How the Old Testament Speaks Today
3 Reasons to Study BSF’s Exile & Return
Bryan Belknap
BSF Media Director
Back when I still had a full head of hair, I wrote skits for youth ministry. One of my favorites was called It’s Malachi! In it, the character Kevin—a recently departed snowboarder—arrived in heaven to be greeted by none other than the Old Testament prophet Malachi. During Kevin’s heavenly “orientation,” Malachi eagerly asked him questions about the book bearing his unforgettable name: What did he think of it? Did he have a favorite part?
As their conversation unfolded, it became clear that Kevin had never actually read the book of Malachi. With a touch of disappointment, the prophet asked, “So you devoted your life to God, followed His Son, and didn’t even read the whole book?” Caught off guard, Kevin could only respond, half-jokingly, “Can you plead the Fifth up here?”
Soon, Bible Study Fellowship will begin a new study, Exile & Return, featuring eight Old Testament books of history and prophecy that cover Israel’s exile in Babylon and their eventual return to the promised land. While you have probably read Daniel, Esther, and (at least parts of) Ezekiel, I would be greatly impressed if you can quote passages from Haggai, Ezra, or our good buddy Malachi. (I sure can’t.)
These books speak to people who feel displaced, weary, or like they’re waiting for something more.
So, beyond the obvious personal blessing that comes from reading every page of God’s inspired Word, why should someone living in the 21st century read a bunch of books written approximately 2,500 years ago?
Glad you asked! Exile & Return isn’t just an Old Testament history lesson. These books speak to people who feel displaced, weary, or like they’re waiting for something more (which sounds like my experience today). Walking through these often-ignored pages will uncover the ache of living in a world that is not our home while continually pointing toward our hope of Jesus’s return. Surprisingly, this study reveals the unwavering heart of our Savior, who meets us in every chapter of our lives.
Here are three reasons you’ll love Exile & Return.
1. Exile & Return is written for exiles.
Did you realize that believers live like exiles right at this very moment? While far too many people around the world currently live in physical exile from their homeland, every follower of Jesus Christ awaits their true homeland with God in His kingdom. While Revelation: The Hope addressed this, we must still find a way to live for God’s glory in our present “exiled” circumstances. That is exactly where Ezekiel, Daniel, Esther, and Malachi found themselves. Even in exile, living far from their true home as strangers in a strange land, God did not call His people to hide. Instead, He instructed them to plant gardens, build homes and hold weddings (Jeremiah 29:5-7).
What does this mean for us today? As we struggle with life far from our heavenly home, 1 Peter 2:11-12 reminds us of our mission, “Dear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, to abstain from sinful desires, which wage war against your soul. Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day He visits us.”
That said, how do we “live such good lives…that they may see your good deeds and glorify God”? Exile & Return provides practical answers.
2. Exile & Return addresses deeply relatable situations.
Despite being written more than two millennia ago, the books in this study speak directly to our life circumstances today. We could all benefit from practical lessons on:
- God using people in the midst of their sin (Ezekiel)
- God’s complete sovereignty over nations and leaders (Daniel)
- God’s faithfulness to always keep His word (Ezra)
- Using influence and position to stand apart for God’s glory (Esther)
- Prioritizing God over personal comfort (Haggai)
- God restoring repentant sinners through the redeeming work of Israel’s Messiah (Zechariah)
- Godly leadership principles (Nehemiah)
- Standing firm against moral corruption (Malachi)
And these are only a few of the themes Exile & Return will explore. Through BSF’s study, we will learn to place each book within its historical context, while also discovering personal applications that speak to our practical, often desperate needs for godly guidance today.
3. Exile & Return features Scripture Jesus loved.
People love picturing Jesus as the good shepherd. But did you know the “shepherd” reference to the Messiah first appeared in Ezekiel 34?
Jesus loved to quote Old Testament Scripture. In fact, in the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus declared, “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them (Matthew 5:17).”
That means one of Jesus’ goals in coming to earth was to fulfill everything written in Scripture, including the eight books we will explore. His life, teachings, and mission are inextricably linked to and interwoven within the Old Testament. Anyone wanting to gain a complete picture of our Lord and Savior should absolutely study these amazing books.
All Scripture is divinely inspired to speak truth to all peoples in all times.
In the words of theologian Dr. Carl Laney, BSF’s Exile & Return study will “focus on Jesus, Israel’s Messiah-King, and how His life and ministry are anticipated in Scripture.”
Seeing how the books I often overlook in my study of the Bible strengthen my faith in and appreciation of Jesus has been a blessed shock. To find these books also provide insightful and actionable guidance as situations unfold in my daily life has been nothing short of miraculous, proving once again that all Scripture—even the most “obscure” verse—is divinely inspired to speak truth to all peoples in all times.
That’s something we all need more of in our lives today.
(Knowing I can meet Malachi some day and confidently talk about his book is a nice bonus.)
