Introduction: Stirred by the preaching of Haggai and Zechariah, the Israelites return to the task of completing the temple. Their work is not without obstacles, but they are faithful in their resolve and the obstacles are turned into bountiful assistance. Their hinderers become their helpers.

1. STARTING OVER (Ezra 5:1-17 [1] Then the prophets, Haggai the prophet, and Zechariah the son of Iddo, prophesied unto the Jews that were in Judah and Jerusalem in the name of the God of Israel, even unto them. [2] Then rose up Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, and Jeshua the son of Jozadak, and began to build the house of God which is at Jerusalem: and with them were the prophets of God helping them. [3] At the same time came to them Tatnai, governor on this side the river, and Shetharboznai and their companions, and said thus unto them, Who hath commanded you to build this house, and to make up this wall? [4] Then said we unto them after this manner, What are the names of the men that make this building? [5] But the eye of their God was upon the elders of the Jews, that they could not cause them to cease, till the matter came to Darius: and then they returned answer by letter concerning this matter. [6] The copy of the letter that Tatnai, governor on this side the river, and Shetharboznai and his companions the Apharsachites, which were on this side the river, sent unto Darius the king: [7] They sent a letter unto him, wherein was written thus; Unto Darius the king, all peace. [8] Be it known unto the king, that we went into the province of Judea, to the house of the great God, which is builded with great stones, and timber is laid in the walls, and this work goeth fast on, and prospereth in their hands. [9] Then asked we those elders, and said unto them thus, Who commanded you to build this house, and to make up these walls? [10] We asked their names also, to certify thee, that we might write the names of the men that were the chief of them. [11] And thus they returned us answer, saying, We are the servants of the God of heaven and earth, and build the house that was builded these many years ago, which a great king of Israel builded and set up. [12] But after that our fathers had provoked the God of heaven unto wrath, he gave them into the hand of Nebuchadnezzar the king of Babylon, the Chaldean, who destroyed this house, and carried the people away into Babylon. [13] But in the first year of Cyrus the king of Babylon the same king Cyrus made a decree to build this house of God. [14] And the vessels also of gold and silver of the house of God, which Nebuchadnezzar took out of the temple that was in Jerusalem, and brought them into the temple of Babylon, those did Cyrus the king take out of the temple of Babylon, and they were delivered unto one, whose name was Sheshbazzar, whom he had made governor; [15] And said unto him, Take these vessels, go, carry them into the temple that is in Jerusalem, and let the house of God be builded in his place. [16] Then came the same Sheshbazzar, and laid the foundation of the house of God which is in Jerusalem: and since that time even until now hath it been in building, and yet it is not finished. [17] Now therefore, if it seem good to the king, let there be search made in the king's treasure house, which is there at Babylon, whether it be so, that a decree was made of Cyrus the king to build this house of God at Jerusalem, and let the king send his pleasure to us concerning this matter.
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1. Renewed Commitment (Ezra 5:1-2 [1] Then the prophets, Haggai the prophet, and Zechariah the son of Iddo, prophesied unto the Jews that were in Judah and Jerusalem in the name of the God of Israel, even unto them. [2] Then rose up Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, and Jeshua the son of Jozadak, and began to build the house of God which is at Jerusalem: and with them were the prophets of God helping them.
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1. The message of the prophets (Ezra 5:1Then the prophets, Haggai the prophet, and Zechariah the son of Iddo, prophesied unto the Jews that were in Judah and Jerusalem in the name of the God of Israel, even unto them.
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1. The prophets (Ezra 6:14And the elders of the Jews builded, and they prospered through the prophesying of Haggai the prophet and Zechariah the son of Iddo. And they builded, and finished it, according to the commandment of the God of Israel, and according to the commandment of Cyrus, and Darius, and Artaxerxes king of Persia.
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1. Haggai the prophet
2. Zechariah the son of Iddo
2. Their message
1. Unto the Jews in Judah and Jerusalem
2. In the name of the God of Israel (1 Kings 8:17And it was in the heart of David my father to build an house for the name of the LORD God of Israel.
   See All..., 20; 2 Chronicles 2:4Behold, I build an house to the name of the LORD my God, to dedicate it to him, and to burn before him sweet incense, and for the continual shewbread, and for the burnt offerings morning and evening, on the sabbaths, and on the new moons, and on the solemn feasts of the LORD our God. This is an ordinance for ever to Israel.
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2. The obedience of the people (Ezra 5:2Then rose up Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, and Jeshua the son of Jozadak, and began to build the house of God which is at Jerusalem: and with them were the prophets of God helping them.
