Though 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. Though we are slavesThis phrase acknowledges the Israelites' subjugation and lack of autonomy. The Hebrew word for "slaves" here is "עֲבָדִים" (avadim), which can also mean servants. Historically, this reflects the period after the Babylonian exile when the Israelites were under Persian rule. Despite their status, they recognize their identity as God's chosen people, which transcends earthly bondage. our God has not forsaken us
The Hebrew root for "forsaken" is "עָזַב" (azav), meaning to leave or abandon. This phrase is a profound declaration of faith, emphasizing God's unwavering presence and faithfulness. Despite their physical captivity, the Israelites experience spiritual freedom and assurance in God's covenantal promises. in our bondage
The term "bondage" here is "שִׁבְיָנוּ" (shivenu), indicating captivity or imprisonment. This reflects the historical context of the Israelites' exile and subjugation under foreign powers. Yet, it also serves as a metaphor for spiritual captivity, from which God offers deliverance. He has shown us kindness
The Hebrew word for "kindness" is "חֶסֶד" (chesed), often translated as loving-kindness or steadfast love. This term is rich in covenantal significance, highlighting God's loyal love and mercy towards His people, even in their unfaithfulness. in the sight of the kings of Persia
This phrase underscores the historical reality of Persian influence over the Israelites. The Persian kings, notably Cyrus and Darius, were instrumental in allowing the Jews to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple. This favor is seen as divinely orchestrated, demonstrating God's sovereignty over nations. granting us new life
The concept of "new life" is central to the theme of restoration. The Hebrew word "חַיּוּת" (chayyut) implies vitality and renewal. This phrase signifies not only physical restoration to their land but also spiritual revival and hope for the future. to rebuild the house of our God
The "house of our God" refers to the temple in Jerusalem, a central place of worship and symbol of God's presence among His people. The rebuilding signifies a renewal of worship and a return to covenantal faithfulness. and repair its ruins
The act of repairing "ruins" symbolizes restoration from desolation and judgment. The Hebrew word "חָרְבוֹת" (charvot) indicates devastation. This rebuilding effort is a physical manifestation of spiritual renewal and God's redemptive work. He has given us a wall of protection
The "wall of protection" is both literal and metaphorical. Literally, it refers to the physical walls of Jerusalem, essential for security. Metaphorically, it represents God's providential care and safeguarding of His people, ensuring their survival and flourishing. in Judah and Jerusalem
This locational reference grounds the narrative in the historical and geographical reality of the Jewish return to their ancestral homeland. Judah and Jerusalem are central to Jewish identity and God's redemptive plan, serving as the backdrop for the unfolding of biblical history and prophecy. Persons / Places / Events 1. EzraA scribe and priest who led the second group of exiles back to Jerusalem from Babylon. He was instrumental in re-establishing the Law of Moses among the people. 2. The IsraelitesThe people of God who were in exile due to their disobedience but were shown mercy and allowed to return to their homeland. 3. The Kings of PersiaRefers to the Persian rulers, such as Cyrus, Darius, and Artaxerxes, who allowed the Israelites to return and rebuild Jerusalem and the temple. 4. Judah and JerusalemThe region and city central to Jewish identity and worship, representing the physical and spiritual restoration of the people. 5. The TempleThe house of God in Jerusalem, which was central to Jewish worship and identity, symbolizing God's presence among His people. Teaching Points God's Faithfulness in AdversityDespite the Israelites' status as slaves, God did not abandon them. This teaches us that God's faithfulness is not dependent on our circumstances. Divine Favor through Human AuthoritiesGod can use secular authorities to accomplish His purposes, as seen with the Persian kings. We should pray for and respect our leaders, trusting God to work through them. Restoration and RenewalThe rebuilding of the temple and the walls signifies spiritual renewal. We should seek God's help in rebuilding areas of our lives that are in ruins. Protection and ProvisionGod's provision of a "wall of protection" reminds us of His promise to protect and provide for His people. We can trust Him for our security. Gratitude for God's MercyRecognizing God's mercy in allowing the return from exile should lead to a life of gratitude and obedience. We should regularly reflect on God's mercies in our lives. