Ezra

1.       First Impressions

Traditionally Ezra is said to be the author of this book, supporting this there is the section from chapter 7:28 to 9:15 is written in first person. The events recorded in Ezra occurred between 538 and 458 B.C, starting with Cyrus’s decree allowing and encouraging the Jews to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple under the leadership of Zerubabel in 538 B.C. Ezra was supposedly written between 457 and 444 B.C. Ezra documents the return from exile as the prophecies of the restoration of Jerusalem begin to be fulfilled.

 

2.       Theme Tracing

 

·         What does this book show about the character and nature of God?

In Ezra we see how God keeps his word as some of the exiles return to Judah and the promised restoration begins. The praise sung in 3:11 shows God’s goodness and faithful love (“He is so good! His faithful love for Israel endures forever!”). God’s grace is clear in allowing the people to return, protecting them and giving them security (8:31; 9:8). Ezra’s prayer in Chapter 9 reflects a lot of who God is and Ezra speaks of God’s justice, unfailing love, His protection and grace in not punishing them as much as they deserve. He also explains how God never abandoned them and acknowledges God’s wrath. In the end of his prayer Ezra speaks saying,” We come before you in our guilt as nothing but an escaped remnant, though in such a condition none of us can stand in your presence” (9:15). His reverence and realization of God’s greatness and holiness is a needed reminder.

 

·         What does this book show about God’s redemptive plan for mankind?

In Ezra we see God’s redemption as he arranges the return of the Israelites to Jerusalem. Through all the judgment and within the exile there seemed just to be a little glimmer of hope based on the promise of returning. Now, God is starting to restore them and the temple is starting to be rebuilt. God’s redemptive plan concerning the Israelites is moved a lot further in the events of Ezra as the religious restoration begins to take place. God is now gathering his people back together and restoring the temple in preparation for the Messiah.