What remarkable prophecy was made respecting Cyrus 120 years before he was born? Is. 44. 26—28.
Was it owing to the special providence of God that he obtained possession of the city and kingdom of Babylon ? Is. 45. 1, 2.
How long before Christ did his reign commence? Ans. Five hundred and thirty-six years.
What prophecy was designed to be fulfilled by the stirring up of Cyrus' spirit to issue his proclamation? Jer. 29. 10.
What distinguished character was now in the court of Cyrus, whose exertions were probably instrumental in procuring this proclamation? Dan. 1. 21.
What arguments may we suppose he used with Cyrus for this purpose? N. B. Josephus says that Daniel showed him Isaiah's prophecy in which he was predicted by name to execute this very work, and the statement is by no means improbable, as the phraseology of the decree, in the original, corresponds remarkably with that of the prophecy.
How does the proclamation run?
What was the effect of it? v. 5.6.
Why did not the whole nation in a body at once avail themselves of this permission to return?
To what was it owing that any of them improved the opportunity ? v.4.
Does the same thing hold good as to the sinner's acceptance of the gospel offer?
What further did Cyrus do to promote this enterprize?
Of what prophecy was this the fulfillment ? Jer. 29.19—22.
To whom were these vessels consigned, and what did they principally consist of? N. B. Sheshbazzar, a name signifying joy in affliction, is unquestionably the same person with Zerubbabel, i. e. stranger in Babylon, who was the grandson of Jehoiachin, and consequently heir of the royal house of David. He is, therefore, with great propriety termed the " Prince of the Captivity. In the prophecy Zechariah ch. 4. 7. he is to be considered as an eminent type of Christ.
What typical meaning may be attached to the restoration cf the sacred vessels? N.B. "Though God's ordinances, like the vessels of the sanctuary, may be corrupted and profaned by the Nev/ Testament Babylon, they shall in due time be restored to their primitive use and intention, for not one jot or title of divine institution shall fall to the ground."—Henry.
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