◄ Ezra 9 ►
Book Sum People Lessons Que
Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
Intermarriage with Neighboring Peoples (Nehemiah 13:23–31) 1After these things had been accomplished, the leaders approached me and said, “The people of Israel, including the priests and Levites, have not kept themselves separate from the surrounding peoples whose abominations are like those of the Canaanites, Hittites, Perizzites, Jebusites, Ammonites, Moabites, Egyptians, and Amorites. 2Indeed, the Israelites have taken some of their daughters as wives for themselves and their sons, so that the holy seed has been mixed with the people of the land. And the leaders and officials have taken the lead in this unfaithfulness!” 3When I heard this report, I tore my tunic and cloak, pulled out some hair from my head and beard, and sat down in horror. 4Then everyone who trembled at the words of the God of Israel gathered around me because of the unfaithfulness of the exiles, while I sat there in horror until the evening offering. Ezra’s Prayer of Confession 5At the evening offering, I got up from my humiliation with my tunic and cloak torn, and I fell on my knees, spread out my hands to the LORD my God, 6and said: “O my God, I am ashamed and embarrassed to lift up my face to You, my God, because our iniquities are higher than our heads, and our guilt has reached the heavens. 7From the days of our fathers to this day, our guilt has been great. Because of our iniquities, we and our kings and priests have been delivered into the hands of the kings of the earth and subjected to the sword and to captivity, to pillage and humiliation, as we are this day. 8But now, for a brief moment, grace has come from the LORD our God to preserve for us a remnant and to give us a stakea in His holy place. Even in our bondage, our God has given us new life and light to our eyes. 9Though we are slaves, our God has not forsaken us in our bondage, but He has extended to us grace in the sight of the kings of Persia, giving us new life to rebuild the house of our God and repair its ruins, and giving us a wall of protection in Judah and Jerusalem. 10And now, our God, what can we say after this? For we have forsaken the commandments 11that You gave through Your servants the prophets, saying: ‘The land that you are entering to possess is a land polluted by the impurity of its peoples and the abominations with which they have filled it from end to end. 12Now, therefore, do not give your daughters in marriage to their sons or take their daughters for your sons. Never seek their peace or prosperity, so that you may be strong and may eat the good things of the land, leaving it as an inheritance to your sons forever.’ 13After all that has come upon us because of our evil deeds and our great guilt (though You, our God, have punished us less than our iniquities deserve and have given us such a remnant as this), 14shall we again break Your commandments and intermarry with the peoples who commit these abominations? Would You not become so angry with us as to wipe us out, leaving no remnant or survivor? 15O LORD, God of Israel, You are righteous! For we remain this day as a remnant. Here we are before You in our guilt, though because of it no one can stand before You.” Footnotes: 8 a Or nail or foothold Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Ezra 9 Summary Ezra's Prayer of Confession Verses 1–2 – The Problem Exposed News reaches Ezra that many of the returned exiles—including priests, Levites, and leaders—have married pagan women. The holy seed has mixed with the peoples of the land, and the officials themselves have led the way in this unfaithfulness. Verses 3–4 – Ezra’s Shock and Sorrow Ezra tears his robe, pulls hair from his head and beard, and sits appalled. All who tremble at the words of the God of Israel gather around him because of the exile’s unfaithfulness. Verses 5–9 – Remembering God’s Favor At the evening offering Ezra falls on his knees, spreads out his hands to the LORD, and confesses the nation’s sin. Though they deserved total destruction, God granted “a little remnant” and “a peg in His holy place” (v. 8) and shown steadfast love through Persian kings who allowed the temple to be rebuilt. Verses 10–12 – A History of Disobedience Ezra recalls the clear commands against intermarriage given through the prophets and the Law—commandments ignored again. By mingling with the nations they risk repeating the very sins that led to exile. Verses 13–15 – Appeal for Mercy Ezra admits that God has punished them less than their sins deserved and acknowledges that no one can stand before Him if He were to deal with them according to justice alone. He casts the nation