About the Author
Bryan Belknap serves as Director of Media Production at BSF. Prior to joining BSF, Bryan was an award-winning screenwriter, producer and director working for companies as far-ranging as Group Publishing, LIONSGATE, Lifeway, SONY, and DreamWorks. Bryan, a second generation BSFer, and his wife Jill are both proudly watching their son continue the BSF tradition.
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This Bible study is the best! I have been doing this for, I dunno, since September(I think that when it starts) and it has been sooooooo thought provoking for me!!
I am currently on the 14th lesson of this year’s study. I had never studied the Old Testament before. I absolutely love these books. I don’t know why I’m so surprised that the wisdom in these works are so relevant to our lives today. God continuely amazes me with His precious word. He loves us so much and constantly leads, guides, and directs us through His spirit and His word.
I require a bsf for extend the bible
Could you tell me an easier way to read the Book of Daniel to understand his visions. I am totally new to this study and find it very hard to understand its relevance to my spiritual growth. Chapters 7 -9 are the ones I am referring to for guidance.
These are challenging chapters for anyone! Pray, asking God to show you what you need to know. He loves to answer our sincere prayers for help in understanding His Word!
I want to start bible study with people who love God
ohh my! here i was, telling myself i am getting there; having been in BSF for over 20 years. i just realized i am yet to know the Word of God. i find pleasure in reading the Psalms & Proverbs only in the Old Testament, turning a blind eye to the rest. i read here and there as part of the church daily reading program. however, i have come to realise that with every study, that is the exact circumstances i will be facing in this life and God provides answers through BSF for example: i studies the Book of Genesis while i had just lost my mother and became pregnant barely 3 months later.i depended so much on her for prayers etc but through the study, i learnt to depend on God. my dad was so concerned for my health and the baby’s health because i was over 40 years but through study, i learnt God sustained me and there’s nothing impossible with Him. i could go on. Looking forward to this study – i am unequally yoked and pray that through this study, one day, just one day, they will see my good deeds and glorify God.
How very true, that although some things in the Old Testament are hard to understand, the basic principle that God alone needs to be the one that we worship and serve. I am currently reading the book of Jeremiah and looking for those basic principles of listening to God and obeying the Spirits voice.
A Time to Build…
Don’t we, and our world, need this study right now?! I know I do, to become more humble and Christlike and to make sense of all that is going on in the world. I am so thankful Our God is Sovereign, from the beginning of time to the very end … right into eternity.
Thanks to all who have faithfully and diligently worked to make this study possible. May God bless you for doing so, and all of us as we work through it.
I’m excited and cannot wait to get started!
It’s going to be a great study of God’s Word and His people. I want to read it all, meditate much, and make it mine.!
Please help me. “LORD” and “Lord” are different words and have different meanings and relationships. Please please, when quoting Scripture, use the correct word. While both identify God, so does, “The Man Upstairs” identify God.
“LORD” is used much more frequently than “Lord” in the books we are studying. There is a reason for that,
I’m looking forward to personal applications and seeing Jesus more clearly.
Cannot wait to get back together with my BSF sisters once again for these amazing studies! The studies bring the scriptures to life for our world today!🙏
I joined BSF for the first time last year to study the book of Revelation. What a “revelation” that study was for me! I am now looking forward to “Exile and Return”, not only to gain more understanding and appreciation of these amazing (but often overlooked) books, but to strengthen my faith in Christ and appreciation for all that He did (and is doing) for us. Thank you, BSF!
started Bsf 9 years ago, after my wife chose to divorce me after 20+ years of marraige. moved in w a couple for exchange of remodel services for a year.He wanted to go to this study, went w him just for something to do. While in this study, i was really negitive and bitter from the divorce cause i was absolutely sure i would go to the grave w my wife. Even the kids rejected me in this 2 year season i called the dark side.was very angry w my ex and God (cause i married her in His name). After the 2 year season He showerted me w what i called the grace card, which was a supernatural annointing season for 6 months which totally transformed my heart and life. up until that point i was extremely self condemning although i was born again.
since this point in my history ive experianced His true love in ways i never could have of imagined. Then He called me to kids ministry. From day one, i knew i was born to do that ministry. He has given me a supernatural connection w children where each time brings a level of joy thats overwelming.
This study has progressively gotten deeper/richer since i started 9 years ago. When i first began i would do some questions, and some not. even though i could see the incredible giftedness of your writters. each year i would anwser a liitle more. originally i got much more out of the fellowship of the groups than the study. But now im totally blown away w the richness of His Word. Sometimes i feel like im studying like a pastor would! Not a pastor. Feel very privledged to get this much insight into His truths. the depth of harmony is other worldly for me. theres a couple of guys that share this with me in my group also.
i never thought in my life that i could ever have this special posetion of understanding. i see a much bigger picture now of life in His economy, and it makes me so thankful deep in my soull.
thank you all so much for anwsering the call in your gifts. i believe your ministry is a world changer and is so helpful to todays hurting culture!
