BibleSF

In life, we are so busy and misdirected, we don’t take time: To Pause, Ponder, Look Back, and Look ForwardBecause over this past year, we haven’t just studied a series of books—we’ve walked through a story.Ezekiel… Daniel… Ezra… Nehemiah… Esther… Haggai… Zechariah… Malachi.Different leaders. Different situations.Exile… return… rebuilding… opposition… drift… restoration.And if we’re honest, it wasn’t a story of strong, consistent people.It was a story of people who struggled… drifted… failed… and needed constant correction.But through it all, there was one thing that never changed.God’s faithfulness.He revealed Himself.He raised leaders.He stirred kings.He brought His people back.He corrected them.He sustained them.

God's Final Words to Israel before the Messiah enters the worldBSF Global Lesson 28Malachi invited God’s people to return to Him before the Messiah came. Malachi’s name means “my messenger.” The book’s opening verse emphasizes Malachi’s God-given message. Malachi aimed to stir God’s apathetic people to seek His tender love and honor His majestic holiness.Malachi brought God’s words of judgment to Israel but first reminded the people of God’s love.Serving God had become a chore for the priests and the people alike. God lovingly called them back to Himself with warnings, judgment, and promises of the coming Messiah. Malachi’s book opens with the Lord saying, “I have loved you.” These four powerful words set the stage for everything Malachi wrote. He even presented God’s judgment through the lens of His overpowering love. God reveals His faithful love through His judgment and blessing.Divisions1. God confronts Israels dishonor in sacrifice and unfaithfulness with priests. Malachi 1:1-2:172. God promises His Messenger coming and calls His people to return to Him with tithes. Malachi 3:1-152. God records scroll of the righteous and a day distinguishing righteous from wicked. Malachi 3:16-4:6Aim- God confronts unfaithfulness and calls His people to return.Application:1. Where might your worship or obedience have become routine or careless?2. Are there ways you are withholding from God and how is He calling you to return?3. How does God’s view of the righteous and wicked shape how you live?

Lesson 27: Dedication and RenewalThe leaders and the people knew that rebuilding Jerusalem was central to God’s future plans for His people. And accordingly, it was His intention for Jerusalem to ultimately be inhabited by those ready to reinstitute spiritual elements that all pointed to God's picture for redemption through the Messiah. It started with the re-building of the temple, then re-establishing worship, rebuilding the walls and renewing God's covenant relationship; and now…the final step…moving in. Each step in this restoration was an expression of obedience and devotion to God. In this grand finale of the book of Nehemiah, it was time to bring it all together.…temple, walls, city and people. And although it’s clear that God’s plan for the restoration of Israel was perfect, we’ll see that even after their eagerness to hear and respond to the Law, their repentance and their oaths, God’s people continued to struggle with sin. Through God’s gracious provision of wise and godly leaders such as Nehemiah to hold them accountable, the people would learn, and we can learn, that devotion to God requires dedicating every aspect of life to Him.Reflection questions:1. Where are you intentionally investing in the faith of the next generation?2. How are you using the gifts God has given you to express thanks to Him?3. Is there an area of compromise you have been tolerating that needs attention and what will you do about it?

In Nehemiah 9-10, the people read the Word of God and remembered the goodness of the Lord.Sometimes, we just don't realize how really good our lives are by God's gracious hand, because we're so busy thinking about what we don't have or how much more we still want. Instead of entitlement and dissatisfaction, God calls us to remember the very goodness of God's heart to us.In this study, we see an affirmation to obedience. not by force or threat, but by a profound recognition of how wonderfully God created us for His purposes. How centrally devoted He is to our Salvation and Restoration. And how much He desires us to receive more and more of His goodness to the glory of His Name.He shaped our minds and hearts for the purpose of knowing Him. Theologian J.I.Packard says the weakness of the modern church lies in its pervasive ignorance of the God they claim to serve. The modern mind has put God far off in the distance, while happily making things up about God from ungrounded guesses. Our best guesses about God never advances our relationship with God. We must know and remind ourselves of the marvelous God we serve. If we do not know how to know God, how can we enjoy and delight in Him? AIM: Causes the audience to learn that God’s faithfulness in pursuing us compels our daily repentance and sincere participation in His Will with glad obedienceGOD'S FAITHFULNESS, OUR FALTERINGI. Sincere Remembrance and Confession (Neh 9)A.) Posture of Sincerity 9:1-6B.) Prayer of Remembrance 9:7-30 (Formation, Liberation, Chastening)C.) Plea for God’s grace 9:31-38P1: Relationship with God comes through surrender, not self-righteousness.II. Sincere Recommitments (Neh 10)A.) Personal Recommitments 10:1-29B.) Promises before God 10:30-39P2: Remembering God’s faithfulness fuels faithful obedience.

BSF Lesson 25Learning to notice what God is telling us through the Levitical Law and FestivalsIn most protestant churches, the eucharist is once a month. When the communion is not given explicitly, it is given implicitly with the pastor giving a altar call, which is the sacrifice of our Decision and Devotion in thanksgiving for Christ's ultimate sacrifice.So in this study, it's all about bringing back the worship. The enemies try to stop the efforts of God's people being unified in spiritual purpose. The genealogy is a symbol of the restoration of the people's heritage of faith passed on to generations who never forgot. And the Feast of Booths is remembrance of God's faithfulness in the past through the amazing Exodus, and His faithfulness to be with us always through the Incarnation of our Lord Yeshua - who tabernacled with us (John 1:14; Rev 21:3). He is the tabernacle of our worship. We are in this flesh for only a little while, but we shall enter the eternal Promised Land into a city built and made by God.AIM: Experiencing God’s goodness & His word cause unity and sincere worshipI. God’s Work Completed -- People Complete the Wall (Nehemiah 6:15-7:3)A. Despite opposition (6:15-19)B. United and protected (7:1-3)Princ 1: God’s work, done God’s way, prevails and silences critics.II. God’s People Registered (Nehemiah 7:4-73)A. The heritage of God gives future generations understanding of God’s purposes and inheritance.Princ 2: God’s people are known to Him and built up by HimIII. God’s Word Renews and Revives (Nehemiah 8 )A. Thru understanding the word (8:1-8)B. Thru rejoicing in the word (8:9-12)C. Thru OBEYING the word (8:13-18)Princ 3: God’s word causes conviction that leads to joy when repentance meets grace.

Lesson 24 is called Encountering the Opposition because fighting and weathering the opposition is vital foramtive training and one of your most formative spiritual education. We grow the most and the fastest and with deeper understanding when facing opposition. It's so undesirable but so useful. And many Christians unfortunately don't face it head on, but have learn strategies to hide.... Hiding is not a spiritual gift but detrimental to who God wants us to become.Nehemiah is a portrait of character, courage, and generosity in the midst of great opposition. Christian courage is quite different from worldly courage because we are warriors who rely entirely on our great God from whom we take orders and model our lives. Imagine what Nehemiah had to struggle with by reading between the lines. Then you'll realize how stressful and tense these days were for a Cupbearer! Then think about how this applies to you. You may feel out of your element in many spiritual challenges, but God will strengthen and teach us, shaping us in ways most needful for our good!AIM: God’s purposes prevail when believers prayerfully obey and endure opposition.1. Facing External Opposition (Nehemiah 4)a. Mockery & Prayer (Nehemiah 4:1-6)b. Threats & Vigilance (Nehemiah 4:7-23)Principle: Believers endure opposition by relying on God’s strength through prayer and action.2. Addressing Internal Conflict (Nehemiah 5)a. Confronting Injustice (Nehemiah 5:1-13)b. Modeling Selflessness (Nehemiah 5:14-19)Principle: God works powerfully when believers courageously obey Him in the face of opposition.3. Enduring Personal Attacks (Nehemiah 6:14)a. Resisting Deception (Nehemiah 6:1-4)b. Standing Against Slander (Nehemiah 6:5-9)c. Rejecting Intimidation (Nehemiah 6:10-14)Principle: When facing opposition, God empowers believers to remain steadfast, fulfilling His purposes.

