Ezra 6
The Favourable Decree of Darius This section tells how King Darius responded to the Jews’ appeal about rebuilding the temple. The Samaritans had hoped that the original decree from Cyrus would not be found, so the Jews would have to stop their work. But God’s providence made sure the decree was discovered, and Darius not only confirmed it but also gave even more support to the Jews. This shows how God can use even the actions of unbelieving rulers to help His people and fulfill His promises.v. 1–5: King Darius ordered a search for the decree of Cyrus about the temple (Ezra 6:1 a). At first, they looked in Babylon, where Cyrus had signed it, but did not find it there. Darius did not give up but ordered the search to continue in other places. Finally, the decree was found at Achmetha in Media (Ezra 6:2 b). The decree allowed the Jews to rebuild the temple, gave the dimensions, and said the costs should come from the king’s treasury (Ezra 6:3–5 c). It also ordered that the temple vessels taken by Nebuchadnezzar should be returned to Jerusalem. – – – – v. 6–7: Darius issued his own decree, confirming Cyrus’s order. He told his officials not to interfere with the building of the temple. He said, Be you far from there; let the work of this house of God alone (Ezra 6:6–7 d). This shows how God can turn the plans of enemies into blessings for His people. – v. 8–10: Darius went even further. He ordered that money from the royal treasury should be used to help the Jews finish the temple (Ezra 6:8 e). He also commanded that the priests be given everything they needed for sacrifices, so they could pray for the king and his sons (Ezra 6:9–10 f). Darius respected the God of Israel and valued the prayers of His people. This reminds us that it is wise for rulers to seek the prayers of believers, and believers should pray for those in authority (1 Timothy 2:1–2 g). – – v. 11: Darius made his decree very serious by adding a penalty. Anyone who tried to change or oppose the order would be punished by death—hanged on a beam from his own house, and his house would be made a dunghill . This showed how determined he was to protect the temple project. v. 12: Darius also called down a curse on anyone—king or people—who would try to destroy the temple in the future . He asked the God of Israel to punish anyone who harmed His house. Even though the temple was later destroyed for just reasons, those who did it may have suffered for their actions. From this story, we learn that God controls the hearts of kings and can use them to accomplish His plans (The king’s heart is in the hand of the Lord, Proverbs 21:1 h). Sometimes, what enemies mean for harm, God turns into good for His people (Philippians 1:12 i). The Jews’ enemies wanted to stop the temple, but instead, they helped bring about its completion. God’s providence is always at work, even through unexpected people and events. Completion of the Second Temple This section recounts the completion of the second temple in Jerusalem. The Jews, despite years of opposition and delays, were finally able to finish the work. God’s providence turned their enemies into helpers, and the temple was dedicated with great joy and reverence. The people also celebrated the Passover, remembering God’s deliverance and expressing their gratitude for His faithfulness.v. 13: After receiving King Darius’s decree, the officials who had tried to stop the temple’s construction now became its supporters. They obeyed the king’s orders quickly and helped the Jews continue their work . Previously, these men had been eager to hinder the work (Ezra 4:23 j), but now they acted in compliance, showing how God can change opposition into cooperation. v. 14–15: The elders of the Jews worked diligently to finish the temple (Ezra 6:14–15 k). They were motivated by the command of God, the decrees of kings like Cyrus and Darius, and the encouragement of prophets like Haggai and Zechariah. The temple was completed in just four years, showing how God’s work prospers when His people are faithful. Though the gospel church, a spiritual temple, takes much longer to build, it too will be completed when God’s purposes are fulfilled (Philippians 1:6 l). – v. 16–17: When the temple was finished, it was dedicated to God with a solemn ceremony. The priests, Levites, and all the Israelites, including those who had returned from exile, participated. They offered sacrifices, including twelve goats as sin offerings—one for each tribe of Israel (Ezra 6:17 m). Although their offerings were smaller than those at Solomon’s temple, they gave generously according to their ability. God accepts our offerings, not based on their size, but on the sincerity and joy with which they are given (2 Corinthians 8:2 n). – v. 18: After dedicating the temple, the people organized the priests and Levites for the temple’s service. They followed the instructions given in the law of Moses . Even though their resources were limited, they focused on purity and obedience, which brought true glory to God. The beauty of worship lies in holiness, not in outward splendor. v. 19–20: Shortly after the temple’s dedication, the people celebrated the Passover (Ezra 6:19–20 o). The priests and Levites purified themselves so they could perform their duties. Their unity and dedication are noted—they worked together to ensure that everything was done properly. This reminds us that the purity and unity of spiritual leaders enhance the beauty of worship. – v. 21: Gentiles who had separated themselves from the idolatry and sin of their nations joined the Jews in celebrating the Passover. They turned from the filthiness of the heathen and sought the Lord God of Israel . This shows that all who sincerely seek God, regardless of their background, are welcome to join His people. v. 22: The people also observed the Feast of Unleavened Bread with great joy. They praised God for turning the heart of the king to help them and strengthen their hands (Ezra 6:22 p). Their joy was a gift from God, who had given them both the reason and the ability to rejoice. When our ways please the Lord, even those who were against us can become instruments of His blessing (Proverbs 16:7 q).
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