Ezra 6:14

So the Jewish elders built and prospered through the prophesying of Haggai the prophet and Zechariah son of Iddo. They finished building according to the command of the God of Israel and the decrees of Cyrus, Darius, and Artaxerxes, kings of Persia.

Study Bible

So the Jewish elders continued to build and prosper
The phrase highlights the perseverance and success of the Jewish leaders in rebuilding the temple. The Hebrew root for "elders" (זְקֵנִים, zekenim) signifies not only age but also wisdom and authority. These elders were instrumental in guiding the community through the challenges of reconstruction. Historically, this period was marked by the return from Babylonian exile, a time of renewal and restoration for the Jewish people. The word "prosper" (צָלַח, tsalach) indicates divine favor and success, suggesting that their efforts were blessed by God.

under the prophesying of Haggai the prophet and Zechariah son of Iddo
This phrase underscores the critical role of prophetic guidance in the rebuilding process. Haggai and Zechariah were prophets who encouraged and motivated the people to complete the temple. Their messages, recorded in the books bearing their names, were filled with exhortations and promises of God's presence and blessing. The mention of "son of Iddo" provides a genealogical link, emphasizing the continuity of prophetic ministry. The prophets' words were not just motivational but were seen as direct communications from God, providing divine direction and assurance.

They finished building according to the command of the God of Israel
The completion of the temple is attributed to divine command, highlighting the sovereignty and authority of God in the affairs of His people. The phrase "command of the God of Israel" (מִצְוַת אֱלֹהֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל, mitzvat Elohei Yisrael) reflects the covenant relationship between God and Israel, where God directs and Israel obeys. This obedience to divine command is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, emphasizing the importance of faithfulness to God's instructions.

and the decrees of Cyrus, Darius, and Artaxerxes, kings of Persia
This phrase acknowledges the political and legal support from the Persian kings, which was crucial for the rebuilding project. Cyrus, Darius, and Artaxerxes were instrumental in providing the necessary permissions and resources. The mention of these kings highlights the interplay between divine providence and human authority. Historically, the Persian Empire was known for its policy of religious tolerance, allowing exiled peoples to return to their homelands and rebuild their places of worship. This cooperation between the Jewish leaders and Persian authorities illustrates how God can use secular powers to accomplish His purposes.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Elders of the Jews
Leaders among the Jewish people who were responsible for overseeing the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem.

2. Haggai the Prophet
A prophet who encouraged the Jews to resume the work of rebuilding the temple after it had been halted.

3. Zechariah the son of Iddo
Another prophet who, alongside Haggai, motivated the people to complete the temple.

4. Cyrus, Darius, and Artaxerxes
Persian kings who issued decrees that allowed and supported the rebuilding of the Jewish temple.

5. Rebuilding of the Temple
The event of reconstructing the temple in Jerusalem, which had been destroyed by the Babylonians.

Teaching Points

The Power of Prophetic Encouragement
The role of Haggai and Zechariah highlights the importance of spiritual encouragement and guidance in fulfilling God's work. We should seek and value godly counsel and encouragement in our own lives.

Obedience to God's Commands
The Jews prospered because they followed the command of God. Obedience to God's word is crucial for spiritual success and prosperity.

Divine Sovereignty and Human Authority
The decrees of the Persian kings show how God can use secular authorities to accomplish His divine purposes. We should trust in God's sovereignty over all earthly powers.

Perseverance in God's Work
Despite opposition and delays, the Jews completed the temple. This teaches us the importance of perseverance and faithfulness in the tasks God has given us.

Community and Leadership
The elders played a key role in the rebuilding process, demonstrating the importance of strong, godly leadership and community cooperation in achieving God's purposes.

Bible Study Questions

1. How did the prophetic ministries of Haggai and Zechariah contribute to the completion of the temple, and how can we apply their example of encouragement in our church communities today?

2. In what ways does the obedience of the Jewish elders to God's command serve as a model for our personal and communal spiritual lives?

3. How does the involvement of Persian kings in the rebuilding of the temple illustrate God's control over world events, and how can this understanding impact our view of current global affairs?

4. What challenges did the Jews face during the rebuilding of the temple, and what lessons can we learn about perseverance and faithfulness in our own spiritual journeys?

5. How can we, as a community of believers, support and encourage our leaders to fulfill God's purposes, drawing from the example of the Jewish elders and prophets?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Haggai 1-2
These chapters detail Haggai's prophecies, urging the people to prioritize the temple's reconstruction.

Zechariah 1-8
These chapters contain Zechariah's visions and messages that encouraged the Jews during the rebuilding process.

2 Chronicles 36:22-23
This passage describes Cyrus's decree to allow the Jews to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple.

Isaiah 44:28
Isaiah prophesied about Cyrus, calling him God's shepherd who would fulfill God's purpose by rebuilding Jerusalem.