Israel Alive Again: A Commentary on the Books of Ezra & Nehemiah

by Fredrick Carlson Holmgren

Publisher:

Eerdmans

, 1987

Overview

When the Jews returned to Israel from captivity in Babylon in the 6th and 5th centuries B.C. they faced many hardships. Despite these struggles, their Ezra and Nehemiah believed that God was working with them to accomplish his purpose, which was to restore a faithful community.

Israel Alive Again interprets the books of Ezra and Nehemiah in the context of the Hebrew Bible, exploring the theological meanings of these often slighted books, and emphasizing their relevance for the church today.

Like the other commentaries in the series, Israel Alive Again is intended for the layperson, student, and pastor. Its theological exposition makes it valuable to scholars as well.

Contents

Top Highlights

“Seek good [tob] and not evil, that you may live, and so the Lord, the God of hosts, will be with you’ (Amos 5:14” (Page 111)

“This means that the Jewish community is completely surrounded by enemies: Ashdod (east, on the Phoenician coast); Ammon (west, in the Transjordan); Sanballat of Samaria (north), and Geshem the Arab (south and southwest).” (Page 107)

“Nehemiah went to Shemaiah, believing him to be an authentic prophet” (Page 118)

“Ironically, by requiring everyone to obey God, the relationship between God and people is destroyed” (Page 61)

“As one can see from Neh. 11:1–2, Jerusalem citizenship was not exactly prized by many Jews” (Page 120)

Product Details

• Title: Israel Alive Again: A Commentary on the Books of Ezra & Nehemiah
• Authors: Fredrick Carlson Holmgren
• Publisher: Eerdmans
• Publication Date: 1987
• Pages: 162