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Ezra 9:9 illustrate God's faithfulness to His people despite their past disobedience? 2. In what ways can we see God's hand in the actions of secular authorities today, similar to the kings of Persia in Ezra's time? 3. What areas of your life need rebuilding, and how can you seek God's guidance and strength in this process? 4. How can the concept of a "wall of protection" apply to your spiritual life, and what steps can you take to ensure you are within God's protective boundaries? 5. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's mercy and kindness. How did it change your perspective or actions, and how can you cultivate a heart of gratitude moving forward? Connections to Other Scriptures Nehemiah 1-2Nehemiah's prayer and subsequent journey to Jerusalem to rebuild the walls, showing God's continued favor and protection. Isaiah 44:28Prophecy about Cyrus, the Persian king, who would decree the rebuilding of Jerusalem and the temple, demonstrating God's sovereignty over nations. Psalm 126A song of ascents reflecting the joy and gratitude of the Israelites upon their return from exile, similar to the sentiments expressed in Ezra. People Ammonites, Amorites, Canaanites, Egyptians, Hittites, Jebusites, Levites, Moabites, PerizzitesPlaces Beyond the River, Jerusalem, Judea, PersiaTopics Bondage, Bondmen, Bond-men, Bondservants, Cause, Cease, Deserted, Desolations, Extended, Fair, Fence, Forsaken, Grant, Granted, Jerusalem, Judah, Judea, Kindness, Kings, Lift, Love, Loving, Lovingkindness, Mercy, Persia, Places, Prison, Protection, Quickening, Raise, Rebuild, Repair, Restore, Reviving, Ruins, Servants, Servitude, Shown, Sight, Slaves, Steadfast, Strength, Stretcheth, Thereof, Wall, Waste, Wastes, YetDictionary of Bible Themes Ezra 9:9 5604 walls
5972 unkindness
8291 kindness Ezra 9:1-15 8466 reformation Ezra 9:4-15 6624 confession, of sin Library September 23 Morning
Our God hath not forsaken us.--EZRA 9:9. Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you.--If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not? But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons. The Lord your God proveth you, to know whether ye love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul. The Lord …
Anonymous—Daily Light on the Daily PathThe Sad Case of a Relapse into Known and Deliberate Sin, after Solemn Acts Op Dedication to God and Some Progress Made in Religion.
1. Unthought of relapses may happen.--2. And bring the soul into a miserable case.--3. Yet the case is not desperate.--4. The backslider urged immediately to return, by deep humiliation before God for so aggravated an offence.--5. By renewed regards to the divine mercy in Christ.--6. By an open profession of repentance, where the crime hath given public offence.--7. Falls to be reviewed for future caution.--8. The chapter concludes with a prayer for the use of one who hath fallen into gross sins, …
Philip Doddridge—The Rise and Progress of Religion in the Soul Prayer.
CHARACTERISTICS OF PRAYER. WHAT is prayer? A sincere, sensible, affectionate pouring out of the soul to God, through Christ, in the strength and assistance of the Spirit, for such things as God hath promised. The best prayers have often more groans than words. Alas, how few there be in the world whose heart and mouth in prayer shall go together. Dost thou, when thou askest for the Spirit, or faith, or love to God, to holiness, to saints, to the word, and the like, ask for them with love to them, …
John Bunyan—The Riches of Bunyan The Christian Struggling under Great and Heavy Affliction.
1. Here it is advised--that afflictions should only be expected.--2. That the righteous hand of God should be acknowledged in them when they come.--3. That they should be borne with patience.--4. That the divine conduct in them should be cordially approved.--5. That thankfulness should be maintained in the midst of trials.--6. That the design of afflictions should be diligently inquired into, and all proper assistance taken in discovering it.--7. That, when it is discovered, it should humbly be complied …
Philip Doddridge—The Rise and Progress of Religion in the Soul That it is not Lawful for the Well Affected Subjects to Concur in Such an Engagement in War, and Associate with the Malignant Party.
