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.