OUTLINE OF THE BOOK OF EZRA

By Gene McCarty

    The book of Ezra begins where the account of II Chronicles concludes and is a continuation of the history of the period. In the Jewish Canon the books of Ezra and Nehemiah were one book. We feel sure that the last four chapters were written by Ezra. It is especially interesting that a part of the book was written in the language of the captors (4:8 thru 6:8). Also the book of Esther was written during this period of time. 
    Most of the information that we have about Ezra is recorded in the latter chapters of this book, with a little information recorded in Nehemiah. We know that he was a priest of great character and that he was knowledgeable about God's word. 

1. The book of Ezra begins with the commission to go to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple of Jehovah even to the point of restoring the temple treasures to the remnant that is to return and do the work. Chapter 2 gives a full listing of those who are authorized to make the trip.
    

2. Chapter 3 gives details of the construction and use of the altar in Jerusalem and the beginning of construction on the temple.
    

3. Chapters 4 thru 6 tell of the opposition of the people of the area to the reconstruction of the temple. The governor of Trans-Euphrates sends a letter of protest to Darius king of Persia, and as result not only do we find the work on the temple to be supported by decree of the king, but the governor of Trans-Euphrates is now to pay for the work from his royal treasury. Read these letters.
    

4. By the end of chapter 6 the temple is finished and dedicated, and the first Passover is celebrated since the beginning of captivity.
    

5. It is at this point (chapter 7) that Ezra the priest enters the picture in Jerusalem with a letter from Artaxerxes who is now the king of Persia. The letter gives broad powers to Ezra and directs all subjects in this area to learn of Jehovah and to worship him faithfully.
    

6. In the early part we find a listing of an additional group of families authorized to return to Jerusalem and some of the details of the trip.
    

7. The last 2 chapters deal with the problem of intermarriage with the people of the land and repentance from this sin. This is one of the few examples of marriages being dissolved to satisfy the purpose of God