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OUTLINE
OF THE BOOK OF EZRA |
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By Gene McCarty |
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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.
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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.
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Chapter 3 gives details
of the construction and use of the altar in Jerusalem and the
beginning of construction on the temple.
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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.
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By the end of chapter 6 the temple is finished and dedicated, and the first
Passover is
celebrated since the beginning of captivity.
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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.
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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.
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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
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