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1. The key played by the leaders (Haggai 1:14And the LORD stirred up the spirit of Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, governor of Judah, and the spirit of Joshua the son of Josedech, the high priest, and the spirit of all the remnant of the people; and they came and did work in the house of the LORD of hosts, their God,
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1. Zerubbabel and Jeshua
2. Began to build the house of God
2. The helping role of the prophets
1. Importance of helpers (Romans 16:3Greet Priscilla and Aquila my helpers in Christ Jesus:
   See All..., 9; 2 Corinthians 8:23Whether any do enquire of Titus, he is my partner and fellowhelper concerning you: or our brethren be enquired of, they are the messengers of the churches, and the glory of Christ.
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2. Ways of helping
1. By labor (1 Corinthians 16:16That ye submit yourselves unto such, and to every one that helpeth with us, and laboureth.
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2. By prayer (2 Corinthians 1:11Ye also helping together by prayer for us, that for the gift bestowed upon us by the means of many persons thanks may be given by many on our behalf.
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3. By joy or encouragement (2 Corinthians 1:24Not for that we have dominion over your faith, but are helpers of your joy: for by faith ye stand.
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4. By truth or counsel (3 John 1:8We therefore ought to receive such, that we might be fellowhelpers to the truth.
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2. Renewed Conflict (Ezra 5:3-5 [3] At the same time came to them Tatnai, governor on this side the river, and Shetharboznai and their companions, and said thus unto them, Who hath commanded you to build this house, and to make up this wall? [4] Then said we unto them after this manner, What are the names of the men that make this building? [5] But the eye of their God was upon the elders of the Jews, that they could not cause them to cease, till the matter came to Darius: and then they returned answer by letter concerning this matter.
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1. The questioning of Tatnai (Ezra 5:3-4 [3] At the same time came to them Tatnai, governor on this side the river, and Shetharboznai and their companions, and said thus unto them, Who hath commanded you to build this house, and to make up this wall? [4] Then said we unto them after this manner, What are the names of the men that make this building?
   See All...; Ezra 4:4-5 [4] Then the people of the land weakened the hands of the people of Judah, and troubled them in building, [5] And hired counsellors against them, to frustrate their purpose, all the days of Cyrus king of Persia, even until the reign of Darius king of Persia.
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1. Question of authority (Ezra 5:3At the same time came to them Tatnai, governor on this side the river, and Shetharboznai and their companions, and said thus unto them, Who hath commanded you to build this house, and to make up this wall?
   See All...) – by whose command are you building?
2. Question of identity (Ezra 5:4Then said we unto them after this manner, What are the names of the men that make this building?
   See All...) – what are the names of those responsible?; Note: Tatnai and his friends are speaking in verse 4 (compare Ezra 5:10We asked their names also, to certify thee, that we might write the names of the men that were the chief of them.
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3. Compare this to the questions given to Jesus Christ
1. By what authority? (Matthew 21:23And when he was come into the temple, the chief priests and the elders of the people came unto him as he was teaching, and said, By what authority doest thou these things? and who gave thee this authority?
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2. Who is this? (Matthew 21:10And when he was come into Jerusalem, all the city was moved, saying, Who is this?
   See All...; Matthew 16:13When Jesus came into the coasts of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, Whom do men say that I the Son of man am?
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2. The determination of the people (Ezra 5:5But the eye of their God was upon the elders of the Jews, that they could not cause them to cease, till the matter came to Darius: and then they returned answer by letter concerning this matter.
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1. The eye of the Lord was upon them (2 Chronicles 16:9For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to shew himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward him. Herein thou hast done foolishly: therefore from henceforth thou shalt have wars.
   See All...; Psalm 33:18Behold, the eye of the LORD is upon them that fear him, upon them that hope in his mercy;
   See All...; 1 Peter 3:12For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers: but the face of the Lord is against them that do evil.
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2. They could not be cause to cease (Acts 5:42And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ.
   See All...; Acts 20:31Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears.
   See All...; Colossians 1:9For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding;
   See All...); Application: What does it take to get you to quit? (Proverbs 24:10If thou faint in the day of adversity, thy strength is small.
   See All...; Jeremiah 12:4How long shall the land mourn, and the herbs of every field wither, for the wickedness of them that dwell therein? the beasts are consumed, and the birds; because they said, He shall not see our last end.
   See All...; Galatians 6:9And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.