I have experience with BFS true love to read about my Savior Jesus! And to believe that someday I will see him face to face ! I pray that all my family and friends will one day come to know him as personal Savior,have an intimate relationship with him.i sometimes fell homesick for my promise to spend eternity at his side!! I pray that he will grant me opportunity to thank my sister in Christ that cared enough for me to invite me to Bsf even shared ride from Pleasanton tx to San antonio weekly for 1st year till I learned my way to SA with out getting lost my husband, I had just adopted 7 of our grandchildren we only had one car 3 of our children had especial needs.God provided i been in BSF for 8 years.im a chance person because of her invitation praise God!!
Eagerly awaiting to begin the study. Indeed we are in need of God’s word to help us stand firm and live rightly till Christ’s return
I am so excited to our BSF “Exile & Return” study this season. Praying that God will continue to be delighted in my life as i dig more of His word daily & be effective in my service for His glory. God Bless.
I am a member of a BSF Group already. My life is richer for what I have gained and what I am sure to gain from my BSF family, to the glory of God.
Hi , I am scheduled for BSF in September. Is there anything that starts in October.?
I have too many comments in September
Hi Susan, we are so excited for you to join us! I would communicate your scheduling conflicts to your group leader when they contact you before the start of class, they can work with you! Also – have you tried the WordGo App for Bible study? This could be a good option: https://www.bsfinternational.org/wordgo/
I’m really looking forward to the Exile and Return Study!
This blog has gotten me pumped even more!!
First I would like to thank BSF for assigning such an amazing spirit filled leader to our BSF group. I’m thankful for the opportunity to study the book of Revelation. It tells us there will be wars and rumors award. We’re living in the last days and we have to make sure our souls are saved. Amen 🙏🏽
Thank you for this introduction – can’t wait to start off the journey in this study.
I’ve been studying with BSF for 4 years. I’ve enjoyed studying Revelation. I believe I have more understanding of Revelation. I want to compliment and Thank all those that put hard work in every area of BSF.
This Bible study has taught me discipline, it was hard to study on my own, I’ve made the commitment to stay with BSF because I’ve learned a deeper understanding of the scriptures.
I can’t wait to study Exile & Return. God bless all of you!
Patsy, Can’t wait to start the BSF Bible study
I am so excited and looking forward to attending this session and learning more about Return & Exile, as well as the Life of Jesus.
Thanks for sharing. I’m excited for the class to start in the fall.
Thank you for sharing on Exile and Return and what it consists of. I look forward to studying those books. God bless you as you continue to work for Him.
I am a BSF member for 16 Years now!
It has been the Joy of my Life to learn Bible scriptures, the Way our Lord Jesus walked and shared his Truths and Word to all who believed and to those who came to believe by Faith. My first church as a young girl had a women last named Belknap, and I loved her devotion and stories that she shared! What a joy to see that last name in this message author Bryan Belknap! Let your Light Shine!!
As a Jewish Believer, the exile makes me so sad. It started off so beautifully, as with King Solomon’s prayer of the dedication of the temple, to Josiah finding the Law and weeping and rending his garments. But the sovereignty of God reigns throughout, and the return changed Israel forever. I am very excited to study the Exile to learn the whys and wherefores!
Thank you for this blog. Gets me excited to study books I have not been in very much.
How can I best prepare to start this journey through exile and return? I am already in a BSF group.
Thank you to all who give their time and talents to these BSF studies.
I’m doing the 5-week Ezekiel study through BSF’s Word Go app, if you also want to give that a try as a way to prepare. That’s the first book we’ll study. Have a great year with your group!
Am so excited with the exile and return has started. Reading the book of Ezekiel and Daniel is so encouraging that with God than is impossible. Ezekiel speaking to dry bones to come back to life I have identified the area am dry bones praying by the end of exile and return will come back to life. Also in Daniel seeking God first before everything is my takeaway.
I am super excited to be taking this study. Praying that the Holy Spirit will prepare my heart and mind for even greater revelation of the deep treasure in His word. May God continue to bless and equip all who put these studies together. To God be the glory.
Thank you for this blog. Am really looking forward to study and understand about -Exile and return. A time to build. Thank you. God bless you.
There is nothing like BSF! it is more than life changing…it is faith building and faith strengthening so that when the hard times come you can stand strong. I am so grateful and so blessed to have studied BSF over many many years…..beginning in 1996/97 with the first BSF to come to Sydney Australia…. Then I continued in Reseda CA, and in Thousand Oaks, and Newbury Park. I raised my youngest daughter in BSF from the time she was 4 and today she and her 4 sons (ages 2-9) all go to BSF with me every Thursday. I am so blessed and pray that God will use my daughter and all four of my little grandsons for the Glory of God one day! Amen!
Thank you for this enlightenment about the contents of Exile and Return, the books of the OT that we will study, and the basic themes of each book.
Thank you for the preamble to the study. I am very expectant to study the 8 books as we start another BSF cycle.
