Sermon Central
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Character Study Of Ezra Series
Contributed by Rev. Samuel Arimoro on Mar 24, 2025 (message contributor)
Summary: Ezra was a faithful leader who prioritised God’s Word and worship. His dedication to teaching and spiritual reform led Israel into a renewed covenant with God. His life teaches us the power of faith, prayer, and godly leadership in bringing revival.
CHARACTER STUDY OF EZRA – LED RELIGIOUS REFORMS
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Ezra 7:10
"For Ezra had prepared his heart to seek the law of the Lord, and to do it, and to teach in Israel statutes and judgments."
Supporting Texts:
Ezra 1:1-4, Ezra 7:6, Nehemiah 8:1-8, Psalm 119:9-11, 2 Timothy 2:15
INTRODUCTION:
Ezra was a scribe and priest who played a key role in the spiritual restoration of Israel after the Babylonian exile. He was not just a scholar of the Law of Moses but a man committed to living it and teaching it to others.
After the Israelites returned to Jerusalem under Zerubbabel and rebuilt the temple, there was still a great need for spiritual revival. Ezra led this reform, calling the people to repentance and a renewed commitment to God's laws. His life is a powerful example of devotion, integrity, and leadership in restoring true worship.
Through Ezra, we see that religious revival does not happen by accident; it requires dedication, study, teaching, and practical obedience to God's Word.
1. EZRA’S BACKGROUND AND CALLING
a) A descendant of Aaron (Ezra 7:1-5)
Ezra was a direct descendant of Aaron, making him part of the priestly lineage.
b) A skilled scribe in the Law of Moses (Ezra 7:6)
He was well-versed in the Scriptures, making him an authority on God's commands.
c) He was favoured by King Artaxerxes (Ezra 7:11-12)
The Persian king gave Ezra permission and resources to lead spiritual reform in Jerusalem.
d) His mission was to restore the worship of God (Ezra 7:25-26)
He was not only a teacher of the law but a reformer, ensuring that God's Word was upheld.
e) Biblical Example: Like Moses, Ezra was called to teach and establish God's laws (Exodus 24:12).
2. EZRA’S JOURNEY TO JERUSALEM AND HIS LEADERSHIP
a) He gathered exiles to return to Jerusalem (Ezra 8:1-14)
He led a group of Israelites back to their homeland, ensuring they followed God's will.
b) He sought God’s protection through fasting and prayer (Ezra 8:21-23)
Instead of relying on the king's army, Ezra trusted in God's divine protection.
c) He ensured proper worship and sacrifices (Ezra 8:35-36)
Upon arrival, he re-established temple worship by offering sacrifices.
d) He taught the people the laws of God (Ezra 7:10)
His primary goal was to instruct the Israelites in righteousness.
e) Biblical Example: Nehemiah also led a group of exiles back to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem (Nehemiah 2:17-18).
3. EZRA’S SPIRITUAL REFORMS
a) He confronted intermarriage with foreign women (Ezra 9:1-2)
Ezra realised that Israel had disobeyed God by marrying pagan women, leading them into idolatry.
b) He led the people in repentance (Ezra 9:5-15)
In deep sorrow, Ezra prayed and wept, confessing the nation's sins before God.
c) He called for national purification (Ezra 10:1-17)
The Israelites responded by putting away foreign wives and renewing their commitment to God.
d) He restored true worship and obedience (Ezra 6:19-22)
He ensured that the people observed the Passover and other religious laws.
e) Biblical Example: King Josiah also led a revival by restoring the reading of the Law (2 Kings 23:1-3).
4. EZRA’S TEACHING MINISTRY
a) He read and explained the Law to the people (Nehemiah 8:1-8)
Alongside Nehemiah, Ezra gathered the Israelites and publicly read the Law, ensuring they understood it.
b) He inspired national commitment to God’s Word (Nehemiah 8:9-12)
The people rejoiced and repented upon hearing and understanding the Scriptures.
c) He led in renewing the covenant (Nehemiah 9:38)
The Israelites made a fresh commitment to obey God’s commands.
d) His teachings had a lasting impact (Nehemiah 10:28-29)
His influence led to long-term obedience and national revival.
e) Biblical Example: Paul also dedicated his life to teaching and strengthening the church (2 Timothy 4:1-2).
5. CHARACTER TRAITS OF EZRA
a) He was a man of deep devotion (Ezra 7:10)
He diligently studied, obeyed, and taught God’s Word.
b) He was a leader with integrity (Ezra 8:21-23)
He led by example, trusting in God's power rather than human strength.
c) He was bold in confronting sin (Ezra 9:1-4)
He did not compromise when he saw the people disobeying God.
d) He was humble and prayerful (Ezra 9:5-15)
He did not act in pride but sought God’s mercy for Israel.
e) Biblical Example: Samuel was also a righteous leader dedicated to God’s service (1 Samuel 3:19-21).
6. STRENGTHS OF EZRA
a) He had a strong knowledge of God’s Word (Ezra 7:6)
He was a skilled scribe, deeply rooted in Scripture.
b) He was committed to personal holiness (Ezra 7:10)
He lived out what he taught.
c) He had a heart for revival (Ezra 10:1)
He led Israel into repentance and renewal.
d) He was a man of faith and prayer (Ezra 8:23)
He trusted God for protection and provision.
e) Biblical Example: Daniel also remained faithful to God despite living in exile (Daniel 6:10).
