Ezra 3:5

After that, they presented the regular burnt offerings and those for New Moons and for all the appointed sacred feasts of the LORD, as well as all the freewill offerings brought to the LORD.

Study Bible

After that, they presented the regular burnt offerings
The phrase "after that" indicates a sequence of events following the completion of the altar's construction in Ezra 3:3. The "regular burnt offerings" refer to the daily sacrifices commanded in the Law of Moses (Exodus 29:38-42). These offerings were a central part of Israelite worship, symbolizing atonement and dedication to God. The reestablishment of these offerings signifies a return to covenant faithfulness and the restoration of worship practices after the Babylonian exile.

and those for New Moons
The New Moon offerings were part of the monthly religious observances (Numbers 28:11-15). The New Moon marked the beginning of the Hebrew month and was a time for special sacrifices and worship. This practice highlights the Israelites' commitment to observing God's appointed times and maintaining a rhythm of worship that acknowledges God's sovereignty over time.

and for all the appointed sacred feasts of the LORD
The "appointed sacred feasts" include Passover, Pentecost, and the Feast of Tabernacles, among others (Leviticus 23). These feasts were times of communal gathering, remembrance, and celebration of God's deliverance and provision. By observing these feasts, the Israelites reaffirmed their identity as God's chosen people and their reliance on His promises.

as well as all the freewill offerings brought to the LORD
Freewill offerings were voluntary sacrifices given out of gratitude and devotion (Leviticus 22:18-23). Unlike the mandatory offerings, these were expressions of personal worship and thanksgiving. The inclusion of freewill offerings indicates a heartfelt response to God's grace and a desire to honor Him beyond the required rituals. This reflects the principle that true worship involves both obedience and a willing heart.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Israelites
The returning exiles who are rebuilding the temple in Jerusalem and re-establishing worship practices.

2. Jerusalem
The city where the temple is being rebuilt, central to Jewish worship and identity.

3. The Altar
The place where sacrifices and offerings are made, symbolizing the restoration of worship.

4. Sacrifices and Offerings
Various types of offerings mentioned, including burnt offerings, New Moon offerings, and freewill offerings, each with specific significance in Jewish worship.

5. The LORD
The covenant God of Israel, to whom the offerings and sacrifices are made.

Teaching Points

Restoration of Worship
The rebuilding of the altar and the resumption of sacrifices signify a return to proper worship and obedience to God's commands. This teaches us the importance of prioritizing worship in our lives.

Community and Commitment
The collective effort of the Israelites to restore worship practices highlights the power of community in pursuing spiritual goals. We are reminded to engage with our faith communities in shared worship and service.

Diversity of Offerings
The variety of offerings (burnt, New Moon, freewill) reflects the multifaceted nature of worship, involving regular, special, and voluntary acts of devotion. This encourages us to consider how we can offer diverse forms of worship in our own lives.

Faithfulness to God's Commands
The Israelites' adherence to the appointed feasts and offerings demonstrates their commitment to God's law. We are called to be faithful in our obedience to God's Word.

Symbolism of Sacrifice
The physical sacrifices point to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ. As Christians, we are reminded of the significance of Christ's sacrifice and our response to it through living a life of worship.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the restoration of the altar and sacrifices in Ezra 3:5 reflect the priorities of the returning exiles, and what can we learn from their example about prioritizing worship in our own lives?

2. In what ways can we, as a faith community, work together to restore or enhance our worship practices, similar to the collective efforts of the Israelites?

3. How do the different types of offerings mentioned in Ezra 3:5 (burnt, New Moon, freewill) inspire us to offer diverse forms of worship and service to God today?

4. What are some specific ways we can demonstrate faithfulness to God's commands in our daily lives, as the Israelites did by observing the appointed feasts and offerings?

5. How does the concept of sacrifice in the Old Testament offerings connect to the New Testament understanding of Christ's sacrifice, and how should this influence our daily walk with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 23
Details the appointed feasts of the LORD, providing context for the sacred feasts mentioned in Ezra 3:5.

Numbers 28-29
Outlines the regular burnt offerings and New Moon offerings, giving background to the practices being reinstated.

Nehemiah 8
Describes the reading of the Law and the celebration of the Feast of Booths, showing the community's commitment to following God's commands.

Psalm 81:3
References the New Moon as a time of celebration, connecting to the offerings mentioned in Ezra 3:5.

Romans 12:1
Encourages believers to offer themselves as living sacrifices, drawing a parallel to the physical offerings in Ezra.