This blog post makes me even more excited for the next study. I am looking forward to reading some difficult passages with new understanding.
In reading the emails, I can’t wait to study this time with other ladies. I go to BSF at Hoffmantown and love it.
I’m so excited for this study.
Thank you for all your study to provide this study to us.
Ready to get started now.
This introduction speaks directly to me. I feel like i am in a spiritual and physical exile in my own country. I look forward to participating in this study, through the online program.
To say that these 8 Books are very relative to us and the times that we live in now…is an UNDERSTATEMENT! To put a fine point on this…some years ago, I led a Small Group study on just the Book of Esther. As we moved deeper into the study on Esther, I was absolutely stunned and greatly impressed by what hidden secrets and messages that came to light when we followed and looked up the connecting biblical references and footnotes! And when it was finally revealed who “Haman” was a descendant of…it just absolutely “crystalized” how God’s will, plans and promises to us will NOT be overturned by anything or anyone…especially the wicked! I’m now anxious to see what this year’s BSF Study has to reveal in the other 7 Books.
Having a reminder in our summer break gives fresh anticipation for our new study. I am looking forward to these 8 OT books. All the books give me deeper understanding of Gods patience and mercy. His loving kindness too.
I can’t wait to start the BSF Study. Thanks a lot for wetting my appetite!!
This summary was a wonderful encouragement and makes me even more excited about this years study.
I have really grown spiritually over the study of BSF Revelations. I look forward to the next study of Exile and Return. Anyone who wants to grow in their line with God, Holy Spirit and Jesus needs this Study. Thank you for publishing all the studies.
It is such a blessing to be in BSF. Looking forward for the next study
Please I thank God for coming across this wonderful platform
Thank you for the good introductory notes on Bsfs coming study.Felt blessed and look forward to it.
Cannot wait to start to read these messages from long ago which give us an understanding as to who and what we are and what we are doing in this strange land. It is a way to see that we are not alone in this huge arena of the ungodly and unfit and will show us how we can live more comfortably in this place which is not our home forever.
Exile & Return is the same as our life on Earth I think. We live as aliens waiting for our true hometown now. So I am waiting for learning through Exile & Return.
I am looking forward for BSF and the excitement of studying and discussing the bible
Great summary and introduction, Bryan. am more eager than ever to dive in and be immersed in these books to understand more fully God’s story and live more reverently, intentionally and worshipfully as a result.
Bryan, thank you for the wonderful summary of our next study, Exile & Return! What an encouragement! I am filled with excitement and hope and looking forward to our next study! 😀🙏
I am so grateful for BSF and looking forward to the study.
Looking forward to this study and discovering the truths behind this study
Anxious to get started! I agree wholeheartedly what a blessing that it is to see Jesus in the Old Testament. It completes His story by all His prophecies and relevant for how the world still continues from Eden to today. His Sovereignty and foreknowledge relating to the news of the day reinforces His wisdom and grace.
I started BSF in 1994. It has been the very best of Bible teaching. If only I could remember all that I have learned! At 82 I have thought of gifting my place to another. I am sorry, but I am still learning. Online for me saved the day also. I am not nearby where I live now to a location otherwise. I love my international sisters and learn so much from them.Thank the Lord for this ministry.
Comment *
J’ai hâte de commencer cette nouvelle série études qui sera très importante pour l’histoire du peuple élu de Dieu.
Translation: I look forward to beginning this new series of studies which will be very important for the history of God’s chosen people.
This will be my 5th year with BSF. I can not imagine my life without it. Many friends and family have commented on the change this has made to my life, in attitude, speaking, and overall change in my life.
Thank you first of all to my SIL who introduced me to BSF and was instrumental in starting my journey. Also to the leaders each year who have helped me to grow my faith in Jesus.
Thank you for this encouraging and informative piece. I love to think about the Scripture’s enduring truth and the way it continually informs our lives throughout all time.
Thank you for opening our eyes even more to reasons that God allowed these words to survive through the ages so we can be encouraged today!
Blessings to the author and all fellow students with me.
I am so excited to join in the next BSF study. I am eagerly looking forward to it. It’s a thorough study of Bible, the book of Books. It gives me so much insight, helps me to overcome difficulties in life. It’s a great opportunity for me to learn Bible in depth. May God bless BSF team.
Please I thank God for coming across this wonderful platform
I appreciate all your works , keep it up.
I am very excited to start this study!
I am very excited to join the study
It will be a great opportunity to me to study all the books in this study. It will be my first time to study them in completeness . ( I am a BSF leader). I pray i will be strengthened to live with hope and to mentor others as i await our eternal l home.
It is sobering to note that i am currently in a spiritual exile yet in my physical home country. Thanks to Bryan for his introductory comments.
Inspiring and empowering insight
I’m excited about next year at BSF!!
My name is John I just finished the book of revelation that was in the last session of BSF I was wondering when the next one starts and what will we be studying
The Exile & Return study begins this fall!
