To understand the gospel record of Jesus Christ, we must go back before the beginning of time where the Son of God already dwells. This lesson deals with the very important truth that God’s Son did not begin at the time of His birth in a manger. He existed in eternity past and was the Creator of all things.
The Jews have left the only stability they have known and have made the long and hard trip to Israel. But their work has only begun. Now they must rebuild. They begin in the right place restoring the ancient altar and begin work on the foundation of the temple. But opposition comes quickly. First, in the form of compromisers who want to join them for the purpose of defeating their purpose and zeal. Second, in the form of hired counselors who work to “frustrate their purpose.” For now, the adversaries win and the Jews cease work on the temple. The opposition has been too much for them. The temple lies abandoned.
God gave His word to man in perfect form. If this was important to Him, He must also be concerned about passing that word to later generations in identically perfect form.
This chapter deals with the dangerous consequences of pride and the need for humility concerning self and praise and admiration toward the greatness of God. Nebuchadnezzar tells the story as a personal testimony. He tells how the most powerful man in the world (himself) was brought low in a moment by God, and how he was restored to his former position—though as a wiser man than before.
Abner had killed Joab’s brother, Asahel, in battle. Joab cannot wait for the Lord but must exact his own vengeance.
