Application Questions:

How did Ezra respond to the known sin of other? What did he do privately? What did he do publicly? Does this inform the way a Christian responds to sin within the church or within society?

How does this story help you think about the seriousness of sin and the life-change of repentance?

What factor does rain play in this story? Is it a sign of judgment or cleansing? What do you surmise the people’s disposition was toward standing in the rain?

What is the purpose in preserving the names of those found guilty of intermarriage? How do you deal with the memory of past sin?