Ezr 3:8 | MHM | STEP | The Foundation of the Temple Laid This section tells how the Jewish people who returned from Babylon started rebuilding the temple in Jerusalem. Everyone agreed the temple was important, and they worked together to begin the project as soon as possible. The leaders and people all played their part. There was great joy and also some sadness as the foundation was laid, because the new temple would not be as impressive as Solomon’s. Still, everyone understood that God’s mercy was the reason they could start again. v. 8 : The rebuilding began in the second month of the second year after the return from Babylon, just after the Passover (Ezra 3:8 ). The people did not waste time. They spent only a little over half a year getting the site and materials ready, because they were eager to begin. When we have a good work to do, it is wise to start quickly, even if we expect problems. Starting well helps us finish well. v. 8–9 : Zerubbabel and Jeshua, with their companions, led the work. The leaders, priests, and people all worked together, each doing their part. God gave them unity for this important job. The Levites were put in charge of making sure the work went forward. They encouraged the workers and helped organize everything. Even if someone cannot do the work themselves, they can still help by supporting and motivating others.

‏ Ezra 3:8

The Foundation of the Temple Laid

This section tells how the Jewish people who returned from Babylon started rebuilding the temple in Jerusalem. Everyone agreed the temple was important, and they worked together to begin the project as soon as possible. The leaders and people all played their part. There was great joy and also some sadness as the foundation was laid, because the new temple would not be as impressive as Solomon’s. Still, everyone understood that God’s mercy was the reason they could start again.

v. 8: The rebuilding began in the second month of the second year after the return from Babylon, just after the Passover (Ezra 3:8 ^a). The people did not waste time. They spent only a little over half a year getting the site and materials ready, because they were eager to begin. When we have a good work to do, it is wise to start quickly, even if we expect problems. Starting well helps us finish well.

v. 8–9: Zerubbabel and Jeshua, with their companions, led the work. The leaders, priests, and people all worked together, each doing their part. God gave them unity for this important job. The Levites were put in charge of making sure the work went forward. They encouraged the workers and helped organize everything. Even if someone cannot do the work themselves, they can still help by supporting and motivating others.