Ezra Commentaries

Walter Adeney
Commentary on Ezra
Expositor's Bible Commentary
1900

Cyril J. Barber - This set, originally published in 1903, contains expositions by both conservative and liberal theologians. The most important works are by Dod (Genesis), Chadwick (Exodus and Mark), Kellogg (Leviticus), Blaikie (Joshua, I and II Samuel), Adeney (Ezra, Nehemiah and Esther), Maclaren (Psalms), Moule (Romans), Findlay (Galatians and Ephesians), Plummer (Pastoral Epistles and the Epistles of James and Jude), and Milligan (Revelation.)

Warren W. Wiersbe - If you can locate the six-volume edition of the Expositor’s Bible, buy it immediately! It takes up less space than the original fifty-volume set, and not everything in the original set is worth owning. Samuel H. Kellogg on Leviticus is a classic; so is Alexander Maclaren on the Psalms and on Colossians.

Ezra and Nehemiah

Ezra 1:1 - Cyrus

Ezra 1:2-4, 7-11 The Royal Edict

Ezra 2:1-67 The Second Exodus

Ezra 2:68-Ezra 3 - The New Temple

Ezra 3 - The New Temple

Ezra 4:1-5, 24 The Limits of Comprehension

Ezra 4:6-23 The Cost of an Idealist's Success

Ezra 5:1-2 Zechariah the Prophet; The Mission of Prophecy

Ezra 5:3-6:5 New Difficulties Met in a New Spirit

Ezra 6:6-22 The Dedication of the Temple

Ezra 7:1-10 Ezra the Scribe

Ezra 7:11-Ezra 8 - Ezra's Expedition

Ezra 9 Foreign Marriages

Ezra 10 The Home Sacrificed to the Church

Brian Bell
Notes on Ezra
Calvary Chapel
Murrieta

Albert Barnes
Barnes' Notes on the Whole Bible
Ezra
Introduction

Biblical Illustrator
Ezra
Introduction

A. Phillip Brown
A Literary and Theological Analysis of the Book of Ezra

Has some nice charts, timelines and tables with extensive reference notes. Excellent background material if you are preaching, teaching or studying the Book of Ezra!

Introduction to A Literary and Theological Analysis of the Book of Ezra

Ezra 1 Temporal Ordering In Ezra Part I

Ezra 2 Temporal Ordering In Ezra Part II

Ezra 3 An Analysis Of Plot In Ezra

Ezra 4 An Analysis of Point of View in Ezra

Ezra 5 Yahweh: God of Israel, God of Heaven and Earth

Ezra 6 Holiness in Ezra Separated Fr Uncleanness and Seeking the Lord

Ezra 7 Continuity With The Past And Hope For The Future

Ezra 8 A Reader’s Guide to the Theological Message of Ezra

Conclusion to A Literary and Theological Analysis of the Book of Ezra

References To God In Ezra

Selected Bibliography for the Book of Ezra

Rich Cathers
Calvary Chapel
Fullerton, Ca

Notes on Ezra

Ezra 1-3

Ezra 3:8-13

Ezra 4-6

Ezra 5:1-2

Ezra 7-10

Ezra 7:9-10

Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges
Commentary on Ezra

Adam Clarke
Commentary on Ezra

Click for brief critique

Steven Cole
Sermon Series on the Book of Ezra
Over 100 Pages of Expositional Sermons
Functions much like a Commentary
Highly Recommended

Ezra 1:1-11 God's Way Of Renewal

Ezra 2:1-70 Lessons From A List (God's Faithfulness)

Ezra 3:1-13 A New Beginning With God (Renewal) (Valley of Vision)

Ezra 4:1-24 Spiritual Setbacks (Perseverance)

Ezra 5:1-39 Overcoming Discouragement

Ezra 6:1-22 God, the Cause of our Joy

Ezra 7:1-28 The Life that God Blesses

Ezra 8:1-36 The Work that God Blesses

Ezra 9:1-15 The Godly Reaction to Sin

Ezra 10:1-44 Genuine Repentance

Commentary on Ezra
Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible
Robert Jamieson, A. R. Fausset and David Brown
Published 1871

See also Unabridged version of Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible

Thomas Constable
Commentary on Ezra
Well done, Brief Conservative notes

HINT: Click here to Scroll Bible text synchronized with Constable's notes. Very useful feature!

Note: Commentary does not include introduction with can be found here.

Ron Daniel
Notes on Ezra

Ezra 1-2

Ezra 3:1-9

Ezra 3:10-13

Ezra 4:1-24

Ezra 5:1-2

Ezra 5:3-6:22

Ezra 7-8

Ezra 9-10

Dale Ralph Davis
Ezra-Nehemiah
Highly Recommended

Rosscup has these comments on Davis' exposition of the Book of Joshua: Former Professor of Old Testament at Reformed Theological Seminary. Davis furnishes evangelical material to help preachers blend sound exegesis, theological substance, interesting exposition and practical application....The studies are not on every verse but key portions out of each chapter, done in a very readable style...(that) preachers or lay people can enjoy...(with) many ideas to provoke sermons and point to application. (Commentaries for Biblical Expositors: An annotated bibliography of selected works)

Keith Mathison in his review of best commentaries on Judges makes general comments that would apply to his short commentary on Nehemiah - “If you can only have one commentary on the historical books, get the commentaries by Davis. There are other commentaries that go into more detail on technical issues (see below), but Davis provides what most Christian readers of these books need — a concise and readable explanation of the text that sets each book within the larger context of biblical redemptive history all without ever becoming boring or trite. This commentary (referring to Davis' commentary on Judges), like the others, is also very practical, but it avoids the kind of moralizing exposition that rips passages out of context in order to make some vague inspirational point.” (Keith Mathison - Ligonier Ministries Blog)

Richard Pratt - “There is no more gifted expositor of the Old Testament in our day than Ralph Davis.”

