The purpose of this Sermon Library is to support your spiritual growth as you revisit, reflect and meditate on the sermon topic, and study the Scriptures.

In each tab of the Study Guide, you will find information that will help you increase your understanding and knowledge of Yahweh’s Word and gain deeper insight into the Biblical topic covered.

You can engage in this study on your own or with a group.

It is our hope that these tools provide you with meaningful activities to help you on your walk, as you engage in them during the week and in days leading up to a Feast.

2 Timothy 2:15 – Study to shew thyself approved unto Elohim, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

Study Guide
Summary – Read and reread to help you remember the answer to the question, “What was this sermon about?” so that you can deepen your understanding on this topic and can learn what to say in order to easily share this with others.

Points and Scriptures – Compare these to your notes. If needed, add the key points and Scriptures to your notes, for further review. Turn to each Scripture passage and read it. You may want to keep a notebook or journal, with Scripture Lists by topic. Scriptures that say (alluded to) next to it were included in content of the message (ex. appeared on a slide) without the Scripture itself being read.

Discussion Questions – Read one at a time, writing the answers down in your notebook or journal. Use your notes, as well as the information in the Points & Scriptures tab, to help you answer the questions.

Small Group Guide – We recommend that you engage in this activity during the week with a group of brethren, family members and/or friends.

Devotional – We recommend that you engage in these activities during the week and/or in days leading up to the Feast.

Sermon Summary: This sermon, part two of a series, explores the controversial theory that the traditional Temple Mount in Jerusalem may not be the actual location of the ancient Jewish Temple. The speaker presents historical, archaeological, and biblical evidence to support the idea that the true temple site was in the City of David, and that the current Temple Mount was likely the location of the Roman Fortress Antonia. The sermon challenges listeners to reconsider long-held beliefs about the temple’s location and emphasizes the importance of understanding historical context in biblical interpretation.

Key Points:

• The City of David is synonymous with Zion, Salem, and Mount Moriah
• The Gihon Spring, the only natural water source in ancient Jerusalem, is located in the City of David
• Yahshua’s prophecy about the temple’s destruction suggests complete demolition
• Historical accounts describe utter destruction of Jerusalem and the temple
• The size and description of Fortress Antonia by Josephus contradict the current model of the Temple Mount
• The 10th Roman Legion, consisting of 6,000 troops, was stationed in Jerusalem until 300 CE
• The “Paul Dilemma” highlights inconsistencies in the traditional view of the temple’s location
  
  

  Here are the scripture references mentioned or alluded to in the sermon:

  1. Mark 13:1-2
  2. Luke 19:43-44
  3. Acts 23:10

  The sermon also discusses some general biblical themes without specific references. Here are some relevant verses that align with the main themes discussed:

  4. 2 Chronicles 3:1 (regarding Solomon’s temple being built on Mount Moriah)
  5. Psalm 48:2 (referring to Mount Zion as the city of the great King)
  6. 1 Chronicles 21:18-26 (describing the threshing floor of Ornan the Jebusite)
  7. John 9:7 (mentioning the Pool of Siloam)
  8. Isaiah 8:6 (referring to the waters of Shiloah, another name for the Gihon Spring)
  9. Ezekiel 47:1-12 (describing water flowing from the temple)
  10. Daniel 9:26 (prophesying the destruction of Jerusalem and the temple)
  11. Matthew 24:1-2 (parallel account to Mark 13:1-2 about the temple’s destruction)
  12. Luke 21:5-6 (another parallel account of the temple’s destruction prophecy)

  These suggested verses relate to the themes of Jerusalem’s geography, the temple location, water sources in Jerusalem, and prophecies about the temple’s destruction that were discussed in the sermon.

How does the evidence presented about the true location of the ancient temple challenge our understanding of biblical history and prophecy?

What are the spiritual implications of realizing that a place long revered as holy (like the Western Wall) may not actually be the site of the ancient temple?

How might our interpretation of Yahshua’s prophecy about the temple’s destruction change if the traditional Temple Mount was actually Fortress Antonia?

What can we learn about the importance of water sources like the Gihon Spring in understanding ancient religious sites and practices?

How does the detailed historical and archaeological evidence presented in this sermon challenge or strengthen your faith?

What spiritual lessons can we draw from the meticulous destruction and excavation of Jerusalem by the Romans, as described by Josephus and others?

How might our understanding of Paul’s experiences in Jerusalem change if Fortress Antonia was located where the traditional Temple Mount is today?

What does the discrepancy between historical accounts and current archaeological interpretations teach us about the importance of continual study and openness to new evidence in matters of faith?

