Ezra

The book of Ezra recounts the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylon to Jerusalem following the decree of King Cyrus of Persia, who permitted them to rebuild the temple of the Lord. The first part (chapters 1–6) describes the initial return under Zerubbabel, the reconstruction of the altar and temple, and the challenges the Israelites faced from local opposition, which temporarily halted the work until it was renewed under the prophets Haggai and Zechariah. The second part (chapters 7–10) introduces Ezra the priest and scribe, who leads a later group of exiles back to Jerusalem. He teaches the law of God, initiates spiritual reform, and addresses intermarriage with foreign peoples to restore the community’s covenant faithfulness. The book emphasizes God’s sovereignty, the fulfillment of prophecy, and the necessity of holiness and obedience among His people.

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Audio

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Commentary

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Links & Sources

TeachMeTheBible.com - Dr. David Klingler

The Spring Church Sermons - Prof Caleb Foley

Traceway Church Sermons - Dr. Nathan Tullos

TheBiblicalStory.org - Dr. Charles Baylis