Derek Thomas - “Dale Ralph Davis is among the finest expositors of the Old Testament alive today. His style is unique and his content infectious. A pastor at heart, his insights are always governed by an absolute loyalty to the text, a belief that the Bible was written for today as much as yesterday, and a desire to encourage his readers to fall in love with Scripture and to trust it.”

Ezra-Nehemiah Commentary - the complete 80 page Pdf (below you will find the same Pdf in its separate parts and also in HTML)

Ezra 1:1-11 Introduction; God Moves History for his People Webpage, Word, PDF

Ezra 2:1-70 What You Can Discover on the Church Roll Webpage, Word, PDF

Ezra 3:1-13 God's People in Gray Times Webpage, Word, PDF

Ezra 4:1-24 No Surprises, or "Let the Troubles Begin" Webpage, Word, PDF

Ezra 5:1-6:22 God is the Ruler Yet Webpage, Word, PDF

Ezra 7:1-8:36 The Strong Hand Webpage, Word, PDF

Ezra 9:1-15 Trouble in Covenant City, part 1 Webpage, Word, PDF

Ezra 10:1-44 Trouble in Covenant City, part 2 Webpage, Word, PDF

Debriefing (Summary of Ezra & Nehemiah): Webpage, Word, PDF

Nehemiah 1:1-11 Prayer in the Palace Webpage, Word, PDF (Same material as Pdf above)

Nehemiah 2:1-20 From Court to City Webpage, Word, PDF

Nehemiah 3:1-32 Blessed Builders Webpage, Word, PDF

Nehemiah 4:1-23 Thru Many Dangers, Toils & Snares, pt 1:Threats against God's Work Webpage, Word, PDF

Nehemiah 5:1-6:19 Through Many Dangers, Toils and Snares, part 2 Webpage, Word, PDF

Nehemiah 7:1-73 Reformation Days, part 1 Webpage, Word, PDF

Nehemiah 8:1-18 Reformation Days, part 2 Webpage, Word, PDF

Nehemiah 9:1-38 Reformation Days, part 3 Webpage, Word, PDF

Nehemiah 10:1-39 Reformation Days, part 4 Webpage, Word, PDF

Nehemiah 11:1-12:26 The Work of Consolidation, part 1 Webpage, Word, PDF

Nehemiah 12:27-13:3 The Work of Consolidation, part 2 Webpage, Word, PDF

Nehemiah 13:4-31 Is Reformation an Event or a Process? Ongoing Perils of the Church Webpage, Word, PDF

Debriefing (Summary of Ezra & Nehemiah): Webpage, Word, PDF

Here is a sample excerpt from Davis' comments on Ezra 7:10 - Design (Ezra 7:10) Note the initial ki (for, because) in the Hebrew text. It explains why the good hand of his God was upon him (Ezra 7:9). God prospered the venture because of Ezra’s purpose. This then is a warning against sloth and carelessness, and a sloppy view of grace. The subject comes before the verb in the Hebrew text, so there is some stress on “Ezra.” On “setting the heart,” the Hiphil of kun plus leb, see Psalm 78:8; 2Chr 12:14; 20:33 (all negative); and 1Sa 7:3; 2Chr 19:3; 30:19. The language of Ezra 7:10 speaks of a ministry that is focused in its objective (set his heart) and intense in its labor (to seek). It is both anchored and vigorous, not content with a little ministerial piddling. Note that Ezra purposes a total ministry: seek, do, teach; the cognitive, the experiential, and the didactic. Note that there are both academic and existential qualifications before

teaching. The process, ever repeated, is: concentration (seek), consistency (do), communication (teach).

You might also want to listen to Dr Davis' Mp3 messages on Ezra-Nehemiah

Ezra 1 — Ezra 2

Ezra 3

Ezra 4

Ezra 5-6

Ezra 7-8

Ezra 9

Ezra 10

Nehemiah 1

Nehemiah 2

Nehemiah 3

Nehemiah 4

Nehemiah 5-6

Nehemiah 7

Nehemiah 8

Nehemiah 9

Nehemiah 10

Nehemiah 11-12:26

Nehemiah 12:27-13:3

Nehemiah 13:4-31

Nehemiah Summary of Ezra and Nehemiah

Defender's Study Bible
Notes on Ezra
Henry Morris
Note: Click links in right margin for available notes.

Explore the Bible
Teacher Helps on Ezra

Ellicott's Commentary on Ezra
W B Pope

John Gill
Commentary on Ezra

L M Grant
Commentary on Ezra
Preface

Dave Guzik
Commentary on Ezra
Conservative, Evangelical, Millennial Perspective

Robert Hawker
Commentary on Ezra

Ezra 2

Ezra 3

Ezra 4

Ezra 5

Ezra 6

Ezra 7

Ezra 8

Ezra 9

Ezra 10

Michael Hardt
Commentary on Ezra
Lessons From Ezra For believers today

Ezra 2

Ezra 3

Ezra 4

Ezra 5

Ezra 6

Ezra 7

Ezra 8

Ezra 9

Ezra 10

Homiletics on Ezra
Pulpit Commentary

Ezra 2

Ezra 3

Ezra 4

Ezra 5

Ezra 6

Ezra 7

Ezra 8

Ezra 9

Ezra 10

Hymns Relating to Ezra
Click here, scroll down, click specific book

Keil and Delitzsch Commentary
on Ezra
Introduction

William Kelly Commentary
on Ezra

John Kitto
Pictorial Bible
Ezra
1855

Ezra 2

Ezra 3

Ezra 4

Ezra 5

Ezra 6

Ezra 7

Ezra 8

Ezra 9

Ezra 10

Paul E. Kretzmann
Commentary
Ezra

Ezra 2

Ezra 3

Ezra 4

Ezra 5

Ezra 6

Ezra 7

Ezra 8

Ezra 9

Ezra 10

Lange's Commentary
Ezra
F. W. Schultz

Matthew Henry's
Commentary on Ezra
(1706)

