INTRODUCTION.
In this week’s lesson we see God working to unfold His divine plan for mankind. Through the prophets, God had given His prophecy that the children of Israel would go into captivity for seventy years because of their sin (see Jeremiah 25:4-11). Our lesson shows God having moved on the hearts of pagan rulers as well as His own people to get them out of captivity and back to the Promised Land. Once back home, the Israelites were to rebuild the temple and re-establish the prescribed worship at Jerusalem. Out of the chaos of defeat and captivity, God was restoring worship and great joy to His people who were led by His godly leaders.