The Call to the Wall Nehemiah 1-3 (lecture talk to accompany Lesson 23)In ancient times, the wall symbolized ordering governance.Without a wall, there was no way to structure a city and give it shape. Imagine your body without your outer skin to give you shape and order. A wall was often the place where city economic policy and direction was managed. Traders and commerce occurred by the dictates of the people who sat at the city gates to determine who can enter, conduct trade, do business, and participate in the life of the people within. The order and life of the city was secured by the king who protected it, cared for it with legislation, and executed justice by rightly judging on the matters of the people.Without a wall therefore, a city was really no city.AIM: God achieves His Work through surrendered obedience of His people.I. A Burden That Breaks (1:1–11)A. The Ruin Reported (1:1–3)B. The Leader Mourns and Prays (1:4)D: (1:4) – The Cross begins with dying to comfort and carrying God’s burden.C. Confession and Covenant Hope (1:5–11)D: PH2 (1:6–7) – Denying self includes surrendering personal agenda. Principle 1: God prepares the heart before He advances the work.II. A Courage That Risks (2:1–20)A. Fear Before the King (2:1–5) Doctrine PH3 (2:4–5) – Carrying the cross requires surrendering fear.B. Provision for the Mission (2:6–9) Attribute: Provider (2:8–9) “The good hand of my God was upon me.”C. Inspection and Invitation (2:11–18)D. Opposition and Resolve (2:19–20)Principle 2:God strengthens those who step forward in obedience.III. A Community That Builds (3:1–32)A. Leaders Lead First (3:1–2) (3:1 – Sheep Gate) – The Lamb would one day enter here.B. Each Repairs Their Section (3:3–12, 23, 28)C. “Next to Him…” (3:1–32) Doctrine PH5 (3:1–32) – The Cross produces selfless service.Principle 3: God accomplishes His purposes through surrendered and united people.

God preserves the Testimony of His Gospel that each one of us has to bear into the world. Collectively, we bear the testimony of the faithfulness of God in building His Kingdom on this earth as He had promised even at the enormous resistance of the world’s empires, institutions, and people’s seeking to stop it from coming about. The overall aim of the lesson this week is this: Jesus Christ will eradicate evil and reign as King forever.We have three divisions in this lesson:I. God Rescues His People (12:1–9)II. God Cleanses His People Through the Pierced Shepherd (12:10–13:9)III. God Reigns Over All the Earth (Ch. 14)

Click on the play button to begin the audio lecture.People of the Promise: Exile & ReturnLesson 21 - The Promise of the Coming King, ZECHARIAH 9-11God calls us to be leaders as stewards of His righteousness, but human leaders are egotistical, selfish, greedy, self-serving, and opportunistic. We care less for others than we care for ourselves and our tribe. False leadership has a trickle down effect where their distortions, lies, and wicked ways cause distress and corruption in the way people live their own lives. Visible leaders have an unique opportunity to model exemplary behavior, but we see this failure in Zechariah 9-11. But we have hope, the the Messiah, the True Leader who shows us what true leadership looks like, One who humanity desperately needs and believers are called to live like. Jesus Christ, the rejected Shepherd, will reign and rule eternally as conquering King.Focus Verse“The Lord their God will save his people on that day as a shepherd saves his flock. They will sparkle in his land like jewels in a crown.”   (Zechariah 9:16)Aim: Though rejected by humanity, Jesus Christ will reign without rival.I. The Promised King Who Comes (Zechariah 9)A. The Fall of Earthly Powers (9:1–8) The Humble King Who Saves (9:9–10)B. Eternal King who enters history in humility. Fulfilled in Christ’s Triumphal Entry.C. The Victorious King Who Delivers (9:11–17) Covenant blood fulfilled in Christ. Principle 1: The King who came in humility will return in authority.II. The Faithful Shepherd Who Restores (Zechariah 10)A. A Warning Against False Shepherds (10:1–3)B. The Cornerstone and the Battle Bow (10:4) Jesus as foundation, stability, authorityC. The Shepherd Who Gathers and Strengthens (10:5–12)Principle 2: Our security rests not in human leaders but in the Shepherd-King.III. The Rejected Shepherd Who Will Reign (Zechariah 11)A. The Coming Desolation (11:1–3)B. The True Shepherd Rejected (11:4–14) Betrayal price fulfilled in Christ.C. The Foolish Shepherd and Final Judgment (11:15–17)Principle 3: How we respond to Jesus determines our destiny.

When faith becomes hollow — when practice replaces attentive devotion. Zechariah 7-8In Zechariah 7, the leaders ask whether they should continue fasting — something they’ve faithfully done for decades.On the surface, it sounds commendable. Disciplined. Devout. Consistent.But instead of applauding their commitment, God asks a confronting question: “Who was this really for?” Were these fasts about listening to Him — or about maintaining a system that felt safe, familiar, and controllable?What follows is sobering. God reminds them that religious activity had continued even while hearts had grown hard. Justice was ignored. Compassion faded. God’s Word was resisted. And eventually, religion continued — but relationship broke down.God speaks words of hope, restoration, and joy. He talks about returning to dwell with His people. About peace replacing fear. About mourning turning into celebration. About a future so good that people from other nations will want to be part of what God is doing.We’ll see both the danger of empty religion and the hope of a future shaped by God’s promises. And underneath it all is a truth that is as challenging as it is freeing.Our aim today is simple:God desires obedient hearts, not empty religious practice.We’ll unpack this in two divisions from the text:Aim: God calls people out of empty religion into a vibrant relationship with Him.I. Empty Religion of Mechanical Devotion - Zechariah 7:1-14A. Works-Based Religion: 7:1-3B. Self-Satisfied Religion: 7:4-7C. Self-Focused Religion: 7:8-12D. God’s Just Correction: 7:13-14PRINCIPLE: Rituals are no substitute for repentant hearts filled with love for God and others.II. True Relationship with God, Feasting through Fruitfulness - Zechariah 8:1-23A. Feast for Love: 8:1-6B. Feast for Salvation: 8:7-13C. Feast for Righteousness: 8:14-19D. Feast for Witness: 8:20-23PRINCIPLE: Just as Jesus bore fruits of our Salvation, God intends for His people to live lives of spiritual abundance that call others to Him.APPLICATIONS:1. Is your worship of God rooted more in what you do (tradition, rituals) or in God Himself?2. Where have you seen God’s abundant blessing in your relationship with Him?

BSF GLOBAL LECTUREComplete Resolution; Perfect JusticeThe final three visions and the symbolic coronation don’t just comfort—they confront. God shows His people that He sees sin clearly, that He will not coexist with evil forever, and that His rule will not be challenged indefinitely. These visions answer the unspoken fear: Does God really act, or does He just observe?What’s striking is how comprehensive God’s response is. He addresses personal sin, entrenched wickedness, global powers, and finally presents His own appointed ruler. This isn’t chaos management—it’s moral clarity. God is not wringing His hands. He is moving history toward a righteous and uncontested reign.And right at the center of it all is a surprising image: a high priest wearing a crown. It’s unexpected. It’s symbolic. And it quietly points forward to God’s ultimate solution—not just judgment, but a representative who stands in for His people and reigns on their behalf.So as we walk through Zechariah 5 and 6 tonight, we’ll see this big, steady truth come into focus:God will judge sinners, abolish evil, and reign without rival.Aim: CATL God's future plans of judgment and reigning without rival involves IsraelI. GOD's JUDGMENT (Zech 5:1-6:8)a.) Removal of lawlessness [5:1-4]b.) Removal of wickedness [5:5-11]c.) Removal of world systems [6:1-8]II. GOD CROWNS HIS KING-PRIEST (Zech 6:9-15)a.) Current Symbolic Action [6:9-13]b.) Memorial in Remembrance [6:14-15]Principles:1. God’s final judgment is a removal of all that causes humanity’s pain2. Jesus intercedes now as righteous high priest and will rule as unrivaled king