Thank you Bro Bryan, I really appreciate your insights on Exile and Return. Thank you for sharing the three reasons why I love Exile and Return.
Excited to start this study ❣️
In reading all the comments, I found it to be a reminder
that throughout history, all scripture is for all generations for all time and nothing under the sun is new.
Verneda, as I age this has become increasingly clear to me too! People look shocked when I explain this to them as a reason to spend time in the Word. We can’t know everything or solve everything by ourselves, but we CAN react with grace, gratitude, love, acceptance, and humility! All glory to our Savior!!!
We enjoyed a small BSF class and hope it can be repeated this year.
Loving the study!
I belong to a BSF group many years in Longmont, Co.
Just tears of joy and anticipation of what is and what is to come. ! Halleleujah what a savior!!!
Thank you very much for highlighting this. I am really looking forward to studying and interacting with the 8 books especially from the book of Ezra.. Am not sure that I have ever read it before. God’s faithfulness to always keep His word (Ezra). Regards. Kate
To me, the Old Testament as well as the New Testament’s books that I have studied in the last 2 years of BSF have been a gift that I have cherished, so bring it on!
The study of The Book of Revelation gave me ties to the Old Testament prophets, and knowing their prophecies were so old yet so meaningful, gives me a feeling of wonder and belief and I want to know more!
I am looking forward to this study!
How do I purchase a book ?
Dear Richard –
The BSF Store is available exclusively to BSF registered members and this year will be available in mid-July.
How to Access the BSF Store
Registered members can sign into their BSF account.
If you are in a BSF class (including local online groups) – Sign in at http://www.mybsf.org and navigate to the BSF Store button on the left.
If you are in a BSF Online group – Sign in at http://www.bsfonline.org, go to the My Lessons page and find the BSF Store button on the left.
About Our Study Materials
Our materials are designed to be used with the BSF Fourfold Study Method:
1. Questions
2. Discussion
3. Lecture
4. Notes
For this reason, our books are only available to those actively enrolled in a BSF study. We encourage you to join us if you are interested!
How to Join a BSF Group
• Online Groups: Learn more and join a BSF group at bsfinternational.org or bsfonline.org.
• Self-Study Option: Studies are also available through the WordGo app, which offers self-study or group participation. Learn more at wordgo.org.
My prayers is that our loving Father through Jesus Christ gives me the Spirit of Knowledge and Understanding so that I may understand everything and apply what I learn. BSF is an amazing way of bringing one close to God. May God bless all those who will join the study “EXILE AND RETURN “
Inspiring and empowering insight
Stirred up and eager to learn
Love this overview! Can hardly wait for all we’ll learn!
Are there any New Testament studies starting this Fall
Hi, Susan – the only study that will start in the fall is Exile and Return. We hope you will be joining us for this exciting study.
This summer I have been led to read the books we will be studying this fall. So much there. I’m sure we will ALL be blessed with what we learn.
Excellent article. Now, I am loking forward for the new study brother Bryan. Blessings.
I am doing the same thing. Ezekiel is finished; Daniel 3 was today. This year will be the best, if the prep is any indicator
Only one comment, BSF is life changing, for new and long time believers. The upcoming study will be incredible.
Thank you for your comments and preparing us for this amazing study.
Feeling stirred up in spirit after reading the reasons to love the Exile and Return study- Now eagerly waiting for to be a part of that. Thanks and blessings to you bro Bryan.
Hello. I’m interested in doing ‘Exile and Return’ in September. I live in the Gulf Islands and am a retired teacher. I’d love to do this one in Spanish, if possible. I just completed Revelation with BSF and enjoyed it.
Hello, Robin – I have included information below that assist in finding a class that has a Spanish speaking option either in person or online.
How to Join a BSF Group
• Online Groups: Learn more and join a BSF group at bsfinternational.org or bsfonline.org.
• Self-Study Option: Studies are also available through the WordGo app, which offers self-study or group participation. Learn more at wordgo.org.
May Almighty Lord make use of you & your family mightily for the greater glory of God. Your sincere & dedicated work for Lord Almighty is highly appreciated. May God bless you with good health, peace and happiness in the years ahead of you.
“You shall be a blessing “ Genesis 12:2, Amen 🙏🏼🙌😇👆
Thank you Bryan- what an enticing picture you have given us of Exile & Return! You have put spice into your invitation to join this study and I will continue to invite people every chance I get. The OT is something many shy away from and its relevancy is made clear here. Thank you- we trust God to reveal many things to us in Exile & return!
I have started studying Ezekiel and am loving it. Can hardly wait to see what treasures we will open in the next study.
Thank you so much for this encouragement. I’ll be studying Exile and Return this coming fall. I love seeing how the entire Bible points to Jesus and can’t wait to see what God will do this coming season of my life. I’ll also be a children’s leader (pre-school) and am trusting God to help me share the beauty and truth of His Word. Through reading and studying the Bible through BSF God has worked in my life and changed me forever. I’m so thankful.
