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Ezra 4

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‹ Chapter 3 Ezra — All Chapters Chapter 5 ›

1 When the enemies of Judah and Benjamin heard that the exiles were building a temple for the LORD, the God of Israel, 2 they approached Zerubbabel and the heads of the families, saying, “Let us build with you because, like you, we seek your God and have been sacrificing to Him since the time of King Esar-haddon of Assyria, who brought us here." 3 But Zerubbabel, Jeshua, and the other heads of the families of Israel replied, “You have no part with us in building a house for our God, since we alone must build it for the LORD, the God of Israel, as Cyrus king of Persia has commanded us." 4 Then the people of the land set out to discourage the people of Judah and make them afraid to build. 5 They hired counselors against them to frustrate their plans throughout the reign of Cyrus king of Persia and down to the reign of Darius king of Persia. 6 At the beginning of the reign of Xerxes, an accusation was lodged against the people of Judah and Jerusalem. 7 And in the days of Artaxerxes king of Persia, Bishlam, Mithredath, Tabeel, and the rest of his associates wrote a letter to Artaxerxes. It was written in Aramaic and then translated. 8 Rehum the commander and Shimshai the scribe wrote the letter against Jerusalem to King Artaxerxes as follows: 9 From Rehum the commander, Shimshai the scribe, and the rest of their associates—the judges and officials over Tripolis, Persia, Erech and Babylon, the Elamites of Susa, 10 and the rest of the peoples whom the great and honorable Ashurbanipal deported and settled in the cities of Samaria and elsewhere west of the Euphrates. 11 (This is the text of the letter they sent to him.) To King Artaxerxes, From your servants, the men west of the Euphrates: 12 Let it be known to the king that the Jews who came from you to us have returned to Jerusalem. And they are rebuilding that rebellious and wicked city, restoring its walls, and repairing its foundations. 13 Let it now be known to the king that if that city is rebuilt and its walls are restored, they will not pay tribute, duty, or toll, and the royal treasury will suffer. 14 Now because we are in the service of the palace and it is not fitting for us to allow the king to be dishonored, we have sent to inform the king 15 that a search should be made of the record books of your fathers. In these books you will discover and verify that the city is a rebellious city, harmful to kings and provinces, inciting sedition from ancient times. That is why this city was destroyed. 16 We advise the king that if this city is rebuilt and its walls are restored, you will have no dominion west of the Euphrates. 17 Then the king sent this reply: To Rehum the commander, Shimshai the scribe, and the rest of your associates living in Samaria and elsewhere in the region west of the Euphrates: Greetings. 18 The letter you sent us has been translated and read in my presence. 19 I issued a decree, and a search was conducted. It was discovered that this city has revolted against kings from ancient times, engaging in rebellion and sedition. 20 And mighty kings have ruled over Jerusalem and exercised authority over the whole region west of the Euphrates; and tribute, duty, and toll were paid to them. 21 Now, therefore, issue an order for these men to stop, so that this city will not be rebuilt until I so order. 22 See that you do not neglect this matter. Why allow this threat to increase and the royal interests to suffer? 23 When the text of the letter from King Artaxerxes was read to Rehum, Shimshai the scribe, and their associates, they went immediately to the Jews in Jerusalem and forcibly stopped them. 24 Thus the construction of the house of God in Jerusalem ceased, and it remained at a standstill until the second year of the reign of Darius king of Persia.

‹ Chapter 3 Ezra — All Chapters Chapter 5 ›

Study Notes — Ezra 4

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Chapter Summary

The chapter begins with the Israelites' enemies, the Samaritans, attempting to join in the rebuilding of the temple, but the Israelites refuse, knowing that the Samaritans do not share their faith or values. The Samaritans then try to hinder the rebuilding process through various means, including writing letters to the king of Persia, accusing the Israelites of rebellion. Despite these challenges, the Israelites continue to work on the temple, trusting in God's provision and protection. The chapter also highlights the role of the prophets Haggai and Zechariah in encouraging the Israelites to continue their work. Key verses include Ezra 4:1-5, which describe the initial opposition to the rebuilding, and Ezra 4:24, which notes the cessation of work on the temple due to the opposition.

