What role does government play in God's plans, according to Ezra 6:7? Setting the scene - After decades in exile, the Jews have returned to Jerusalem under Cyrus’s decree (Ezra 1:1-4). - They begin rebuilding the temple, but local officials challenge the work and appeal to King Darius. - Darius finds Cyrus’s decree in the archives and issues his own ruling, central to which is Ezra 6:7. Ezra 6:7 “Leave that work on the house of God alone. Let the governor of the Jews and the elders of the Jews rebuild this house of God on its original site.” Key observations - The command comes from the empire’s highest civil authority. - Government figures (“governor… elders”) are tasked with overseeing the project. - The edict protects the temple work from interference. - The temple is to stand “on its original site,” upholding God’s revealed design. Government as God’s instrument - Protects true worship by restraining opposition. - Supplies leadership and legal authority to advance God’s purposes. - Enforces justice, echoing Romans 13:4—government “is God’s servant for your good.” - Completes prophecy: Isaiah 44:28 foretold a Persian ruler would command Jerusalem’s rebuilding. Practical takeaways - God directs rulers’ hearts (Proverbs 21:1). - Engaging responsibly with government can further God’s work. - Support civil authority when it aligns with Scripture; if it clashes, obey God over men (Acts 5:29). - Pray for leaders (1 Timothy 2:1-2) so Gospel ministry may flourish. Related Scriptures - Romans 13:1-4—All authority is established by God. - Isaiah 45:1-13—Cyrus called “My shepherd” to rebuild Jerusalem. - Daniel 2:21—God “removes kings and establishes them.” - Titus 3:1—Believers urged to submit to rulers and authorities. |
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