Ezra 3:3 – “Despite their fear of the peoples around them, they built the altar on its foundation and sacrificed burnt offerings on it to the Lord, both the morning and evening sacrifices.”

Extended Explanation of the Verse

Ezra 3:3 shows a powerful moment of faith and commitment among the Israelites as they rebuild the altar in Jerusalem after returning from exile. Even though they were surrounded by hostile groups who opposed their presence and feared retaliation, they pressed on. The verse highlights their obedience and dedication to God despite the fear they felt. They re-established the practice of offering sacrifices as commanded in the Law of Moses, ensuring that they kept their worship of God at the center of their lives. Their actions show courage and trust in God’s protection and provision, even in the face of external threats.

Historical Context

The Israelites had just returned from decades of exile in Babylon. Under the decree of the Persian King Cyrus, they were allowed to go back to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple. However, their homeland was not empty when they returned. Various other peoples had settled in the land during their absence, and these groups were not happy to see the Israelites coming back. They feared that the Israelites would reclaim the land and upset the balance of power. This led to threats and intimidation against the Israelites. Despite this, the Israelites built the altar, making it clear that worshiping God and following His commands was their top priority.

Theological Implications

Ezra 3:3 carries deep theological significance, showing the importance of worship, obedience, and trust in God. First, it emphasizes that worship is central to a believer’s life, even when circumstances are difficult or dangerous. The Israelites understood that their relationship with God was essential, so they didn’t let fear stop them from worshiping Him. Secondly, the verse points to the idea that obedience to God is often met with opposition. The Israelites faced resistance from the surrounding peoples, but their fear of God outweighed their fear of man. Lastly, the burnt offerings they made represent the need for atonement and reconciliation with God, themes that are foundational to Christian theology.

Literary Analysis

This verse is part of the broader narrative of the return from exile and the rebuilding of Jerusalem. The phrase “despite their fear of the peoples around them” sets the stage for the spiritual tension that the Israelites faced: they had returned home, but they were not yet safe. The mention of both “morning and evening sacrifices” indicates their total commitment to restoring the worship practices outlined in the Law. This daily rhythm of worship was a key aspect of their faithfulness, despite external pressures. The passage demonstrates a recurring biblical theme: faithfulness to God in the face of opposition.

Biblical Cross-References

• Numbers 28:3-4: Outlines the instructions for the daily morning and evening sacrifices, which the Israelites resumed in this verse.
• Joshua 1:9: “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” This echoes the courage the Israelites showed despite their fear.
• Psalm 27:1: “The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear?” This verse reflects the trust in God’s protection the Israelites displayed in Ezra 3:3.
• Nehemiah 4:14: Later, Nehemiah encourages the Israelites not to be afraid of their enemies but to remember the Lord, showing that fear and opposition continued as they rebuilt.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For Christians today, Ezra 3:3 is a powerful reminder that fear should not stop us from worshiping and obeying God. Just like the Israelites who were surrounded by enemies, we may face pressures or opposition in our own lives, whether from cultural forces, personal challenges, or external threats. However, our response should be like theirs—building our “altars” of worship and devotion to God, even when we’re afraid. This verse also speaks to the need for consistent, faithful practices of worship and devotion, like the morning and evening sacrifices, which could be mirrored today by regular prayer, Bible study, and community worship.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

Ezra 3:3 shows God’s loving nature in a few ways. First, the fact that He brought the Israelites back from exile reflects His mercy and faithfulness. Though they had been punished for their disobedience, He didn’t abandon them. His love made a way for their restoration. Additionally, even though the Israelites were surrounded by hostile groups, God protected them as they rebuilt the altar and resumed their worship. His love is also seen in the fact that He accepts their sacrifices as a means for them to reconcile with Him. God desires a relationship with His people, even when they are surrounded by opposition and fear.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Ezra 3:3 points to Jesus Christ in several ways. The altar and the sacrifices offered by the Israelites foreshadow the ultimate sacrifice that Jesus would make on the cross. Just as the Israelites made burnt offerings to atone for their sins, Jesus offered Himself as the perfect, final sacrifice for all of humanity (Hebrews 10:10). The courage of the Israelites in the face of fear also points to Jesus, who, despite the opposition He faced, remained obedient to the Father’s will—even to the point of death (Philippians 2:8). Additionally, Jesus is the ultimate fulfillment of the temple and the sacrificial system, as He is the way through which we have direct access to God (John 14:6).

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. What fears or opposition do you face in your life that challenge your faith? How does this verse encourage you to overcome them?
2. How can we establish “altars” of worship and devotion in our daily lives, even in the midst of difficult circumstances?
3. In what ways does this passage demonstrate the importance of obedience to God, even when it’s difficult or dangerous?
4. How does the idea of sacrifice in this verse connect to the sacrifice Jesus made for us on the cross?
5. What can we learn from the Israelites’ example of faith and commitment, and how can we apply that to our walk with God today?

Ezra 3:3 challenges us to stand firm in our faith and worship, no matter what opposition we may face, trusting that God is with us just as He was with the Israelites.