Ezra 6:3

In the first year of King Cyrus, he issued a decree concerning the house of God in Jerusalem: Let the house be rebuilt as a place for offering sacrifices, and let its foundations be firmly laid. It is to be sixty cubits high and sixty cubits wide,

Study Bible

In the first year of King Cyrus
This phrase sets the historical context for the decree. King Cyrus of Persia, known for his policy of religious tolerance, issued a decree allowing the Jews to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple. The first year of his reign over Babylon was 538 BC. This decree is significant as it fulfills the prophecy of Jeremiah (Jeremiah 29:10) and demonstrates God's sovereignty over nations and rulers. Cyrus is seen as an instrument of God's plan, highlighting the divine orchestration in historical events.

the king issued a decree
The decree issued by Cyrus is a legal and authoritative command. In the ancient Near Eastern context, a king's decree was irrevocable and carried the weight of law. This decree not only allowed the Jews to return but also provided resources for the rebuilding of the temple. It underscores the theme of divine providence, as God uses even pagan kings to accomplish His purposes.

concerning the house of God in Jerusalem
The "house of God" refers to the temple, the central place of worship for the Israelites. Its location in Jerusalem is significant, as Jerusalem is the city chosen by God for His name to dwell (2 Chronicles 6:6). The rebuilding of the temple symbolizes the restoration of the Jewish community and their covenant relationship with God. It also points to the importance of worship and the presence of God among His people.

Let the house be rebuilt
This command to rebuild the temple is a call to restore the worship and religious practices of the Jewish people. The temple had been destroyed by the Babylonians in 586 BC, and its reconstruction is a sign of hope and renewal. The rebuilding process is not just a physical act but a spiritual renewal, emphasizing the importance of obedience and dedication to God.

as a place to present sacrifices
Sacrifices were central to the worship practices of the Israelites, serving as a means of atonement and communion with God. The temple as a place for sacrifices highlights its role as a spiritual center where the people could seek forgiveness and express their devotion. This phrase underscores the importance of sacrificial worship in maintaining a right relationship with God.

and let its foundations be firmly laid
The laying of the foundations signifies the beginning of the construction process and the establishment of a firm and enduring structure. In a spiritual sense, it represents the need for a strong foundation in faith and obedience to God's commands. The emphasis on firm foundations can also be seen as a metaphor for the stability and permanence of God's promises and His covenant with His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. King Cyrus
The Persian king who issued the decree to rebuild the temple in Jerusalem. His role is significant as he was a Gentile king used by God to fulfill His purposes for Israel.

2. House of God in Jerusalem
Refers to the temple, which was central to Jewish worship and identity. The rebuilding of the temple symbolized the restoration of worship and the community of Israel.

3. Decree
A formal order issued by King Cyrus, which allowed the Jewish exiles to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple. This decree was a fulfillment of prophecy and a pivotal moment in Jewish history.

4. Sacrifices
The temple was to be a place for offering sacrifices, which were integral to the Jewish faith as a means of atonement and worship.

5. Foundations
The mention of the foundations being firmly laid emphasizes the importance of a strong and enduring structure, both physically and spiritually.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty
God can use anyone, even a foreign king, to accomplish His divine purposes. This reminds us that God is in control of history and can work through unexpected means.

Fulfillment of Prophecy
The decree of Cyrus is a direct fulfillment of biblical prophecy, demonstrating the reliability and truth of God's Word. We can trust that God's promises will come to pass.

Importance of Worship
The rebuilding of the temple underscores the centrality of worship in the life of God's people. We should prioritize worship and the presence of God in our lives.

Foundation of Faith
Just as the temple needed a firm foundation, our faith must be built on the solid foundation of God's Word and truth.

Restoration and Renewal
The rebuilding of the temple symbolizes spiritual renewal and restoration. God desires to restore and renew our lives, calling us back to Him.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the decree of King Cyrus demonstrate God's sovereignty over nations and rulers?

2. In what ways can we see the fulfillment of God's promises in our own lives, similar to the fulfillment of prophecy in Ezra 6:3?

3. Why is it important for the temple to have a firm foundation, and how can we apply this principle to our spiritual lives?

4. How does the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem relate to the concept of spiritual renewal in the New Testament?

5. What are some practical ways we can prioritize worship and the presence of God in our daily lives, as emphasized by the rebuilding of the temple?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 44:28 and 45:1
These passages prophesy about Cyrus, calling him God's shepherd and anointed, who will fulfill God's purpose by rebuilding Jerusalem and the temple.

2 Chronicles 36:22-23
Chronicles the decree of Cyrus, highlighting the fulfillment of Jeremiah's prophecy regarding the return from exile.

Haggai 1:8
Encourages the people to rebuild the temple, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing God's house.