◄ Ezra 1:6 ►
And all their neighbors supported them with articles of silver and gold, with goods and livestock, and with valuables, in addition to all their freewill offerings. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1. What is the meaning of Ezra 1:6? 2. How can we support God's work like the people in Ezra 1:6 did? 3. What does Ezra 1:6 teach about generosity in fulfilling God's purposes? 4. How does Ezra 1:6 connect to New Testament teachings on giving? 5. In what ways can we "assist them with silver and gold" today? 6. How does Ezra 1:6 inspire us to contribute to our church community? 7. How does Ezra 1:6 demonstrate God's provision for the Israelites' return to Jerusalem? 8. What role do non-Israelites play in fulfilling God's plan in Ezra 1:6? 9. How does Ezra 1:6 reflect the theme of divine sovereignty? 10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Ezra 1? 11. What did Peter mean by lacking silver and gold? 12. In Nehemiah 7:66, is it historically or logistically plausible for over 42,000 people to have returned and reestablished themselves so quickly after exile? 13. Why does the text mention the precise return of gold and silver vessels in Ezra 6:5 if many of these items likely disappeared over time? 14. If the original temple vessels in Ezra 1:7 had been melted down by the Babylonians, how could these exact items be returned intact? Discussion Questions 1. How does the support from the neighbors in Ezra 1:6 reflect God's provision in your own life? 2. In what ways can you be a supportive "neighbor" to those around you who are pursuing God's calling? 3. How does the concept of freewill offerings in Ezra 1:6 challenge your perspective on giving and generosity? 4. What role does community play in your spiritual journey, and how can you strengthen your involvement in it? 5. How can you apply the faithfulness of God in fulfilling His promises, as seen in the return to Jerusalem, to your current life circumstances? Ezra 1 Bible Study Questions 1. How did the decree of Cyrus demonstrate God's sovereignty and providence? 2. What significance did the return of the Temple vessels hold for the Israelites? 3. How did the stirring of hearts exemplify the work of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers? 4. In what ways did the support from neighboring regions reflect God's provision and favor? 5. What role did Sheshbazzar play in the restoration process, and what can we learn from his leadership? 6. How does the return of the Temple treasures symbolize the restoration of Israel's worship and relationship with God? 7. Why do you think God chose Cyrus, a pagan king, to issue the decree for the Israelites' return? 8. How does the account of Ezra 1 emphasize the importance of unity and cooperation among God's people? 9. What lessons can we learn from the Israelites' response to the opportunity for restoration and return? 10. How can we apply the concept of God's providence and faithfulness in our own lives today? 11. If you were one of the exiles, how would you have reacted to the decree and the opportunity to return to your homeland? 12. In what ways can we identify and respond to the stirrings of God's Spirit in our hearts and lives? 13. How can we encourage and support fellow believers who are embarking on a journey of restoration and rebuilding? 14. What are some modern-day examples of God using unexpected individuals or circumstances to accomplish His purposes? 15. How does the concept of returning stolen or borrowed goods apply to our lives as followers of Christ? 16. How can we demonstrate gratitude and generosity toward those who support us in our spiritual journeys? 17. What lessons can we learn from the detailed inventory taken of the returned Temple treasures? 18. How does the restoration described in Ezra 1 foreshadow the ultimate restoration brought by Jesus Christ? 19. What are some practical ways we can actively participate in the restoration of broken relationships and communities? 20. How can we apply the principles of restoration and return in our present-day living, both individually and as a church community? Links Ezra 1:6 NIV Ezra 1:6 NLT Ezra 1:6 ESV Ezra 1:6 NASB Ezra 1:6 KJV Ezra 1:6 Commentaries Bible Hub