Ezra 6:1

Picking up where 2 Chronicles ends, Ezra describes the return of exiles to Jerusalem and the eventual rebuilding of the temple. Using the influence of pagan kings and unbelieving rulers, God was faithful to bring his people back to the land and reestablish worship at the temple.

Along with Ezra, Nehemiah chronicles the post-exilic history of Israel. Nehemiah's leadership helped resettle Israelites in the land and rebuild Jerusalem's walls. However, Nehemiah's greatest legacy was a renewed national identity rooted in repentance of sin and obedience to God.

Do you feel like you are in a season of loss and ruin? After decades of captivity, the Jews were allowed to return to Jerusalem, only to find the city in ruins. The books of Ezra and Nehemiah detail God's faithfulness to his people as they rebuilt their homeland and offer encouragement to you when you need to rebuild too.

From Genesis to Revelation, “God’s Redemption Story” outlines the narrative of God’s plan for the reconciliation of humanity. This 12-part reading plan summarizes the story of the Bible. 1 Kings through Ezra begins the fall of a fractured Israel yet God remains faithful to His people.