entirely on God’s mercy. Ezra 9 delves into the spiritual crises confronting the Israelites upon their return from the Babylonian exile. Upon discovering the Israelites' intermarriage with the surrounding peoples and subsequent disobedience to God's laws, Ezra is deeply distressed. He then leads an impassioned plea to God for forgiveness and mercy. Historical Setting • Time: Roughly 458 BC, the seventh year of King Artaxerxes I (Ezra 7:7). • Place: Jerusalem, during the second generation of returnees. The temple has been standing for about sixty years (rebuilt 516 BC), but the city walls are still in ruins until Nehemiah arrives thirteen years later. • People: Ezra, a priest and scribe, descends from Aaron (Ezra 7:1–5). He is commissioned by the Persian king to teach the Law and establish proper worship (Ezra 7:25–26). • Issue: Intermarriage with the “peoples of the land”—a broad term for neighboring pagan groups such as Canaanites, Hittites, Perizzites, Jebusites, Ammonites, Moabites, Egyptians, and Amorites (v. 1). Scriptural Connections • The command Ezra cites echoes Deuteronomy 7:3-4; Exodus 34:15-16; and Joshua 23:12-13. • Solomon’s downfall through foreign wives (1 Kings 11:1-11) illustrates the danger Ezra fears. • Ezra’s confession parallels Daniel 9 and Nehemiah 9—three prayers that confess national sin after exile. • “Holy seed” language (v. 2) anticipates Malachi 2:15 and Peter’s “chosen race” (1 Peter 2:9). • New Testament application: “Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers” (2 Corinthians 6:14). Key Observations in Ezra’s Prayer 1. He begins with God’s greatness (“O my God, I am ashamed,” v. 6) before listing sins. 2. He places himself among the guilty—no distance or self-righteousness. 3. He highlights grace first (“You have shown us such kindness,” v. 8) even while mourning sin. 4. He rests everything on mercy, not merit (v. 15). Archaeological Notes • Elephantine papyri (5th century BC) confirm a large Jewish community in Egypt during this period, showing that many Judeans lived scattered across the Persian Empire—just as Ezra’s generation did. • The Cyrus Cylinder and Persian royal edicts corroborate the policy of allowing subject peoples to restore their temples, matching Ezra 1 and Ezra 7. • Coins and bullae (seal impressions) from Artaxerxes’ reign found in the Jerusalem area support the dating of Ezra and Nehemiah’s missions. Why Intermarriage Was Such a Threat • Marriage in the ancient world involved household gods and local cults; mixed marriages pressured Jewish spouses to compromise worship (1 Kings 11:4). • The remnant was small (“a little remnant,” v. 8); spiritual dilution could erase covenant identity. • God’s plan of redemption centered on a distinct people through whom Messiah would come (Genesis 12:3; Matthew 1). Protecting lineage preserved that promise. Grace Even in Judgment Ezra underscores that exile could have meant total annihilation, yet God left “a peg” (a firm nail) for His people (v. 8). The image echoes Isaiah 22:23. God’s mercy does not deny justice, but offers space for repentance (Lamentations 3:22-23). Literary Features • First-person prayer—heartfelt, not formulaic. • Vivid actions (tearing clothes, pulling hair) serve as prophetic drama, awakening communal conscience. • The chapter ends without resolution, driving readers to chapter 10 where repentance is acted out. Application for Believers Today • Personal Response: Ezra’s grief over sin challenges casual attitudes toward compromise. • Corporate Responsibility: Even “others’” sin should move God’s people to intercede, confess, and guide change. • Holiness and Mission: Separation is not isolation; Israel was to bless nations by being distinct. Likewise, believers are “in the world, not of the world” (John 17:14-18). • Hope: God’s willingness to preserve a remnant and extend favor points to the cross, where ultimate mercy is shown (Romans 5:8). Practical Lessons Summarized • Sin spreads fastest when leaders compromise. • Deep repentance involves both emotion (tearing garments) and action (chapter 10 reforms). • Remembering past grace fuels present obedience. • God’s Word, not culture or convenience, sets the standard for relationships and worship. Key Verse to Memorize Ezra 9:13–14: “And after all that has come upon us because of our evil deeds and our great guilt, yet You, our God, have punished us less than our iniquities deserve and have given us such a remnant as this—shall we again break Your commandments and intermarry with the peoples who commit these detestable practices?” Closing Thought Ezra 9 shows that the real danger after exile was not another empire—it was the quiet drift of the heart. God’s people are kept safe by His mercy and by their willing return to the boundaries of His loving law. Connections to Additional Scriptures 2 Corinthians 6:14-18 This passage warns against being unequally yoked with unbelievers, echoing the call to separation and holiness found in Ezra 9. 