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3. A letter was sent to Darius
3. Renewed Inquiry (Ezra 5:6-17 [6] The copy of the letter that Tatnai, governor on this side the river, and Shetharboznai and his companions the Apharsachites, which were on this side the river, sent unto Darius the king: [7] They sent a letter unto him, wherein was written thus; Unto Darius the king, all peace. [8] Be it known unto the king, that we went into the province of Judea, to the house of the great God, which is builded with great stones, and timber is laid in the walls, and this work goeth fast on, and prospereth in their hands. [9] Then asked we those elders, and said unto them thus, Who commanded you to build this house, and to make up these walls? [10] We asked their names also, to certify thee, that we might write the names of the men that were the chief of them. [11] And thus they returned us answer, saying, We are the servants of the God of heaven and earth, and build the house that was builded these many years ago, which a great king of Israel builded and set up. [12] But after that our fathers had provoked the God of heaven unto wrath, he gave them into the hand of Nebuchadnezzar the king of Babylon, the Chaldean, who destroyed this house, and carried the people away into Babylon. [13] But in the first year of Cyrus the king of Babylon the same king Cyrus made a decree to build this house of God. [14] And the vessels also of gold and silver of the house of God, which Nebuchadnezzar took out of the temple that was in Jerusalem, and brought them into the temple of Babylon, those did Cyrus the king take out of the temple of Babylon, and they were delivered unto one, whose name was Sheshbazzar, whom he had made governor; [15] And said unto him, Take these vessels, go, carry them into the temple that is in Jerusalem, and let the house of God be builded in his place. [16] Then came the same Sheshbazzar, and laid the foundation of the house of God which is in Jerusalem: and since that time even until now hath it been in building, and yet it is not finished. [17] Now therefore, if it seem good to the king, let there be search made in the king's treasure house, which is there at Babylon, whether it be so, that a decree was made of Cyrus the king to build this house of God at Jerusalem, and let the king send his pleasure to us concerning this matter.
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1. The report of Tatnai (Ezra 5:6-10 [6] The copy of the letter that Tatnai, governor on this side the river, and Shetharboznai and his companions the Apharsachites, which were on this side the river, sent unto Darius the king: [7] They sent a letter unto him, wherein was written thus; Unto Darius the king, all peace. [8] Be it known unto the king, that we went into the province of Judea, to the house of the great God, which is builded with great stones, and timber is laid in the walls, and this work goeth fast on, and prospereth in their hands. [9] Then asked we those elders, and said unto them thus, Who commanded you to build this house, and to make up these walls? [10] We asked their names also, to certify thee, that we might write the names of the men that were the chief of them.
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1. The sending of the letter (Ezra 5:6-7 [6] The copy of the letter that Tatnai, governor on this side the river, and Shetharboznai and his companions the Apharsachites, which were on this side the river, sent unto Darius the king: [7] They sent a letter unto him, wherein was written thus; Unto Darius the king, all peace.
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2. The building of the house (Ezra 5:8Be it known unto the king, that we went into the province of Judea, to the house of the great God, which is builded with great stones, and timber is laid in the walls, and this work goeth fast on, and prospereth in their hands.
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1. Being built with great stones and timber
2. The work is going fast (Colossians 3:23And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;
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3. The work is prospering in their hands (Nehemiah 4:6So built we the wall; and all the wall was joined together unto the half thereof: for the people had a mind to work.
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3. The gathering of information (Ezra 5:9-10 [9] Then asked we those elders, and said unto them thus, Who commanded you to build this house, and to make up these walls? [10] We asked their names also, to certify thee, that we might write the names of the men that were the chief of them.
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2. The report of the elders (Ezra 5:11-16 [11] And thus they returned us answer, saying, We are the servants of the God of heaven and earth, and build the house that was builded these many years ago, which a great king of Israel builded and set up. [12] But after that our fathers had provoked the God of heaven unto wrath, he gave them into the hand of Nebuchadnezzar the king of Babylon, the Chaldean, who destroyed this house, and carried the people away into Babylon. [13] But in the first year of Cyrus the king of Babylon the same king Cyrus made a decree to build this house of God. [14] And the vessels also of gold and silver of the house of God, which Nebuchadnezzar took out of the temple that was in Jerusalem, and brought them into the temple of Babylon, those did Cyrus the king take out of the temple of Babylon, and they were delivered unto one, whose name was Sheshbazzar, whom he had made governor; [15] And said unto him, Take these vessels, go, carry them into the temple that is in Jerusalem, and let the house of God be builded in his place. [16] Then came the same Sheshbazzar, and laid the foundation of the house of God which is in Jerusalem: and since that time even until now hath it been in building, and yet it is not finished.
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1. Rebuilding an ancient building (Ezra 5:11And thus they returned us answer, saying, We are the servants of the God of heaven and earth, and build the house that was builded these many years ago, which a great king of Israel builded and set up.
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2. Rebuilding a destroyed building (Ezra 5:12But after that our fathers had provoked the God of heaven unto wrath, he gave them into the hand of Nebuchadnezzar the king of Babylon, the Chaldean, who destroyed this house, and carried the people away into Babylon.
