What is the meaning of Ezra 5:16? So this Sheshbazzar came • The verse reaches back to Cyrus’ decree (Ezra 1:1–4, 5:13-14), reminding us that Sheshbazzar, “whom he had appointed governor,” obediently “came” to Jerusalem. • His coming underscores God’s faithfulness in preserving a leader from the royal line of Judah (compare 1 Chron 3:18) so the exiles would not return leaderless. • Just as God stirred Cyrus (Isaiah 44:28; 45:13), He stirred Sheshbazzar to move, reflecting Philippians 2:13: “for it is God who works in you to will and to act.” and laid the foundation of the house of God in Jerusalem • Ezra 3:8-13 records the moment when the first stones were set; joyful shouts mingled with tears of remembrance. • Laying the foundation showed visible obedience to Isaiah 44:28—“He will say of Jerusalem, ‘Let it be rebuilt.’” • The action also foreshadows Christ, the true foundation (1 Corinthians 3:11), reminding believers that every work begins with a solid, God-given base. • Practically, the foundation declared, “Worship resumes here,” anchoring the community’s identity around God’s presence (2 Chron 6:18-21). and from that time until now it has been under construction, but it has not yet been completed • About sixteen years passed between the foundation (c. 536 BC) and the renewed building under Zerubbabel and Jeshua (Haggai 1:1-4). • Opposition (Ezra 4:1-5), political delays (Ezra 4:21-24), and flagging zeal stalled progress—real-world proof of the spiritual warfare that accompanies God’s projects (Ephesians 6:12). • Yet the house “has been under construction”—the work never died, illustrating Galatians 6:9: “Let us not grow weary in doing good.” • The phrase “not yet been completed” sets up the prophetic encouragement that would soon come through Haggai 2:4 and Zechariah 4:6-9, where God promises finishing power: “Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit.” summary Ezra 5:16 traces a clear arc: God raises a leader, a foundation is laid, and despite long-standing hurdles the work continues. The verse assures us that divine plans may pause but never fail. When God begins a building—whether a temple in Jerusalem or Christ’s ongoing work in His people—He carries it to completion (Philippians 1:6). |
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