1 Peter 1:15-16 Peter exhorts believers to be holy in all their conduct, as God is holy, reinforcing the theme of holiness. James 4:8-10 James encourages believers to draw near to God, cleanse their hands, and purify their hearts, paralleling the call to repentance and purity. Teaching Points The Problem of Compromise Ezra 9:1-2 reveals that the Israelites, including priests and Levites, had intermarried with the surrounding nations, adopting their detestable practices. This compromise threatened their distinct identity as God's chosen people. Ezra's Reaction In Ezra 9:3-4, Ezra's response to the news of intermarriage is one of deep mourning. He tears his garments and pulls hair from his head and beard, demonstrating the seriousness of the sin and his profound grief. The Power of Prayer and Confession Ezra 9:5-15 records Ezra's heartfelt prayer of confession. He acknowledges the people's guilt and God's righteousness, emphasizing the need for repentance and divine mercy. The Importance of Holiness The chapter underscores the call to holiness and separation from worldly influences, reminding us that God's people are to be set apart for His purposes. Practical Applications Guard Against Compromise Evaluate areas in your life where you may be compromising your faith. Are there influences or relationships that are drawing you away from God? Respond to Sin with Sincerity Like Ezra, we should respond to sin with genuine sorrow and a desire for repentance. Let us not take sin lightly but approach it with the gravity it deserves. Prioritize Prayer and Confession Make prayer and confession a regular part of your spiritual discipline. Acknowledge your shortcomings before God and seek His forgiveness and guidance. Pursue Holiness Strive to live a life that is distinct and set apart for God. Reflect on how you can better align your actions and decisions with His will. People 1. The People of Israel This term refers to the general population of Israelites who had returned from exile. They are described as having intermarried with the surrounding nations, which was considered a transgression of the law. 2. The Priests These are the descendants of Aaron, responsible for performing sacrifices and maintaining the temple rituals. They are specifically mentioned as having participated in the intermarriages. 3. The Levites Members of the tribe of Levi, who assisted the priests in temple duties and teaching the law. They, too, were involved in the intermarriages. 4. The Princes and Rulers These are the leaders and officials among the Israelites who were expected to uphold the law and lead by example. They are noted for being among the first to transgress by intermarrying. Ezra 9:1-2 states: "After these things had been done, the leaders approached me and said, 'The people of Israel, including the priests and Levites, have not kept themselves separate from the peoples of the lands with their abominations... Indeed, the leaders and officials have been foremost in this unfaithfulness.'" In a conservative Christian perspective, this passage highlights the importance of faithfulness to God's commandments and the dangers of compromising with surrounding cultures that do not share the same values. The Hebrew root words for "priests" (כֹּהֲנִים, kohanim) and "Levites" (לְוִיִּם, levi'im) emphasize their roles as spiritual leaders who were expected to maintain purity and obedience to God's law. Places 1. Canaan The term "Canaanites" is used in Ezra 9:1, referring to the inhabitants of the land of Canaan. The Hebrew root for Canaan is "כְּנַעַן" (Kena'an), which historically refers to the region encompassing modern-day Israel, Palestine, Lebanon, and parts of Jordan and Syria. 2. Hittites Also mentioned in Ezra 9:1, the Hittites were an ancient group whose empire was centered in what is now Turkey. The Hebrew term is "חִתִּי" (Hitti). 3. Perizzites Another group listed in Ezra 9:1, the Perizzites were inhabitants of Canaan. The Hebrew root is "פְּרִזִּי" (Perizzi). 4. Jebusites Mentioned in Ezra 9:1, the Jebusites were a Canaanite tribe that inhabited Jerusalem prior to its conquest by King David. The Hebrew term is "יְבוּסִי" (Yevusi). 5. Ammon The Ammonites are mentioned in Ezra 9:1. Ammon was located east of the Jordan River, in present-day Jordan. The Hebrew root is "עַמּוֹן" (Ammon). 6. Moab The Moabites, also mentioned in Ezra 9:1, lived in the region of Moab, located east of the Dead Sea, in present-day Jordan. The Hebrew term is "מוֹאָב" (Mo'av). 