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1. Because our fathers provoked God to wrath
2. When Nebuchadnezzar destroyed the house
3. Rebuilding by royal decree (Ezra 5:13-15 [13] But in the first year of Cyrus the king of Babylon the same king Cyrus made a decree to build this house of God. [14] And the vessels also of gold and silver of the house of God, which Nebuchadnezzar took out of the temple that was in Jerusalem, and brought them into the temple of Babylon, those did Cyrus the king take out of the temple of Babylon, and they were delivered unto one, whose name was Sheshbazzar, whom he had made governor; [15] And said unto him, Take these vessels, go, carry them into the temple that is in Jerusalem, and let the house of God be builded in his place.
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4. Rebuilding on the established foundation (Ezra 5:16Then came the same Sheshbazzar, and laid the foundation of the house of God which is in Jerusalem: and since that time even until now hath it been in building, and yet it is not finished.
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1. The foundation has been laid
2. But the building was not finished
3. The request of Tatnai (Ezra 5:17Now therefore, if it seem good to the king, let there be search made in the king's treasure house, which is there at Babylon, whether it be so, that a decree was made of Cyrus the king to build this house of God at Jerusalem, and let the king send his pleasure to us concerning this matter.
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1. To search for the decree of Cyrus
2. To send the king’s pleasure concerning the matter
2. RECEIVING SUPPORT (Ezra 6:1-12 [1] Then Darius the king made a decree, and search was made in the house of the rolls, where the treasures were laid up in Babylon. [2] And there was found at Achmetha, in the palace that is in the province of the Medes, a roll, and therein was a record thus written: [3] In the first year of Cyrus the king the same Cyrus the king made a decree concerning the house of God at Jerusalem, Let the house be builded, the place where they offered sacrifices, and let the foundations thereof be strongly laid; the height thereof threescore cubits, and the breadth thereof threescore cubits; [4] With three rows of great stones, and a row of new timber: and let the expenses be given out of the king's house: [5] And also let the golden and silver vessels of the house of God, which Nebuchadnezzar took forth out of the temple which is at Jerusalem, and brought unto Babylon, be restored, and brought again unto the temple which is at Jerusalem, every one to his place, and place them in the house of God. [6] Now therefore, Tatnai, governor beyond the river, Shetharboznai, and your companions the Apharsachites, which are beyond the river, be ye far from thence: [7] Let the work of this house of God alone; let the governor of the Jews and the elders of the Jews build this house of God in his place. [8] Moreover I make a decree what ye shall do to the elders of these Jews for the building of this house of God: that of the king's goods, even of the tribute beyond the river, forthwith expenses be given unto these men, that they be not hindered. [9] And that which they have need of, both young bullocks, and rams, and lambs, for the burnt offerings of the God of heaven, wheat, salt, wine, and oil, according to the appointment of the priests which are at Jerusalem, let it be given them day by day without fail: [10] That they may offer sacrifices of sweet savours unto the God of heaven, and pray for the life of the king, and of his sons. [11] Also I have made a decree, that whosoever shall alter this word, let timber be pulled down from his house, and being set up, let him be hanged thereon; and let his house be made a dunghill for this. [12] And the God that hath caused his name to dwell there destroy all kings and people, that shall put to their hand to alter and to destroy this house of God which is at Jerusalem. I Darius have made a decree; let it be done with speed.
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1. The Decree of Cyrus (Ezra 6:1-5 [1] Then Darius the king made a decree, and search was made in the house of the rolls, where the treasures were laid up in Babylon. [2] And there was found at Achmetha, in the palace that is in the province of the Medes, a roll, and therein was a record thus written: [3] In the first year of Cyrus the king the same Cyrus the king made a decree concerning the house of God at Jerusalem, Let the house be builded, the place where they offered sacrifices, and let the foundations thereof be strongly laid; the height thereof threescore cubits, and the breadth thereof threescore cubits; [4] With three rows of great stones, and a row of new timber: and let the expenses be given out of the king's house: [5] And also let the golden and silver vessels of the house of God, which Nebuchadnezzar took forth out of the temple which is at Jerusalem, and brought unto Babylon, be restored, and brought again unto the temple which is at Jerusalem, every one to his place, and place them in the house of God.
   See All...; Ezra 1:1-4 [1] Now in the first year of Cyrus king of Persia, that the word of the LORD by the mouth of Jeremiah might be fulfilled, the LORD stirred up the spirit of Cyrus king of Persia, that he made a proclamation throughout all his kingdom, and put it also in writing, saying, [2] Thus saith Cyrus king of Persia, The LORD God of heaven hath given me all the kingdoms of the earth; and he hath charged me to build him an house at Jerusalem, which is in Judah. [3] Who is there among you of all his people? his God be with him, and let him go up to Jerusalem, which is in Judah, and build the house of the LORD God of Israel, (he is the God,) which is in Jerusalem. [4] And whosoever remaineth in any place where he sojourneth, let the men of his place help him with silver, and with gold, and with goods, and with beasts, beside the freewill offering for the house of God that is in Jerusalem.
