICK HERE TO DONATECLICK HERE to sign up for Mentoring CLICK HERE to sign up for Daily "Word from the Lord" emailsCLICK HERE to sign up for my newsletter & receive a free audio training about inviting Jesus into your daily lifeCLICK HERE to buy my book Total Trust in God's Safe Embrace

Send us Fan MailThis week we look at Zerubbabel and who he was and how he reestablishes the kingship of Christ.

VBS-Isaac Bourne-6/23/26-Zerubbabel

In a culture that often measures success by achievement, status, or financial security, God reminds us that the most important thing a father can build is a strong spiritual foundation for his family.In this Father's Day message from Matthew 7:24–27 and Zechariah 4:8–10, Pastor Corey teaches that healthy homes are not built on temporary priorities but on the unchanging truth of God's Word. Using Jesus' illustration of the wise and foolish builders, he explains that every family will face storms, challenges, and difficulties, but the foundation beneath the home determines whether it stands firm or collapses.Drawing from the rebuilding of the temple under Zerubbabel, Pastor Corey encourages fathers not to underestimate the power of daily faithfulness. While the work of leading a family can often feel slow, repetitive, and unnoticed, God uses small acts of obedience to build something lasting and significant over time.Through this encouraging and practical sermon, Pastor Corey shares:• Why every family is built on a foundation—whether intentional or not• The difference between building on God's truth and building on temporary priorities• Why storms reveal the strength of a family's foundation• How financial success, achievements, and personal happiness make poor foundations• The importance of loving God first before leading your family well• Practical ways parents can pass their faith to the next generation• Lessons from Zerubbabel and the rebuilding of God's house• Why fathers should never despise "the day of small things"• How daily acts of faithfulness create lasting spiritual impact• The importance of perseverance, consistency, and obedience in parenting• Why great homes are built one brick at a time• How a strong foundation in Christ enables families to withstand life's stormsFeaturing insights from Matthew, Deuteronomy, Ezra, Haggai, Zechariah, and the teachings of Jesus, Pastor Corey challenges fathers and families to build their homes on the only foundation that will last. Discover how God uses ordinary moments, daily obedience, and steadfast faith to create strong families that can stand firm through every season of life.

"Why is wickedness built a house? Why is it moved and hidden away and not judged/destroyed? Does this hint at a greater wickedness to befall Babylon/Persia, or indicate Judgement to come on them?" "Built house for the basket? -> wickedness & sin. Our iniquities?" "Could the olive trees in Zechariah relate to Elijah and Moses on the transfiguration (and how does it relate to Rev 11?)?" "If the two olive trees are referring to Joshua & Zerubbabel, does this point to Jesus' priesthood and kingship?" "Is this Zerubbabel the same Zerubabbel who is in the genealogy of Jesus in Matthew 1? Does that mean that the prophecy in Zechariah 4 is related to kingship?"