7. Egypt The Egyptians are referenced in Ezra 9:1. Egypt, known in Hebrew as "מִצְרַיִם" (Mitzrayim), is located in northeastern Africa. 8. Amorites The Amorites are included in the list in Ezra 9:1. They were an ancient Semitic-speaking people who occupied parts of Mesopotamia and the Levant. The Hebrew term is "אֱמֹרִי" (Emori). Events 1. Report of Intermarriage The chapter begins with the leaders approaching Ezra to report that the people of Israel, including priests and Levites, have not separated themselves from the peoples of the lands and have taken foreign wives. This is seen as a violation of the Mosaic Law, which prohibited intermarriage with pagan nations to prevent idolatry (Ezra 9:1-2). 2. Ezra's Reaction Upon hearing this report, Ezra is deeply distressed. He tears his garment and cloak, pulls hair from his head and beard, and sits down appalled. This reaction signifies mourning and repentance, reflecting the Hebrew practice of expressing grief and dismay (Ezra 9:3). 3. Gathering of the Faithful As Ezra sits appalled, a large assembly of those who tremble at the words of the God of Israel gather around him. This group is characterized by their reverence for God's commandments and their concern over the unfaithfulness of the exiles (Ezra 9:4). 4. Ezra's Prayer of Confession At the time of the evening sacrifice, Ezra rises from his self-abasement and falls on his knees with his hands spread out to the LORD. He prays a heartfelt prayer of confession, acknowledging the sins of the people and expressing shame and guilt for their actions (Ezra 9:5-6). 5. Acknowledgment of Past Sins In his prayer, Ezra recounts the history of Israel's unfaithfulness and the resulting consequences, including exile. He acknowledges that God has shown mercy by allowing a remnant to return and rebuild the temple, despite their past sins (Ezra 9:7-9). 6. Recognition of Current Guilt Ezra admits that the current intermarriage issue is a continuation of past unfaithfulness. He recognizes that the people are once again disregarding God's commandments, which were given to protect them from the abominations of the surrounding nations (Ezra 9:10-12). 7. Appeal for Mercy Ezra concludes his prayer by appealing to God's mercy, acknowledging that they are unworthy to stand before Him due to their guilt. He expresses hope that God will not completely destroy them, despite their repeated disobedience (Ezra 9:13-15). Lessons from Ezra 9 1. The Power of Prayerful Confession In Ezra 9, we witness the profound impact of prayerful confession. Ezra's heartfelt prayer acknowledges the sins of the people, demonstrating the importance of coming before God with humility and sincerity. As Ezra prays, "O my God, I am ashamed and embarrassed to lift up my face to You, my God, because our iniquities have increased over our heads and our guilt has grown up to the heavens" (Ezra 9:6). This teaches us that acknowledging our shortcomings before God is the first step toward spiritual renewal and restoration. 2. The Importance of Spiritual Leadership Ezra's leadership is a beacon of hope and guidance for the Israelites. His deep commitment to God's laws and his willingness to intercede for the people highlight the critical role of spiritual leaders. As followers of Christ, we are reminded to seek and support leaders who are grounded in Scripture and lead by example, just as Ezra did. 3. The Consequences of Disobedience Ezra 9 underscores the serious consequences of disobedience to God's commands. The Israelites' intermarriage with pagan nations led them away from God's path. This serves as a reminder that straying from God's Word can lead to spiritual and moral decline. "The land you are entering to possess is a land polluted by the corruption of its peoples" (Ezra 9:11). Staying true to God's teachings is essential for maintaining a righteous life. 4. The Call to Holiness The chapter emphasizes the call to holiness and separation from worldly influences. Ezra's distress over the people's actions reflects the need for believers to remain distinct and set apart for God's purposes. "You have commanded us by Your servants the prophets: ‘The land you are entering to possess is a land polluted by the corruption of its peoples’" (Ezra 9:11). We are called to be in the world but not of it, living lives that honor God. 5. The Role of Community Accountability Ezra's response to the people's sin highlights the importance of community accountability. The Israelites gathered together, acknowledging their collective failure and seeking God's mercy. This teaches us that as a community of believers, we must support and hold each other accountable in our walk with Christ, fostering an environment of growth and repentance. 