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1. The search for the decree (Ezra 6:1-2 [1] Then Darius the king made a decree, and search was made in the house of the rolls, where the treasures were laid up in Babylon. [2] And there was found at Achmetha, in the palace that is in the province of the Medes, a roll, and therein was a record thus written:
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1. Searched for by decree of Darius (Ezra 6:1Then Darius the king made a decree, and search was made in the house of the rolls, where the treasures were laid up in Babylon.
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2. Searched for in the house of rolls (Ezra 6:1Then Darius the king made a decree, and search was made in the house of the rolls, where the treasures were laid up in Babylon.
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3. Found in the palace of the Medes at Achmetha (Ezra 6:2And there was found at Achmetha, in the palace that is in the province of the Medes, a roll, and therein was a record thus written:
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2. The contents of the decree (Ezra 6:3-5 [3] In the first year of Cyrus the king the same Cyrus the king made a decree concerning the house of God at Jerusalem, Let the house be builded, the place where they offered sacrifices, and let the foundations thereof be strongly laid; the height thereof threescore cubits, and the breadth thereof threescore cubits; [4] With three rows of great stones, and a row of new timber: and let the expenses be given out of the king's house: [5] And also let the golden and silver vessels of the house of God, which Nebuchadnezzar took forth out of the temple which is at Jerusalem, and brought unto Babylon, be restored, and brought again unto the temple which is at Jerusalem, every one to his place, and place them in the house of God.
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1. Concerning the temple (Ezra 6:3-4 [3] In the first year of Cyrus the king the same Cyrus the king made a decree concerning the house of God at Jerusalem, Let the house be builded, the place where they offered sacrifices, and let the foundations thereof be strongly laid; the height thereof threescore cubits, and the breadth thereof threescore cubits; [4] With three rows of great stones, and a row of new timber: and let the expenses be given out of the king's house:
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1. Let the house be built (Ezra 6:3In the first year of Cyrus the king the same Cyrus the king made a decree concerning the house of God at Jerusalem, Let the house be builded, the place where they offered sacrifices, and let the foundations thereof be strongly laid; the height thereof threescore cubits, and the breadth thereof threescore cubits;
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2. Let sacrifices be offered (Ezra 6:3In the first year of Cyrus the king the same Cyrus the king made a decree concerning the house of God at Jerusalem, Let the house be builded, the place where they offered sacrifices, and let the foundations thereof be strongly laid; the height thereof threescore cubits, and the breadth thereof threescore cubits;
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3. Let the foundations be strong (Ezra 6:3In the first year of Cyrus the king the same Cyrus the king made a decree concerning the house of God at Jerusalem, Let the house be builded, the place where they offered sacrifices, and let the foundations thereof be strongly laid; the height thereof threescore cubits, and the breadth thereof threescore cubits;
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4. Let the dimensions be established (Ezra 6:3In the first year of Cyrus the king the same Cyrus the king made a decree concerning the house of God at Jerusalem, Let the house be builded, the place where they offered sacrifices, and let the foundations thereof be strongly laid; the height thereof threescore cubits, and the breadth thereof threescore cubits;
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1. 60 cubits (90 feet) high
2. 60 cubits (90 feet) wide
5. Let the materials be placed (Ezra 6:4With three rows of great stones, and a row of new timber: and let the expenses be given out of the king's house:
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1. Three rows of stones
2. One row of new timber
6. Let the expenses be paid out of the king’s house (Ezra 6:4With three rows of great stones, and a row of new timber: and let the expenses be given out of the king's house:
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2. Concerning the vessels (Ezra 6:5And also let the golden and silver vessels of the house of God, which Nebuchadnezzar took forth out of the temple which is at Jerusalem, and brought unto Babylon, be restored, and brought again unto the temple which is at Jerusalem, every one to his place, and place them in the house of God.
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1. Let them be returned to Jerusalem
2. Let them be placed in the house of God
2. The Decree of Darius (Ezra 6:6-12 [6] Now therefore, Tatnai, governor beyond the river, Shetharboznai, and your companions the Apharsachites, which are beyond the river, be ye far from thence: [7] Let the work of this house of God alone; let the governor of the Jews and the elders of the Jews build this house of God in his place. [8] Moreover I make a decree what ye shall do to the elders of these Jews for the building of this house of God: that of the king's goods, even of the tribute beyond the river, forthwith expenses be given unto these men, that they be not hindered. [9] And that which they have need of, both young bullocks, and rams, and lambs, for the burnt offerings of the God of heaven, wheat, salt, wine, and oil, according to the appointment of the priests which are at Jerusalem, let it be given them day by day without fail: [10] That they may offer sacrifices of sweet savours unto the God of heaven, and pray for the life of the king, and of his sons. [11] Also I have made a decree, that whosoever shall alter this word, let timber be pulled down from his house, and being set up, let him be hanged thereon; and let his house be made a dunghill for this. [12] And the God that hath caused his name to dwell there destroy all kings and people, that shall put to their hand to alter and to destroy this house of God which is at Jerusalem. I Darius have made a decree; let it be done with speed.
