Download class Noteshandout file: Click “SAVE”& choose “PDF” Booklet (Portable Document File) for a printable file.
Bible Survey Lesson 21: Book of Ezra, Part 2
The Book of Ezra recounts the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylon to Jerusalem after their 70-year captivity, focusing on the rebuilding of the Temple and the restoration of the community’s spiritual practices. It highlights key figures like Zerubbabel, who led the first group back to rebuild the Temple, and Ezra, who later arrived to teach the Law and promote spiritual reform among the people.
Structure and Content
The Book of Ezra is divided into two (2) main sections:
| SECTION | CONTENT DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|
| Ezra 1-6 | Covers the first return of exiles led by Zerubbabel, the rebuilding of the temple, and the challenges faced during this process. |
| Ezra 7-10 | Focuses on Ezra’s arrival in Jerusalem, his role as a priest and scribe, and his efforts to teach the Law and reform the community. |
Key Themes
- Restoration and Rebuilding: The narrative highlights the physical and spiritual restoration of the Jewish people as they return to their homeland.
- God’s Faithfulness: The book emphasizes that God keeps His promises, as seen in the return of the exiles and the rebuilding of the temple.
- Spiritual Renewal: Ezra’s leadership is crucial for instilling the Law and encouraging the people to renew their covenant with God.
Important Figures
- Cyrus the Great: Persian king who issued the decree allowing the Jews to return.
- Zerubbabel: Leader of the first group of exiles who oversaw the temple’s reconstruction.
- Ezra: A priest and scribe who led a second wave of exiles and focused on spiritual reform.
The Book of Ezra serves as a vital link in the history of the Israelites, showcasing their struggles and triumphs in rebuilding their community and faith after exile.
Ezra Journeys from Babylon to Jerusalem – Ezra 7-10 NASB1995
‘1 Now after these things, in the reign of Artaxerxes king of Persia, there went up Ezra son of Seraiah, son of Azariah, son of Hilkiah, 2 son of Shallum, son of Zadok, son of Ahitub, 3 son of Amariah, son of Azariah, son of Meraioth, 4 son of Zerahiah, son of Uzzi, son of Bukki, 5 son of Abishua, son of Phinehas, son of Eleazar, son of Aaron the chief priest. 6 This Ezra went up from Babylon, and he was a scribe skilled in the law of Moses, which the Lord God of Israel had given; and the king granted him all he requested because the hand of the Lord his God was upon him.’ … – Ezra 7-10 NASB1995