6. The Grace of God in Repentance Despite the people's transgressions, Ezra 9 reveals the grace of God in response to genuine repentance. Ezra's prayer acknowledges God's mercy: "But now, for a brief moment, the LORD our God has been gracious in leaving us a remnant and giving us a firm place in His sanctuary" (Ezra 9:8). This reminds us that no matter how far we stray, God's grace is always available to those who turn back to Him with a contrite heart. 7. The Necessity of Scriptural Guidance Ezra's actions are deeply rooted in Scripture, demonstrating the necessity of using God's Word as our guide. His knowledge of the Scriptures informs his response to the people's sin, showing us that the Bible is our ultimate authority and source of wisdom. "For we are slaves, yet in our bondage, our God has not forsaken us" (Ezra 9:9). Let Scripture be the lamp to your feet and the light to your path. 8. The Impact of Genuine Sorrow for Sin Ezra's genuine sorrow for the people's sin is palpable and impactful. His tearing of clothes and pulling of hair are outward expressions of deep inner grief. This teaches us the importance of truly mourning over sin, recognizing its seriousness, and seeking God's forgiveness with a sincere heart. 9. The Strength Found in Unity The gathering of the Israelites in response to Ezra's prayer demonstrates the strength found in unity. Together, they confront their sin and seek God's mercy. This unity in repentance and prayer is a powerful reminder that as the body of Christ, we are stronger together, supporting one another in our spiritual journeys. 10. The Hope of Restoration Finally, Ezra 9 offers a message of hope and restoration. Despite the people's failures, there is a path to renewal through repentance and God's grace. "But now, for a brief moment, the LORD our God has been gracious" (Ezra 9:8). This hope is a testament to God's unfailing love and His desire to restore us to Himself, no matter our past mistakes. Let this be an encouragement to always seek His face and trust in His promises. Topics 1. Intermarriage with Pagan Nations Ezra 9 begins with the leaders approaching Ezra to report that the Israelites, including priests and Levites, have not separated themselves from the peoples of the lands, engaging in intermarriage with them. This is seen as a violation of God's commandments, as the Hebrew term "תּוֹעֵבָה" (to'evah) is used to describe these abominations, indicating actions detestable to God (Ezra 9:1-2). 2. Ezra's Reaction of Mourning and Prayer Upon hearing the news, Ezra is deeply distressed, tearing his garments and pulling hair from his head and beard, a traditional expression of mourning and repentance. He sits appalled until the evening sacrifice, demonstrating his profound grief over the people's unfaithfulness (Ezra 9:3-4). 3. Ezra's Prayer of Confession Ezra offers a heartfelt prayer, acknowledging the sins of the people and their guilt before God. He uses the Hebrew word "חָטָא" (chata), meaning to miss the mark or sin, emphasizing the gravity of their transgressions. Ezra confesses the collective sin and recognizes the mercy of God in not completely destroying them (Ezra 9:5-15). 4. Recognition of God's Grace In his prayer, Ezra acknowledges the grace of God in allowing a remnant to return and rebuild the temple. He uses the term "חֶסֶד" (chesed), which refers to God's steadfast love and mercy, highlighting the undeserved favor they have received despite their disobedience (Ezra 9:8-9). 5. Call for Repentance and Obedience Ezra's prayer serves as a call for the people to repent and return to obedience to God's laws. He emphasizes the importance of separating from the peoples of the land to maintain holiness, as commanded in the Torah. The Hebrew concept of "קָדוֹשׁ" (qadosh), meaning holy or set apart, underscores the need for Israel to remain distinct and faithful to God's covenant (Ezra 9:10-15). Themes 1. Intermarriage with Pagan Nations Ezra 9:1-2 highlights the issue of Israelites intermarrying with the people of the surrounding nations, which was against God's commandments. The Hebrew term "תּוֹעֵבָה" (to'evah) is used to describe these practices as "abominations," emphasizing the severity of the sin. 2. Confession of Sin In Ezra 9:6-7, Ezra confesses the sins of the people, acknowledging their guilt before God. The Hebrew word "בּוֹשׁ" (bosh) is used, meaning "to be ashamed," reflecting the deep sense of remorse and acknowledgment of wrongdoing. 