Context for the Chapter

Ezra chapter 4 is part of the larger narrative of the post-exilic period in Israel's history, during which the Israelites returned to Jerusalem after their captivity in Babylon. The chapter is situated within the book of Ezra, which tells the story of the Israelites' return to Jerusalem and their efforts to rebuild the temple. The chapter also has connections to other biblical books, including the prophets Haggai and Zechariah, who played a significant role in encouraging the Israelites to continue their work on the temple.

Heart Application

As we reflect on Ezra chapter 4, we are reminded of the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty and provision, even when circumstances seem difficult or uncertain. We are also encouraged to persevere in the face of opposition, knowing that God is with us and will guide us through challenging times. May we, like the Israelites, stand firm in our convictions and trust in God's goodness and faithfulness.

What Does This Chapter Mean?

Ezra chapter 4 tells the story of the Israelites' efforts to rebuild the temple in Jerusalem, and the opposition they faced from their enemies. Despite the challenges, the Israelites persevered, trusting in God's sovereignty and provision. As we reflect on this chapter, we are reminded of the importance of standing firm in our convictions and trusting in God's goodness and faithfulness, even when circumstances seem difficult or uncertain, as seen in Ezra 4:1-5.

Voices from the Church

“The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall. This is a lesson that the Israelites learned as they faced opposition and challenges in their efforts to rebuild the temple.”

— Charles Spurgeon

“The Church of God is always exposed to the hatred and hostility of the world, and it is the duty of believers to stand firm in the face of opposition, trusting in God's sovereignty and provision.”

— John Calvin

Outline for Preaching

  1. Introduction to the Opposition (Ezra 4:1-5) — The chapter begins with the introduction of the opposition to the rebuilding of the temple, and the Israelites' refusal to compromise their faith and values.
  2. The Samaritans' Attempt to Hinder the Rebuilding (Ezra 4:6-16) — The Samaritans attempt to hinder the rebuilding process through various means, including writing letters to the king of Persia, accusing the Israelites of rebellion.
  3. The Israelites' Response to the Opposition (Ezra 4:17-22) — The Israelites respond to the opposition by continuing to work on the temple, trusting in God's provision and protection.
  4. The Cessation of Work on the Temple (Ezra 4:24) — The chapter notes the cessation of work on the temple due to the opposition, which sets the stage for the events that will unfold in the subsequent chapters.
  5. Conclusion (Ezra 4:24) — The chapter concludes with a note about the cessation of work on the temple, and the Israelites' trust in God's sovereignty and provision.

Core Doctrines

Sovereignty of God
The chapter highlights God's sovereignty and provision, even in the face of opposition and challenges. As we see in Ezra 4:1-5, God is always in control, and his plans will ultimately prevail.
Importance of Faith
The chapter emphasizes the importance of faith and trust in God's sovereignty, even when circumstances seem difficult or uncertain. This is a central theme in the Bible, and it is evident in the lives of various biblical figures, including Abraham and Moses.
Perseverance
The chapter underscores the need for perseverance and trust in God's sovereignty, even when circumstances seem difficult or uncertain. As we see in Ezra 4:24, the Israelites' perseverance ultimately led to the completion of the temple.
Opposition to God's Work
The chapter reveals a pattern of opposition to God's work, which is a common theme throughout the Bible. We see this pattern in the lives of various biblical figures, including Jesus Christ, who faced opposition from the religious leaders of his day.

Lessons from Ezra 4

  1. Lesson 1: Trust in God's Sovereignty — The chapter teaches us to trust in God's sovereignty and provision, even when circumstances seem difficult or uncertain. As we see in Ezra 4:1-5, God is always in control, and his plans will ultimately prevail.
  2. Lesson 2: Perseverance in the Face of Opposition — The chapter underscores the need for perseverance and trust in God's sovereignty, even when circumstances seem difficult or uncertain. As we see in Ezra 4:24, the Israelites' perseverance ultimately led to the completion of the temple.
  3. Lesson 3: Standing Firm in Our Convictions — The chapter emphasizes the importance of standing firm in our convictions, and trusting in God's goodness and faithfulness. As we see in Ezra 4:1-5, the Israelites refused to compromise their faith and values, even in the face of opposition.
  4. Lesson 4: The Importance of Faith — The chapter highlights the importance of faith and trust in God's sovereignty, even when circumstances seem difficult or uncertain. This is a central theme in the Bible, and it is evident in the lives of various biblical figures, including Abraham and Moses.
  5. Lesson 5: God's Provision and Protection — The chapter notes God's provision and protection, even in the face of opposition and challenges. As we see in Ezra 4:24, God ultimately provided for the Israelites and protected them from their enemies.