Zechariah's Night Visions Part 1 covering Vision 1-5Zechariah’s name means “God remembers” after the Hebrew word Zachar -which means to remember. God is not remembering something He forgot. It’s we who forgot. No, here, God is reassuring us that He has never forgotten His promises and is undertaking every detail of His plan to show us our Redeemer and our Rescue from the human condition of darkness and death. It’s we who have forgotten. And remember meaning of Haggai’s name? The prophet who preached prophecies with Zechariah? Celebration! The two together calls God’s people to remember and celebrate God’s plans for us for His promises are true and faithful. When forget what God is doing, and we don’t understand His plans, we will fail to know how to live as His followers. Then we will have lost the gameplan, the blueprint, and we’ll become beleaguered by worldly enticements that lure us away. And when we living for this worldly frame of mind, we will fail to see the greatness of God's plan, even as we stare at the blueprint - the Bible. Meantime, there will be many naysayers and disillusioned people who say it's a crazy idea. Listen to how this matters for our walk with God.AIM: God strengthens His people with present provision and future promises.I. God Reveals His Ongoing Care for His People (Zechariah 1:7–2:13)A. God knows the condition of His people (1:7–17)– Vision 1: God sees suffering and speaks words of comfortVision 2: Horns and craftsmen. Oppression exists, but it is limited by God– Vision 3: Jerusalem measured, unwalled, protected by God HimselfAttribute: God is invisible, yet personally present and actively involved with His people (2:5, 2:10).Principle 1: God’s care for His people is constant, even when it is not immediately visible.II. God Removes the Sin That Stands Against His People (Zechariah 3:1–10)A. God silences the accuser and removes guilt (3:1–5)– Vision 4: Joshua clothed in filthy garments– God acts decisively on behalf of His people. The Spirit convicts, regenerates, applies righteousness, and assures forgiveness.B. God restores His people for renewed purpose (3:6–10)– Forgiveness leads to peace, security, and fruitfulness. Christ the Branch who removes sin (3:8–9)– Sin removed “in one day”. Fulfilled in Christ’s once-for-all atoning workPrinciple 2: God strengthens His people by removing the guilt that weakens and accuses them.III. God Supplies the Power Needed to Complete His Work (Zechariah 4:1–14)A. God provides a continual supply of power (4:1–6)– Vision 5: Lampstand and oil. Power flows from God, not human effort. Human agents matter, but the source is divine.  Attribute: God’s Spirit is invisible, yet His power is unmistakable in its effects (4:6–7).Principle 3: God accomplishes His work by His Spirit, not by human strength.

Lesson 17: Zechariah: A Call to Return to the LordRepentance is a attitude of humility and contriteness of heart to accept the truth that God says about our sinful condition, behavior, and ways. Without repentance, we cannot change.Repentance is an ongoing education about ourselves transforming us toward the likeness of the Messiah our Lord Jesus. The mind and heart of repentance depends on submission to the Holy Spirit's speaking to our spirits. He uses His Word, other faithful saints, even circumstances that is directed by God to show us where we are and who we are. Repentance is spiritual honesty, which is essential to our sanctification, maturation, and joyful life in Christ.Aim: God longs to bless and restore repentant sinnersDoctrine: RepentanceDivision 1 – God’s Call to Return (Zechariah 1:1–3)A. God Speaks into a Stalled People (v.1)– God raises His word at a specific moment– Returned physically, yet drifting spirituallyPrinciple 1: God invites us back before He moves us forward.Division 2 – God’s Warning from the Past (Zechariah 1:4–6)A. A Call Not to Repeat Old Patterns (v.4)– “Do not be like your ancestors”– Knowledge and heritage do not equal obedienceDoctrine (v.4): Repentance includes personal responsibility — I cannot hide behind past generations, leaders or traditions.Principle 2: Ignoring repentance always costs more than returning to God.

Lesson 16 Lecture: God is not our side project: Transforming Frustration to FocusHaggai 1-2In Haggai, the the Prophet is telling the people they are not ready for what God has brought them back into the land for. It was not to have fine houses and fabulous lives. Their purpose was far greater than their creaturely comforts - they were getting Israel prepared for the prophetic fulfillment in the arrival of the Messiah.Readiness is about knowing what’s going on, the game plan, what our purpose and duties are, what we’re supposed to live for and be actively engaged in. Readiness helps us "Batten down the hatches" which means to prepare for a difficult situation, crisis, or storm by securing everything, plugging the holes where water can get in, and getting ready for trouble.Readiness also means understanding God’s timeline and God’s work in the world. He’s the master of world events, and we can only speak about His perfect control if we know what He our sovereign God is doing. If you’re not ready, you’re not steady. If you snooze, you lose. God is never our hobby or side project. He is the Central and Main Lover of our souls who guides us to "green pastures and still waters" (Ps 23) where we can abound to every good things He has created us to be and do. Focus Verse“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. 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.”   (Haggai 2:6-7)Doctrine: The Doctrine of SanctificationI. Complacency called out  Haggai 1a.) Complacency's Consequences 1:1-11b.) Complacency's Cure 1:12-15Principle: God’s work done God’s way results in God’s glory.II. Refocused God’s Eternal Priorities  Haggai 2a. Refocused by God’s Presence  2:1–9b. Refocused through God’s Holiness  2:10–19c. Refocused by God’s Promise  2:20–23Principle: Living for God’s glory yields life’s greatest blessing.1. Where are you easily discouraged in your life because you’re chasing the wrong priorities? How can you ask God for His perspective?2. How has God blessed you, even in intangible ways? Did you see His glory revealed when you stepped out in obedience?

God's Grace Abundant Even as We Ignore ItBy God’s grace, sin’s deadly edict over God's people was reversed through the blood of Jesus Christ. God’s grace not only provides salvation for those who trust in Christ but also sustains them through this life and into eternity. The air we breathe, the guidance we experience, and the strength we need to live our lives all represent God’s undeserved favor—His marvelous grace.Think about what your life would be like WITHOUT God’s grace. If I do not believe in God’s grace, I won’t understand the depth of my sin and I won’t see my need for salvation. Life would be so miserable, and the lies of the world would lead me to believe that I am entitled to God’s favor, which I think I can earn; and therefore life would be a mess.BUT… when I believe in God’s grace, I take no credit for my salvation or anything God has done on my behalf. With humility and gratitude, I recognize my utter dependence on God and His unswerving faithfulness. I feel secure, not because I am strong but because God is gracious.We can become so accustomed to God’s grace that we fail to recognize its wonder, but the truth is, we stand in constant need of God’s grace, which He supplies in lavish abundance!!Application Questions:How often do you stop and ponder that God’s grace is truly amazing?In what ways have you experienced God’s grace today? How will you thank Him?Outline:Aim: God graciously provides victory over sin’s curse.FROM VICTIMS TO VICTORSI. A Counter-Decree of Grace (Esther 8 )II. A Deliverance By Grace (Esther 9:1 - 19 )III. A Celebration of Grace and Providence (Esther 9:20-10:3)PRINCIPLESBy God’s grace, sin’s deadly consequences are reversed.By God’s grace, His own are sustained through this life and into eternity.By God’s grace, we continue to celebrate His victory over sin and death.

Lesson 14: Esther 3-7. Spiritual subversions and God's ReversalsIn the Old Testament, we see satanic spirits in hiding behind disguises, as idols and enemies, working through surrogate pawns and puppets, rulers, nations, and empire systems, always acting to shape dark and ruinous cultures, and dehumanize and degrade people and their minds. One of the key identifiers of those who work against God is human pride. It denigrates and defies God. It doesn't understand God and His Truth, and rejects them out of hand. But God always thwarts the ways of darkness and patiently holds out the truth for those who would seek Him. In the New Testament, Jesus our Messiah finally arrives and sheds light in the darkness, and evil spirits can no longer hide. They come up to the surface and are expelled. Their facades fall away, and false disguises crumble to show the waste and ruin they have done. Evil spirits are everywhere, and Jesus casts them away, releasing people from bondage, giving them victory by His Power.In this lesson, we learn that God's fingerprints of planning and guidance is everywhere. He guides and shapes events and actions to lead His people to His perfect Will and Plans. He is in charge. Through challenge, His people learn how great God is working to protect and guide them, even when we are totally ignorant of all the parts He coordinates to bring about our victory and our good.AIM: God sovereignly works to teach and reveal truth, to save souls, show His power, and demonstrate His faithfulness according to HIS glorious planOutline:1. Evil’s Plot Unfolds (3:1–15) – when pride and hatred rise, God constrained them and their effects.2. God’s People Persevere (4:1–5:14) – when fear surrounds, God perfectly positions His people to act in faith.3. God’s Perfect Reversal (6:1–7:10) – when evil seem formidable, God gives His people power to overcome and victory.Principles:1. God sovereignly permits His people to face opposition for His glory.2. God sovereignly positions and calls His own to live out courageous faith.3.God can sovereignly flip the tables on the enemy’s plans and reward His people in due time.