3. God’s Righteousness and Mercy Ezra 9:8-9 speaks of God's grace and mercy, despite the people's unfaithfulness. The Hebrew word "חֶסֶד" (chesed) is often translated as "lovingkindness" or "mercy," underscoring God's enduring compassion and faithfulness. 4. The Remnant The concept of a "remnant" is mentioned in Ezra 9:8, referring to the small group of Israelites who have returned from exile. This theme is significant in the Hebrew Bible, where "שְׁאֵרִית" (she'erit) denotes those preserved by God for His purposes. 5. Holiness and Separation Ezra 9:11-12 emphasizes the need for the Israelites to remain separate from the practices of the surrounding nations to maintain their holiness. The Hebrew root "קָדַשׁ" (qadash) means "to be set apart," highlighting the call to live distinctively as God's people. 6. Fear of God’s Wrath Ezra 9:13-14 reflects the fear of incurring God's wrath due to continued disobedience. The Hebrew word "חָרוֹן" (charon) is used for "wrath," indicating the seriousness of divine judgment against sin. 7. Covenant Faithfulness The theme of covenant faithfulness is implicit throughout Ezra 9, as the people are reminded of their obligations under the covenant with God. The Hebrew term "בְּרִית" (berit) signifies the binding agreement between God and His people, which they are called to honor. Prayer Points Repentance and Forgiveness Pray for a heart of repentance and seek God's forgiveness for areas of compromise in your life. Strength to Resist Temptation Ask God for the strength to resist worldly influences and to remain steadfast in your commitment to holiness. Guidance in Relationships Pray for wisdom in your relationships, that they would honor God and not lead you away from Him. A Heart for Holiness Request that God instills in you a deep desire for holiness and a life that reflects His character. As we conclude this study, let us be inspired by Ezra's example to confront sin with sincerity and to pursue a life of holiness, set apart for the glory of God. Answering Tough Questions 1. In Ezra 9:1–2, how do we reconcile the mention of specific people groups still living in the land when historical records suggest some of them no longer existed? 2. Does Ezra 9:2 contradict the acceptance of foreign converts in other passages of Scripture, such as the account of Ruth? 3. Considering Ezra 9:3–4, why does the text portray intermarriage so severely, when similar unions elsewhere in the Bible are treated with less alarm? 4. Is there any archaeological or historical evidence corroborating Ezra’s account of widespread repentance or public assembly in Ezra 9:5–6? 5. In Ezra 9:7, how does the stated timeline of guilt leading to captivity compare with historical accounts of Persian policies regarding exiles? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Ezra’s reaction to the Israelites' disobedience manifest his love for God? 2. How can we apply the lessons from Ezra's response to sin in our communities today? 3. In the face of disobedience, why is it important for leaders to show their grief and disappointment openly like Ezra? 4. What does Ezra’s prayer tell us about his view of God’s justice and mercy? 5. How can we handle a situation where we see others, particularly in our community, going against God's laws? 6. How can the practice of interfaith marriage in today's context be evaluated from the perspective of this passage? 7. What can we learn from the Israelites' failure to separate themselves from detestable practices? 8. How can Ezra's actions inspire us to act when confronted with collective sin in our society? 9. What does Ezra 9 teach about the role of community leaders in shaping the spiritual lives of their people? 10. How does the concept of repentance in Ezra 9 apply to Christians today? 11. How do you reconcile the actions of the Israelites in marrying foreign women with modern views on interfaith and interracial marriages? 12. How can the practice of sincere prayer and repentance, as shown by Ezra, impact our spiritual journey? 13. What is the significance of Ezra acknowledging God's grace despite their disobedience? 14. How does Ezra's plea for mercy speak to God's forgiving nature? 15. What can we learn about accountability and confession from Ezra's prayer? 16. In what ways can the Church ensure it does not become 'polluted' like the Israelites did? 17. How do Ezra's actions portray the value of righteous living? 18. How does this chapter inform our understanding of God's view on sin and repentance? 19. Can Ezra's attitude towards Israel's unfaithfulness be replicated in today's society? If so, how? 20. How do Ezra's reactions and actions inspire you to handle situations of disobedience and unfaithfulness in your personal life, your family, or your community? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions