PORTRAITS FROM THE PAST

 AMAZING PREDICTIONS

The prophecies of Isaiah are especially noteworthy because they were recorded about 200 years in advance--perhaps 150 years before Cyrus was even born! Consider the following: 

* A man named Cyrus would conquer Babylon and free the Jews. -ISAIAH 44:28; 45:1.

* The Euphrates River would dry up, opening the way for Cyrus's army. - ISAIAH 44:27.

* The city gates would left open. -ISAIAH 45:1.

*   Babylon's  military would 'cease to fight.' - JEREMIAH 51:30; ISAIAH 13:1, 7. 

A MIRACULOUS DELIVERANCE

Earlier in 607 B.C.E., Babylon armies razed Jerusalem and led most of the survivors into exile. How long would the Jews be held?  God said:  "When seventy years have been fulfilled I shall call to account against the king of Babylon and against that nation . . . and I will make it desolate wastes to time indefinite." - JEREMIAH  25:12.

As mentioned, Cyrus captured Babylon n 539 B.C.E.  Soon thereafter, he released the Jews , who began to arrive in their homeland in 537 B.C. E.-exactly 70 years after their deportation.  (Ezra 1:1-4) As for Babylon. it eventually became "desolate wastes" -again confirming the accuracy of Bible prophecy. 

Next time: PORTRAITS OF THE PAST - WHY SHOULD YOU CARE?

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