Ezra, a scribe and priest, is a prominent figure in the post-exilic period of Israel's history. His role in intercession is significant as he seeks to restore the spiritual and communal integrity of the Israelites who returned from Babylonian exile. Ezra's intercessory actions are marked by deep personal piety and a commitment to the Law of Moses, which he endeavors to teach and uphold among the people.

Ezra's Intercession for Israel's Transgressions

One of the most notable instances of Ezra's intercession is found in Ezra 9-10. Upon learning that the Israelites, including priests and Levites, had intermarried with the surrounding pagan nations, Ezra is deeply grieved. This act of intermarriage was a direct violation of the covenantal laws given to Israel, which were intended to keep the nation holy and separate from idolatrous practices.

Ezra's response is one of profound humility and sorrow. In Ezra 9:3-4 , it is recorded: "When I heard this report, I tore my tunic and cloak, pulled hair from my head and beard, and sat down in horror. Then everyone who trembled at the words of the God of Israel gathered around me because of the unfaithfulness of the exiles, while I sat there appalled until the evening offering."

Ezra's physical expressions of grief demonstrate his deep concern for the spiritual state of the people. His actions draw others who are also concerned about the faithfulness of Israel, highlighting the communal aspect of intercession.

Ezra's Prayer of Confession

Ezra's intercession continues with a heartfelt prayer of confession on behalf of the people. In Ezra 9:6-15 , Ezra stands before God, acknowledging the sins of the nation and expressing shame and unworthiness. He prays: "O my God, I am ashamed and embarrassed to lift my face to You, my God, because our iniquities have risen above our heads and our guilt has reached the heavens."

Ezra's prayer is characterized by a deep sense of identification with the people's sins, despite his personal innocence in the matter. He recounts the history of Israel's unfaithfulness and God's mercy, pleading for divine grace and forgiveness. This prayer serves as a model of intercessory prayer, emphasizing confession, humility, and reliance on God's covenantal faithfulness.

The People's Response and Repentance

Ezra's intercession leads to a significant response from the community. In Ezra 10:1-2 , it is noted: "While Ezra prayed and made this confession, weeping and falling facedown before the house of God, a very large assembly of Israelites—men, women, and children—gathered around him. And the people wept bitterly."

The collective weeping and gathering of the people indicate a communal acknowledgment of sin and a desire for repentance. Ezra's intercession catalyzes a movement towards reform, as the people agree to put away their foreign wives and renew their commitment to the covenant.

Ezra's Leadership in Covenant Renewal

Ezra's role as an intercessor is further solidified as he leads the people in a covenant renewal. In Ezra 10:5 , it is recorded: "So Ezra rose up and made the leading priests, Levites, and all Israel take an oath to do what had been suggested. And they took the oath."

Through his leadership, Ezra ensures that the people not only confess their sins but also take concrete steps towards obedience and restoration. His intercession is not merely a private act of prayer but a public call to action, demonstrating the transformative power of intercessory prayer in the life of a community.

Ezra's intercession for Israel exemplifies the role of a spiritual leader who stands in the gap for the people, seeking God's mercy and guiding them back to faithfulness. His actions underscore the importance of confession, repentance, and covenant renewal in the life of God's people.Ezra 9:5-15
And at the evening sacrifice I arose up from my heaviness; and having rent my garment and my mantle, I fell on my knees, and spread out my hands to the LORD my God,
Nave's Topical Index

Fifthly, as this Revelation, to the Judgment of Right and Sober ...
... But the greatest part of the instances above mentioned ... of prophets, appears from
those additional words at ... bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the ...
/.../xiv proposition xiv fifthly as.htm

Come and Welcome to Jesus Christ;
... in saving them by his atonement, mediation, and intercession; and the ... to the Son,
"Thou art my servant, O Israel, in whom I ... This is manifest by two instances. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/come and welcome to jesus.htm

The Desire of the Righteous Granted;
... give you out of this book many such instances, for it ... the Lord shall all the seed
of Israel be justified ... right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the desire of the righteous.htm

The Pharisee and the Publican
... an officer that served the Romans and himself too; for the Romans at that time were
possessors of the land of Jewry (the lot of Israel's inheritance), and the ...
/.../bunyan/the pharisee and publican/the pharisee and the publican.htm

A Discourse Upon the Pharisee and the Publican
... An officer that served the Romans and themselves too; for the Romans at that time
were possessors of the land of Jewry, the lot of Israel's inheritance, and ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/a discourse upon the pharisee.htm

Memoir of John Bunyan
... When the Philistine giant, Goliath, mocked the host of Israel, and challenged any ...
a luster on the wealthiest mansion, and have imparted additional grandeur to ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/memoir of john bunyan.htm

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