When they arrived at the house of the LORD in Jerusalem, some of the heads of the families gave freewill offerings to rebuild the house of God on its original site. When they arrivedThis phrase marks a significant moment of return and restoration. The Hebrew root for "arrived" is "בּוֹא" (bo), which often signifies coming or entering. This arrival is not just physical but spiritual, as the exiles return to their ancestral land, fulfilling God's promise of restoration. It symbolizes a new beginning and a step towards reclaiming their identity as God's chosen people. at the house of the LORD in Jerusalem some of the heads of the families gave freewill offerings toward the rebuilding of the house of God on its original site Persons / Places / Events 1. Heads of the FamiliesThese were the leaders or patriarchs of the returning exiles who took responsibility for their families and communities. They played a crucial role in the restoration of worship and the rebuilding of the temple. 2. House of the LORD Refers to the temple in Jerusalem, which was the central place of worship for the Israelites. It had been destroyed by the Babylonians and was now being rebuilt. 3. Jerusalem The holy city of the Israelites, which held significant religious and cultural importance. It was the location of the temple and the center of Jewish worship. 4. Freewill Offerings Voluntary contributions given by the people for the purpose of rebuilding the temple. These offerings were given out of devotion and commitment to God. 5. Rebuilding of the House of God This event marks the beginning of the restoration of the temple, symbolizing the renewal of the covenant relationship between God and His people. Teaching Points Generosity in WorshipThe act of giving freewill offerings highlights the importance of generosity as an expression of worship. Believers are encouraged to give willingly and joyfully to support the work of God. Leadership and Responsibility The heads of the families took initiative in giving, setting an example for others. This teaches the importance of leadership in spiritual and communal matters. Restoration and Renewal The rebuilding of the temple signifies a new beginning and a renewal of faith. Believers can find hope in God's ability to restore and renew what has been broken. Commitment to God's Work The dedication to rebuilding the temple reflects a commitment to God's purposes. Christians are called to be committed to the mission and work of the church. Community Involvement The collective effort in giving and rebuilding emphasizes the role of community in achieving God's plans. Believers are encouraged to work together in unity for the kingdom of God. Bible Study Questions 1. What motivated the heads of the families to give freewill offerings, and how can we apply this motivation in our own giving today?2. How does the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem parallel the spiritual rebuilding that God desires in our lives? 3. In what ways can we demonstrate leadership and responsibility in our faith communities, similar to the heads of the families in Ezra 2:68? 4. How can the concept of freewill offerings in Ezra 2:68 inspire us to support the work of the church and other ministries? 5. What are some practical ways we can contribute to the restoration and renewal of our communities, both spiritually and physically, in light of this passage? Connections to Other Scriptures Exodus 35:29This passage describes the Israelites bringing freewill offerings for the construction of the Tabernacle, showing a parallel in the willingness of God's people to contribute to His dwelling place. 1 Chronicles 29:9 King David and the leaders of Israel gave generously for the building of the first temple, demonstrating a similar spirit of generosity and dedication. 2 Corinthians 9:7 Paul speaks about giving as a cheerful act, which aligns with the spirit of freewill offerings in Ezra 2:68.
People Akkub, Ami, Asaph, Asnah, Ater, Baanah, Bakbuk, Barkos, Barzillai, Bazluth, Besai, Bigvai, Bilshan, Darkon, Delaiah, Gahar, Gazzam, Giddel, Habaiah, Hagab, Hagabah, Hakkoz, Hakupha, Hanan, Harhur, Harsha, Hasupha, Hatipha, Hatita, Hattil, Hezekiah, Hodaviah, Immer, Israelites, Jaalah, Jedaiah, Jeshua, Joab, Jorah, Kadmiel, Keros, Koz, Lebanah, Mehida, Mehunim, Meunim, Mizpar, Mordecai, Nebuchadnezzar, Nehemiah, Nekoda, Nephusim, Neziah, Padon, Pahathmoab, Parosh, Paseah, Pashur, Peruda, Phaseah, Pochereth, Reaiah, Reelaiah, Rehum, Rezin, Seraiah, Shallum, Shalmai, Shephatiah, Shobai, Siaha, Sisera, Solomon, Sophereth, Sotai, Tabbaoth, Talmon, Thamah, Tobiah, Tobijah, Uzza, Zaccai, Zattu, Zerubbabel, ZihaPlaces Ai, Anathoth, Azmaveth, Babylon, Babylonia, Beeroth, Bethel, Bethlehem, Cherub, Geba, Hadid, Immer, Jericho, Jerusalem, Kiriath-arim, Lod, Michmas, Nebo, Netophah, Ono, Ramah, Tel-harsha, Tel-melahTopics Arrived, Base, Building, Chief, Erect, Establish, Families, Fathers, Foundation, Freely, Freewill, Heads, Households, Houses, Jerusalem, Offered, Offerings, Rebuilding, Restore, Site, Wealth, WillinglyDictionary of Bible Themes Ezra 2:68 7366 freewill offering Library Altar and Temple'And when the seventh month was come, and the children of Israel were in the cities, the people gathered themselves together as one man to Jerusalem. 2. Then stood up Jeshua the son of Jozadak, and his brethren the priests, and Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, and his brethren, and builded the altar of the God of Israel, to offer burnt offerings thereon, as it is written in the law of Moses the man of God. 3. And they set the altar upon his bases; for fear was upon them because of the people of those … Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture The Apocalypse. Barzillai The Historical Books. The Old Testament Canon from Its Beginning to Its Close. And thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, too little to be among the thousands of Judah Ezra-Nehemiah Links Ezra 2:68 NIVEzra 2:68 NLT Ezra 2:68 ESV Ezra 2:68 NASB Ezra 2:68 KJV Ezra 2:68 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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