Expository Commentary on the Book of Ezra – Lesson 18
Just for your thoughts.
Expository Commentary on the Book of Ezra – Lesson 18
Zedekiah was the last king to rule Judah. During his reign, in 586 BC, the Temple in Jerusalem was burned down and completely destroyed. This devastation was carried out by Nebuchadnezzar.
A few years later, Babylon came under the control of the Persian Empire. After this, kings such as Cyrus, Darius, and Artaxerxes ruled from Babylon as their administrative center.
Among them, Cyrus and Darius played a significant role in helping rebuild the Temple in Jerusalem that had been destroyed. The decrees issued by these kings were historically important.
During the reign of King Cyrus, a group led by Zerubbabel was permitted to return to Jerusalem. They began rebuilding the Temple, and the work was completed in 515 BC.
After about 60 years, King Artaxerxes sent another group to Jerusalem under the leadership of Ezra, a scribe skilled in the Law. Along with them, he sent an official letter.
When we read this letter, we can understand the remarkable qualities of this king. Though he ruled over a pagan empire and did not personally know or worship the Lord, it is astonishing to see how he respected the God of Israel, loved His people, and honored their spiritual life.
This letter is relevant even to today’s political context. It shows how a government, if it chooses, can greatly support the work of God.
We must pray that governments with the mindset of Artaxerxes would arise in India, especially in Tamil Nadu. When we pray sincerely for our land without political bias, God will raise leaders like Artaxerxes.
Let us now look at the significant aspects mentioned in his letter:
1. Recognition of God’s Work
Most pagan kings exalted their own gods. But Artaxerxes acknowledged the work of the God of Israel and supported the continuation of worship in Jerusalem. He allowed the service of the Temple to proceed without hindrance. This reflects a deep spiritual awareness.
2. Granting Full Authority to Ezra
Artaxerxes did not merely give permission:
He authorized Ezra to teach the Law
He empowered him to administer justice
He allowed him to punish those who disobeyed
For a pagan king to accept the Law of God as a governing authority is truly remarkable.
3. Generous Financial Support
The king provided silver, gold, and offerings for the Temple. He also commanded the governors beyond the river to support the work. This was not merely political assistance—it was an investment in God’s service.
4. Awareness of God’s Wrath
In Ezra 7:23, it is written: “so that the wrath of the God of heaven may not come upon the realm of the king.”
He respected the God of the Jews for the welfare of his kingdom.
5. Promotion of Religious Freedom
Artaxerxes did not force the Jews. Instead, he allowed them to freely practice their traditions, worship, and laws. This demonstrates high administrative wisdom.
6. Support Without Interference
He did not interfere directly in the administration of the Temple. Instead, he entrusted responsibility to God-fearing men like Ezra.
A true leader appoints the right people and gives them authority.
Conclusion
In summary, this letter reflects reverence for God, respect for spiritual matters, financial support, and religious freedom. These qualities show that Artaxerxes was not just an ordinary pagan king, but an instrument used by God.
If God is on our side, He can use even governments for the advancement of His kingdom. Through them, He fulfills His purposes.
We must understand that the unfavorable situation we see in today’s political climate is largely due to spiritual decline. When the Church humbles itself before God, He will perform wonders even in the coming elections.
God does not only change kings — He changes their hearts as well.