Today we are going to look briefly at Israel's history circa 700-400BC. These are the years leading up the the reign of Xerxes and the story of Esther. As you read take notice of how God orchestrated these historical events. You may find yourself humbled by all the evidence of his power and control.
ASSIGNMENT:
1. Go HERE to print out a map of the Assyrian, Babylonian, and Persian Empires.
Print out the map. (FYI to save on paper opt to only print out page 1)
2. Read II Kings 17:21-23 and briefly summarize those events. Highlight the border of the Assyrian Empire.
3. Read Jeremiah 25:8-12 and summarize. Jeremiah, whose ministry began 626 BC, was one of the last prophets in Jerusalem). Babylon captured Jerusalem, pillaged the temple, and burned the city in 586 BC. If possible, in a different color highlight the border of the Babylonian Empire.
4. Cyrus, the founder of the Persian Empire, captured Babylon in 549. Read Ezra 1:1-5 and summarize what you learn there. Ezra 2:64 records that a total of 42,360 Jews returned to their homeland; this was in addition to servants and singers. If possible, in another color highlight the border of the Persian Empire.
Ponder This... We do not know how many Jews were living in Persian exile at this time – but there had to be millions born over this 300+ year period. Why do you think there were relatively so few who returned home? Share your ideas on the discussion board!
5. Read Isaiah 45:1-6. What does God say regarding Cyrus that could be confusing or contradictory? See vs. 3 and comment on God's "bottom line" (the reason God gives for enabling Cyrus with such power)? See also vs. 6, for another "bottom line" statement. How can Cyrus be "God's anointed" and at the same time "not acknowledge" Him?