BSF Global Lecture provided by BSF HQ on Esther 1-2Seeing all things within God's Providence and Sovereignty.People explain their lives in different ways. One of the most powerful differences in telling the story is when one includes God vs not including God.Remember that most of the Bible were written by God’s prophets. But here’s one of the few books not written by prophets but by an unknown Jewish historian (- perhaps because the prophets are focused on a more central witness with the returnees in Jerusalem). Observe the details that make it a historical genre. But we see that removing God’s explicit mention does not remove His indelible work among the Jews.This applies to all the stories we read through Scripture. Without God, we see hopeless, despair, and confusion. But when we remember God's providence and presence in each instance, we find that even in the worst circumstances, that God is with them (and us) and in total control - for He is sovereign and in complete, perfect control. He knows the plans he had for us and what He wants to undertake. If we only pay attention, we can see in hindsight the "footprints in the sand" and the rescues in His plans. When we trace His plans there in the stories, we rejoice in wonderment over His acts, for all His ways are perfect and meant for our good and for the good of those we didn't even think to be included in God's plans.So Esther is a unique story told seemingly without mention of God. But we know God is at work in their history, much the same way He is working in our stories today.This Christmas, we see secular stories pushing to drown out the sacred storu. How do we witness and tell of the spiritual work being done by a God who loves, saves us, and cares for us, and is using us, training and preparing us, and teaching and maturing us, and having us involved in micro and macro projects for His honor, glory, and praise?How would you tell your story - not the secular version non-believers see and follow, but the sacred version God's people are called to remonstrate to those who don't see? How does that affect your telling others about the Christmas Story?

Why does God use Marriage as a metaphor for a relationship with Him?When a good marriage is very good and shining. But when we enter into a sacred trust and life-alignment with those who do not love nor care for God, we can jeopardize our own faith. Does it really matter? Is it a big deal? What should be done? Those are the questions asked by the people who didn't think too deeply about this as they resettled the land and return to being a people devoted to God.What if any kind of marriage will do? What happens if we perpetuate the idea that any living arrangement with any group of people you have strong emotional feelings for is alright and acceptable to God? Wouldn't people increasingly let their fickle feelings decide on their most important decisions and devotions, and may lead in time to choosing the counterfeit over the good designed by God?Lesson 12 Outline: Doctrine: Sin, Its Character and UniversalityAttribute of God: RighteousCATL: of the gravity of our sins’ foothold, hindering holiness, purity, and living into His Great Purposes for our livesI. CONTAMINATION & MOURNING Ezra 9A) Appalled at sin (9:1-4)B) Anguished in prayer(9:5-15)P1:God reveals the gravity of our sin to change our posture and perspectivesII. COOPERATION & CLEANSING Ezra 10A) Corporate Confession (10:1-6)B) Corporate Commitment (10:7-15)C) Corporate Cleansing (10:16-44)P2:Our response to revealed sin reveals what we believe about God.

GIFTS TO BSF: Dear BSF Members,As we approach the end of the year, please remember BSF International in your end-of-year giving. BSF Headquarters is expanding and recently moved to a new location in Dallas right at the International Airport as part of addressing a greater need for deep Bible study training all around the world in multiple different languages. Even the smallest amount, goes a long way. More information about this wonderful work can be found here: https://www.bsfinternational.org/future-plans/To give online, please use this LINK.Main Idea: When God Guides the Journey, True Worship Leads the WayPeople of the Promise: Exile & Return Lesson 11Ezra offers a compelling portrait of true spiritual leadership. In this lesson, we explore the qualities that shaped him into a remarkable mobilizer and leader—one who served not only as a skilled administrator but also as a priest in the line of Aaron. Ezra prayed, planned, prepared, organized, recruited, cast vision, delegated, measured and recorded progress, and strategically guided God’s people. His testimony could be summarized in his own words: “Because the hand of the LORD my God was on me, I took courage and gathered leading men from Israel to go up with me” (7:28).Ezra modeled humility before God (8:21). He was deeply committed to preserving the honor of God’s name and refused to act in ways that might bring God’s testimony into disrepute. Even when responsible for transporting massive amounts of gold and silver—valued by some at more than $400 million today—Ezra declined to ask the king for military protection. To do so, he felt, would undermine the very message he proclaimed: that God Himself was their Protector. Instead, he fasted, prayed, and entrusted the journey to God.As a leader, Ezra inspired others by sharing a God-given vision. He identified critical gaps in personnel and capability, then recruited the right people to fill those needs. He delegated significant responsibilities to trustworthy leaders—twelve priests and their brothers—rather than attempting to micromanage every detail himself. He kept accurate records, maintained accountability, and ensured that each person fulfilled their assigned role.Ezra was both a scholar and a teacher of God’s Word. He devoted himself to strengthening the people’s understanding of God’s promises and purposes. He belonged to a new generation—distinct from Zerubbabel’s earlier wave of returnees—and he embraced God’s call with faith, courage, and conviction. Through his leadership, he rallied God’s people to return to Jerusalem, where God’s promise of global deliverance would one day be fulfilled in the Messiah.VISION CASTINGWhat additional leadership qualities do you observe in Ezra’s life? In what ways can you imitate his spiritual leadership as someone called into God’s purpose in your generation, among your family, friends, neighbors, and community? How are you building “altars,” calling people to true worship, and laying foundational truths that help others come to Christ?Big Idea: When God Guides the Journey, True Worship Leads the WayDoctrine: The BibleAim: CALT depend on God’s Word, trust His provision and rest in His protection as they walk in His calling.I. God Guides 7:1-10A devoted priest moved by God’s wisdom (1-10)Principle: True worship begins when God becomes our first priority.II. God Provides 7:11-8:20A pagan king moved by God’s control (7:11-8:20)Principle: God provides everything we need to fulfill everything He calls us to do. III. God Protects 8:21-36A believing people trusts in God’s direction forward.Principle: God faithfully protects those who depend on Him.

(This lesson is a re-upload from last week which was deleted in error by the podcast manager)Lesson 9 - The Exile Ends and God’s People Return, EZRA 1 –2OutlineThe Historical Context of EzraThe Return to Jerusalem – Ezra 1–2God activates every detail within His sovereign plan.Focus Verse“In the first year of Cyrus king of Persia, in order to fulfill the word of the Lord spoken by Jeremiah, the Lord moved the heart of Cyrus king of Persia to make a proclamation throughout his realm and also to put it in writing.’” (Ezra 1:1)Doctrine: The Doctrine of Fulfilment of Prophecy

WHAT DOES WORSHIP MEAN TO YOU? In this lesson, we see the faithful people of God place worship above anything else they commit themselves to in rebuilding their lives on their return. The faithful know that looking to God through Worship and Praise must take precedence over the wrangling efforts that we make to build and secure life by our own strength and power. God is the Source and Purpose for all that we seek to undertake and devote our lives to. When we live this way, we are truly able to live according to our created purpose and not be led away into darkness, deception, and spiritual demise. Ezra 3-6Doctrine: SubstitutionAttribute of God: OmniscientAim: CATL worshipping God is His people’s priority.I. Essence of Worship (3:1-13)A. Purchased by God (3:1-6)B. In God's Presence (3:7-13)P: Prioritising worship of God anchors His people's lives.II. Opposition to Worship (4:1-6:12)A. From Deception to Discouragement (4:1-5)B. Accusations (4:6-24)C. Authority Challenged (5:1-6:12)P: Prioritising worship of God is His people's best defense against opposition.III. Joy of Worship (6:13-22)A. Sustained by Preaching of His Word (6:13-18)B. Propelled by Gratitude for His Grace (6:19-22)P: Prioritising worship of God is a true and proper response to His salvation..