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1. Permission to build (Ezra 6:6-7 [6] Now therefore, Tatnai, governor beyond the river, Shetharboznai, and your companions the Apharsachites, which are beyond the river, be ye far from thence: [7] Let the work of this house of God alone; let the governor of the Jews and the elders of the Jews build this house of God in his place.
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1. Leave the work on the house of God alone
2. Allow the Jews to rebuild this house of God in his place
2. Assistance in building (Ezra 6:8-10 [8] Moreover I make a decree what ye shall do to the elders of these Jews for the building of this house of God: that of the king's goods, even of the tribute beyond the river, forthwith expenses be given unto these men, that they be not hindered. [9] And that which they have need of, both young bullocks, and rams, and lambs, for the burnt offerings of the God of heaven, wheat, salt, wine, and oil, according to the appointment of the priests which are at Jerusalem, let it be given them day by day without fail: [10] That they may offer sacrifices of sweet savours unto the God of heaven, and pray for the life of the king, and of his sons.
   See All...; Haggai 2:8The silver is mine, and the gold is mine, saith the LORD of hosts.
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1. Pay the expenses of the king’s tribute (Ezra 6:8Moreover I make a decree what ye shall do to the elders of these Jews for the building of this house of God: that of the king's goods, even of the tribute beyond the river, forthwith expenses be given unto these men, that they be not hindered.
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2. Provide the animals and supplies for the sacrifices (Ezra 6:9And that which they have need of, both young bullocks, and rams, and lambs, for the burnt offerings of the God of heaven, wheat, salt, wine, and oil, according to the appointment of the priests which are at Jerusalem, let it be given them day by day without fail:
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3. Offer the sacrifices unto the God of heaven (Ezra 6:10That they may offer sacrifices of sweet savours unto the God of heaven, and pray for the life of the king, and of his sons.
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4. Pray for the life of the king and his sons (Ezra 6:10That they may offer sacrifices of sweet savours unto the God of heaven, and pray for the life of the king, and of his sons.
   See All...; 1 Timothy 2:1-2 [1] I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; [2] For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.
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1. This request was made in the second year of the reign of Darius (Ezra 4:24Then ceased the work of the house of God which is at Jerusalem. So it ceased unto the second year of the reign of Darius king of Persia.
   See All...); according to history, Darius reigned as king of Persia for approximately 36 years. This prayer was evidently answered.
2. The son of Darius was Xerxes I. He reigned for 21 years after the death of his father.
3. Punishment for offenders (Ezra 6:11-12 [11] Also I have made a decree, that whosoever shall alter this word, let timber be pulled down from his house, and being set up, let him be hanged thereon; and let his house be made a dunghill for this. [12] And the God that hath caused his name to dwell there destroy all kings and people, that shall put to their hand to alter and to destroy this house of God which is at Jerusalem. I Darius have made a decree; let it be done with speed.
   See All...; Ezra 7:26And whosoever will not do the law of thy God, and the law of the king, let judgment be executed speedily upon him, whether it be unto death, or to banishment, or to confiscation of goods, or to imprisonment.
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1. The word of the king not to be altered (Ezra 6:11Also I have made a decree, that whosoever shall alter this word, let timber be pulled down from his house, and being set up, let him be hanged thereon; and let his house be made a dunghill for this.
   See All...); compare this to the word of the King of Kings (Deuteronomy 4:2Ye shall not add unto the word which I command you, neither shall ye diminish ought from it, that ye may keep the commandments of the LORD your God which I command you.
   See All...; Proverbs 30:6Add thou not unto his words, lest he reprove thee, and thou be found a liar.
   See All...; Revelation 22:17-18 [17] And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely. [18] For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book:
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2. Those who alter the word to be destroyed (Ezra 6:11Also I have made a decree, that whosoever shall alter this word, let timber be pulled down from his house, and being set up, let him be hanged thereon; and let his house be made a dunghill for this.
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1. Timber to be pulled from his house
2. He to be hung on the destroyed beams
3. The house to be made a dunghill
3. The same warning given to kings or peoples who would destroy this house (Ezra 6:12And the God that hath caused his name to dwell there destroy all kings and people, that shall put to their hand to alter and to destroy this house of God which is at Jerusalem. I Darius have made a decree; let it be done with speed.