That It Is Not Lawful For The Well Affected Subjects To Concur In Such An Engagement In War, And Associate With The Malignant Party. Some convinced of the unlawfulness of the public resolutions and proceedings, in reference to the employing of the malignant party, yet do not find such clearness and satisfaction in their own consciences as to forbid the subjects to concur in this war, and associate with the army so constituted. Therefore it is needful to speak something to this point, That it is …
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning Letter xx. Self-Examination.
"Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith: prove your own selves."--2 COR. 13:6. MY DEAR SISTER, In view of the positive injunction of Scripture, above quoted, no argument is necessary to show that self-examination is a duty. But if the word of God had been silent upon the subject, the importance of self-knowledge would have been a sufficient motive for searching into the secret springs of action which influence our conduct. A person ignorant of his own heart, is like a merchant, who knows …
Harvey Newcomb—A Practical Directory for Young Christian Females The Careless Sinner Awakened.
1, 2. It is too supposable a case that this Treatise may come into such hands.--3, 4. Since many, not grossly vicious, fail under that character.--5, 6. A more particular illustration of this case, with an appeal to the reader, whether it be not his own.--7 to 9. Expostulation with such.--10 to 12. More particularly--From acknowledged principles relating to the Nature of Got, his universal presence, agency, and perfection.--13. From a view of personal obligations to him.--14. From the danger Of this …
Philip Doddridge—The Rise and Progress of Religion in the Soul The Justice of God
The next attribute is God's justice. All God's attributes are identical, and are the same with his essence. Though he has several attributes whereby he is made known to us, yet he has but one essence. A cedar tree may have several branches, yet it is but one cedar. So there are several attributes of God whereby we conceive of him, but only one entire essence. Well, then, concerning God's justice. Deut 32:4. Just and right is he.' Job 37:23. Touching the Almighty, we cannot find him out: he is excellent …
Thomas Watson—A Body of Divinity Of Love to God
I proceed to the second general branch of the text. The persons interested in this privilege. They are lovers of God. "All things work together for good, to them that love God." Despisers and haters of God have no lot or part in this privilege. It is children's bread, it belongs only to them that love God. Because love is the very heart and spirit of religion, I shall the more fully treat upon this; and for the further discussion of it, let us notice these five things concerning love to God. 1. The …
Thomas Watson—A Divine Cordial Blessed are they that Mourn
Blessed are they that mourn. Matthew 5:4 Here are eight steps leading to true blessedness. They may be compared to Jacob's Ladder, the top whereof reached to heaven. We have already gone over one step, and now let us proceed to the second: Blessed are they that mourn'. We must go through the valley of tears to paradise. Mourning were a sad and unpleasant subject to treat on, were it not that it has blessedness going before, and comfort coming after. Mourning is put here for repentance. It implies …
Thomas Watson—The Beatitudes: An Exposition of Matthew 5:1-12 Influences that Gave Rise to the Priestly Laws and Histories
[Sidenote: Influences in the exile that produced written ceremonial laws] The Babylonian exile gave a great opportunity and incentive to the further development of written law. While the temple stood, the ceremonial rites and customs received constant illustration, and were transmitted directly from father to son in the priestly families. Hence, there was little need of writing them down. But when most of the priests were carried captive to Babylonia, as in 597 B.C., and ten years later the temple …
Charles Foster Kent—The Origin & Permanent Value of the Old Testament Ezra-Nehemiah
Some of the most complicated problems in Hebrew history as well as in the literary criticism of the Old Testament gather about the books of Ezra and Nehemiah. Apart from these books, all that we know of the origin and early history of Judaism is inferential. They are our only historical sources for that period; and if in them we have, as we seem to have, authentic memoirs, fragmentary though they be, written by the two men who, more than any other, gave permanent shape and direction to Judaism, then …
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament Links Ezra 9:9 NIVEzra 9:9 NLTEzra 9:9 ESVEzra 9:9 NASBEzra 9:9 KJV
Ezra 9:9 Commentaries
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