EZRA 3:7-13

Rebuilding the Temple Foundation

In this passage, the people of Israel who returned from exile begin rebuilding the foundation of the temple. This follows the earlier rebuilding of the altar and marks the continuation of God’s work through His people.

1. Advancing the Work of the Lord

The returnees united under Zerubbabel and Joshua to organize labor and appoint Levites to oversee the temple foundation. The phrase “set forward the work” shows their commitment to restoring what was lost during exile. All who returned participated, showing strength in unity.

2. God’s Faithfulness

The rebuilding fulfills the promise of God through King Cyrus (Isaiah 44:28). Though 70 years had passed, God remained faithful. His promises may take time, but they never fail.

3. Faith in the Unseen

Though no temple stood yet, the people still referred to the site as the “house of God,” acting in faith (Hebrews 11:1). They envisioned what God would complete.

4. Giving God the Best

They procured cedar wood from Lebanon, as Solomon once did. This reflects that God's work deserves the best resources—not what’s left over. God values quality and sacrifice in what we offer Him (Malachi 1).

5. God’s Favor Through Others

Though King Cyrus was a pagan, God used him to provide resources and permissions. This demonstrates God’s control over kings and circumstances (Proverbs 21:1), and His ability to bring favor from unexpected places.

6. Proper Worship

After laying the foundation, the people held a worship service led by priests and Levites, following Davidic order (Psalm 136:1). Worship was reverent, structured, and joyful. They sang, “He is good; His mercy endures forever.”

7. Mixed Emotions

The younger generation shouted for joy, while the older generation, who had seen Solomon’s temple, wept. The contrast shows the tension between new beginnings and memories of the past. Some rejoiced at progress; others mourned the loss of former glory.

8. Warning Against Looking Back

The elders’ sorrow could reflect regret for past sins or a longing for what was lost. But Scripture warns against constantly looking back (Luke 9:62; Genesis 19:26). God wants His people to move forward in faith.

9. Encouragement Through Prophets

God sent Haggai and Zechariah to encourage the people: “Be strong... and work, for I am with you” (Haggai 2). Though the new temple seemed less grand, God promised, “The glory of this latter house shall be greater than the former.”

10. A Strong Foundation

The temple foundation points to the need for a solid spiritual foundation. Like the wise builder in Matthew 7:24–27, our lives and ministries must be built on God’s Word to withstand trials.

Key Takeaways

• God’s promises are sure; our role is to pray, prepare, act, and persevere.
• Unity and sacrifice are essential in advancing God’s work.
• Worship must be orderly, reverent, and rooted in Scripture.
• We must not dwell in the past but press on in hope.
• Even small beginnings can lead to greater glory when God is involved.