How does Ezra 6:20 emphasize the importance of purity in worship practices? Setting the Scene The returned exiles have rebuilt the temple. Now they gather to observe Passover—the very act that defined them as God’s redeemed people (Exodus 12). The Verse in Focus “For the priests and Levites had purified themselves together; all of them were pure. They slaughtered the Passover lamb for all the exiles, for their brothers the priests, and for themselves.” (Ezra 6:20) Purity Shines Through Key Phrases • “had purified themselves together” – corporate, intentional cleansing • “all of them were pure” – no exceptions; holiness is non-negotiable • “slaughtered the Passover lamb” – priestly service flows out of purity • “for all the exiles…for their brothers…for themselves” – leaders cannot serve others unless personally clean Why Purity Is Essential in Worship • God’s nature is holy (Isaiah 6:3); worship must match His character. • Access to His presence requires clean hands and a pure heart (Psalm 24:3-4). • Impurity defiles worship and invites judgment (Leviticus 10:1-3; 1 Corinthians 11:29-30). • Purity safeguards unity—“together” they purified, so together they could rejoice (Ezra 6:22). • Purity prepares hearts to remember redemption; Passover pointed to Christ, “our Passover Lamb” (1 Corinthians 5:7). Lessons for Today’s Worshipers • Examine and confess sin before serving (1 John 1:9). • Leaders set the tone; personal holiness influences corporate worship (1 Timothy 4:16). • Pursue both external obedience and internal sincerity (Matthew 23:25-26). • Purity unites generations and groups in shared adoration (Ephesians 4:3). • Remember that Christ’s blood cleanses us to serve the living God (Hebrews 9:14). Practical Checks Before We Gather — Have I sought forgiveness from God and others? — Am I harboring secret sin that dulls my praise? — Do I approach the Lord’s Table with reverence and gratitude? — Is my public ministry backed by private holiness? Takeaway Ezra 6:20 roots worship in purity. When God’s people cleanse themselves according to His Word, their service becomes a clear, compelling testimony that the Holy One still dwells among them and redeems them for His glory. |
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