Alexander Maclaren
Sermons on Ezra

J Vernon McGee
Commentary on Ezra
Thru the Bible
Mp3's Only
Right click and select "Save Target As" (to Desktop, Ipod, etc)

F B Meyer
Our Daily Homily

F. B. Meyer
Through the Bible' Commentary

Miscellaneous
Resources on Ezra
Conservative, Evangelical

The Theological Journal Library on galaxie.com

An annual $50 or monthly $5 subscription (click here) is required to view the entire article but will give you access to literally thousands of conservative articles. Click the following links to search by topic, author, or bible reference.

The Pattern of Biblical Preaching- An Expository Study of Ezra 7-10 and Nehemiah 8-1-18 -- By- Steven J. Lawson

Russell T. Fuller, "Ezra: The Teacher of God’s Word and Agent of Revival," Southern Baptist Journal of Theology 9.3 (Autumn 2005): 52-61. - Excellent Discussion

Stephen Dray, "Ezra: an Applied Overview," Evangel 24.2 (Summer 2006): If you are going to preach through Ezra check out this resource

H. L. Ellison, From Babylon to Bethlehem. The People of God from the Exile to the Messiah. Exeter: The Paternoster Press, Ltd., 1976. Pbk. ISBN: 0853641900. pp.41-54

P. Richard Choi, "The Intra-Jewish dialogue in 4 Ezra 3:1-9:25," Andrews University Seminary Studies 41.2 (Autumn 2003): 237-254

Leslie McFall, "Was Nehemiah contemporary with Ezra in 458 BC," Westminster Theological Journal 53.2 (Fall 1991): 263-293

Ezra’s Ethics on Intermarriage and Divorce -- By: William R. Eichhorst

A Philip Brown II - Temporal Ordering In Ezra- Part II - Bible.org

A Chronological and Literary Harmony of Ezra & Nehemiah - Time Chart:

H. G. M. Williamson, "Ezra and Nehemiah in the Light of the Texts from Persepolis," Bulletin for Biblical Research 1 (1991): 41-61

J. Stafford Wright, The Date of Ezra's Coming to Jerusalem, 1947. London: The Tyndale Press, 1958. pp.32.

J. Stafford Wright, The Building of the Second Temple. London: The Tyndale Press, 1958. pp.20.

Edwin M. Yamauchi, "The reverse order of Ezra/Nehemiah Reconsidered," Themelios 5.3 (1980): 7-13

SERMONS, DEVOTIONALS,
OUTLINES, etc
EZRA

Ezra - Bible Study Old Testament - Powerpoints

The Big Idea: Ezra - nice 36 slide power point (check it out)

Pete's PP - FREE Presentations K-12 Teachers and Students

Bible Map - The Return of the Jewish Exiles to Judah (excellent)

From the Intro: Ezra provides an unusually clear and inspiring pattern of expository preaching in his ministry to the people of Judah at the outset of the postexilic period. He models an expositor's commitment "studying, practicing godliness, and teaching" which leads him to perform an expositor's task reading distinctly and explaining the Scriptures. In so doing, he challenges expositors of all generations to handle accurately the Word of truth. (See related article by Richard Mayhue - Rediscovering Expository Preaching)

• Ezra, Book of

• Ezra - Holman Bible Dictionary

• Ezra - Fausset's Bible Dictionary

• Ezra -Theology of - Baker's Evangelical Dictionary of Biblical Theology

• Ezra - Hastings Dictionary

The Temple--It's Ministry and Services - Chapter 4 (scroll down to section subtitled "The Courses After the Captivity" for mentions of Ezra)

Table of Contents of The Temple--Its Ministry and Services

Sermons and articles on Ezra - a cornucopia of material including suggestions for a sermon series

Holman Christian Standard Bible Study Bible - Nice study notes but you need to open a free account. They are a bit difficult to locate but once you find them, you will find that although they are brief and not on every verse, they are conservative and often have related word studies.

Ezra - Author, Date, Background, Setting, Historical, Theological Themes, Interpretative Challenges, Outline - Same Notes found in the MacArthur Study Bible

Outline

I. The First Return under Zerubbabel (Ezra 1:1–6:22)

A. Cyrus’ Decree to Return (Ezra 1:1–4)

B. Treasures to Rebuild the Temple (Ezra 1:5–11)

C. Those Who Returned (Ezra 2:1–70)

D. Construction of the Second Temple (Ezra 3:1–6:22)

1. Building begins (Ezra 3:1–13)

2. Opposition surfaces (Ezra 4:1–5)

3. Excursus on future opposition (Ezra 4:6–23)

4. Construction renewed (Ezra 4:24–5:2)

5. Opposition renewed (Ezra 5:3–6:12)

6. Temple completed and dedicated (Ezra 6:13–22)

II. The Second Return under Ezra (Ezra 7:1–10:44)

A. Ezra Arrives (Ezra 7:1–8:36)

B. Ezra Leads Revival (Ezra 9:1–10:44)

In contrast to Assyrian and Babylonian kings, the Persians had a national policy (no doubt GOD's direction) to repatriate deported people. Thus the way was opened for Israel to return to her land.

The first step in re-establishing the nation was to begin rebuilding the temple and observing national religious feasts. This was wise, and GOD gave joy in this (Ezra 3:1ff).

Opposition inevitably developed when GOD's work began (Ezra 4:1-22). But with the leadership of the patriots and the encouragement of the prophets, Haggai and Zechariah, the work of the temple was completed.

