Ezra 5:15

and instructed, 'Take these articles, put them in the temple in Jerusalem, and let the house of God be rebuilt on its original site.'

Study Bible

And he said to him
This phrase introduces a direct communication, emphasizing the importance of the message being conveyed. In the context of the book of Ezra, communication often signifies divine instruction or royal decree. The Hebrew root for "said" (אָמַר, 'amar) is frequently used in the Old Testament to denote authoritative speech, whether from God, prophets, or kings. This highlights the weight and significance of the message that follows.

Take these articles
The "articles" refer to the sacred vessels of the temple, which had been taken to Babylon during the exile. The Hebrew word for "articles" (כְּלִי, keli) can mean tools, utensils, or vessels, and in this context, it underscores the sacredness and the intended use for worship in the temple. The return of these articles symbolizes the restoration of proper worship and the re-establishment of the covenant relationship between God and His people.

Go, deposit them in the temple
The command to "go" and "deposit" indicates action and obedience. The Hebrew verb for "deposit" (נוּחַ, nuach) can also mean to rest or settle, suggesting that these articles are to be placed in their rightful, God-ordained place. This act of returning the articles to the temple is a physical manifestation of spiritual renewal and obedience to God's commands.

in Jerusalem
Jerusalem is not just a geographical location but the spiritual heart of Israel. It is the city chosen by God for His temple, the place where His presence dwells among His people. The mention of Jerusalem evokes the rich history of God's promises and the centrality of worship in the life of the Israelites. It is a reminder of the city's significance in God's redemptive plan.

and let the house of God
The "house of God" refers to the temple, the dwelling place of God's presence on earth. In Hebrew, the word for house (בַּיִת, bayit) can also mean household or family, indicating that the temple is not just a building but a symbol of God's relationship with His people. The restoration of the temple signifies the restoration of this relationship and the community's identity as God's chosen people.

be rebuilt on its original site
The phrase "rebuilt on its original site" emphasizes the continuity of God's plan and the faithfulness to His promises. The Hebrew word for "rebuilt" (בָּנָה, banah) implies restoration and renewal. The original site is significant because it is the place where God had chosen to dwell, and rebuilding there signifies a return to the foundations of faith and worship. This act of rebuilding is a testament to God's unchanging nature and His commitment to His covenant with Israel.

Persons / Places / Events

1. King Cyrus of Persia
The ruler who issued the decree for the Jews to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple. His actions were seen as divinely inspired, fulfilling the prophecy of Isaiah.

2. Sheshbazzar
Appointed by King Cyrus as the governor of Judah, he was responsible for taking the temple articles back to Jerusalem and initiating the rebuilding process.

3. Jerusalem
The holy city where the temple was to be rebuilt. It holds significant spiritual and historical importance for the Jewish people.

4. The Temple Articles
Sacred items that were taken from the original temple by Nebuchadnezzar and returned by Cyrus to be placed in the new temple.

5. The Rebuilding of the Temple
A significant event symbolizing the restoration of worship and the Jewish community's return to their covenant relationship with God.

Teaching Points

Divine Providence and Fulfillment of Prophecy
God's plans are sovereign and will come to pass, as seen in the fulfillment of prophecies regarding Cyrus and the temple's rebuilding.

Restoration and Renewal
The return of the temple articles and the rebuilding of the temple symbolize spiritual renewal and the restoration of worship. Believers are called to restore and renew their relationship with God.

Obedience to God's Commands
Just as the Israelites were called to obey the decree to rebuild the temple, Christians are called to obey God's commands and prioritize His kingdom.

The Importance of Worship
The temple was central to Jewish worship, reminding us of the importance of worship in our lives. We are called to make worship a priority, both individually and corporately.

God's Faithfulness
The return from exile and the rebuilding of the temple demonstrate God's faithfulness to His promises. Believers can trust in God's faithfulness in their own lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the decree of King Cyrus demonstrate God's sovereignty and the fulfillment of prophecy?

2. In what ways can we prioritize the "rebuilding" of our spiritual lives, similar to the rebuilding of the temple?

3. How does the return of the temple articles symbolize restoration, and how can we apply this concept to our personal walk with God?

4. What role does worship play in your life, and how can you ensure it remains a priority?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's faithfulness. How does this encourage you to trust Him with current challenges?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Chronicles 36:22-23
This passage parallels the decree of Cyrus, emphasizing the fulfillment of God's word through the prophet Jeremiah.

Isaiah 44:28
Isaiah prophesied that Cyrus would be the one to decree the rebuilding of Jerusalem and the temple, highlighting God's sovereignty and foreknowledge.

Haggai 1:8
Encourages the people to rebuild the temple, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing God's house and presence.