Ezra 6:3

In the first year of King Cyrus, he issued a decree concerning the house of God in Jerusalem: Let the house be rebuilt as a place for offering sacrifices, and let its foundations be firmly laid. It is to be sixty cubits high and sixty cubits wide,

Study Bible

In the first year of King Cyrus
King Cyrus of Persia began his reign in 559 BC, but it was in 538 BC, after conquering Babylon, that he issued the decree allowing the Jews to return to Jerusalem. This aligns with the prophecy in Isaiah 44:28, where Cyrus is named as the one who will decree the rebuilding of Jerusalem and the temple. His decree marks the fulfillment of Jeremiah's prophecy (Jeremiah 29:10) regarding the end of the Babylonian exile after seventy years.

he issued a decree concerning the house of God in Jerusalem
The decree was a significant political and religious act, as it allowed the Jewish exiles to return and rebuild the temple, central to their worship and identity. This decree is recorded in Ezra 1:1-4 and reflects the Persian policy of supporting local religions to maintain control over their vast empire. The "house of God" refers to the temple, which had been destroyed by Nebuchadnezzar in 586 BC.

Let the house be rebuilt as a place for offering sacrifices
The primary function of the temple was to serve as a place for sacrifices, which were central to the Jewish faith and covenant relationship with God. Sacrifices were a means of atonement and worship, as outlined in Levitical law (Leviticus 1-7). The rebuilding of the temple was essential for restoring proper worship and religious practices.

and let its foundations be firmly laid
The emphasis on firm foundations indicates the importance of stability and permanence in the construction of the temple. This can be seen as a metaphor for the spiritual foundation of the Jewish people, as well as a literal instruction for the builders. The laying of the foundation was a significant event, celebrated with joy and worship (Ezra 3:10-13).

It is to be sixty cubits high and sixty cubits wide
The dimensions of the temple, sixty cubits high and wide, suggest a grand and imposing structure, though smaller than Solomon's original temple. A cubit is approximately 18 inches, making the temple about 90 feet in both height and width. These dimensions reflect the temple's importance and the resources available under Persian patronage. The temple's design and measurements also have symbolic significance, representing God's majesty and the order of creation.

Persons / Places / Events

1. King Cyrus
The Persian king who issued the decree to rebuild the temple in Jerusalem. His role is significant as he was a Gentile king used by God to fulfill His purposes for Israel.

2. House of God in Jerusalem
Refers to the temple, which was central to Jewish worship and identity. The rebuilding of the temple symbolized the restoration of worship and the community of Israel.

3. Decree
A formal order issued by King Cyrus, which allowed the Jewish exiles to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple. This decree was a fulfillment of prophecy and a pivotal moment in Jewish history.

4. Sacrifices
The temple was to be a place for offering sacrifices, which were integral to the Jewish faith as a means of atonement and worship.

5. Foundations
The mention of the foundations being firmly laid emphasizes the importance of a strong and enduring structure, both physically and spiritually.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty
God can use anyone, even a foreign king, to accomplish His divine purposes. This reminds us that God is in control of history and can work through unexpected means.

Fulfillment of Prophecy
The decree of Cyrus is a direct fulfillment of biblical prophecy, demonstrating the reliability and truth of God's Word. We can trust that God's promises will come to pass.

Importance of Worship
The rebuilding of the temple underscores the centrality of worship in the life of God's people. We should prioritize worship and the presence of God in our lives.

Foundation of Faith
Just as the temple needed a firm foundation, our faith must be built on the solid foundation of God's Word and truth.

Restoration and Renewal
The rebuilding of the temple symbolizes spiritual renewal and restoration. God desires to restore and renew our lives, calling us back to Him.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the decree of King Cyrus demonstrate God's sovereignty over nations and rulers?

2. In what ways can we see the fulfillment of God's promises in our own lives, similar to the fulfillment of prophecy in Ezra 6:3?

3. Why is it important for the temple to have a firm foundation, and how can we apply this principle to our spiritual lives?

4. How does the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem relate to the concept of spiritual renewal in the New Testament?

5. What are some practical ways we can prioritize worship and the presence of God in our daily lives, as emphasized by the rebuilding of the temple?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 44:28 and 45:1
These passages prophesy about Cyrus, calling him God's shepherd and anointed, who will fulfill God's purpose by rebuilding Jerusalem and the temple.

2 Chronicles 36:22-23
Chronicles the decree of Cyrus, highlighting the fulfillment of Jeremiah's prophecy regarding the return from exile.

Haggai 1:8
Encourages the people to rebuild the temple, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing God's house.