King Artaxerxes (Ezra 7:1) was the stepson of Queen Esther. Some 59 years after the dedication of the temple in Jerusalem, Ezra the priest-scribe led another expedition under the King's favorable commandment (Ezra 7:11-26). Thus Queen Esther may have been responsible under GOD for the impetus given to the work of the restoration. Ezra took with him 1754 men.

The section of Ezra 7-10 shows a period of reform. Ezra found a rather sad situation in Jerusalem. The very thing which GOD had forbidden was happening without restraint; intermarriage with the peoples of the land. Ezra was astounded.

Ezra's prayer is one of the Bible's great ones (Ezra 9:5-15). He confessed the sins of the people and they became deeply moved, promising before GOD to rectify the abuses, especially the unlawful marriages.

The greatest accomplishments of Ezra occurred when GOD sent another great man to aid him, in the person of Nehemiah. Here are two whose gifts beautifully supplemented each other, supplying to each what the other lacked.

The key to Ezra's character is the statement, "For Ezra had prepared his heart to seek the law of the Lord, and do it, and to teach in Israel statutes and judgments" (Ezra 7:10).

KEY TO UNDERSTANDING:

GOD is behind all that happens to the Jew, opening the way, encouraging hearts, giving victories. Yet this captivity was but a sample of the world-wide dispersion that was yet to come. Most of the people of GOD had not learned what GOD was trying to teach.

Ezra Notes - below is an excerpt...

Since the books of Ezra, Nehemiah and Esther are closely connected and deal with the same period, we give here the principal events covered by those books, in order that the student may see at a glance the history of the period following the captivity.

1. The exiles return under Zerubbabel. 536 B. C.

2. The rebuilding of the temple. 535 B. C.

3. The ministry of the prophets Haggai and Zechariah. 520 B. C.

4. The dedication of the temple. 515 B. C.

5. The events related in the book of Esther 478-473 B. C.

6. Ezra visits Jerusalem. 458 B. C.

7. Nehemiah sent to Jerusalem as governor. He rebuilds the wall. 446 B. C.

8. Malachi prophesies.

The Book of Ezra - Title, Author, Timeline, Outline, etc For Example here are John Stevenson's life lessons from the introduction...

LIFE LESSONS

1. The Sovereignty of God.

The Lord is seen to be directing the events of history as He moves pagan kings to do His will (Proverbs 21:1).

2. The Continuing Need for a Land.

God’s plan called for a return of the Jews to the land. They had been taken away as a punishment for their idolatry. They are now brought back so that they might serve Him and worship them in the land. This would be necessary so that the Messiah could be born in Bethlehem.

3. The Grace of God.

God is a God of second chances. He was bringing the people back into the land to give them a second chance to serve Him and to follow Him. They had formerly sinned in their idolatry. Now there is a call to renewed purity.

This is a book of covenant renewal. The people return to their covenant relationship with God and renew their promises to follow Him.

COMMENTARIES
EZRA

Ezra: The Jews return to Jerusalem - Easy English Commentary

Defender's Study Bible - Excellent, conservative, literal study Bible notes from a leading creationist commentator, Dr Henry Morris.

EZRA 1

1. The Proclamation of Cyrus. Ezra 1:1–4.

2. The Response of the Chiefs of Judah and Benjamin. Ezra 1:5–6.

3. The Vessels of the House of the Lord restored. Ezra 1:7–11.

Ezra 1-4 Witnesses for God in Dark and Evil Times

Table of Contents of Witnesses for God In Dark and Evil Times

Ezra 1:1-11 God's Way Of Renewal Recommended

Ezra 1-3 The Restoration (In "Daily Bible Illustrations)

EZRA 2

1. The Leaders. Ezra 2:1–2.

2. The Names of the Returning Exiles. Ezra 2:3–35.

3. The Priests. Ezra 2:36–39.

4. The Levites and Singers. Ezra 2:40.

5. The Porters and Nethinim. Ezra 2:42–54.

6. Solomon’s Servants. Ezra 2:55–58.

7. Those of Doubtful Descent. Ezra 2:59–63.

8. The Number of the Whole Company. Ezra 2:64–67.

9. The Offering of the House of God. Ezra 2:68–70.

Ezra 2:1-70 Lessons From A List Recommended

Ezra 2:1-39 Hall of Fame

Ezra 2:18 The Nethinum

Ezra 2:69 Persian Daric

EZRA 3

Ezra 3 Commentary

1. The Altar Set Up. Ezra 3:1–3.

2. The Feast of Tabernacles Celebrated. Ezra 3:4.

3. The Sacrifices Brought. Ezra 3:5–7.

4. The Foundation of the Temple Laid. Ezra 3:8–13.

Ezra 3:1-13 A New Beginning With God Recommended

Ezra 3:7 Money Tablets

EZRA 4

1. The Offer of the Samaritans Refused. Ezra 4:1–6

2. The Letter to King Artaxerxes. Ezra 4:7–16.

3. The King’s Reply. Ezra 4:17–22.

4. The Work is Stopped. Ezra 4:23–24.

Ezra 4:1-24 Spiritual Setbacks Recommended

EZRA 5

1. The Prophetic Ministry of Haggai and Zechariah. Ezra 5:1.

2. The Result of their Ministry. Ezra 5:2.

3. Tatnai’s Interference. Ezra 5:3–5.

4. The Letter to Darius. Ezra 5:6–17.

Ezra 5-6 Witnesses for God in Dark and Evil Times

Table of Contents of Witnesses for God In Dark and Evil Times

Ezra 5:1-17 Keep on Keeping on

Ezra 5:1-39 Overcoming Discouragement Recommended

EZRA 6

1. The Search of the King and the Result. Ezra 6:1–5.

2. The Command of Darius. Ezra 6:6–12.

3. The King’s Command Obeyed. Ezra 6:13.

4. The House finished. Ezra 6:14–15.

5. The Dedication of the House. Ezra 6:16–18.

6. The Feast of Passover and Unleavened Bread. Ezra 6:19–22.

Ezra 6:1-22 God, the Cause of our Joy Recommended

Ezra 6:1-22 They Finished the Temple

Ezra 6:3 Let the House Be Built

Ezra 6:3-4 Temple of Zerubbabel

Ezra 6:15 Adar

Ezra 6:14 The Subserviency of a Faithful Ministry...