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4. Let is be done with speed (Ezra 6:12And the God that hath caused his name to dwell there destroy all kings and people, that shall put to their hand to alter and to destroy this house of God which is at Jerusalem. I Darius have made a decree; let it be done with speed.
   See All...; Genesis 18:5-8 [5] And I will fetch a morsel of bread, and comfort ye your hearts; after that ye shall pass on: for therefore are ye come to your servant. And they said, So do, as thou hast said. [6] And Abraham hastened into the tent unto Sarah, and said, Make ready quickly three measures of fine meal, knead it, and make cakes upon the hearth. [7] And Abraham ran unto the herd, and fetcht a calf tender and good, and gave it unto a young man; and he hasted to dress it. [8] And he took butter, and milk, and the calf which he had dressed, and set it before them; and he stood by them under the tree, and they did eat.
   See All...; Genesis 24:18-20 [18] And she said, Drink, my lord: and she hasted, and let down her pitcher upon her hand, and gave him drink. [19] And when she had done giving him drink, she said, I will draw water for thy camels also, until they have done drinking. [20] And she hasted, and emptied her pitcher into the trough, and ran again unto the well to draw water, and drew for all his camels.
   See All...; Exodus 12:11And thus shall ye eat it; with your loins girded, your shoes on your feet, and your staff in your hand; and ye shall eat it in haste: it is the LORD's passover.
   See All...; 1 Samuel 21:8And David said unto Ahimelech, And is there not here under thine hand spear or sword? for I have neither brought my sword nor my weapons with me, because the king's business required haste.
   See All...; 2 Samuel 17:16Now therefore send quickly, and tell David, saying, Lodge not this night in the plains of the wilderness, but speedily pass over; lest the king be swallowed up, and all the people that are with him.
   See All...; Acts 17:15And they that conducted Paul brought him unto Athens: and receiving a commandment unto Silas and Timotheus for to come to him with all speed, they departed.
   See All...); God’s work sometimes requires haste and must be done speedily
3. ACHIEVING VICTORY (Ezra 6:13-22 [13] Then Tatnai, governor on this side the river, Shetharboznai, and their companions, according to that which Darius the king had sent, so they did speedily. [14] And the elders of the Jews builded, and they prospered through the prophesying of Haggai the prophet and Zechariah the son of Iddo. And they builded, and finished it, according to the commandment of the God of Israel, and according to the commandment of Cyrus, and Darius, and Artaxerxes king of Persia. [15] And this house was finished on the third day of the month Adar, which was in the sixth year of the reign of Darius the king. [16] And the children of Israel, the priests, and the Levites, and the rest of the children of the captivity, kept the dedication of this house of God with joy. [17] And offered at the dedication of this house of God an hundred bullocks, two hundred rams, four hundred lambs; and for a sin offering for all Israel, twelve he goats, according to the number of the tribes of Israel. [18] And they set the priests in their divisions, and the Levites in their courses, for the service of God, which is at Jerusalem; as it is written in the book of Moses. [19] And the children of the captivity kept the passover upon the fourteenth day of the first month. [20] For the priests and the Levites were purified together, all of them were pure, and killed the passover for all the children of the captivity, and for their brethren the priests, and for themselves. [21] And the children of Israel, which were come again out of captivity, and all such as had separated themselves unto them from the filthiness of the heathen of the land, to seek the LORD God of Israel, did eat, [22] And kept the feast of unleavened bread seven days with joy: for the LORD had made them joyful, and turned the heart of the king of Assyria unto them, to strengthen their hands in the work of the house of God, the God of Israel.
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1. The Temple Finished (Ezra 6:13-15 [13] Then Tatnai, governor on this side the river, Shetharboznai, and their companions, according to that which Darius the king had sent, so they did speedily. [14] And the elders of the Jews builded, and they prospered through the prophesying of Haggai the prophet and Zechariah the son of Iddo. And they builded, and finished it, according to the commandment of the God of Israel, and according to the commandment of Cyrus, and Darius, and Artaxerxes king of Persia. [15] And this house was finished on the third day of the month Adar, which was in the sixth year of the reign of Darius the king.
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1. The obedience of Tatnai (Ezra 6:13Then Tatnai, governor on this side the river, Shetharboznai, and their companions, according to that which Darius the king had sent, so they did speedily.
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2. The prosperity of the people (Ezra 6:14And the elders of the Jews builded, and they prospered through the prophesying of Haggai the prophet and Zechariah the son of Iddo. And they builded, and finished it, according to the commandment of the God of Israel, and according to the commandment of Cyrus, and Darius, and Artaxerxes king of Persia.