In this lesson, Daniel receives prophecy regarding the immediate and distant future. He's lived through three different kingdoms rising and toppling: Israel, Babylon, and the Medo-Persians. He has seen his share of nation rising up against nation, the excesses of the rich and powerful and their unrepentant, haughty attitudes, and the dreaded feeling of not knowing what the point of it all really is. He’s around 85 years old, and have lived most of his life in a pagan land of all kinds of idolatry and wicked practices. He longs to see God show nations His Holy and Righteous ways through Israel’s restoration in repentance into God’s promises so that God’s people can reveal what is true and eternal. But he’s crying out to God in repentance on behalf of a self-satisfied, ungrateful people who may not necessarily care for the plans and will of God. Sounds familiar? How can we develop into God’s people have if we live just like the world, indiscriminating adopting its selfish, arrogant, sinful philosophy of life, its resistance against God's principles that lead to peace and life?I. in chp10. We learn about The Truth of the Spiritual Realm - DANIEL 10:1-11:1(The material realm is a small part of a much larger world of entities, actors, and forces)A.) Spiritual Struggle in Prayer and Understanding 10:1-9B.) Spiritual Conflict and Battle Revealed 10:10-11:1In chp 11, we learn aboutII. The Truth behind Earthly Conflicts - DANIEL 11:2-45(Governmts care less about living according to God’s values and ways, but by their own predatory schemes and strategies. There is no ultimate hope in human governmts).A.) Earthly Battles Are Foreknown 11:2-35B.) Battles Prelude the Anti-Christ and through his powerful deception 11:36-45III. The Truth of the End Times - DANIEL 12A.) Deliverance and Resurrection will mark the beginning of the end 12:1-3B.) The Prophecy is sealed; but endurance reveals those who are Steadfast Heart through purification12:4-13PRINCIPLES:1. The visible world veils an unseen spiritual movement that affects everyone.2. God calls out and invites “open immigration” to His Kingdom for all who will repent and seek Him.3. Only His Kingdom will endure forever: He is our eternal inheritance.

Here is Daniel, having lived through three different kingdoms rising and toppling: Israel, Babylon, and the Medo-Persians. He has seen his share of nation rising up against nation, the excesses of the rich and powerful and their unrepentant, haughty attitudes, and the dreaded feeling of not knowing what the point of it all really is. He’s around 85 years old, and have lived most of his life in a pagan land of all kinds of idolatry and wicked practices. He longs to see God show nations His Holy and Righteous ways through Israel’s restoration in repentance into God’s promises so that God’s people can reveal what is true and eternal. But he’s crying out to God in repentance on behalf of a self-satisfied, ungrateful people who may not necessarily care for the plans and will of God. Sounds familiar? How can we develop into God’s people have if we live just like the world, indiscriminating adopting its selfish, arrogant, sinful philosophy of life, its resistance against God's principles that lead to peace and life?I. in chp10. We learn about The Truth of the Spiritual Realm - DANIEL 10:1-11:1(The material realm is a small part of a much larger world of entities, actors, and forces)A.) Spiritual Struggle in Prayer and Understanding 10:1-9B.) Spiritual Conflict and Battle Revealed 10:10-11:1In chp 11, we learn aboutII. The Truth behind Earthly Conflicts - DANIEL 11:2-45(Governmts care less about living according to God’s values and ways, but by their own predatory schemes and strategies. There is no ultimate hope in human governmts).A.) Earthly Battles Are Foreknown 11:2-35B.) Battles Prelude the Anti-Christ and through his powerful deception 11:36-45III. The Truth of the End Times - DANIEL 12A.) Deliverance and Resurrection will mark the beginning of the end 12:1-3B.) The Prophecy is sealed; but endurance reveals those who are Steadfast Heart through purification12:4-13PRINCIPLES:1. The visible world veils an unseen spiritual movement that affects everyone.2. God calls out and invites “open immigration” to His Kingdom for all who will repent and seek Him.3. Only His Kingdom will endure forever: He is our eternal inheritance.

Do our Prayers matter?In Revelations, we get repeated glimpses into the great value of our prayers which the elders hold in golden cisterns around the Throne of God. They bring instruments of praise in the other hand. With Praise and Prayer they enjoin in Worship in God's Presence (Rev 5:8).Prayer is an important aspect of Worship. Worship is a kind of mental framework of our mind and heart for which we were created. Even atheists find at their most urgent and pressing time they impulsively cry out to God. Worship is not the meager thing we have institutionally made it: the building, the service, the hour of boredom and ritual which we have made it in our underwhelming institutions. True life of Worship is living in joyful thanksgiving, flourishing and thriving into all God's intended purposes for us with reverence and honor of Who God Is in them all - rejoicing in all He has given in who we are and what we can do. Worship is magnified in receiving God's grace and love through Jesus who laid down his life for us.Worship however get obstructed. In Daniel, we see that FULL and unimpeded worship keeps getting obstructed, threatened, and hindered but God shows a life of true worship is essential for everything, and that life-liberating Worship can only be possible in Christ.A heart of Worship will change our prayer, draws us into God’s greater purposes, and align our thoughts and views to God’s greater work being done. Worship is our Created purpose.

Can humans ever devise a social system that dignifies the value of all people, allow for their flourishing, and promote justice and righteousness in the way we interaction with one another? The lesson study for this week explains in more detail the hidden entrapments and aggressions of the world's most glorious empires in Nebuchadnezzar's dream of the towering statue. For 600 years before the arrival of Christ were the most impressive world empires the world had ever seen. They would leave a legacy of empire building and behaving that would set the stage for all the peoples around the world for the next 2000 years, except for a people group not organized by ethnicity or territory: the People of God in Christ. The Christians would live and reign by a victory already accomplished above the material wars unresolved and brewing continuously in the hearts of people. Jesus's people live into a life of fulfilled victory, life, hope, and peace.Talk Outline:Division 1 – God Rules Over Human Kingdoms (7:1–28)A. The Beasts Rise (7:1–8)- Daniel sees four beasts rising from the sea — frightening and powerful.- They show the reality of fallen humanity — kingdoms marked by pride, cruelty, and rebellion. Humanity’s fall corrupts kingdoms and power.B. The Throne of God (7:9–14)- The Ancient of Days takes His fiery throne, the books are opened.Sin and rebellion are judged before God.- The Son of Man comes with the clouds, receiving everlasting dominion.Jesus is the Son of Man who secures eternal rule.C. The Saints’ Victory (7:15–28)- Daniel hears the interpretation: kingdoms rise, the little horn oppresses, but the saints will possess the kingdom.Principle 1: God’s eternal kingdom outlasts and overrules every human kingdom.Division 2 – God Limits and Ends Human Powers (8:1–27)A. Kingdoms in Conflict (8:1–14)- Daniel sees a ram and a goat clashing, horns rising and breaking, and a little horn exalting itself even against God.- Worship is halted and truth trampled, but only for a set time. The fall drives rebellion against God, but judgment is certain.B. Gabriel Explains (8:15–25)- Gabriel names kingdoms, predicts their rise and fall.- A fierce king opposes God but is “broken without human hand.” God’s omnipotent judgment ends human power.Christ’s death and resurrection show God’s decisive power “without human hand.”C. Daniel’s Response (8:26–27) - Daniel is overwhelmed but returns to faithful service where God has assigned him. We all have divine assignments.Principle 2: God determines the rise and fall of every power.

Writing on the Wall; Faith Stronger Than our Greatest FearsWhat happens when we reject God, and completely give in to the belief of our personal autonomy, and dive into every instinct to party hard before it's all over? In today's study, we read about King Belshazzar who lived under a delusion of security from his perch on the throne of excess and self-centered confidence about life. He made a mockery of God's sacred artifacts of worship and polluting in profane use at his party. God sent word of His judgment that night, and the party ended faster than he ever thought possible. When life takes a turn, and we find ourselves naked, poor, wretched, and blind to the reckless and feckless way we had strut about this world while imagining ourselves kings and queens. Is God King or am I king? Let's explore that in today's lecture talk. AIM: CATL God is true to His Word and faithful toward His people.I. Faithless & Found Wanting (Daniel 5)A. Partying like there’s no tomorrow (5:1-4)B. An authority and Hand greater than his own (5:5-9)C. God’s Witness provide true and needful explanation (5:10-29)D. Divine Verdict and our Moral Choice (5:25-30)Principle: The faithless walk in the flesh and fear and get lost in distractions, ill prepared for eternity.II. Faithful & Found True (Daniel 6)A. The wicked plots against the righteous (6:1-9)B. Unwavering prayer life (6:10-11)C. Unjustly Accused and Punished (6:12-18)D. Divine Protection and Vindication (6:19-24)E. A Global Witness where Pagans Praise (6:25-28)Principle: The faithful live by the Word of God and are delivered from trial to glory.