How does the concept of a Roman legion being like a city within a city relate to our modern understanding of Christian community and fellowship?

In what ways does this archaeological and historical investigation into the temple’s location remind us of the importance of seeking truth, even when it challenges long-held beliefs?

Small Group Guide: The Quest for the Lost Temple Mount (Part 2)

Opening Prayer

Key Takeaways:
1. The traditional Temple Mount location may actually be the site of the Roman Fortress Antonia.
2. Historical and biblical evidence suggests the true temple location was in the City of David.
3. Yahshua’s prophecy about the temple’s complete destruction is more consistent with the City of David location.
4. The size and description of Fortress Antonia by Josephus matches the current Temple Mount area.

Discussion Questions:

1. What surprised you most about the evidence presented for the temple’s location in the City of David?

2. How does understanding the true location of the temple impact our understanding of biblical prophecy and history?

3. Discuss the significance of the Gihon Spring in relation to the temple location. Why is a natural water source so important?

4. How does the description of Fortress Antonia by Josephus compare to what we see at the traditional Temple Mount today?

5. What are your thoughts on the “Paul Dilemma” presented in the sermon? How does this challenge the traditional view?

6. How might this information change the way we view archaeological findings in Jerusalem?

7. What are some potential implications of this theory for modern-day religious practices at the Western Wall?

Practical Applications:

1. Research: Spend some time this week looking into additional historical sources about Jerusalem’s layout during the Second Temple period.

2. Visual Study: Find maps or diagrams of ancient Jerusalem and compare them with modern satellite images. Note the locations of key sites mentioned in the sermon.

3. Scripture Reflection: Read through the Olivet Prophecy (Matthew 24, Mark 13, Luke 21) with this new perspective in mind. How does it change your understanding of these passages?

4. Prayer Focus: Pray for continued archaeological discoveries that can help us better understand biblical history and geography.

5. Share: Discuss what you’ve learned with a friend or family member who might be interested in biblical archaeology.

Closing Prayer

Encourage group members to continue exploring this topic and to approach it with an open mind, always seeking truth while respecting different viewpoints within the faith community.

Here’s a 5-day Bible reading plan and devotional guide based on themes from the sermon:

Day 1: Yahweh’s Unchanging Presence
Reading: Psalm 46:1-11
Devotional: Just as the ancient Israelites sought the presence of Yahweh in the temple, we too long for His presence in our lives. The transcription discusses the historical location of the temple, but more importantly, it reminds us that Yahweh’s presence isn’t confined to a physical structure. Psalm 46 declares that Yahweh is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Reflect on how Yahweh’s presence remains constant in your life, even when circumstances change. How can you cultivate a greater awareness of His presence today?

Day 2: Faith Amidst Uncertainty
Reading: Hebrews 11:1-16
Devotional: The debate over the temple’s location highlights how historical details can sometimes be uncertain. Yet, our faith isn’t based on perfect historical knowledge, but on trust in Yahweh’s promises. Hebrews 11 recounts how people of faith throughout history acted on Yahweh’s promises, even when they couldn’t see the full picture. Consider an area of uncertainty in your life. How can you exercise faith today, trusting Yahweh’s guidance even when you don’t have all the answers?

Day 3: The Living Temple
Reading: 1 Corinthians 3:16-17, 6:19-20
Devotional: While the sermon focuses on the physical temple, these passages remind us that we are now Yahweh’s temple. The Holy Spirit dwells within believers, making our bodies sacred spaces. This truth carries profound implications for how we live. How does viewing yourself as Yahweh’s temple change your perspective on your daily choices and actions? What areas of your life might need “cleansing” to better reflect Yahweh’s holiness?

Day 4: Prophecy and Yahweh’s Sovereignty
Reading: Isaiah 46:8-13
Devotional: The transcription discusses Yahshua’s prophecy about the temple’s destruction, which was fulfilled. This serves as a reminder of Yahweh’s sovereignty over history. Isaiah 46 powerfully declares Yahweh’s ability to declare the end from the beginning. His purposes will stand, and He will accomplish all He pleases. How does this assurance of Yahweh’s control over history and the future bring comfort to your current circumstances? Where do you need to trust His sovereign plan more fully?

Day 5: Worship Beyond Walls
Reading: John 4:19-26
Devotional: The debate over the temple’s location echoes the Samaritan woman’s question about the proper place of worship. Yahshua’s response revolutionizes our understanding of worship. True worshipers worship the Father in spirit and truth, unrestricted by physical location. As you reflect on this passage, consider how you can cultivate a lifestyle of worship that transcends buildings or specific places. How can you bring an attitude of worship into every aspect of your daily life?