CHRIST THE CENTRE OF THE BIBLE. Foreseeing Christ.
FORESEEING CHRIST (Joshua - Esther)
These books give the further history of the people of Israel. Joshua led the people into the Promised Land where they overcome their enemies. God tells him to -
`Be strong and of good courage, for to this people you shall divide as an inheritance the land which I swore to their fathers to give them.` (Joshua 1: 7)
Once in the land the people are ruled by judges whom the Lord raised up to deliver His oppressed people. There were three types of judges - warrior, priest, prophet. The people began to do what was right in their own eyes and not God`s. Although there is much apostasy God did not leave His people.
Finally Israel decided they wanted a king. Thus we see a succession of rulers, some following God and others dominating the people and going into idolatry. Eventually the kingdom of Israel becomes divided, with each part going into exile.
Then we read how the Lord begins to restore His people to their own land after seventy years in Babylon. Ezra and Nehemiah are given the work of rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem and the temple.
The story of Esther takes place during the time of the empires of Babylon and Persia. Esther became queen and was able to go before the king and speak on behalf of her people - Israel. The victory over Haman is celebrated as the festival of Purim when they overcame their enemies plot.
In the historical books Christ is foreseen in different appearings - man like or angelic. These signify the dominion of Christ, His authority & administration.
Joshua saw a `man` Prince of the host of the Lord.(Josh.5:13 - 15)
Gideon saw Him as `the angel of the Lord. (Judges 6:12)
David saw Him as the `angel of the Lord.` (1 Chron. 21: 16 - 18)
Solomon saw Him in a dream. ( 1 Kings 3: 5)
Isaiah saw Him on His Throne. (2 Chron. 26: 22, Isa. 6:1)
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