#Ezra 1:1-3; Ezra 1:5; Ezra 7:6#
Jared discusses Ezra's role as a scribe skilled in the Law of Moses and God's intervention in prompting Cyrus, King of Persia, to allow the Israelites to return to Jerusalem to rebuild the temple. Jared emphasizes God's sovereignty and ability to fulfill His promises through unexpected leaders and circumstances, drawing parallels to contemporary situations where believers may feel powerless. The message encourages listeners to trust in God's plans, even when facing daunting challenges, and to be prepared to participate in His work, inspired by Ezra’s dedication to studying, practicing, and teaching God’s Law. Jared connects this historical account to themes of faith, obedience, perseverance, and reliance on divine providence, highlighting the importance of understanding God's Word and responding to His call with courage and conviction. He emphasizes that even amidst political and social turmoil, God remains in control and can use any individual or nation to accomplish His purposes. The sermon underscores the continuing relevance of the Ezra narrative for believers seeking to discern God's will in their own lives and to contribute to His kingdom. Jared calls the congregation to consider their own roles in God's ongoing story, urging them to seek wisdom and guidance from the Scriptures and to be active participants in rebuilding and restoring what has been broken.