Christmas 23
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What is the Blood Curse of Jeconiah? Part 2
Through the prophets Samuel and Isaiah, God promised Israel that the throne of David would be established forever. Nevertheless, Israel didn’t have a smooth ride. Because of Solomon’s disobedience, the Kingdom split in his son Rehoboam’s reign. God gave Jeroboam the Northern Kingdom, leaving Rehoboam with the remnant – Judah. The Northern Kingdom lasted for just over 200 years, from 930 to 722 BC, and in that tumultuous time went through 10 dynasties. For a visual, see this chart. Zimri’s dynasty lasted only 7 days! The backstabbing and intrigue could inspire many a telenovela. In contrast, David’s line survived, father to son, through every threat. Even when Queen Athaliah tried…
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Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? Part 1
This is the question the magi from the East asked King Herod, the crowned King of the Jews. That magi, AKA wise men, asked King Herod that question is almost laughable. Essentially, they were asking this Roman figurehead, “Where’s the real king?” Then again, they didn’t have the internet. Perhaps they didn’t realize how dangerous it was to ask this question to a man who executed three of his own sons to hang on to power. Although Herod had the title of the King of the Jews, he wasn’t even of Jewish descent. He was an Idumean, an Edomite, an enemy of Israel. The Roman decision to make him king…
