EZRA 3:1-6
Main Theme: Rebuilding the Altar – The First Step in True Worship
1. The Priority of the Altar
- The returned exiles rebuilt the altar before the temple, emphasizing the urgency and importance of worship and repentance.
- The altar symbolized forgiveness, true worship, and restoration of relationship with God.
- Despite opposition and fear of surrounding enemies, the people gathered as one and focused on reestablishing worship through the altar.
2. The Purpose of the Altar
- Forgiveness of sins: The altar was central to burnt offerings for atonement.
- Restoration of worship: The people had missed worship during exile (Psalm 137).
- Unity and community: One altar for all, signifying collective worship and fellowship.
3. The Pattern of Worship
- The altar was rebuilt according to God's instructions (Exodus 38:1–7).
- God is concerned not only with the outcome but also with the process—He desires worship that is prepared, pure, and intentional.
- Worship without repentance or preparation is lip service, not pleasing to God.
4. The Cost of Burnt Offerings
- Burnt offerings were costly and done regularly (morning and evening).
- Signified total surrender—everything was burnt except the skin.
- Jesus Christ became the final and most costly burnt offering for our sins (1 Peter 2:24; 1 John 2:2).
- Today, believers are called to be living sacrifices (Romans 12:1), offering themselves fully to God.
5. The Process of True Repentance
- Involves:
- Awareness of sin (1 John 3:4)
- Godly sorrow (2 Corinthians 7:10)
- Confession (1 John 1:9)
- Forgiveness and restoration
- Visible fruit of repentance (Luke 3:8)
6. Worship Is Not Limited to a Place
- True worship doesn't require a physical temple—only a right heart and God’s presence (John 4:20–24).
- Worship can and should happen anywhere and at all times, not just in church.
7. Significance of the Feasts
- They were God-instituted times of worship and remembrance.
- Each of the seven Jewish feasts pointed to Christ’s work (e.g., Passover = crucifixion; Tabernacles = Christ’s future reign).
- Today, we are not required to observe them, but we can respect their meaning and recognize their fulfillment in Christ.
8. Final Reflections
- Worship begins at the altar—with confession and repentance.
- Daily confession (like daily burnt offerings) reflects a sensitive walk with God.
- Worship is spiritual, not ritualistic—done in spirit and truth.
- God has a pattern and plan for our lives—our ministry must be according to His will.
- Those who return to God are privileged to rebuild and serve in His work.