Thanks Bryan for your encouraging words and for creating an excitement for this new study!
Years ago in Texas I was a BSF leader with a lovely woman whose last name was Belknap. I wonder if she is your mom.
Thanks for the reasons to study exile and return. It’s ignited my interest in the upcoming study.
I’m so anxious waiting to start studying again, what BSF have put it together for each one of us to continue in our spiritual growth.
Thank You BSF for been attentive and putting together a new Bible Study to grow in our daily devotional time with His word.
Thank You to a friend of mine who took me under her wings and still helps me to understand what the word of God is telling me in my daily walking with Him.
Thank you Bryan. I’m now even more excited to study Exile & Return. I want to be able to talk to Malachi about his whole book and not just the part about testing God with my giving.
Looking forward to this study.
Not only am I thankful for everything I learn from participation in BSF and exchanging God’s Word with others, but I as so thankful for all the Believers I have met. Good people. God’s people.
Gods love shines through every book in The Bible. He’s faithful and just.
I am looking forward to another year in BSF to learn more of the Old Testament as it looks forward to Jesus’s birth and ministry on earth. I enjoy the Old Testament but haven’t really studied it except through BSF so thank you for another year of your wonderful lessons for every Christian eager to learn more. It will be another blessed year with my group again, God bless you all who take the time to write the lessons each year.
Am very excited about the books we will be studying. Many years ago, I did a study on Daniel and have always wanted to do another one. Thank you for all of you who work and support BSF.
Looking forward to this bible study fellowship,it is important to be conversant with both the old testament prophecy books etc because the word of God is alive and speaks to us so it doesn’t matter which book you are reading but what the word speaks in your life.and in our current challenges,struggles,in life.
Again God has dropped another truth bomb on me! I attended a parochial school , attended Church and Sunday School, read and studied my Bible (not as regularly as I should have), however BSF has opened my eyes and my heart to the gospel in a whole new way!!! I have been a
Christian my entire life and loved our Lord, but am now really getting to know the God I serve on an entirely different level! Thank you BSF for the tools to a deeper faith and understanding of scripture.
Joining BSF 4 years ago is one of the best things I ever did. I am looking forward to this series.
Thank you for the encouraging words about the new study. Looking forward to being inspired by the exiled people of the old Testament. I’m especially excited to learn about the practical application in our present day of the lessons learned in Exile and Return.
I have found BSF to be an eye-opening experience. I am now staring my 5th year with the group in Ramona. The courses are tough but enlightening. The reason I say tough is because there is so much to learn from sharing, but time constarints almost always interfer. The enlightening part is the comradeship one can develop through fellowship and the fact that you can study to your heart’s content, just know you may now be able to share all you learn in the weekly Bible Studies.
An awesome over view of our up coming B SF this fall. I love studying the Old Testament and how it ties the New Testament together. So encouraging for the Christian’s hope! God will call all His people home with Him at His time!
What a wonderful tribute to a mighty God and the love He has for all people. God is on ththrone!
Like Kevin in your church skit, I might also have been forced to plead the fifth, although I know Malachi 3:10 🤭.
Thank you for the blog. I love how you’ve tied it to our last study on Revelation: The Hope- reminding us as believers we are exiled here as we wait for our glorious home in the New Jerusalem.
Doing the study of Revelation also taught me how interconnected scripture is -both old and new testaments.
This will be my third BSF study and I can already see the connectedness coming through, I cannot wait for September to start the Exile and Return!
I used WordGo this summer to study Esther and Ezekiel. As you described, I was surprised, especially in Ezekiel how relevant and encouraging the words were for me. I think I’ll try to visit with Malachi too so I can talk with him about his book one day. Enjoyed your blog.
I look forward to the Study of Exile and Return as I expectantly and joyfully await Jesus Christ’s return for his Bride the Church. Thank you for your dedication in the preparation of this glorious event
What a great blog. It really gets me excited for this fall and a brand new study! So grateful that I took the time and opportunity to read this.
We are currently in the book of Malachi on Sunday mornings at my church; it doesn’t.pull any punches, and I am learning so much! I love the Old Testament, and cannot wait for the study.
I have just finished the study of Revelation. Throughly enjoyed it. Looking forward to Excile and Return to explore how Jesus is concealed in the OT.
Want also to thank everyone in BSF for their ministry of teaching the Word all around the world.
What’s amazing to me is how each BSF Study season addresses and serves as a prophetic answer to the spiritual darkness that challenges the collective Church throughout the world that we see around us. What I start off as thinking will be a very bookish study ends up being a study that equips me to speak into other people’s lives with God’s Word in a very relevant way.
You had me at, “These books speak to people who feel displaced, weary, or like they’re waiting for something more.” Amen! I’m looking forward to the study. Thank you BSF for all you do.
When does the minor prophets study begin? I want to return to my online group with Ginger as our leader. Truth Seekers
Dear Harriett – the Exile and Return study will begin this fall. I have also provided information for the two studies after that.