   See All...; Haggai 2:19Is the seed yet in the barn? yea, as yet the vine, and the fig tree, and the pomegranate, and the olive tree, hath not brought forth: from this day will I bless you.
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1. They prospered through the prophesying
2. They built and finished the temple
3. The completion of God’s house (Ezra 6:15And this house was finished on the third day of the month Adar, which was in the sixth year of the reign of Darius the king.
   See All...; Zechariah 4:9The hands of Zerubbabel have laid the foundation of this house; his hands shall also finish it; and thou shalt know that the LORD of hosts hath sent me unto you.
   See All...); took four more years after restarting
2. The Temple Dedicated (Ezra 6:16-18 [16] And the children of Israel, the priests, and the Levites, and the rest of the children of the captivity, kept the dedication of this house of God with joy. [17] And offered at the dedication of this house of God an hundred bullocks, two hundred rams, four hundred lambs; and for a sin offering for all Israel, twelve he goats, according to the number of the tribes of Israel. [18] And they set the priests in their divisions, and the Levites in their courses, for the service of God, which is at Jerusalem; as it is written in the book of Moses.
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1. The joy of the dedication (Ezra 6:16And the children of Israel, the priests, and the Levites, and the rest of the children of the captivity, kept the dedication of this house of God with joy.
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2. The offerings of the dedication (Ezra 6:17And offered at the dedication of this house of God an hundred bullocks, two hundred rams, four hundred lambs; and for a sin offering for all Israel, twelve he goats, according to the number of the tribes of Israel.
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3. The organizing of the priests (Ezra 6:18And they set the priests in their divisions, and the Levites in their courses, for the service of God, which is at Jerusalem; as it is written in the book of Moses.
   See All...; 1 Chronicles 24:1-4 [1] Now these are the divisions of the sons of Aaron. The sons of Aaron; Nadab, and Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar. [2] But Nadab and Abihu died before their father, and had no children: therefore Eleazar and Ithamar executed the priest's office. [3] And David distributed them, both Zadok of the sons of Eleazar, and Ahimelech of the sons of Ithamar, according to their offices in their service. [4] And there were more chief men found of the sons of Eleazar than of the sons of Ithamar, and thus were they divided. Among the sons of Eleazar there were sixteen chief men of the house of their fathers, and eight among the sons of Ithamar according to the house of their fathers.
   See All..., 19; Luke 1:5There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judaea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the course of Abia: and his wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elisabeth.
   See All..., 8-9)
3. The Passover Kept (Ezra 6:19-22 [19] And the children of the captivity kept the passover upon the fourteenth day of the first month. [20] For the priests and the Levites were purified together, all of them were pure, and killed the passover for all the children of the captivity, and for their brethren the priests, and for themselves. [21] And the children of Israel, which were come again out of captivity, and all such as had separated themselves unto them from the filthiness of the heathen of the land, to seek the LORD God of Israel, did eat, [22] And kept the feast of unleavened bread seven days with joy: for the LORD had made them joyful, and turned the heart of the king of Assyria unto them, to strengthen their hands in the work of the house of God, the God of Israel.
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1. The purification of the priests and Levites (Ezra 6:19-20 [19] And the children of the captivity kept the passover upon the fourteenth day of the first month. [20] For the priests and the Levites were purified together, all of them were pure, and killed the passover for all the children of the captivity, and for their brethren the priests, and for themselves.
   See All...; 1 Peter 4:17For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?
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2. The purification of the people (Ezra 6:21And the children of Israel, which were come again out of captivity, and all such as had separated themselves unto them from the filthiness of the heathen of the land, to seek the LORD God of Israel, did eat,
   See All...; 2 Corinthians 7:1Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.
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3. The joy of the feast of unleavened bread (Ezra 6:22And kept the feast of unleavened bread seven days with joy: for the LORD had made them joyful, and turned the heart of the king of Assyria unto them, to strengthen their hands in the work of the house of God, the God of Israel.
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Conclusion: Because of their obedience and determination, God took the opposition and turned it into a great blessing. The finished work brought much joy. If only we would learn to finish what God has told us to do.

Memory Verses:

Psalm 33:18Behold, the eye of the LORD is upon them that fear him, upon them that hope in his mercy;
See All... Behold, the eye of the LORD is upon them that fear him, upon them that hope in his mercy;

Romans 16:3Greet Priscilla and Aquila my helpers in Christ Jesus:
See All... Greet Priscilla and Aquila my helpers in Christ Jesus:

Ezra 6:7Let the work of this house of God alone; let the governor of the Jews and the elders of the Jews build this house of God in his place.
See All... Let the work of this house of God alone; let the governor of the Jews and the elders of the Jews build this house of God in his place.