Prophets of the South

Continuing pattern Cycle of sin & redemption – Eventually failed  destruction Hostility to prophets – Jeremiah’s family attacked him, people hated him

Southern Kingdom Kingdom of Judah – Tribes of Judah & Simeon Davidic Dynasty – Not much better than northern kings – Prophets try to convince them to come back to God

Isaiah Visionary preacher: use of parables – Parable of the Vineyard Preaching while Israel falls – Object lesson of sin – Correct the problems: idolatry and abuse of the poor Prophecy of Immanuel to save the “remnant”

3 Isaiahs 1 st Isaiah: the prophet himself – Message of repentance and turning away from sin 2 nd Isaiah: during the Captivity – Compassion for others 3 rd Isaiah: After the Captivity – God’s faithfulness

Babylonian Captivity New Babylonian Empire rises – Conquers Assyria – Conquers Assyrian vassal/ally Judah 587 BC – Judah residents deported to the city of Babylon – Live there for 50 years: not free

Jeremiah Dramatic preacher Preached before fall of Jerusalem to Babylon – Warning of the fall, lamenting sin Promising a rebirth in a New Covenant – New (Christian) Covenant of love & hope

Ezekiel Slightly odd guy: strange visions, odd actions – Field of bones – Cutting his beard to prove a point Preaching before Babylon despairing Preaching in Babylon – A hope for a reborn nation from the remnant Focus on the Holiness Code as a way to be in the covenant – Sets the stage for modern Judaism!