The Book of Ezra begins on a high note: Cyrus’s proclamation that the people of Israel should return to Jerusalem and rebuild the city and the temple. God’s promised deliverance of His people was coming to pass. However, the Israelites’ desire and effort would soon be opposed with the order to cease all work. Ezra 5–6 are the chapters where the story turns around. Despite obstacles, the Lord was indeed faithful to His promise. This gave His people comfort and hope.

This section also illustrates the rising importance of written communication. Notice how the officials in Persia searched the archives for written records of King Cyrus’s proclamation. The people of Israel also appealed to written documents. Letters were exchanged. Later in Ezra and Nehemiah, we’ll read about a lost book of Scripture being found and read to the people. In short, the books of Ezra and Nehemiah highlight a shift from primarily oral to increasingly written communication to preserve important ideas. This section also marks a transition, beginning with the prophecies of Haggai and Zechariah and ending with sacrifices being made according to the Book of Moses.