Romans (2026 – 2027) Paul’s letter to the Romans is the fullest and most comprehensive statement of Christianity.
The Life of Moses (2027 – 2028) God reveals Israel’s deliverance from Egypt, preparation at Sinai and march toward Canaan.
We are happy for your excitement to continue studying with us!
Erma
I have been attending BSF off and on for over 20 years first in Charlotte and when I retired and moved back to my hometown in Knoxville, I love studying God’s word and am so looking forward to our upcoming study.
Before joining BSF and studying Revelations, I was honestly afraid of what this particular revealed.
I learned instead that it is a book of promise, a book that reveals God’s abiding patience and lavish love for His created beings. He gives us chance after chance, after chance to repent and follow, to “choose” Him. And, fairly, Revelations reveals the final outcome of those who continue to reject Him and see themselves as above His law!
Thank you BSF!
I have already registered to study this fall. I am excited about studying God’s word.
Luke 9:30-31 (ESV) And behold, two men were talking with him, Moses and Elijah, who appeared in glory and spoke of his departure, which he was about to accomplish at Jerusalem.
Luke records that Jesus spoke with Moses and Elijah of his departure (Greek word exodus) on the mount of transfiguration.
Luke also records in Acts 1 that after 40 days with his disciples Jesus ascended into heaven and would erchomai (Greek) come or go or proceed in a cloud as they had witnessed – perhaps alluding to Daniel 7:13 (ESV) “I saw in the night visions, and behold, with the clouds of heaven there came one like a son of man, and he came to the Ancient of Days and was presented before him.
Great indepth study of the Word of God!
Great blog to encourage me to ‘dig deeper’.
Thank you.
I’m so excited to study Exile and Return!
Great in depth study of the Word of God !!
I am SO looking forward to this year! When we finished in 2024, and we were left with Judah being defeated and on the vusp of captivity, I realized that we were stopping right before the greatest come-back story in the Bible! I fell in live with these 8 books many years ago; I needed their truth as I faced a personal come-back story. Ezekiel and Zechariah, in particular, have become very precious to me. Again, the greatest come-back story that has ever happened.
As we grow progressively closer to the greatest come-back story that has not yet happened but absolutely will happen, our gathering together to our Saviour, the bold-yet-imperfect example of these believers these believers will encourage us that God is the master of renewal/recovery/comeback.
I am enjoying the WordGo study of Ezekiel! It is very applicable and convicting.
Plan to do the study
My summer reading has been, all the books we will b studying this year. It really has been amazing, It is a story of
god’s history. Just under. two months
Looking forward to my second year in BSF. BSF has been life-changing for me. Seriously. And, you’re right…the OT really completes the entire picture and message of Christ.
This upcoming study has chosen some great prophets that showed their love for their Messiah. Prophecy has and will always astonish the reader. Their scripture can be applied to our lives now as it did during their time on this earth. How can you not invite another man or woman to such a study. I’ll start reading these books as a refresher in the up coming summer months.
I have already signed up for this study: Exile and Return. Looking forward to learning more about the Old Testament. Been in BSF since 2014 , and I am enjoying the study learning more about our Savior, Jesus Christ. Thank God for Jesus !!!
I love studying God’s word and I thank BSF for making that possible. I’m already signed up for Exile & Return.
Just waiting to purchase book.
Yes I would like to study this series this Winter. When do I order the book?
Hi Betty – books will be available in July!
BSF is a Christ centered Bible study for Christians at every level of their spiritual growth. I look forward to the study of Exile and Return. When can we get our books?
Thank you so much for sharing – so looking forward to this timely and encouraging study!!
i have been in the study for 3 years love it
Jesus is revealed in every book of the Bible (even in Esther, where God isn’t even mentioned). He quoted from the scriptures because He wrote them, through human authors, and they are His word. Only in studying His word can we be transformed from our fleshly selves, into a sanctified being.
I am signed up for Exile&Return.
I have been a part of BSF for 50+ years. So glad to finish the whole Bible through BSF.
I’m looking forward to the study of exile and return with (BSF) for next year.
Thanks for the description and encouragement, Bryan! Eager to start the new study this Fall!
We live in the New Testament, many n maybe most who join in this group are new Christian’s or even old Christians that haven’t read their Bible. So Why don’t stay in the Old Testament? Sure it’s great I love it but it’s not milk for the young , it’s solid food
I was just in your last Bible study in Revelation .. it’s all good But …
I don’t see the gain to our walk here n now , people need to be taught how to LIVE as a Christian in their new birth Hebrews 11 the great faith chapter speaks of the great things the OT saints did n good n needed to know but further need a good solid foundation.
I’ll stop here , but just my food for thought.
Godspeed
Reading all of God’s Word is transformational. I look forward to Exile & Return this year. Thank you, BSF!
I remember a former lead pastor once said that Jesus is the “thread” that ties together the OT and the NT. Looking forward to the new study.
