Chapter Summary

Encouragement of the prophets and the work resumed.

Discussion Questions for Ezra, Chapter 5

1. What role do the prophets like Haggai and Zechariah play in the rebuilding of the temple? How do they encourage the people to keep building? What metaphor can you think of between these prophets and the work of spiritual leaders today? How have you been encouraged by spiritual leaders in your own life?
2. What prophecies did Haggai and Zechariah pronounce? How did they give prophetic pronouncements? Why is it important that these prophecies were made "in the name of the Lord" (HCSB)? What precedent does this set for how spiritual leaders throughout the Bible should address people? What does this say about how pastors and leaders today should teach and preach the Scripture?
3. What was the response of the people to the prophet's words? In what ways does this demonstrate obedience to God's Word? What are ways that you practice obedience when you read or study God's Word?
4. Why did the opponents of Israel question their authority to rebuild the temple at this time? What other examples can you think of where pagans were hostile to God's work? How should believers respond when they are undermined or questioned when doing the work of God?
5. What is the significance of the fact that "God was watching over the Jewish elders" (HCSB)? How does this demonstrate God's involvement and sovereignty over this project? How does knowing that God watches over you impact your ability to to the work He has called you to do?
6. Are there other decrees in the Bible from King Darius? Does this recall Daniel and the Lion's den to mind? Why do you think that King Darius has such an up and down relationship with God's people? What does this teach us about the role that secular or pagan leadership plays in God's activity around the world?
7. Do you think it's significant that so many "royal decrees" (HCSB) and records were kept so well? What does this say about the reliability of historical events and records? How does this change your perception of the reliability of Scripture, knowing that other historical documents were so well preserved?
8. How do the events in this chapter demonstrate God's sovereignty and ability to accomplish His plans? What role does the secular world play in fulfilling God's work? Is it possible for others to thwart God's work? How does it bring you comfort to know that even kings and empires can't stop God's plans?
9. How do you see "commitment" played out in this chapter? Why is it important for God's people to stay committed to the task to which He has called them? In what ways can you model commitment to God's work for the benefit of those around you?
10. Why do you think it's important that the men of Israel "wouldn't stop" (HCSB) doing the work God called them to do? What role does endurance and perseverance play in the life of a believer today? How should we view the concept of perseverance, especially when we live in such evil and troubled times? What help you persevere in God's work?

Key Words/Phrase

Work resumed, v. 2.

Characters

Zerubbabel, Haggai, Zechariah, Jeshua, Tattenai, Darius, Shetharbozenai.

Strong Verse(s)