Old Testament
Genesis Exodus Leviticus Numbers Deuteronomy Joshua Judges Ruth 1 Samuel 2 Samuel 1 Kings 2 Kings 1 Chronicles 2 Chronicles Ezra Nehemiah Esther Job Psalms Proverbs Ecclesiastes Song of Solomon Isaiah Jeremiah Lamentations Ezekiel Daniel Hosea Joel Amos Obadiah Jonah Micah Nahum Habakkuk Zephaniah Haggai Zechariah MalachiEzra 4:21 Similar Verses
Ezra 4:21 Cross References
Give ye now commandment to cause these men to cease, and that this city be not builded, until another commandment shall be given from me.
Uncover the Rich Themes and Topics of This Bible Verse
Listed below are the Bible themes associated with Ezra 4:21. We invite you to explore each theme to gain deeper insights into the Scriptures.
Ezra 4:21 Cross Reference Verses
No cross reference images were found in our system for this Bible passage.
Ezra 4:21 Verse Analysis and Similar Verses
Meaning and Interpretation of Ezra 4:21
Ezra 4:21 states: “Now therefore, make a decree to cause these men to cease, and that this city be not built until another decree shall be made from me.” This verse encapsulates a critical moment in the narrative of the rebuilding of Jerusalem and provides insight into the opposition faced by the returning exiles.
The significance of this verse lies in the context of political authority and the challenges faced by God’s people in carrying out His will. The command to cease the rebuilding of the city of Jerusalem highlights the external pressures and threats that can arise against divine purposes.
Commentaries on Ezra 4:21
Matthew Henry’s Commentary
Matthew Henry emphasizes the opposition that the Jews faced from their adversaries, which serves as a reminder that the work of God’s people is often met with resistance. He discusses how this opposition was strategically orchestrated to intimidate and demoralize the Israelites, portraying the political dynamics of the time as integral to understanding this decree.
Albert Barnes’ Notes on the Bible
Albert Barnes notes the significance of the decree being a temporary measure instituted by a foreign authority, illustrating the challenges of governance and divine mission. He points out that this decree showcases the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity and highlights the divine sovereignty over the affairs of nations.
Adam Clarke’s Commentary
Adam Clarke elaborates on the political implications of the decree and the necessity for the Jews to rely on divine help. He connects this verse to the broader themes of faith and trust in God’s timing and intervention. Clarke mentions that such political opposition was not new to Israel, and he refers to similar episodes in their history.
Inter-Biblical Connections
Ezra 4:21 has multiple connections to other Bible verses, which help to deepen the understanding of its themes. Below are several notable cross-references:
- Ezra 1:1-4 - The initial decree by Cyrus allowing the Jews to return raises questions about the nature of authority and fulfillment of prophecy.
- Nehemiah 4:1-3 - Highlights further opposition faced by the Jews during the reconstruction efforts.
- 2 Chronicles 36:22-23 - Details the prophetic background that led to rebuilding efforts in Jerusalem, establishing context.
- Matthew 16:18 - Jesus affirms His church's resilience against opposition, paralleling the Jewish struggle for Jerusalem.
- Romans 8:31 - Paul assures believers of God's support in the face of adversaries, akin to the challenge faced by the Jews.
- Acts 5:38-39 - Gamaliel’s counsel about divine missions offers assurance that opposition does not thwart God's plan.
- Revelation 11:2 - Addresses the holy city under threat, echoing the idea of divine protection amidst opposition.
Thematic Connections
The thematic connections in Ezra 4:21 revolve around the following concepts:
- Divine Sovereignty: God’s overarching control over nation-states and human decisions.
- Resistance to God’s Work: Historical and modern contexts where divine endeavors are met with opposition.
- Perseverance in Faith: Encouragement to persist through trials and opposition, trusting in God’s eventual victory.
Applying the Message
For modern readers, Ezra 4:21 serves as a reminder that struggles and obstacles are part of the journey of faith. It encourages believers to understand their struggles in light of God’s larger purpose and plan.
Conclusion
In summary, Ezra 4:21 reveals important themes of authority, resistance, and divine purpose. Through the insights gathered from various public domain commentaries, we can extract valuable lessons from the historical context that still resonate today.