Looking forward to.this study ! I have already signed up. Thank you I have been really blessed by studying the word of God through BSF
Well I can tell you after reading this blog that I am absolutely excited and anticipating this new study.. thank you so much
This is my 4th year in BSF and I am so looking forward to this next study. Can’t wait for it to started back up.
Absolutely this is so inspiring
I just love to read the whole thing and I have learned so much from it .Last week on Sunday I preach a sermon on ” Jesus is the good shepherd”
Points : Jesus as the good shepherds cares for so much for us.
“Jesus as a good shepherd loves us so much”
” Jesus as a good shepherd gives us eternal life ”
Conclusion ” Be faithful until the end and I shall give you a crown of eternal life.
What I missed here is I did not point anything back to the OT ,but through reading this ,I now realize and learn that next time when I prepare a sermon again ,I need to quote a verse in the old testament.
Thank you so much .
Wow! I love that the Spirit used this blog to teach you a new way to magnify God and to mature his people, including yourself. You have inspired me to be more intentional about including references from the OT and NT in my lectures when the Spirit prompts me to do so. Thank you 🙏🏾
#ironsharpensiron
I am reading through the Bible this year, again! I love the old stories in the Bible. There are so relevant even today. I love to read how God loved his chosen ones even when they strayed! He’s the same way with us. He welcomes us when we confess with open arms! this God that he loves us that much. Our redeemer and friend.!
Thank you, Bryan for the overview. I am truly getting excited to get back to studying BSF. Keeps me accountable! Keep more info coming. When will our booklets be available?
I’m so looking forward to this study. Daniel is one of my favorite books as is Esther. I’m eager to delve deeper into these books and the lessons we can learn from them for our world today.
Bryan gives us a helpful reminder that all scripture points us to Jesus.
Hello, I am a returning BSF member & am very much looking forward to our fall 2025-spring 2026 new BSF Study! Each study is deep into God’s Word & thorough & excellent! My question is, ‘How’ do I go about obtaining my BSF workbook & ‘Where’ do I get it from for this upcoming study?? Thank you very much! Sincerely, Vickie~
I attended BSF in the 70’s when my children were very young. Then life got busy. I enjoyed the disiciplines as i got older and retired.
I am feeling conviction of not knowing more of Gods Word applied to my life.
Thanks for this. Yes you have inspired me to study exile and return with BSF next year. I’m looking forward to it.
Being a Messianic born again believer in the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, and having read through the bible a few times, I am very excited to be studying the books you have highlighted. I have already been through the study of Daniel a number of times (led in my home by my spouse) and the book of Esther a few times (one of my favorites).
Thank you for this study. Can’t wait for it to begin.
Myself and 10 other ladies from the Dansoman satellite group in Accra, Ghana are studying the Book of Ezekiel on the WordGo, doing the discussions on zoom and we are enjoying every bit of it. Only two weeks into the study but the lessons are enormous which makes us look for to the next Study, Exile and Return. God just doesn’t punish but He gives warnings to His children to turn back from their wicked ways. He’s a just God and while He warns us of His coming judgment through His prophet, He also promises a restoration plan. Indeed, there’s Hope for the Hopeless!
This article very enlightening
I took a year off for the birth of my first Granddaughter! It took me 68 years to get her!! Of corse it had to be the year we studied”Revelations.” So I can only imagine how happy I will be to return to BSF and study “Exlie & Return”! Bringing me closer to our Lord Jesus Christ and studying with such wonderful Women!!
Lots of people study and can memorize the Holy scriptures but never experience God. How will this study, from God’s grace leads us into that experience and relationship?
The notes are great commentary but sometimes I find the questions redundant.
What moves the heart is from God, how do we participate to break our barriers to experience Him this year?
Looking forward to the study
Looking forward to this study. I have been in BSF for 20 years. The quality and content of each study has strengthened my spiritual growth immensely. BSF’s use of technology has streamlined access and use ability for teaching God’s word. Keep up the good work. Your effort is much appreciated!
BSF studies has been good to me to grow more in spirituality. Thanks!!
Byran, Thank you so much for your blog. It was very good and I am so looking forward to this OT study this fall.
Just FYI – Belknap is not a common name………… my maiden name was Belknap…….. so I am always excited when I find someone else who has this name!
Blessings from Kentucky,
Dana Belknap Graves
Thank you for the overview. Belknap is not a common name, however… I worked with a girl last named Belknap.
This is a good inspiration for me to get ready to do the next BSF study.
Thanks
Well said. I know my group and I are anxious to get started.
BSF has indeed changed my life & helped me get the scriptures clarity & application.
Am looking forward to the study of exile & return which is a good example of our return to our original home in heavenly glory forever.
BSF has not only increased my knowledge of God but drawn me nearer to Him, Jesus & the saints wonderful powerful studies
Great encouragement for studying the Exile and Return.
I will forward this to family and friends to encourage them to study with us.
Thank you,
Every year I’ve been a part of BSF the studies are always a deep dive into the Bible scriptures.