Ezra 2:21

the men of Bethlehem, 123;

Study Bible

the men of Bethlehem
Bethlehem, a small town in Judah, holds significant biblical importance. It is famously known as the birthplace of King David (1 Samuel 16:1) and later, Jesus Christ (Micah 5:2; Matthew 2:1). The mention of Bethlehem here in Ezra 2:21 highlights the return of its inhabitants from Babylonian exile. This return fulfills God's promise to restore His people to their land (Jeremiah 29:10-14). Bethlehem's role in biblical history as the "City of David" and the prophesied birthplace of the Messiah underscores its spiritual significance. The return of its men signifies the reestablishment of a community that would later be central to the Messianic lineage.

123
The specific number, 123, indicates the precise count of men from Bethlehem who returned. This attention to detail reflects the historical accuracy and importance of genealogical records in post-exilic Israel. Such records were crucial for reestablishing tribal and familial identities, which were essential for land inheritance and religious duties. The number also emphasizes the remnant nature of the returnees, a theme prevalent in the prophetic literature (Isaiah 10:20-22). Despite the small number, their return is a testament to God's faithfulness in preserving a remnant of His people, ensuring the continuity of His covenant promises.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Bethlehem
A small town in Judah, known as the birthplace of King David and later, Jesus Christ. It holds significant historical and theological importance in the biblical account.

2. The Men of Bethlehem
This refers to the group of exiles returning from Babylonian captivity. The number 123 indicates the men from Bethlehem who were part of this return, highlighting the restoration of the community.

3. The Return from Exile
This event marks the return of the Jewish people from Babylonian captivity to their homeland, as decreed by King Cyrus of Persia. It signifies a period of rebuilding and restoration for the Israelites.

Teaching Points

Significance of Small Beginnings
Bethlehem, though small, played a crucial role in God's redemptive plan. This teaches us that God often uses humble beginnings to accomplish great purposes.

Faithfulness in Restoration
The return of the men of Bethlehem symbolizes faithfulness and hope in God's promises. We are encouraged to trust in God's restoration in our lives, even after periods of hardship.

Community and Identity
The specific mention of the men of Bethlehem highlights the importance of community and identity. As believers, we are part of a spiritual community with a shared heritage and purpose.

Prophetic Fulfillment
The connection between Bethlehem and the birth of Jesus underscores the reliability of God's word and the fulfillment of prophecy. This strengthens our faith in the promises of Scripture.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the mention of Bethlehem in Ezra 2:21 reveal about God's attention to detail in His plans?

2. How does the return of the exiles to their homeland reflect God's faithfulness to His promises?

3. In what ways can we see the significance of small or seemingly insignificant places or people in God's redemptive history?

4. How does the prophecy in Micah 5:2 and its fulfillment in Matthew 2:1-6 encourage us to trust in God's word?

5. What lessons can we learn from the community of Bethlehem about maintaining our identity and faithfulness in challenging times?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Micah 5:2
This verse prophesies the significance of Bethlehem as the birthplace of a ruler in Israel, connecting the town's historical importance to its future messianic role.

Matthew 2:1-6
The Gospel of Matthew references Bethlehem as the birthplace of Jesus, fulfilling the prophecy from Micah and linking the Old Testament to the New Testament.

1 Samuel 16:1
This passage describes God's selection of David, a Bethlehemite, as king, establishing Bethlehem's importance in the lineage of David and ultimately, Jesus.