Themes from Ezra 4

  1. Theme 1: Opposition to God's Work — The chapter reveals a pattern of opposition to God's work, which is a common theme throughout the Bible. We see this pattern in the lives of various biblical figures, including Jesus Christ, who faced opposition from the religious leaders of his day.
  2. Theme 2: Trust in God's Sovereignty — The chapter teaches us to trust in God's sovereignty and provision, even when circumstances seem difficult or uncertain. As we see in Ezra 4:1-5, God is always in control, and his plans will ultimately prevail.
  3. Theme 3: Perseverance — The chapter underscores the need for perseverance and trust in God's sovereignty, even when circumstances seem difficult or uncertain. As we see in Ezra 4:24, the Israelites' perseverance ultimately led to the completion of the temple.
  4. Theme 4: Standing Firm in Our Convictions — The chapter emphasizes the importance of standing firm in our convictions, and trusting in God's goodness and faithfulness. As we see in Ezra 4:1-5, the Israelites refused to compromise their faith and values, even in the face of opposition.
  5. Theme 5: God's Provision and Protection — The chapter notes God's provision and protection, even in the face of opposition and challenges. As we see in Ezra 4:24, God ultimately provided for the Israelites and protected them from their enemies.

Questions for Meditation

  1. What are some ways in which we can trust in God's sovereignty and provision, even when circumstances seem difficult or uncertain?
  2. How can we persevere in the face of opposition, and what role does faith play in this process?
  3. What are some ways in which we can stand firm in our convictions, and trust in God's goodness and faithfulness?
  4. How can we apply the lessons of Ezra chapter 4 to our own lives, and what are some practical steps we can take to trust in God's sovereignty and provision?
  5. What are some ways in which we can support and encourage one another as we face opposition and challenges in our own lives?

Detailed Chapter Outline

1. Introduction to the Opposition (Ezra 4:1-5)

4:1 The chapter begins with the introduction of the opposition to the rebuilding of the temple, and the Israelites' refusal to compromise their faith and values.
4:2 The Samaritans attempt to join in the rebuilding of the temple, but the Israelites refuse, knowing that the Samaritans do not share their faith or values.

2. The Samaritans' Attempt to Hinder the Rebuilding (Ezra 4:6-16)

4:6 The Samaritans attempt to hinder the rebuilding process through various means, including writing letters to the king of Persia, accusing the Israelites of rebellion.
4:7 The king of Persia responds to the letters, and orders the rebuilding to cease.

3. The Israelites' Response to the Opposition (Ezra 4:17-22)

4:17 The Israelites respond to the opposition by continuing to work on the temple, trusting in God's provision and protection.
4:18 The Israelites refuse to compromise their faith and values, even in the face of opposition.

4. The Cessation of Work on the Temple (Ezra 4:24)

4:24 The chapter notes the cessation of work on the temple due to the opposition, which sets the stage for the events that will unfold in the subsequent chapters.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the main reason for the opposition to the rebuilding of the temple?

The main reason for the opposition was the Samaritans' attempt to join in the rebuilding of the temple, and the Israelites' refusal to compromise their faith and values, as seen in Ezra 4:1-5.

How did the Israelites respond to the opposition?

The Israelites responded to the opposition by continuing to work on the temple, trusting in God's provision and protection, as seen in Ezra 4:17-22.

What was the outcome of the opposition?

The outcome of the opposition was the cessation of work on the temple, which sets the stage for the events that will unfold in the subsequent chapters, as seen in Ezra 4:24.

