Dedicating the Temple

July 14, 2013 Background Scripture: Ezra 6 Lesson Passage: Ezra 6:13 – 22 In last week’s lesson we saw Israel celebrate the beginning of the temple restoration with the laying of the foundation. Although the congregation exhibited mixed emotions, they celebrated with a formal praise and worship service. After such a strong start, one would expect a strong finish as well. After the celebration was over, the remaining work on the temple should have continued to move towards completion. This was not the case. The text of today’s lesson takes place almost twenty years later. During much of the intervening time, the work came to a halt because Israel was discouraged by her gentile neighbors and therefore took the easy way out by conforming to those of the world. As a result of this, the children of Israel became complacent and self-centered. They focused their time, energy, and resources on building their own houses and neglected the house that was to be built and dedicated in the name of the God of Israel. God did not sit quietly by while this happened. He sent the prophets Haggai and Zechariah to warn the people that He was not pleased with their chosen course of action—or inaction. God warned them that they would not prosper because their ways before Him were not right. They would not grow wealthier but rather see their money squandered in such a way that it would appear that they were putting it in a bag with a hole in the bottom. God went on to inform them that He was aware of the quality of work they were putting into their houses while His house lay wasted. Eventually the message got through to them. After their hearts were right, God led Zerubbabel to contact the Persian king to clear up the deception and confusion caused by their neighbors and the work on the temple resumed with the king’s blessing. Finally, the work was completed and it was time for the temple to be dedicated. Although the rebuilt temple was not considered to be on the same level as the temple constructed by King Solomon, it lasted many more years than the formal. Everything needed for the construction as well as the animals needed for the sacrifices were provided either through freewill offerings from the people or given from the king’s treasury by decree of the king. Whether through the blessings of God provided to the people or from the treasury of gentile kings whose hearts had been changed by God, everything needed to complete the temple and offer the sacrifices prescribed by the Law was made available. The greatest obstacle they faced was the cooperation of those who were called God’s people. When God’s people were prepared and submitted to Him, God dealt with them who were opposing His people and the work was completed and the dedicatory celebration took place. Note that the text states that the elders of the Jews built and they prospered. Sometimes we forget the importance of our role models in carrying out the will of God. When those who are mature in their spiritual walk line up with the will of God, progress ensues and individuals prosper in their way. When we know that the hand of God is involved and we can see the results unfolding, it is proper to pause and celebrate the goodness of our God. Israel could now reflect on God’s goodness and unending mercy as they dedicated the temple. Robert C. Hudson June 28, 2013