The book of Isaiah is filled with so many rich passages, and today's chapter is one of them. In this study in Isaiah 43, we'll see God's heart as He lays out His redemptive plan for His people, and we'll see how Jesus came as the prophesied redeemer! Today's podcast is a tad long, but filled with rich truths we need to know! DISCUSSION AND STUDY QUESTIONS: 1. Take a moment to skim Isaiah 42 and the introduction of the New Covenant. What is the overall tone of Isaiah 42? How does verse 1 (of Isaiah 43) demonstrate a shift in this tone? Why do you think the Lord speaks this way to His people now? 2. In verse 1, why should the people not fear? What has the Lord done for them? How has He called you by name? 3. In verse 2, how does the Lord promise to walk with His people? How does the Lord describe Himself in verse 3? Why should this bring comfort to us? 4. Verses 3 & 4 speak of a ransom payment. This is speaking about how God brought punishment on the nations through the Babylonian conquest so that Israel might be (ultimately) freed. In the Old Testament, what is a "ransom" payment? (You may want to turn back to Exodus 30:11-16 or relisten to the podcast on that passage). How were these nations a ransom payment for the redemption of God's people? 5. In verse 5 to 9, from where will the Lord gather His people? In terms of the principles of "mountain range prophecies" (that we've talked about in the past), how was this prophecy initially fulfilled when the Jews returned to Israel under Zerubbabel in 538 BC? How is this prophecy being fulfilled now the Lord draw people to Himself from the nations? How will this prophecy finally be fulfilled when Christ returns? 6. Verses 10 to 13 provides some wonderful gems of truth about the Lord. What are some truths that these verses teach about God? What do they say about the nature of our Savior? How do we see aspects of the Trinity and Jesus' hypostatic union in these verses? 7. In verses 14 to 17, how will the Lord make a way of return for His people? 8. In verses 18 & 19, why do you think the Lord tells His people to not dwell upon His old ways of dealing with them? What is the new work He will do (and has done)? 9. In verse 21, what is a key purpose for God's people? How do you fulfill this purpose in your own life? 10. Verses 22 to 24 return back to the theme of the people's disobedience to the Lord. What is the Lord addressing in these verses? Why would anyone become weary of the Lord (vs 22)? How might someone not honor the Lord with their worship (vs 23)? Why does the Lord call these things a "burden" in verse 24? 11. Read verses 26 to 28 and then think about people's complaints about God. What "case" might the people make to the Lord? What will be the outcome of this argument with Him? 12. In verse 25, what does the Lord promise for His kingdom people? How does this confirm His righteousness? How does this confirm His legitimacy to rule these people? 13. Think back over the principles from this chapter. Has the Lord wiped away your transgressions? He has called you by name? Has He formed the worship you give to Him? Are you trusting in Him to be with you in challenges? How can you grow in these spiritual pursuits? Check out our Bible Study Guide on the Key Chapters of Genesis! Available on Amazon just in time for the Genesis relaunch in January! To see our dedicated podcast website with access to all our episodes and other resources, visit us at: www.keychapters.org. Find us on all major platforms, or use these direct links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6OqbnDRrfuyHRmkpUSyoHv Itunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/366-key-chapters-in-the-bible/id1493571819 YouTube: Key Chapters of the Bible on YouTube. As always, we are grateful to be included in the "Top 100 Bible Podcasts to Follow" from Feedspot.com. Also for regularly being awarded "Podcast of the Day" from PlayerFM. Special thanks to Joseph McDade for providing our theme music.   

Guest speaker, Eric Sanders, walks us through the story of Zerubbabel, Ezra, and Nehemiah. In this story we see Jerusalem's temple and altar rebuilt, the way the Israelites worship updated, and the walls restored.

When God's people rightly worship, there will be active resistance. Chapter 4 begins a record of snapshots spanning 15-16 years. These snapshots provide insight into the events that delayed the temple's continued construction. Though people in the land wanted to help, they were not who they claimed to be. 

In this episode of Who's Who in the Bible, Fr. Juventius Andrade, C.Ss.R. provides an in-depth study of the final section of the Book of Isaiah, covering chapters 56–66. This "Third Isaiah" period reflects on the Israelites' return to a desolate Jerusalem following their Babylonian exile.Key discussion points include:Historical Context: The transition from exile to the challenges of rebuilding the temple under governors like Sheshbazzar and Zerubbabel.Social Realities: The struggles with poverty, injustice, and territorial disputes among the returnees.Theological Themes: The vision of a new, inclusive temple, the restoration of Zion, and the cosmic promise of a new heaven and a new earth.We encourage you to watch this episode to gain a deeper understanding of these scriptures and how they can enrich your prayer life.

In this installment of the Who's Who in the Bible series, Fr. Assisi Saldanha, C.Ss.R., examines the influential figures Ezra and Nehemiah. The presentation breaks down the post-exilic restoration into three main efforts: Zerubbabel's reconstruction of the temple, Ezra's focus on revitalizing the community and implementing religious law, and Nehemiah's leadership in building the city walls. Throughout the episode, Fr. Saldanha offers a thoughtful analysis of these reformers' motivations, examining the intersection of political strategy and religious commitment in shaping Jewish identity. We encourage you to watch the full episode to explore these profound biblical narratives and their historical context.