The Inception of idolatrous lies, and the Sanity of Repentance: How Nebuchadnezzar's mind collapses under warping influences of idols.How we understand Whose we are will determine how we think about Who we are.But to be open to God and learn from Him, we need constant position of humility.Humility is more than lack of arrogance, haughtiness, or pride, it is a contrite dependence on the sovereign rule and reign of God over all my life and my affairs.A hymn says it well: "He knows the way that we take, A new heart within He'll create, He'll purify and cleanse and mold and shape us if we yield to Him, and to those that do, we'll come forth as gold refined in fire."I. Chp 3 FAITH UNDER FIRE (1-7) False worship(8-18) Faith in action(19-27) God rescues, delivers for His Name sake(28-30) True worship reveals the true and living God, not made by human invention.Principle 1: God walks with His own through all troublesII. Chp 4 PRIDE UNDER SPIRITUAL POVERTY(1-18) God warns the king(19-27) God explains the dream through Daniel(28-33) God judges the prideful(34-37) God redeems, gives understanding to the humblePrinciple 2: God humbles the proud so all may know He reigns over all humanity

BSF Exile and Return: Lesson 3Daniel's devotion to God in his teens years cemented who he became and with Whom he aligned with all his life.OUR TIMES OF TESTING REVEAL two important things about us:Who we are 1, Daniel’s faith was tested in a personal, private way — what he would eat, who he would obey and how he would live when no one back home was watching.Whose we are 2, the testing was public, even life-threatening — an impossible demand from a ruthless king who was ready to execute all his wise men if they couldn’t perform.In both situations, Daniel could have panicked, compromised or looked for a way out. But instead, he showed us that God Himself provides His people with the strength they need.Aim: Knowing God is on His throne, His people can live faithfully as His People.When we read news headlines or experience personal hardships: Where is God?I. Where is God in exile, displacement, challenge? Ch 1     God is:Working out His purposes, both judgment (Deut 28) and blessing (Jer 24, 27) 1-7  (doctrine)Granting favor to His people 8-16Positioning them for service 17-21Principle: Knowing God is sovereign, His people can live with confidence in a world that is ignorant of His ways and principles.II. Where is God in crisis, confusion, and dismay? Ch.2      God is:Available through prayer 1-23Revealing the mysteries of His kingdom 24-45 (doctrine)Revealing His greatness in ways we had not known 46-49Principle: Knowing God is sovereign, His people can live with courage in times of crisis.

This week, BSF president Hollie Roberts is again our guest lecturer to give us a roundup on Lesson 2, Ezekiel's three profound visions which gives us our spiritual prognosis and need for the Great Savior and LifeGiver.

The Lecture Talk for Lesson 1 and 2 are provided by BSF Global HQ.Presented by BSF President Hollie Roberts.Hollie joined the BSF Headquarters Staff in 2018. She served as a Regional Director and Chief Field Development Officer before becoming the Executive Director. Hollie first attended BSF in Amarillo, Texas, where she began serving in leadership as a Children's Leader (CL) and Group Leader (GL).

Welcome back to our new BSF Study on the OT prophetic books during and after Israel's exile leading up to the arrival of the Messiah.This lecture is a short overview of the season and the main themes for us to remember around God's faithfulness and trustworthy promises to His people.

BSF Global Lecture provided by BSF HQ.These words in Revelation are works of hope and a future. They are for the believers, not the world. These are not for those who do not know Jesus, who do not have a context for understanding why this message is a message of joy, of hope, and of confidence that God’s justice and righteousness prevails. It is meant as it says in vs 16 as a testimony for the Churches.16 "I, Jesus, have sent my angel to give you this testimony for the churches.Jesus calls us His friends, and He reveals to us all that He has planned for us, His Bride, in His eternal gloried Kingdom. Revelation is a book of encouragement for God’s people regarding significant things to come for which we pray with Him, Thy Will Be Done. Come, Lord Jesus, We work and testify as we await His return!AIM: Believers are called to be prepared for Christ’s imminent return.I. Prepared Hearts Revere God's Word (22:6–11)A. True and Reliable Word (6–7)B. A Response of Worship (8–9)C. Real Change happens through Gospel, not by knowledge of revelation (10–11)Principle: Believers prepare for Christ’s return by believing and obeying God’s Word.II. Prepared Lives Reflect Christ’s Work (22:12–21)A. Work of Becoming like Him (12–16)B. Work of Invitation/our lives as witnesses proclaiming (17)C. Work of Unadulterated Discipleship, Learning and Teaching (18–19)D. Work of Faithfulness, just as He is Faithful and True (20–21)Principle: Prepared lives reveal Christ, share hope, and guard truth.

This is the Global Lecture from Bible Study Fellowship provided by the staff at BSF Headquarters.Doctrine: New Heaven and EarthAim: CATL...God’s heavenly promise for tomorrow motivates His people to live for Him today.I. Heaven TomorrowA. Eternal City (Hebrews 11, Revelation 3:21)B. Eternal People (Genesis 17:5, Matthew 28:18-20, John 17, Revelation 7:9)C. Eternal Temple (Exodus 25:8, Revelation 3:12)D. Eternal Worship (Revelation 4-5)Principle: Heaven most important characteristic is that God is central to everything over there. God’s heavenly presence creates perfect unity and a ceaselessly worshipful life.II. Heaven TodayA. Earthly View (Exodus 24, Isaiah 6, Acts 11, Revelation, John 14:2, Matthew 25)B. Heaven’s Reality and Promise (2 Cor. 5:8, Philip.1:22-23, Matthew 17:22, Rev.6:9, 21:22)C. Garden to Garden (Genesis 1-2, Romans 8, Revelation 22)D. Heavenly Minded (Genesis 1:28, John 17, Colossians 3:1-2)Principle: God’s heavenly presence generates passionate and productive people that expands and extends all the wonder of God's nature into the expanse of eternity.

The City of God - Revelation 21:9- 22:5Have you been in a place that felt like home? People find it hard to imagine home in heaven because heaven is so unfamiliar to our minds rooted in this things we cling to in this life. But God wants us to know when God's people live in the City of God, we will be living into a place with Him that feels the most like home, the most we ever felt in the embrace of love, peace, joy, hope, and gladness. We were made for Him. He built into our lives the purposes for which we were to live into. And He has made a place for us perfectly suited to carrying out our purposes under His loving care. Let's look at what this means in this week's lesson. Division I: Made for Him Revelation 21:9-21A. 9-11 Reflective of God’s gloryB.12-14 Structured by God’s planC. 5-17 Measured by God’s perfectionD. 18-21 Decorated with God’s splendorPrinciple I: The ultimate motive of God’s City and Citizen is the worship and glory of GodDivision II: Made for us 21:22-22:5A. 22-24 The Temple and the LightB. 25-27 The Nations and the CitizensC. 1-2 The River of Life and the Tree of LifeD. 3-5 The Freedom to Serve and LivePrinciple II: God’s constant abiding presence gives clarity, light, life, hope, and joy. Aim: God’s people will dwell with Him in a new city and creation forever.Doctrine: Humanity: Creation and Purpose

Revelations 20:11-21:18If you're watched enough real crime shows, you know people are very delusional when it comes to their own innocence. People have an overly exaggerated view of their own goodness and regularly blame or find fault in others for their problems. That's makes human courts and investigation very difficult. But in at the great and final judgment of God at his Great White Judgement Throne, the books will be open and people won't need to say a word. Instead God in His omniscience will explain to them who they've been and what a they've done. And unless Jesus was their Atonement into a repentance in Jesus that surpasses the righteousness of human action, they will be disqualified from being included in God's Book of Life. Let's look at what comes next in the His New Beginning.AIM: God’s final judgement will bring His promises to their long awaited fulfillmentI. Judgment Day: The Great White Throne Judgement (Rev 20:11-15)a. The Final Accounting, whose book (Rev 20:11-12)b. The Sentence Executed (Rev 20:13-15)Principle: In the face of God’s inescapable justice, Christ is our only hope. OR You’re either writing your own book, of you’re going to be part of Jesus’s Book of Life.II. New Beginnings: All Things Made New (Rev 21:1-18)a. New Creation for the Redeemed (Rev 21:1-2)b. God’s Presence Restored (Rev 21:3-5)c. A Sure & Eternal Inheritance (Rev 21:6-8)Principle: Only the redeemed of God will dwell with Him forever in perfect joy. OR All things are dispensable and unworthy of God’s future plans, except those who are entirely made indispensable in Jesus.

