In his introduction, author Gerald Bilkes explains, "Few people realize that the magnificent New Testament narrative of repentance and forgiveness is etched into the fabric of the whole Bible, and not least of all into those books that concern Israel's return from exile." In this winsome Bible study, with questions for individual or group reflection at the end of each chapter, the author introduces readers to the little-known Old Testament books of Ezra and Nehemiah and demonstrates that they are an expanded version of the story of the prodigal son, preaching the same message of conversion. With pastoral warmth, Bilkes guides his readers home through the memoirs of a prodigal people returning to their God.
Table of Contents
- The Lord Is First
- Awakening Mercy
- Tokens of Mercy
- Adversaries, Subtle and Sever
- Fresh Courage through the Word
- Joy through God
- A Further Reformation
- A Fresh Exodus
- A Time for Brokenness
- Breaking with Sin
- On His Knees before the Court of Heaven
- From Burden to Boasting
- Submitting to the Yoke of God
- The Crucible of Conflict
- A Redeemer Comes to Zion
- A Fearless Leader
- We Have a Strong City
- A Fresh Sinai
- The Prayer of Returning Prodigals
- Biblical Covenanters
- The Holy City
- Looking Back in Wonder
- Cleansed!
Appendix 1: Lessons for Ministry from Ezra
Appendix 2: Lessons for Prayer from Nehemiah
Author Gerald M. Bilkes is professor of New Testament and biblical theology at Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary, Grand Rapids.
Endorsement "Few people know the history of Ezra and Nehemiah and their God-given work to reestablish Israel in the Promised Land after an easily accessible survey and devotional reflection upon these overlooked but nevertheless vibrant books of the Bible." - J. V. Fesko, academic dean and professor of systematic and historical theology, Westminster Seminary California