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Esther, Ezra and Nehemiah: Persian Period and Restoration

  1. Lesson One
    Diaspora Stories (Esther 1–7)
    16 Activities
  2. Lesson Two
    Overview of Esther (Esther 8–10)
    14 Activities
  3. Lesson Three
    The Character of Esther (Esther Review)
    14 Activities
  4. Lesson Four
    Ezra
    15 Activities
  5. Lesson Five
    Nehemiah
    17 Activities
  6. Course Wrap-Up
    Course Completion
    1 Activity
    |
    1 Assessment

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Grab your Workbook Journal!

[Record your answers in the workbook provided at the beginning of this course.]

In chapter 7, we are finally introduced to Ezra. Let’s read his introduction.

  1. What can we learn about Ezra from this chapter? Record your observations in your workbook.
Introducing Ezra

We are formally introduced to Ezra in chapter 7. He’s described as “a teacher well versed in the Law of Moses, which the LORD, the God of Israel, had given” (7:6 NIV).

In Ezra 7:10 we find that “Ezra had devoted himself to the study and observance of the Law of the LORD, and to teaching its decrees and laws in Israel” (NIV).

Ezra was a highly-trained intellectual who likely spent years honing his interpretive skills. However, we also see that there was a practical side to Ezra. We shouldn’t understand him as an ivory-tower academic. Ezra 7:10 reveals that his devotion to the Scriptures (i.e., the Law of the LORD) was no mere intellectual pursuit. His pursuits sought to produce action as well as the edification and education of God’s people. He set his heart to the Law . . . to do it . . . to teach it.

These convictions surely fostered boldness and conviction, qualities that would serve the community well.