Revelations 20:1-10 BSF Global Lecture TalkLocal SF Lecture will be provided mid-week. Please check back then.Key Verse: Blessed and holy are those who share in the first resurrection. The second death has no power over them, but they will be priests of God and of Christ and will reign with im for a thousand years. (Rev 10:6)Outline:Aim: Whether people live in good or bad empires, superficial belief or acceptance of God is no substitute for real worshippers and lovers of God in ChristI. The Temporary Chaining of Satan, restricting his influence (20:1-3)Principle 1. God’s sovereignty and infinite power prevails over Satan.II. Christ’s Righteous Reign through His People (20:4-6)A. God’s People Raised to Life (20:4-6)B. God’s People Reign in Christ (20:6)Principle 2. Jesus’ faithful believers are priests mediating His rule over the earthIII. Satan’s Eternal Defeat (20:7-10)A. Satan's deceives and enlists the nations to Gog and Magog (20:7-8)B. Fire from heaven devours myriad readily deceived by satan (20:9)C. Satan’s Eternal Condemnation (20:10)Principle 3. Satan and his followers are destined for final and eternal ruin.

This is the Local San Francisco BSF Lecture to accompany Lesson 24Have you ever arrived someplace where people were celebrating something but you had no clue what all the joy and gladness was about? There are people dancing in the streets, cheering, climbing trees and statues singing their hearts out. Others waving flags and hugging strangers and joining hands. What’s going on? What’s all the hubbub about? If you’re not invested, you’re just a spectator. If you’re not affected by it, such a grand and joyful occasion can feel irrelevant to you. Sure, you can smile and be happy for them, but you’re not really invested in the celebration as they are. Are you aware of the concerns of Christ in the world in these present times and participating in what God is doing? Are you so invested in the work of Christ today, so that in the day of victory your rejoicing arises as a participant and not a spectator to God’s Rule and Reign over the World? Aim: Jesus will return to conquer His enemies and claim His people as His bride.Attribute of God: Glorious, Worthy of our Praise I. Here Comes the Bride! (Rev. 19:1-10)A. Resounding Praise to God (1-5)- God paves the way for his bride through judgmentB. Robed in Christ’s Righteousness (6-8)- Jesus clothes His bride “given for her to wear.”C. Reserved for Jesus (9-10)- God alone is worthy of praisePrinciple: Christ’s bride will revel in the brilliance of God’s glory forever.God deserves all praise because all of God’s actions are just and true. II. Here Comes our King! (Rev. 19:11-21)A. Contrast with His 1st Entrance (v 11) doctrine – it's always gloriously unexpected!B. Contrast with His Earthly Life (v 12-16) – see the full sum of His glory!C. Contrast with Supper of the Lamb (17-21) –reminder that the church today feeds on the body and blood of Christ, see how He gave all to conquer all?Principle: King Jesus gave His all in order to reign over all who believe on Him.The certainty of Jesus's return and victory is the source of all believers' hopes.

Revelation 19 Praise for God's Triumph Lesson 24"I saw heaven open and there before me was a white horse, whose Rider is called Faithful and True. With Justice, he judges and wages war."How do you respond to the thought of God's righteous judgment? Mankind is always trying on many fronts and in many different ways to solve the problem of evil in the world, but evil continues to grow and find new ways to extend its influence through all our devices, communication tools, and means of interaction. What can curb or stop the relentless wickedness in the world? What hope does for the future does humanity have when we are so destructive to our very lives? Revelation 19 tells us the answer. Only Jesus can address the problem of sin and the insidious spiritual forces that manipulate and control humanity's corruption and demise. The heaven's and all God's people rejoice in the Conquering King of Kings. His is the True and Faithful Judge over all the earth. He judges and identifies rightly all that has been wrong and our complicity in the mayhem we all have profited from. Jesus is our only Hope for True Deliverance.

AUDIO GLOBAL LECTURE by BSF Headquarters for this week.Lesson 23: Babylon's Destruction. Revelation 18Focus Verse“They will say, ‘The fruit you longed for is gone from you. All your luxury and splendor have vanished, never to be recovered.’” (Revelation 18:14)Aim: CATL This world' seductive strongholds lead to ruin & await God's ultimate judgment.Outline● Downfall Announced – Revelation 18:1-8● Destruction Mourned – Revelation 18:9-20● Doom Confirmed – Revelation 18:21-24Doctrine: Sanctification

Lesson 22: The Prostitute & the Beast, Revelation 17Why is the kingdom of mankind symbolized as a prostitute riding a red beast? God's achieving justice in the world doesn't just involve humanity, but it also involves satan and the demonic forces of evil in he spiritual realms. This passage today gives us a composite view of the beast and its evil influence in the world which crescendos unabated in strengthen and resolve until Christ Himself destroys them forever. He alone has the power and the authority to demolish the false kingdoms of darkness and the systemic spiritual hold it has had on the earth. Focus Verse“They will wage war against the Lamb, but the Lamb will triumph over them because he is Lord of lords and King of kings—and with him will be his called, chosen and faithful followers.” (Revelation 17:14)Aim: CATL All who choose to stand against God will experience destruction.1. Alluring Deception in the Beast’s Seduction a. Her position is insecure 1b. Her nature is based on excess and love of self elevation 2-6-as prostitute, blasphemer 2-in wilderness of truth, beauty, and God’s goodness 3-empty beauty/mystery = “hidden” 4-6 Principle: The devil’s system of rule may appear powerful and alluring, but they are ultimately corrupted and depraved.2. Alluring Deception in the Beast’s Intentiona. Ten kings yield up their powers to the beast 7-13b. Triumphant Lamb, the King of kings and Lord of lords: Cross for a believer 14c. Destroyed prostitute- the great city (organized structures & systems devoted to achieving man’s greed, evil, violence against God’s ways); God's purposes fulfilled 15-18 Principle: No matter the opposition, God’s ultimate victory over evil is assured.

Revelation of God's Justice and Mercy - various passages.In order to understand God's Judgments correctly, it is vital to have a Biblically rooted understanding of God's Justice and Mercy. Otherwise, any reader will see God's judgments are disconnected unfair, irrational acts of divine wrath and anger. God's condemnation of unmitigated, ballooning sin is based on mercy for all. The violence and evil we see in the world arise from mankind but also targets mankind with endless violence, pain, and ruin. Let's review a proper understanding of God's Justice which is rooted in His Mercy and Love.Aim: God’s justice and mercy perfectly express His abiding love for a world that desperately needs Him.Divisions:I. God’s justice and mercy reflect His character (Exodus 34:6-7; Psalm 36:5-6; John 1:17; 2 Peter 2:4-9; 3:9).Principles: God displays His justice by judging sin and His mercy by saving sinners.II. God’s justice and mercy are revealed throughout Scripture (Genesis 6; 18:20–19:29; Exodus 32–34; Mark 3:1-6; Luke 18:9-14).Principles: Jesus perfectly satisfied God’s justice and offers mercy to sinners who receive His gift of salvation.

Lesson 20: The Bowl Judgments, Revelation 15-16Focus Verse“Who will not fear you, Lord, and bring glory to your name? For you alone are holy. All nations will come and worship before you, for your righteous acts have been revealed.” (Revelation 15:4)Have you wondered why Judgment is so important in God's prophecy of the end-times? Imagine a world where justice is ignored? Does right and wrong matter in such a world? Does God's righteousness and goodness matter if evil and wickedness are not addressed in all seriousness? Judgment reveals the Justice and Righteousness of God. The world hungers for justice. But God's justice will only be fulfilled through and in the righteousness of Jesus.I. Judgment reveals the Greatness of God (Rev. 15)A. Joy in Heaven 15:1-4B. Dread for Earth 15:5-8Principle: All who worships God knows God’s judgments are righteous and just. II. Judgment reveals the bankruptcy of Man (Rev. 16)A. On the natural realm 16:1-9B. On the ruler’s domain 16:10-16C. On the entire world 16:17-21Principle: Without God, the world and life is not livable.

