Women in the Word Ezra 9 and 10 February 21, 2013 1. The book of Ezra ends on a sad note with the break-up of families and the convincing truth that sin has consequences. Yet over and over we see that God does not stay angry forever, but He is compassionate and forgiving. These last chapters remind us of our constant need for a Savior. And when we have Jesus as our Savior, we have hope. Read Ezra chapter 9. In verse 1, what things have been completed? See also Ezra 8:33, 35. What news did the leadership have for Ezra according to Ezra 9:1-2? Who has been foremost in the unfaithfulness to God? Do you think leadership should be held to a higher standard? Why or why not? 2. Read Ezra 9:3-4. What is Ezra s reaction to this news? Why is this such a big deal? For insight, read Exodus 34:15-16; Deuteronomy 7:1-9 and 1 Kings 11:1-4. 3. How does Ezra approach God in Ezra 9:5? What does this tell us about his attitude? 4. What elements do you think are needed in a prayer of confession?
Women In the Word Ezra 9 and 10 Feb. 21, 2013 Page 2 5. Read Ezra s amazing prayer of confession in Ezra 9:6-15. What does Ezra acknowledge in verses 6 and 7? Whom and what does Ezra focus on in Ezra 9:8-9? 6. In Ezra 9:10-12, what does Ezra confess? How does Ezra know their actions are wrong? Can you think of a time that reading God s Word caused you to realize wrongdoing in your own life? Please share. 7. What attribute of God do you see in Ezra 9:13? What attribute of God do you see in Ezra 9:15? Why is recognition of both of these attributes important in our prayers? 8. As you read Ezra 10:1-3, picture yourself there in the crowd. Write a brief description of this scene as if you were writing this news to a loved one back in Persia. What does Shecaniah propose in verse 3 as the penalty for their sin? 9. List the action phrases Shecaniah communicates to Ezra in Ezra 10:4. What does this tell us about Ezra s position among the Israelites?
Women In the Word Ezra 9 and 10 Feb. 21, 2013 Page 3 10. What steps do we see Ezra taking next in Ezra 10:5-8? How do we know from verse 6 that this is difficult for Ezra? Why would it be difficult? Consider Ezra 9:14 and Malachi 2:16. 11. Read Ezra 10:9-17. Who assembled in Jerusalem according to verse 9? What three-letter word is repeated twice in verse 9 and why is it significant? 12. Ezra 10:16-17 tells us it took over three months to investigate all the families involved. Why do you think it took this long? 13. Finish reading Ezra 10:18-44. What is the tragedy we see in verse 44? 14. Reread Ezra 10:2. What hope is Shecaniah speaking of? What is the hope we have as believers in Jesus Christ? See 1 John 1:9 and 2:2. Yet sin is serious and we experience the consequences of our sin. How has this lesson caused you to think differently about your own wrongdoing? What changes will you make? 15. Do you have a personal prayer request to share with your small group?
Women in the Word February 21, 2013 Coming Home The Promises and Providence of God CONFESSION Ezra 9 and 10 The Problem: Sin, the direct disobedience of God s Word 9:1,2 God s law prohibited the Israelites from marrying foreigners due to their worship of false gods. Knowing God s Word helps us to obey Him. Teach the Word of God to your children! The Reaction of Ezra: Sorrow 9:3-5 Ezra tears his hair and clothes in deep grief and heartbreak. Do you mourn over sin? The Action of Ezra: Prayer of Confession 9:6-15 Ezra approaches God in. Ezra admits guilt as he identifies with Israel in their sin. He remembers God s grace, presence, kindness, and. He confesses the specific present sin. He recognizes God s mercy and. The Reaction of the Israelites: Sorrow and Repentance 10:1-5 As Ezra prays, many Israelites gather around him and. Shecaniah speaks out in confession for the people. They all agree that they have sinned against God, and they desire to return to Him. The Solution for Israel: Covenant of Separation 10:6-44 Ezra tells the Israelites to confess to God and do His will. The leadership deals with each case and according to the Law. The Outcome for the Israelites: Fellowship with God Restored Repentance is turning away from disobedience and turning toward God. Repentance is return. The Lord Almighty says, If you return to me, I will return to you. Zechariah 1:3 The Application: Sin is serious and the consequences can be severe. But our hope is in Jesus who offers forgiveness! Key: humility protection righteousness weep individually
Ezra 9&10 verses Women in the Word \ February 21, 2013 Deuteronomy 7:3,4 Do not intermarry with them. Do not give your daughters to their sons or take their daughters for your sons, for they will turn your sons away from following me to serve other gods, and the Lord s anger will burn against you and quickly destroy you. Psalm 119:11,34 I have hidden your word in my heart that I may not sin against you. Give me understanding, and I will keep your law and obey it with all my heart. Deuteronomy 6:6,7 These commands I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Matthew 5:4 Blessed are those who mourn for they will be comforted. Psalm 51:14 Save me from bloodguilt, O God, the God who saves me, and my tongue will sing of your righteousness. Hebrews 11:31 By faith the prostitute Rahab, because she welcomed the spies, was not killed with those who were disobedient. Ruth 1:16 But Ruth replied, Don t urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. Romans 3:23 For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. 1 John 2:2 Jesus Christ, the Righteous One, He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world. 1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.