Please read your Bible text: Ezra 2:1-70
‘…some of the family leaders gave generously toward the rebuilding of God’s temple on its original site, and each leader gave as much as he could…’ (Ezra 2:68-69)
The exile that returned was of one spirit and purpose—the rebuilding of God’s Temple. Often we skip over the names and details of those returned. The scripture is detailed enough to tell us the various group and their numbers that returned. The inspiration of the scriptures allowed such details to be recorded!
1. Notice the Groups that returned – vs.1- 67
The leader’s names were recorded: Zerubbabel, Jeshua, Nehemiah, Seraiah, Reelaiah, Mordecai, Bilishan, Mispar, Bigvai, Rehum and Baanah (v.2). The largest family returned was of the tribe of Senaah, the second largest was of the family of Pahath-moab. The least was of the family of Beth-azmaveth. The total number returned 42,300. Notice this number is only for the men only (v.2). In those days, they counted the men, the head of the family representing each their wives and children. Even the animals that they brought along were counted (v.64). Look at the various groups – family, priest, Levites, including temple servants! Servants are needed too in the Temple of God. Also include the common people that returned (v.70). They settled near Jerusalem while others in other town of Judah. God is stirring up the willing hearts to return; the counted were as many as were willing to return. The word of the Lord through Jeremiah came to pass.
2. Notice of the hearts of those returned – vs. 68 – 70
They gave generously toward the rebuilding of God’s temple. Each leader gave as much as they could. The leaders must set the pace. The followers must follow suit. The purpose ought to be common concern. What motivate them? The purpose! Paul said that we ought to give cheerfully and purposefully (1Corinthians 9). Are you concerned about the Temple of God; the Kingdom of God on earth. How can we invest in the building of the Kingdom of God? By giving! And it is not the gifts – but the act of giving – it tells of the heart. What motivates you and me to give? It ought to be towards God’s favor and His purposes! The people returned not only in numbers but they returned in hearts!
And consider the seriousness of the matter they took to heart! When a number of the priests came without their genealogical records, they were forbidden to serve as priest or even partake of the priests’ share of the meal. They viewed the matter with grave seriousness and would seek the Lord about it (v.63b).
THINK:
Don’t just return in person outwardly – but return in heart inwardly. Let God’s Favor and His Purposes motivate your heart.
PRAYER:
Lord, let Your Favor overwhelms me and Your purposes consume me.
David Quek
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