EZRA 7

1. The Journey of Ezra to Jerusalem. Ezra 7:1–10.

2. The Decree of Artaxerxes. Ezra 7:11–26.

3. Ezra’s Thanksgiving. Ezra 7:27–28.

Ezra 7-10 Witnesses for God in Dark and Evil Times

Table of Contents of Witnesses for God In Dark and Evil Times

Ezra 7:1-10 Moving on to Our High Calling

Ezra 7:1-10 Ezra: The Leader

Ezra 7:1-28 The Life that God Blesses Recommended

Ezra 7:10 Why Was the Good Hand of Jehovah on Ezra - in depth -recommended

Ezra 7-9 The Time to Pray

Ezra 7-10 Ezra (In "Daily Bible Illustrations)

EZRA 8

1. Those who Returned with Ezra. Ezra 8:1–14.

2. The Gathering at Ahava. Ezra 8:15–20.

3. The Fast Proclaimed. Ezra 8:21–23.

4. The Appointment of Guardians. Ezra 8:24–30.

5. The Departure and Arrival in Jerusalem. Ezra 8:31–36.

Ezra 8:1-36 The Work that God Blesses Recommended

EZRA 9

1. Ezra’s Astonishment and Grief. Ezra 9:1–4.

2. Ezra’s Confession and Prayer. Ezra 9:5–15.

Ezra 9:1-15 The Godly Reaction to Sin Recommended

Ezra 9:6,10 Words to Winners of Souls: 3 - Past Defects

Ezra 9:5,6 Ezra's Humiliation for the Sins of His People

Ezra 9:13, 14 Use of God's Diversified Dispensations

Ezra 9:8-9 When Bad News Arrives

Ezra 9:8-9 True Revival

EZRA 10

1. The Effect of Ezra’s Prayer on the People. Ezra 10:1–4.

2. Ezra Summons an Assembly. Ezra 10:5–8.

3. The Gathering. Confession and the Evil Judged. Ezra 10:9–17.

4. The Register of those who had Married Strange Women. Ezra 10:18–44.

Ezra 10:1-5 Follow the Leader

Ezra 10:6-44 Spiritual Leadership/Faithful Followership

Ezra 10:1-44 Genuine Repentance Recommended

James Nisbet's
Church Pulpit Commentary
Ezra

Net Bible
Ezra Commentary Notes

Recommended: NETBible notes are in the right panel. You can also select the tab for "Constable's Notes." As you scroll the Bible text in the left panel, the notes are synchronized and will scroll to the same passage. This is a very helpful feature.

Our Daily Bread
Devotional Illustrations on Ezra
RBC Ministries
Updated November 26, 2015

Ezra 1:1-4 The Cyrus Cylinder

Ezra 3:8 Devotional

Ezra 3:1-6 As It Is Written

Ezra 3:8-11 All Generations

Ezra 3:10-13 Joy In The Midst Of Grief

Ezra 3:12 All Generations

Ezra 4:1, 4-5 Rebuilding the Temple

Ezra 4:1-5 Him Only

Ezra 5:5-17 Keep Calm and Carry On

Ezra 7:10 Mom's Translation

Ezra 7:1-10,27-28 Seeing God's Hand

Ezra 7:10 No Appetite

Ezra 8:21-35 Prayer, Work and Praise

Ezra 9:1-10:1 Devotional

Ezra 9:1-5 Pride at the Core

Ezra 9:5-9 Tree of Rest

Ezra 9:5-15 Mom's Translation

Joseph Parker
People's Bible
Ezra

Ezra Introduction

Ezra 1 Cyrus' Proclamation

Ezra 2 Melancholy Records

Ezra 3 Daily Duty

Ezra 4 Builders and Adversaries

Ezra 5

Ezra 6 Prophets and Builders

Ezra 7

Ezra 8

Ezra 9

Ezra 10

Peter Pett
Commentary
Ezra

Matthew Poole
Commentary
Ezra

Preacher's Homiletical
Commentary
Ezra
An Excellent Resource
William Jones
1881
Homiletical Index
Index of Illustrations
Analytical Index

Ezra Introduction

Ezra 1 Exposition (Hint: Scroll down for the homilies in each chapter)

Ezra 1:1 The Fulfilment of the Word of the Lord

Ezra 1:1 Resemblance between the Proclamation of Cyrus and the Gospel

Ezra 1:2-4 The Edict of Cyrus

Ezra 1:1-5 The Proclamation of Cyrus

Ezra 1:3 God with us

Ezra 1:3,5 The Release of the Jews from Babylon an Illustration of the Redemption of Man from Sin

