Expository Commentary on the Book of Ezra. Bible Lesson – 14
Just for your thoughts.
Expository Commentary on the Book of Ezra.
Bible Lesson – 14
In the Book of Ezra, three Persian kings are mentioned whom God used for the rebuilding of the destroyed temple in Jerusalem and later for the support and maintenance of the temple services.
1. Cyrus
Cyrus, the king of Persia, permitted the Jews who were in exile in Babylon to return to Jerusalem. He also issued a royal decree allowing them to rebuild the temple.
2. Darius
The construction work of the Jerusalem temple was stopped for a period of time due to opposition from enemies. At that time, King Darius ordered a search to be made in the royal archives. During the search, the decree issued earlier by King Cyrus was discovered. Based on that decree, Darius commanded that the temple construction should continue.
3. Artaxerxes
King Artaxerxes granted permission to Ezra, the priest and scribe of the Law, to go to Jerusalem. He face allowed him to take gold, silver, and offerings for the temple services. In addition, he gave Ezra authority to teach the Law of God to the people (Ezra 7:11–26).
Apart from this, during the reign of Ahasuerus, the Jewish people were saved from destruction through Esther. The plan devised by Haman to destroy the Jews was completely defeated.
An important point to note here is that the Persian Empire of that time is the country that is now called Iran. Historically, this nation was known as “Persia” until the year 1935, after which its name was officially changed to Iran.
In the Old Testament period, God used several Persian kings to accomplish His purposes.
Likewise, God also used the kings of Egypt. The rulers of Egypt were generally called “ Pharaoh.” The word Pharaoh is not the name of a single individual; it is a title given to the kings of Egypt.
1. Pharaoh in the time of Abraham
How God used him:
He protected14 Abraham and sent him away with wealth (Genesis 12:16).
2. Pharaoh in the time of Joseph
How God used him:
Through Joseph, God preserved many nations during a great famine and also protected the family of Jacob.
3. Pharaoh in the time of Moses
How God used him:
God displayed His power and glory and delivered the people of Israel from slavery (Exodus 9:16).
4. Pharaoh in the time of Solomon
This Pharaoh gave his daughter in marriage to Solomon. He also captured the city of Gezer and gave it to Solomon.
How God used him:
A peaceful political relationship was established between Egypt and the kingdom of Israel, bringing stability.
Thus, throughout different periods of history, we can see that God used many kings to accomplish His greater purposes.
Spiritual Lessons We Learn from These Events
The hearts of kings are in the hand of the Lord (Proverbs 21:1).
God uses kings and authorities to protect His people.
Even those who oppose God can be used by Him for His glory.
Application for Today
In today’s context, we are called to remember and follow the words spoken by the Apostle Paul.
1 Timothy 2:1–2
“I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for .all people—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet.