Ezra 5:11

And this is the answer they returned: "We are servants of the God of heaven and earth, and we are rebuilding the temple that was built many years ago, which a great king of Israel built and completed.

Study Bible

This is the answer they gave us
This phrase introduces the response of the Jewish leaders to the Persian officials questioning their authority to rebuild the temple. The context is one of accountability and transparency. The Jewish leaders are not acting in secrecy but are willing to provide a clear answer. This reflects a principle of integrity and openness, which is a recurring theme in Scripture. The Hebrew root for "answer" (עָנָה, 'anah) often implies a thoughtful or considered response, suggesting that the leaders were prepared and confident in their mission.

We are the servants
The term "servants" (עֲבַד, 'avad) is significant, as it denotes humility and dedication. By identifying themselves as servants, the Jewish leaders acknowledge their subordinate position to God, emphasizing their role in fulfilling His divine will. This reflects a broader biblical theme where true leadership is often characterized by servanthood, as seen in the life of Jesus Christ, who came not to be served but to serve (Mark 10:45).

of the God of heaven and earth
This phrase establishes the authority and sovereignty of God over all creation. The title "God of heaven and earth" underscores His omnipotence and universal dominion, contrasting with the localized deities of surrounding nations. The acknowledgment of God as the supreme ruler serves as a reminder of His ultimate control over the affairs of men and nations. This is a powerful declaration of faith, asserting that their work is sanctioned by the highest authority.

and we are rebuilding the temple
The act of rebuilding the temple is not merely a construction project but a spiritual endeavor. The temple represents the presence of God among His people, a place of worship and sacrifice. The Hebrew word for "rebuilding" (בָּנָה, banah) conveys the idea of restoration and renewal. This task is a fulfillment of prophecy and a sign of God's faithfulness to His promises. It symbolizes hope and the re-establishment of a covenant relationship with God.

that was built many years ago
This phrase acknowledges the historical significance of the temple, originally constructed by Solomon. The reference to "many years ago" connects the current generation with their ancestors, highlighting continuity in God's plan. It serves as a reminder of the enduring nature of God's purposes and the importance of remembering and honoring the past while moving forward in faith.

which a great king of Israel built and completed
The "great king" refers to Solomon, whose reign was marked by wisdom and prosperity. His completion of the temple was a monumental achievement, symbolizing the zenith of Israel's spiritual and political power. The mention of Solomon's role in building the temple serves to inspire the current generation to aspire to similar faithfulness and dedication. It also underscores the idea that what God initiates, He brings to completion, encouraging believers to trust in His perfect timing and provision.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Servants of the God of Heaven and Earth
Refers to the Jewish exiles who returned to Jerusalem to rebuild the temple. They identify themselves as servants of the one true God, emphasizing their divine mission and allegiance.

2. The House
This is the temple in Jerusalem, originally built by King Solomon. It was a central place of worship and symbolized God's presence among His people.

3. A Great King of Israel
This refers to King Solomon, who constructed the first temple, a monumental task that signified Israel's dedication to God.

4. Rebuilding
The act of reconstructing the temple after its destruction by the Babylonians. This event marks a significant moment of restoration and renewal for the Jewish people.

5. The Persian Empire
The ruling empire at the time, under which the Jews were allowed to return and rebuild the temple. This context highlights the political and divine orchestration in the rebuilding process.

Teaching Points

Identity in God
The exiles identify themselves as "servants of the God of heaven and earth," reminding us of our identity and purpose in serving God above all else.

Faithfulness in Adversity
Despite opposition, the Jews remained committed to their task, teaching us the importance of perseverance in fulfilling God's calling.

Divine Providence
The rebuilding of the temple under foreign rule illustrates God's sovereignty and ability to work through unexpected means to accomplish His purposes.

Historical Continuity
The reference to Solomon's temple connects the past with the present, encouraging us to see our lives as part of God's ongoing account.

Community and Worship
The rebuilding of the temple underscores the importance of communal worship and the centrality of God in the life of His people.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does identifying as "servants of the God of heaven and earth" shape our understanding of our own identity and mission today?

2. In what ways can we remain faithful to God's calling in the face of opposition or adversity, as the Jewish exiles did?

3. How does the account of the temple's rebuilding demonstrate God's sovereignty and providence in our lives?

4. What lessons can we learn from the historical continuity between Solomon's temple and the rebuilt temple in Ezra about God's faithfulness?

5. How can we prioritize communal worship and the presence of God in our lives, similar to the emphasis on rebuilding the temple?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 6
Describes the original construction of Solomon's temple, providing historical context to the rebuilding efforts in Ezra.

Haggai 1
Encourages the people to prioritize the rebuilding of the temple, emphasizing the importance of God's house in their community and spiritual life.

Nehemiah 2
Chronicles Nehemiah's efforts to rebuild Jerusalem's walls, paralleling the theme of restoration and divine mission.