As our series The Coming King anticipates the arrival of Jesus the Messiah, the Return Era chronicles moments of hopefulness in Israel’s history overshadowed by their ongoing compromise. In this week’s message, Parker Haines highlights the faithfulness of God to ultimately deliver something better than the new temple, new walls, and behavior modification. In Christ, all believers receive the forgiveness of sin and the power of the Holy Spirit to overcome sin.

Key Takeaways

• The Return Era chronicles three waves of Israel’s return to Jerusalem from exile— led by three men: Zerubbabel, Ezra, and Nehemiah.

• In spite of hopeful moments such as the reconstruction of the temple, the reiteration of the Torah, the reconstruction of the walls, and the recommittal of Israel, the Return Era is marred with conflict, opposition, Israel’s backsliding, and the absence of God’s presence in the temple.

• In Nehemiah, we see the history of not only Israel’s covenant unfaithfulness, but the covenant faithfulness of Israel’s God. Israel has been shown so much grace, yet so quickly turns its back on God.

• In summarizing these events, Parker aptly concludes, “Israel’s greatest need is not a new temple… not new walls… but new hearts.”

• Likewise, we will not find freedom through behavior modification or manipulation, but through the power of the Holy Spirit.

• Mustering up will power and white knuckling your way to holiness or to overcome sin is temporally futile and eternally pointless.

• We see Christ in this story not in His presence, but in His glaring absence.

• In Christ, we have received the pardon of sin and in the Spirit we have the power to overcome sin. We must not neglect so great a salvation!

Discussion Questions/Application

Personal application:

• Read Nehemiah 9 and similarly confess any unconfessed sins to God and be reminded of His faithfulness throughout your life. 

• How will you magnify Christ this week in your thoughts, words, and actions?

Discuss with your community group:

• What are some of the recurring sin struggles in your life? What are the unhealthy ways you cope with sin rather than overcome sin by the power of the Spirit? Encourage one another with the truth and love of Christ.
  

Additional Passages Referenced 
Luke 24:27; John 5:39; Ezra 3:10-13; Haggai 2:3-9; Nehemiah 9:32-38; Nehemiah 13:7-31; Hebrews 1:3; Genesis 3:15; Galatians 2:20.

Worship Set List

There is a Savior, Life Defined, Jesus is Better, No Other King, Undivided Heart