Why does God view sin so seriously?We tend to greatly undermine the things God considers with enormous seriousness. We see sin in small size snapshots related to our temporal existence. God sees it in view of sin's longterm, eternal view- when its pernicious size and impact grows and spills over in complex ways into all His good Creation. Sin defies God, and seeks to desecrate, destroy, and distort the image and beauty of God at every opportunity. It damages the humanity that God loves and seeks to rescue. God's love necessitates wrath against the pain, wounds, and violence of sin's pernicious dynamic. Revelation 14 describes the demonic empire of the beast which comes under the judgment of God and the testimony of special witnesses to God's saving grace.I. Saved for Worship (14:1-5)A. Worshipful Rejoicing marks our testimony (14:1-3)B. Worshipful Sanctification marks our witness (14:4-5)Principle: Following the Lamb of God means completely identifying and submitting our lives to the Gospel of the Lamb.II. Saved from Judgment (14:6-20)A. Eternal Future Judgment Proclaimed (14:6-13)B. Eternal Future Judgment Mobilized (14:14-20)Principle: Only those secured by the Lamb will escape the meltdown of the rebellious empire and God’s judgment

Revelation Lesson 18 Suffering is not only what humanity does, suffering has it's roots in God's love for us. He suffers our rejection and rebellion. He suffers by giving up His Son, the perfect Lamb of God, in order that by His love for lost humanity, we might be saved, redeemed, and receive eternal life through the Son. We persevere in suffering because we experience God's sustaining power when times look their worst and most anxiously out of our control. And our future hope as described in Revelation is God's elimination sin's suffering through the victory and restoration of all Creation in His New Kingdom (Rev 21:4).

This is the BSF Global Lecture provided by HQ. The San Francisco Regional Lecture is delayed and should be posted by Thursday morning. Thank you for your understanding.

BSF Lesson 16 Revelation 12 is a prophecy of hope and victory. As you listen, reflect on what this mean for you and your participation in the Church and among God's people in these times. Aim: In Christ, believers find refuge and victory over Satan. I. Spiritual Conflict: Despite Enemy Schemes, God Protects: 1-9 A. in face of evil (vs1-5) B. in Christ (vs5) C. in wilderness and in the heavens (vs6-9) Principle: In Christ, we find refuge from demonic persecution and schemes. (We cast them out.) II. Spiritual Victory: Heaven’s Triumph (Revelation 12:7-12) A. The Dragon’s Defeat (vs7-9) B. Christ’s Victory (vs10-11) C. Heaven Rejoices (v12) Principle: In Christ, we share in His triumph over sin, death, and demonic forces. III. Spiritual Protection: Heaven’s Protection (Revelation 12:13-17) A. The Dragon’s Pursuit & God’s Care (vs13-14) B. The Dragon’s Attack & God’s Protection (vs15-16) C. The Dragon’s Rage & Warfare (v17) Principle: In Christ, God’s power sustains and covers us through demonic attacks.

Revelation 10 -11 - Am I measuring my life by the world or by God's measure? When in doubt about a passage's meaning, one important beginning place to understanding is to look for Jesus in the text. Revelations is all about Jesus. Whether in the Temple, the Ark of the Covenant, the Throne, the Altar, and at the center of the praise and rejoicing of His People, Jesus is at the center. Chp 10-11 speaks are resistance against the Supremacy and Exaltation of Christ at the center of all things as was the Father's Plan from the beginning. In Him is all things and by Him all things subsist (Rom 11:36, Col 1:16) I. A Confident Message (10:1-11) A. Concealed: 1-7 (Despite uncertainties, we can trust God’s timing and prevailing victory.) B. Consumed/Revealed: 8-11 (Sharing the Gospel is a prodigious responsibility.) Principle: Consuming judgment awakens us to the vital importance of setting heart right with God II. A Confident Witness (11:1-14) A. God-empowered: 1-6 (God empowers His witnesses to complete their mission.) B. Defying all enemies of God’s rescue: 7-14 (God holds our lives completely, nothing in our witness is wasted)  Principle: God’s resurrection life empowers confident witness. III. A Confident Outcome (11:15-19) A. God’s Reign: 15-17 (Christ’s certain reign warrants worship.) B. God’s Recompense: 18 (God’s reign brings judgment & justice.) C. Glory Revealed: 19 (God’s plan reveals His glory.) Principle: Confident witness of God’s message reveals God’s glory.

Revelation in these chapters shows us the telescopic work of judgment and redemption as God seeks to rescue those who will repent under His judgments against sin and humanit's alliance with wickedness. Here are some thoughts for us to take away: What’s your little scroll? What do you have to say? You are a constant witness of God’s redemptive, saving love. Even as you are facing your own life difficulties, you show the world through Hope, this brief life and temporal world is not everything, not the end. What does your “little scroll” of witness have to say to someone needing to hear words of hope and salvation? What are you hanging on to? Where does your hope reside? When people lose their security, their whole belief about what reality and life means is shaken to the core. They ask a lot of questions about God, His purposes and plans, they never thought to ask before. How ready are you to speak the Truth about darkness and God’s Light and Truth into their broken visions? What enslaves your priorities? What keeps you busy? The world has a way of entangling us deeper into the senseless, meaningless preoccupations. How can we live so we are not “majoring the in minors?” What is your Love Song? What are you most passionate about? God cares about about our witness. Because all of life and eternity is about describing to others the goodness of God that we experience and see. If we cannot speak and witness of His glorious redemption, can we say we really understand it and that we really understand God? How can we grow and expand our communication about God’s yearning for humanity to repent and receive the Life He desires to give us.

This is a BSF Global Lecture provided by headquarters. God's Call for Repentance in the Trumpet Judgments. When in court, the evidence is presented by witnesses and testifiers, we anticipate just and faithful judgment and a righting of wrong by an impartial judge who gives a fair and right verdict. Human justice however is limited because it cannot undo all wrong and our discovery and due diligence is greatly limited and incomplete. That is not the case with God who know all and sees all and completely. His Justice is True and Faithful and He also knows the pain that sin causes because he's not only experienced that pain Himself, he knows the pain that each and every one of us experiences in this broken world. God is calling us apart - away from being a people of afflicting pain, violence, hurt, and damage, but to be His holy people of light, beauty, righteousness, and healing. He seeks to redeemed, restore, save, and love. His outpouring of goodness has spoiled us in this age. People become even more self-righteous and adverse to God when things are going well. So God unleashes judgments so that we might yearn for His deliverance and help in Revelation 8-9, we'll see God's constant grace as a wake-up call through the judgments as they crescendo in the face of humanity's defiance against God's Verdict and Truth.

Lesson 13: The Security of God's people, Revelation 7 The six seal is opened and the world's elements - mountains, islands, lands, sun, moon, and stars are dislodged, dislocated, untethered from their places. When we insist against God being at the center and put ourselves or "man made ideas or things" in God's place, can the center hold? No, Revelation continues to tell us that only God can be the rock of our certainty and assurance for not only this life but the life to come. There is not hope without Christ - people have tried and will continue to try, but in the midst of all humanity's defiance, God retains a sealed remnant of His people to testify to His Redemptive Plan in Jesus - even in tribulation so they can be rescued and healed. “For the Lamb at the center of the throne will be their shepherd; ‘he will lead them to springs of living water.’ ‘And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.’” (Revelation 7:17) Aim: CATL The Lamb secures the salvation of God's people. I. Secured By God’s Seal (Rev. 7:1-8) A. The Restraint of Judgment (v. 1) B. The Mercy of Protection (2-3) Doctrine: God knows and seals His people C. The Number of the Redeemed (v. 4-8) Principle: God knows and secures His own for eternity. II. Sheltered In God’s Presence (Rev. 7:9-17) A. The Great Multitudes Worship (v. 9-10) B. The Heavenly Response (v.11-12) C. The Promise of Eternal Security (v.13-17) Doctrine: highlight God’s presence as an eternal refuge (“tent”) Principle: God's presence is our eternal home and shelter.