“While in captivity the faithful Jews wept by the rivers of Babylon. Because of sorrow, they could not bear to sing the songs of Zion, for their hearts yearned to be back in their land of promise and in their holy city.
“But how could they go back? They were captive to the powerful nation of Babylon. Yet the Lord rules in the heavens and watches over His chosen people. He would provide a way for the faithful of Judah to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple and the city.
“The Lord had foreordained a person to make possible the return of the Jews. This person was not of the house of Israel, but the Lord nonetheless had chosen him before he was born to bless the house of Israel. His name was Cyrus, known in history as Cyrus the Great.
“How would you feel if you were reading the scriptures and suddenly read your own name, and not only that, but you also noticed that a prophet had prophesied that you were going to do a remarkable thing for someone? What would be your reaction?”
This is the introduction to the notes and commentary on Ezra in the church educational system's institute course on the Old Testament. If you wish to read this, please click on this link.
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