Saul Weinreb - Let the Prophets Speak

Ezra 3 - A Bittersweet Celebration

The returnees celebrate their first "high holidays" in Jerusalem by rebuilding the altar.  Preparations begin for rebuilding the Temple as well, and while many rejoice, others weep for the loss of the glorious Temple of the past.

Ezra 2 - The People Return to Judea

On the authority of Cyrus' decree, the people return to Judea.  The families that returned are enumerated, towns are repopulated, and a treasury is set up to rebuild the Temple.

Ezra 1 - God Arouses Cyrus

God acts through the leaders of history and brings His plans to life.  In this chapter we read of the fulfillment of the prophecy of Jeremiah, as Cyrus sends the Jewish people back to Jerusalem to rebuild the Temple of God.

Malachi 3b - The Final Prophecy

God has answered all our questions, He has explained what he wants, He will send Elijah to guide us.  It is up to us to speak to others, humbly rebuild our relationships,  The great day of God will come IF we do our part. 

Malachi 3a - Go Ahead! Test God!

The people question God's justice.  We see the wicked prosper!  God challenges the people, "try Me!"  If you are honest, if you stop fooling yourselves and trying to fool God, the windows of blessing will open to you.

Malachi 2b - What is Wrong with Intermarriage?

If we are all children of the same God, shouldn't our marriages to gentile women bring about peace and redemption?  Why do they lead to strife and divorce?  Doesn't God love us all?  Malachi deals with a timeless problem.

Malachi 2a - What Makes a True Religious Leader?

God excoriates the priests for neglecting their priestly covenant. Speak truth, respect God, respect your mission, teach life, teach peace and live a straight and honest life.  When a religious leader exhibits these qualities, he leads the people back to God.  But the priests are not following this path, they disrespect God, they teach a "Torah" that is dishonest, one that is used for their own personal advancement.  Such a "leader" brings shame and disrespect.

Malachi 1 - Cynicism versus Hope

We are introduced to the final prophet, Malachi.  Time has passed since the second temple has been rebuilt, and it is now obvious that the final redemption has not materialized.  Malachi points out to the people that it is their cynicism which has brought about this failure.

Zechariah 14 - The Day of God is Here

The day of God will arrive, and it will not be a day of all light or all darkness.  There will be both redemption and destruction.  But when it is over, God's name will be One.  All of humanity will rejoice together and celebrate.

Zechariah 13 - Exposing the Fake Prophets

When truth and humility prevails, the fake prophets will no longer be able to spread their vile and impure ideas.  They themselves will be ashamed of their lies, and claim that they are just simple farmers.