Videos

Ezra returns to Jerusalem to rebuild the people around God's Law. Nehemiah engages in rebuilding the walls around Jerusalem. These efforts involve opposition and mourning, but also an invitation to celebrate in God's presence.

Ezra 1-6 tells the story of a remnant of Israel returning to Jerusalem and rebuilding the temple.

Exile in Babylon was a season of suffering, though it also produced a few opportunities and developments. Today, we explore how we might understand God and his work in the context of exile and suffering.

The prophet Joel invites us to realize that even in seasons of pain and loss, there is hope. God is at work confronting evil, bringing about new creation and filling people with God's Spirit.

Ezekiel speaks a message of hope to Israel and to all the nations. The Spirit of God gives life!

Unique to the prophets, Habakkuk levels his accusations at God instead of Israel. Why, God, do you allow violence and injustice to reign? God assures that he is engaged, and Habakkuk pivots to praise.

Jeremiah encourages the Israelites in exile to become a part of the community and seek the peace and prosperity of Babylon. How will we live in the messy middle - between the reality of the challenges we are facing and God’s promised restoration?

The later part of the book of Isaiah describes a suffering servant. A king (Jesus) that operates differently than others, who brings peace and hope.

Isaiah prophesied to the southern kingdom regarding Israel's idolatry, greed and mistreatment of the poor. He warned that Babylon would conquer Israel, but there was hope regarding a remnant and a new king.

Hosea was called to expose and prophecy against Israel's unfaithfulness. Though there were consequences, God demonstrates his character in promising restoration for his people.

Amos urges Israel to repent from idolatry and social injustices. He reminds Israel of their covenant with God inviting them to live out justice and righteousness.

The book of Jonah, unique among the prophets, is a narrative. It is the story of God's prophet at odds with God's intent to show mercy to Assyria.

The prophets were called by God to speak judgement and hope to an Israelite nation in breach of covenant. Context and literary genre are important to understanding the prophets.