1 Thessalonians 1:9-10

1 Corinthians 1:7-8

Philippians 3:20

 Read the Bible always looking for Jesus  Live life always looking for Jesus to come back

 Habakkuk predicts Babylon’s invasion and eventual destruction.  Ezra begins with Cyrus who defeated Babylon  Ezra/Nehemiah describe restoration initiated by Cyrus Bridge from Habakkuk to Ezra/Nehemiah Advent in the Old Testament

Ezra 1:1

 Ezra – rebuilding of temple  Nehemiah – rebuilding walls Bridge from Habakkuk to Ezra/Nehemiah Advent in the Old Testament

Luke 24:27

17 books Genesis- Esther (History: Creation to Exile) 5 books Job-Song of Solomon (Worship & Wisdom) 17 books Prophets (Commentary on the History) Old Testament Overview

1. The reassurance that God keeps his promises Anticipating Jesus in Ezra/Nehemiah Advent in the Old Testament

Jeremiah 29:10

Ezra 1:1

Isaiah 44:24 & 28

Luke 2:25-28

Luke 2:36-38

2 Peter 3:2-13

1. The reassurance that God keeps his promises 2. Setting the Stage for the Climax of God’s Drama The temple rebuilt The messianic line protected Anticipating Jesus in Ezra/Nehemiah Advent in the Old Testament

Hebrews 2:8-9

Romans 8:23

1. The reassurance that God keeps his promises 2. Setting the Stage for the Climax of God’s Drama The temple rebuilt The messianic line protected “Already” & “Not Yet” Anticipating Jesus in Ezra/Nehemiah Advent in the Old Testament

3. Reinforcing the Pattern for God’s Deliverer Holds palace authority Leaves to repair ruins Steals in at night Identifies with oppressed Leaves for a time Returns to rule Anticipating Jesus in Ezra/Nehemiah Advent in the Old Testament

 Waiting for Christ or hoping in this world?  Enjoying good gifts in life or depending on them for life?  Hollow center or a Holy Center?