Zechariah 1-7: Zechariah begins with a call for repentance, reminding the people of their ancestors' disobedience and encouraging a return to the Lord for restoration and prosperity. Through a series of vivid visions and symbolic actions, the prophet conveys messages of hope, revealing plans for rebuilding the temple, restoring Jerusalem, and the coming of the Messiah.
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Today’s Reading: Read Zechariah 1-7 If someone asked you how God speaks to you, how would you answer that question? Because we have the gift...
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The prophet Haggai delivers the Lord's command to rebuild the temple, highlighting the people's negligence as they live in comfort while the temple lies in ruins. Through divine encouragement and promises of greater glory, the people, led by Zerubbabel and Joshua, begin the work, signifying a renewed covenant and the hope of blessings.
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Today’s Reading: Read Haggai 1-2 Do you remember what a prophet did? Prophets had messages from God for the people. Sometimes those messages were full...
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In this episode of Sermon Notes, host Jay Strother and guest Brian Ball delve into the misplaced priorities of ancient Israel, discussing how the people focused on their own homes at the expense of rebuilding God's temple, paralleling contemporary tendencies to prioritize personal gain over devotion to God.
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In Ezra 4-6, as the returned exiles began rebuilding the temple, they faced opposition from local groups who falsely claimed shared religious ties, leading to halted construction by a royal decree from Artaxerxes. The project resumed under the encouragement of prophets Haggai and Zechariah and was completed by a decree from King Darius, allowing the Jewish community to celebrate with joy and thanksgiving.
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Today’s Reading: Read Ezra 4-6 Sometimes we may think that just because God called us to do something, it is going to be easy! We...
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In Ezra 1-3 and 2 Chronicles 36:22-23, King Cyrus of Persia, moved by the Lord, decrees the rebuilding of Jerusalem's temple, encouraging exiles to return and contribute to the project. As the community reunites in Jerusalem, they lay the foundation amidst mixed emotions of joy and sorrow, marking a poignant moment of renewal and remembrance.
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Today’s Reading: Read II Chronicles 36:22-23; Ezra 1-3 Often people say that something they are waiting for is “worth the wait.” What is the longest...
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GOSPEL CONVERSATION OPPORTUNITY Daniel had many chances to demonstrate his faith to those around him. How are you with sharing your faith with your friends...
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In Daniel 10-12, Daniel experiences a vision of a heavenly being who reveals a prolonged spiritual battle influencing earthly kingdoms, followed by detailed prophecies of future conflicts involving Persia, Greece, and more symbolic kingdoms. These visions culminate in assurances of God's ultimate sovereignty and the establishment of an everlasting kingdom, alongside promises of resurrection and reward for the faithful.
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Today’s Reading: Read Daniel 10:1-12, 19; Daniel 12 Ever been part of a trust fall before? Parents, this is your chance! Ask your kids to...
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