Ezra 6:18

They also appointed the priests by their divisions and the Levites by their groups to the service of God in Jerusalem, according to what is written in the Book of Moses.

Study Bible

They also appointed
The act of appointing here signifies a deliberate and divinely guided organization of religious leadership. The Hebrew root for "appointed" is "עָמַד" (amad), which means to stand or to set in place. This reflects the importance of establishing order and structure in worship, ensuring that those who serve are chosen with purpose and divine guidance. It underscores the necessity of leadership in spiritual matters, emphasizing that God is a God of order, not chaos.

the priests by their divisions
The priests were descendants of Aaron, and their division into groups or courses was a practice that dates back to King David, as recorded in 1 Chronicles 24. This division ensured that the duties of the temple were carried out efficiently and that each priest had a specific role. The Hebrew word for "divisions" is "מַחְלָקָה" (machlaka), which implies a portion or a section. This organization highlights the importance of community and shared responsibility in worship, reflecting the body of Christ where each member has a unique role.

and the Levites by their groups
The Levites, distinct from the priests, were responsible for various supportive roles in the temple, including music, gatekeeping, and assisting the priests. The Hebrew term for "groups" is "כָּתוּב" (katub), meaning written or inscribed, indicating that their roles were well-documented and established. This structure ensured that worship was conducted in a manner that honored God, with each person fulfilling their God-given role, much like the diverse gifts within the church today.

to serve at Jerusalem
Jerusalem, the city of God, was the center of Jewish worship and the location of the temple. The phrase "to serve" comes from the Hebrew "עָבַד" (avad), meaning to work or to worship. This service was not just a duty but an act of worship, a reminder that all work done for the Lord is sacred. Serving in Jerusalem symbolized serving in the presence of God, a privilege and a responsibility for the priests and Levites.

according to what is written in the Book of Moses
This phrase emphasizes adherence to the Law of Moses, which was the foundation of Jewish religious practice. The "Book of Moses" refers to the Torah, the first five books of the Bible, which contain the laws and commandments given by God. The Hebrew word for "written" is "כָּתוּב" (katub), indicating that these instructions were not arbitrary but divinely inspired and recorded. This adherence to Scripture underscores the importance of grounding worship and service in the Word of God, a principle that remains vital for the church today.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Priests
The religious leaders responsible for performing sacrifices and maintaining the temple rituals. They were appointed by their divisions, indicating an organized structure for temple service.

2. Levites
Members of the tribe of Levi, set apart for religious duties. They assisted the priests and were organized by their groups for service in the temple.

3. Jerusalem
The central place of worship for the Israelites, where the temple was located. It was the focal point of religious life and the site of the temple's reconstruction.

4. Book of Moses
Refers to the Torah, the first five books of the Bible, which contain the laws and instructions given by God to Moses. It served as the authoritative guide for religious practices.

5. Temple Service
The organized worship and rituals conducted in the temple, which were reinstated following the return from Babylonian exile.

Teaching Points

Order and Structure in Worship
God values order and structure in worship, as seen in the organized divisions of priests and Levites. This reflects His nature and the importance of reverence in worship practices.

Faithfulness to Scripture
The adherence to the "Book of Moses" underscores the importance of grounding religious practices in Scripture. It serves as a reminder to align our worship and service with biblical teachings.

Community and Cooperation
The collaboration between priests and Levites highlights the necessity of community and cooperation in fulfilling God's purposes. Each group had a role, emphasizing the value of diverse contributions within the body of Christ.

Restoration and Renewal
The reestablishment of temple service after exile symbolizes spiritual renewal and restoration. It encourages believers to seek renewal in their own lives and communities, trusting in God's faithfulness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the organization of priests and Levites in Ezra 6:18 reflect God's character and His desire for order in worship?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our worship and service are aligned with Scripture, similar to the adherence to the "Book of Moses"?

3. What roles do community and cooperation play in your local church, and how can you contribute to this dynamic?

4. How does the restoration of temple service after exile inspire you to seek spiritual renewal in your own life?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's faithfulness in restoring or renewing an area of your life. How can this experience encourage others in your faith community?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Chronicles 24
This chapter details the divisions of the priests and Levites, providing a historical precedent for the organization mentioned in Ezra 6:18.

Numbers 3 and 4
These chapters outline the duties of the Levites, emphasizing their role in assisting the priests and maintaining the tabernacle, which parallels their responsibilities in the temple.

Nehemiah 12
Describes the dedication of the wall of Jerusalem and the organization of the priests and Levites, showing continuity in the restoration efforts post-exile.