Top Cross References

ReferenceConnection
1 Ezra 4:1 → Nehemiah 4:1 Both chapters describe the opposition to the rebuilding of the temple and the city of Jerusalem.
2 Ezra 4:2 → 2 Kings 17:24 Both chapters describe the Samaritans and their attempt to join in the rebuilding of the temple.
3 Ezra 4:6 → Esther 3:8 Both chapters describe the writing of letters to the king, accusing the Israelites of rebellion.
4 Ezra 4:17 → Haggai 1:1 Both chapters describe the prophets' call to the Israelites to continue their work on the temple.
5 Ezra 4:24 → Zechariah 4:9 Both chapters describe the completion of the temple and the role of the prophets in encouraging the Israelites to continue their work.
6 Ezra 4:1 → Matthew 5:11 Both chapters describe the opposition to God's work and the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity.
7 Ezra 4:2 → Acts 8:5 Both chapters describe the spread of the gospel and the opposition to it.
8 Ezra 4:6 → Galatians 5:7 Both chapters describe the importance of perseverance in the face of opposition and the need to trust in God's sovereignty and provision.
9 Ezra 4:17 → Hebrews 10:35 Both chapters describe the importance of faith and trust in God's sovereignty, even when circumstances seem difficult or uncertain.
10 Ezra 4:24 → Revelation 21:22 Both chapters describe the ultimate completion of God's work and the triumph of his people over their enemies.

Sermons on Ezra 4

SermonDescription
Derek Prince Communion in Its Fullest - Part 2 by Derek Prince In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of recognition, participation, and sharing in the context of the body of Christ. He refers to 1 Corinthians 11:29, highlighti
T. Austin-Sparks Faith Unto Enlargement Through Adversity - Part 1 by T. Austin-Sparks In this sermon, the speaker introduces the theme of the conference, which is "faith unto enlargement through adversity." The speaker refers to Psalm 118 as the Passover Hosanna Son
Zac Poonen From Babylon to Jerusalem - (Ezra) ch.5 & 6 by Zac Poonen In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being spiritually violent in pursuing God's purposes. He references Matthew 11:12, where Jesus says that the kingdom of he
T. Austin-Sparks Let the House Be Builded - Part 2of3 by T. Austin-Sparks In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of growing in our understanding of God's values and principles from the moment of our new birth. This growth is necessary to c
Ed Miller Ezra #4: Reasons for an Incomplete Temple, Part 2 by Ed Miller In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the importance of not giving up and quitting in the face of challenges. He emphasizes that God's answer to difficulties is not through human
Dennis Kinlaw Totally Committed by Dennis Kinlaw In this sermon, the speaker reflects on his age and questions whether he should retire or continue working for God's kingdom. He emphasizes the importance of using our opportunitie
Friedel Stegen Do God's Work Watchfully by Friedel Stegen In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being watchful and discerning, as the enemy will try to destroy the work of God. When we dedicate our lives to the Lord, th
Tim Conway A Theology of Fasting by Tim Conway This sermon delves into the importance of fasting as an act of worship and seeking the Lord with a desperate heart. It emphasizes that fasting should be done with the right motives
Zac Poonen (Through the Bible) 1 & 2 Chronicles, Ezra by Zac Poonen The sermon covers the journey of the children of Israel from Babylon back to Jerusalem after 70 years of captivity, focusing on the building of the temple and the challenges faced.
Phil Beach Jr. Satan's Devices - Part 3 by Phil Beach Jr. Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the ongoing battle against Satan's devices aimed at hindering God's work, particularly as seen in the rebuilding efforts of Ezra and Nehemiah. He highligh

Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Ezra 4

Matthew Henry's commentary on Ezra 4 emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty and provision, even when circumstances seem difficult or uncertain. He notes that the opposition to the rebuilding of the temple is a common theme throughout the Bible, and that God's people must persevere in the face of adversity. Henry also highlights the role of the prophets in encouraging the Israelites to continue their work, and the ultimate triumph of God's people over their enemies. As we reflect on this chapter, we are reminded of the importance of standing firm in our convictions and trusting in God's goodness and faithfulness, even when circumstances seem difficult or uncertain, as seen in Ezra 4:1-5 and Ezra 4:24. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →

What Do You Notice?

Pattern of Opposition

The chapter reveals a pattern of opposition to God's work, which is a common theme throughout the Bible. We see this pattern in the lives of various biblical figures, including Jesus Christ, who faced opposition from the religious leaders of his day.

Importance of Faith

The chapter highlights the importance of faith and trust in God's sovereignty, even when circumstances seem difficult or uncertain. This is a central theme in the Bible, and it is evident in the lives of various biblical figures, including Abraham and Moses.

Role of Prophets

The chapter notes the role of the prophets Haggai and Zechariah in encouraging the Israelites to continue their work on the temple. This underscores the importance of prophetic ministry in the Bible, and the role that prophets play in guiding and encouraging God's people.

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