Ezra 1:5-6 The Return of the Exiles

Ezra 1:5-6 The Results of the Captivity

Ezra 1:7-11 The Restoration of the Sacred Vessels

Ezra 2 Exposition

Ezra 2:1-2 Going up out of Captivity

Ezra 2:2 A Suggestive Record

Ezra 2:36-58 Religious Service

Ezra 2:59-63 The Importance of a Clear Spiritual Pedigree

Ezra 2:65-70 Possessions and Offerings

Ezra 3 Exposition

Ezra 3:1-3 The Rebuilding of the Altar: Exemplary Features of Divine Worship

Ezra 3:4-6 The Celebration of the Sacred Festivals Resumed

Ezra 3:4 The Work of the Day done in the Day

Ezra 3:6b-7 The Preparations for Rebuilding the Temple

Ezra 3:8-13 Laying the Foundation of the Temple

Ezra 3:11-13 The Building of the Temple

Ezra 3 The Altar and the Foundation of the Temple

Ezra 4 Exposition

Ezra 4:1-3 The Proposal of the Samaritans to the Jews

Ezra 4:1-3 The Proposals of the Wicked and how to Treat them

Ezra 4:3 The True Builders of the Spiritual Temple of God

Ezra 4:4-5, 24 The Hostility of the Samaritans to the Jews

Ezra 4:6-16 The Antagonism of the World to the Church

Ezra 4:14 Good Cause for Great Zeal

Ezra 4:17-23 The Success of the Subtle Scheme of the Samaritans, or the Temporary Triumph of the Wicked

Ezra 5 Exposition

Ezra 5:1-2 The Great Work Resumed

Ezra 5:3-5 The Great Work Investigated and Continued

Ezra 5:6-17 The Letter to the King concerning the Work

Ezra 5:11 The Supremacy of God

Ezra 5:12 Arguments Against Sinning

Ezra 6 Exposition

Ezra 6:1-5 A Thorough Search and an Important Discovery

Ezra 6:6-12 The Decree of Darius

Ezra 6:4 A Believer's Expenses

Ezra 6:10 The Desire of a Sovereign and the Duty of Subjects

Ezra 6:13-15 The Completion of the Temple

Ezra 6:14 The Subserviency of a Faithful Ministry to the Erection of God's Spiritual Temple

Ezra 6:16-18 The Dedication of the Temple

Ezra 6:19-22 The Celebration of the Passover

Ezra 6:16-22 The Dedication of the Second Temple

Ezra 6 (Outline of Entire Chapter) The Dedication of the Temple

Ezra 7 Exposition

Ezra 7:1-10 Ezra the Distinguished

Ezra 7:10 Studying, Practising, and Teaching the Sacred Scriptures

Ezra 7:10 The Christian Ministry

Ezra 7:10 Divine Sequence

Ezra 7:11-26 The Commission of Artaxerxes to Ezra

Ezra 7:23 Reasons for Active Devotedness to the Cause of God

Ezra 7:23 The Decree of Artaxerxes

Ezra 7:27-28 Exemplary Praise

Ezra 8 Exposition

Ezra 8:1-20 The Assembly at Ahava

Ezra 8:1-20 The Companions of Ezra on His Journey to Jerusalem

Ezra 8:18 Men of understanding

Ezra 8:21-23 Ezra's Confidence in God

Ezra 8:21-23 Faith and Prudence

Ezra 8:21-23 Ezra and His Times

Ezra 8:21-23 Ezra an Example in Business

Ezra 8:22 Contrasts

Ezra 8:22 Seeking the Lord and its Advantages

Ezra 8:24-30 The Guardianship of the Sacred Treasures

Ezra 8:31-32 From Ahava to Jerusalem: An Illustration of the Pilgrimage of the Christian

Ezra 8:33-36 At Jerusalem: The Faithful Surrender of Important Trusts

Ezra 9 Exposition

Ezra 9:1-4 The Good Man's Sorrow Over the People's Sin

Ezra 9:5-15 The Good Man's Confession of the People's Sin

Ezra 9:5-6 Ezra's Humiliation for the Sins of His People

Ezra 9:8 Ezra's Address

Ezra 9:12 Forbidden Marriages

Ezra 9:13-14 Use of God's Diversified Dispensations

Ezra 10 Exposition

Ezra 10:1-25 The Reformation Proposed

Ezra 10:4 True Loyalty

Ezra 10:6-12 The Reformation Decided Upon

Ezra 10:9 A Great and Troubled Assembly

Ezra 10:13-17 The Reformation Effected

Ezra 10:18-44 The List of Offenders

Pulpit Commentary
Ezra
Exposition and Homilies
The Pulpit Commentary Homiletical Index

Ezra Introduction

Ezra 1:1-11 Exposition (Hint: Scroll down for the homilies in each chapter)

