Ezr 4:2 | MHM | STEP | v. 2–4 : The opposition came from the adversaries of Judah and Benjamin , not from the Babylonians or Persians, who allowed the work (Ezra 4:2–4 ). These enemies were the leftover tribes of Israel mixed with foreigners who worshipped false gods (2 Kings 17:33 ). They were called the people of the land and claimed to be Jews but were not true believers (Revelation 3:9 ). Their hostility was rooted in jealousy and false religion. These opponents used cunning tactics. They offered to help build the temple, claiming to worship the same God (Ezra 4:2 ). But their offer was false. They wanted to slow down or ruin the work from inside. The returned Jews wisely refused their help (Ezra 4:3 ). The leaders said these people did not worship God properly and had no right to join the project. They also pointed out that the king’s order was only for the Jews. This shows the need for both innocence and wisdom in doing God’s work (Matthew 10:16 ).

‏ Ezra 4:2

v. 2–4: The opposition came from the adversaries of Judah and Benjamin, not from the Babylonians or Persians, who allowed the work (Ezra 4:2–4 ^a). These enemies were the leftover tribes of Israel mixed with foreigners who worshipped false gods (2 Kings 17:33 ^b). They were called the people of the land and claimed to be Jews but were not true believers (Revelation 3:9 ^c). Their hostility was rooted in jealousy and false religion.

These opponents used cunning tactics. They offered to help build the temple, claiming to worship the same God (Ezra 4:2 ^d). But their offer was false. They wanted to slow down or ruin the work from inside. The returned Jews wisely refused their help (Ezra 4:3 ^e). The leaders said these people did not worship God properly and had no right to join the project. They also pointed out that the king’s order was only for the Jews. This shows the need for both innocence and wisdom in doing God’s work (Matthew 10:16 ^f).