Ezra 1:1 The Crisis

Ezra 1:2-4 The Edict

Ezra 1:1 The Sovereignty of God

Ezra 1:1-4, 7-11 The Wide Reach of the Rule of God

Ezra 1:5-11 The Muster

Ezra 1:5-6 God's Action on the Minds of His People

Ezra 1:5-6 The Return

Ezra 1:5-6 The Response

Ezra 1:1-11 The Beginning of a Great Religious Movement

Ezra 2:1-70 Exposition

Ezra 2:1-67 The Muster-Roll

Ezra 2:1-2 The Restoration of Israel

Ezra 2:1-67 Spiritual Significance

Ezra 2:61-63 The Privileges of the Priesthood

Ezra 2:1-70 Men Forsaking the Worldly Life

Ezra 2:68-70 The Arrival

Ezra 2:68-70 Social and Spiritual Gradations

Ezra 3:1-13 Exposition

Ezra 3:1-3 The First Sacrifice

Ezra 3:1-3 The Altar Rebuilt

Ezra 3:1-7 Acceptable Service

Ezra 3:1-7 Aspects of Worship

Ezra 3:4-7 The First Feast

Ezra 3:4-6 The Worship of the First Year

Ezra 3:8-13 The First Stone

Ezra 3:7-13 Thought, Work, and Feeling

Ezra 3:7-13 The Founding of the Temple

Ezra 3:8-13 The Joyful and Sorrowful in Religious Worship

Ezra 4:1-24 Exposition

Ezra 4:1-3 The Work Endangered

Ezra 4:1-3 Peace and Purity

Ezra 4:1-5 A Sinful Alliance Sought and Rejected

Ezra 4:1-5 The Friendship of the World

Ezra 4:4-5 The Work Checked

Ezra 4:4-5 Human Hatred

Ezra 4:6-16 The Work Maligned

Ezra 4:4-16 The World's Opposition to the Church

Ezra 4:6-24 Three Thoughts from Old Documents

Ezra 4:17-24 The Work Stopped

Ezra 4:17-24 Man Hindering the Work of God

Ezra 4:24 Hindrances

Ezra 5:1-17 Exposition

Ezra 5:1-2 The Work Revived

Ezra 5:1-2 The Inspiration of Prophecy

Ezra 5:1-5 A Faithful Ministry in the Church

Ezra 5:3-17 Opposition Revived

Ezra 5:3-5 The Eye of God

Ezra 5:3-17 Wisdom in Trial

Ezra 5:5 The Providence of God over the Church

Ezra 5:6-17 The Letter to Darius

Ezra 5:11-17 Things a Church Should Understand Concerning Itself

Ezra 6:1-22 Exposition

Ezra 6:1-12 Opposition Silenced

Ezra 6:1-5 The Decree of Cyrus

Ezra 6:1-12 Some Useful Things

Ezra 6:6-13 The Degree of Darius

Ezra 6:13-22 The Work Completed

Ezra 6:12-15 Overthrow and Upbuilding

Ezra 6:13-15 The Successful Issue

Ezra 6:14-16 The Temple Finished

Ezra 6:15 Church Prosperity

Ezra 6:15 Church Building

Ezra 6:16-18 The Dedication of the Temple

Ezra 6:16-22 Timely and Wise Enthusiasm

Ezra 6:16-22 Church Dedication

Ezra 6:19-22 The Passover

Ezra 7:1-26 Exposition

Ezra 7:1-10 The Work Completed

Ezra 7:1-10 The Exodus Under Ezra

Ezra 7:1-10 Ezra: His Character and Work

Ezra 7:1-10 Ezra: the Type of an Ideal Minister

Ezra 7:9-10 Ezra and His Mission

Ezra 7:11-26 The Reformer's Commission

Ezra 7:11 The Royal and the Religious

Ezra 7:11-26 Pagan Piety

Ezra 7:11-26 Ezra's Commission from Artaxerxes

Ezra 7:21-24 The Decree of Artaxerxes to the Treasurers

Ezra 7:27-28 The Extension of the Mercy of the Covenant

Ezra 7:27-28, Ezra 8:1-20 Influence

Ezra 8:1-36 Exposition

Ezra 8:1-20 The Rendezvous or the Second Muster

Ezra 8:1-20 The Church Preparing Itself for Duty

Ezra 8:15-20 The Halt at the Ahava

Ezra 8:21-30 Before Starting

Ezra 8:31-36 After Arriving

Ezra 8:21-23 The Fast at the Ahava

Ezra 8:21-23 The Spiritual and Secular Aids of Life

Ezra 8:24 The Sacred Trusts of Life

Ezra 8:24 The Custody of the Treasure

Ezra 8:24-36 Zionwards

Ezra 8:32-36 Progress

Ezra 9:1-15 Exposition

Ezra 9:1-4 An Astounding Discovery

Ezra 9:5-15 A Flood of Tears

Ezra 9:1-4 Spiritual Separation

Ezra 9:1-4 Ezra's Grief

Ezra 9:1-4 Disappointment and Disobedience

Ezra 9:4-15 Sensibility

Ezra 9:5 The Dawn of Hope

Ezra 9:5-15 A Good Man's Sight of Sin

Ezra 9:6-15 Ezra's Prayer

Ezra 10:1-44 Exposition

Ezra 10:6 Ezra's Fast

Ezra 10:1-5 The Speech of Shekinah

Ezra 10:5-15 A Flood of Tears

Ezra 10:18-44 The Names of those Who Had Married the Strange Wives

Ezra 10:1-5 A Gleam of Hope

Ezra 10:6-12 A National Call

Ezra 10:13-44 A Satisfactory Close

Ezra 10:1-8 Things Exceptional

Ezra 10:6-44 The Reformation

Ezra 10:9-44 Sin and Repentance

Precept Ministry International
Inductive Bible Study Course
Ezra/Haggai - Rebuilding the Temple
1-800-763-8280
Much of the material below is from
Louisiana Precept

Calendar of Israel

Ezra for Kids

Ezra 1-3: Does God Keep His Promises?

Chart - The God Who Restores:

Timeline - Return to The Land:

Ezra 4-6: Why So Much Opposition When We Follow His Direction?

Cross-References

Kings of Medo-Persia: Cyrus - Artaxerxes:

Map: The People of The Land

Timeline: Rebuild the Temple

Ezra 7-8 - Learning from Life, Lineage of Ezra

Cross-References

Chart: Ezra's Priestly Pedigree

Chart: Set Your Heart to Study God's Word

Chart: When Ezra Preached the Law (Nehemiah):

Chart: Evolution of Judaism

Ezra 9-10: Open Shame: When God's People Forsake His Commands

Cross-References

Chart: You are HOLY to the LORD (& Course Summary):

Flowchart: Church Discipline :

Chart: Memorize the 10 Commandments:

Henri L. Rossier
Meditations on the Book of Ezra

Introduction

Ezra 1 and 2, First exodus

Ezra 3, The altar and the foundations of the temple

Ezra 4, The work interrupted

Ezra 5 and 6, Revival and the construction of the temple

Ezra 7, Ezra

Ezra 8, The second exodus

Ezra 9 and 10, Purification of the people

Scofield's Reference Notes
Book of Ezra

Sermons
Book of Ezra
Sermons below for first verse - hit arrow to advance to next verse

Charles Simeon
Sermons on the Book of Ezra

NOTE: If you are not familiar with the great saint Charles Simeon see Dr John Piper's discussion of Simeon's life - you will want to read Simeon's sermons after meeting him! - click Brothers We Must Not Mind a Little Suffering (Mp3 even better)

Ezra 3:11-13 The Rebuilding of the Temple

Ezra 6:10 Sermon on the King's Accession.

Ezra 6:14 The Subserviency of a Faithful Ministry...

Ezra 7:23 The Decree of Artaxerxes

Ezra 9:5-6 Ezra's Humiliation for the Sins of His People

Ezra 9:13, 14 Use of God's Diversified Dispensations

Speaker's Commentary
F C Cook, Editor
Introduction

C. H. Spurgeon
His Only Sermon on Ezra

C H Spurgeon
Devotionals
Morning and Evening
Faith's Checkbook

Ezra 7:22

Ezra 8:22

John Stevenson
Ezra Studies
Rebuilding What Once Was
Includes well done tables

Ezra Introduction - Coming Back to God

Ezra 1. The Decree to Return

Ezra 2. The Number of Those Who Came

Ezra 3. The Rebuilding of Worship

Ezra 4. A Rising Opposition

Ezra 5-6. Opposition Overcome - The Completion of the Temple

Ezra 7. Enter Ezra - the Leader of the Second Return

Ezra 8. The Second Return

Ezra 9. A Crisis of Faith and Family

Ezra 10. The Great Divorce

Outline & References

Structural Outline

References and Related Resources

Notes on the Text

Chapter 1

Ezra: List of Major Bible Charts, Maps, & Pictures

The Return of the Exiles and the Rebuilding of the Temple - Ezra 1:1-6:22

The Return of the Exiles - Ezra 1:1-2:70

The Decree of Cyrus - Ezra 1:1-4

The Preparations for Return - Ezra 1:5-11

Chapter 2

The List of Returnees - Ezra 2:1-70

Chapter 3

The Rebuilding of the Temple - Ezra 3:1-6:22

The Rebuilding of the Altar - Ezra 3:1-6

The Rebuilding of the Temple Proper - Ezra 3:7-6:22

The Rebuilding Begins - Ezra 3:7-13

Chapter 4

Opposition to Rebuilding - Ezra 4:1-24

Chapter 5

Rebuilding Resumed - Ezra 5:1-2

Opposition to Rebuilding - Ezra 5:3-6:12

Chapter 6

Rebuilding Completed - Ezra 6:13-22

Chapter 7

The Return of Ezra and the Rebuilding of the Community - Ezra 7:1-10:44

The Return of Ezra - Ezra 7:1-8:36

Introduction of Ezra - Ezra 7:1-10

Ezra's Commission - Ezra 7:11-26

Ezra's Doxology - Ezra 7:27-28

Chapter 8

Ezra's Companions - Ezra 8:1-14

Ezra's Arrival - Ezra 8:15-36

Chapter 9

The Rebuilding of the Community - Ezra 9:1-10:44

Ezra's Reaction to Intermarriage - Ezra 9:1-15

Ezra Hears - Ezra 9:1-2

Ezra Grieves - Ezra 9:3-4

Ezra Confesses - Ezra 9:5-15

Chapter 10

The People's Reaction to Ezra - Ezra 10:1-44

The People Grieve - Ezra 10:1

The People Confess - Ezra 10:2

The People Repent - Ezra 10:3-17

The Guilty People - Ezra 10:18-44

John Trapp
Commentary
Ezra

C H Spurgeon: Would it be possible to eulogize too much the incomparably sententious and suggestive folios of JOHN TRAPP?[6] Since Mr. Dickinson has rendered them accessible,[7] I trust most of you have bought them. Trapp will be most valuable to men of discernment, to thoughtful men, to men who only want a start in a line of thought, and are then able to run alone. Trapp excels in witty stories on the one hand, and learned allusions on the other. You will not thoroughly enjoy him unless you can turn to the original, and yet a mere dunce at classics will prize him. His writings remind me of himself: he was a pastor, hence his holy practical remarks; he was the head of a public school, and everywhere we see his profound scholarship; he was for some time amid the guns and drums of a parliamentary garrison, and he gossips and tells queer anecdotes like a man used to a soldier's life; yet withal, he comments as if he had been nothing else but a commentator all his days. Some of his remarks are far fetched, and like the far fetched rarities of Solomon's Tarshish, there is much gold and silver, but there are also apes and peacocks. His criticisms would some of them be the cause of amusement in these days of greater scholarship; but for all that, he who shall excel Trapp had need rise very early in the morning. Trapp is my especial companion and treasure; I can read him when I am too weary for anything else. Trapp is salt, pepper, mustard, vinegar, and all the other condiments. Put him on the table when you study, and when you have your dish ready, use him by way of spicing the whole thing. Yes, gentlemen, read Trapp certainly, and if you catch the infection of his consecrated humor, so much the better for your hearers.

Today in the Word
Devotionals
Moody Bible Institute
Note: Click Chapter Title for Multiple Devotionals on each chapter
Bonus feature: Devotionals by G Campbell Morgan on each chapter

Ezra 1

Ezra 2

Ezra 3

Ezra 4

Ezra 5

Ezra 6

Ezra 7

Ezra 8

Ezra 9

Ezra 10

Bob Utley
Ezra Commentary

Ezra, Nehemiah and Esther

Ezra 1 Commentary

Ezra 2 Commentary

Ezra 3 Commentary

Ezra 4 Commentary

Ezra 5 Commentary

Ezra 6 Commentary

Ezra 7 Commentary

Ezra 8 Commentary

Ezra 9 Commentary

Ezra 10 Commentary