Ezra 1: Group Study Handout

How to use: read Ezra 1 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

In the first year of Cyrus king of Persia, Yahweh stirred his spirit to make a proclamation. Cyrus declared that Yahweh, the God of heaven, commanded him to build a house in Jerusalem (v. 2).

Key verse

“Now in the first year of Cyrus king of Persia, that Yahweh’s word by Jeremiah’s mouth might be accomplished, Yahweh stirred up the spirit of Cyrus king of Persia, so that he made a proclamation throughout all his kingdom, and put it also in writing, saying,”
Ezra 1:1 (WEB)

Outline

Ezra 1:1 Cyrus' Proclamation Initiated
Ezra 1:2 Divine Mandate for Rebuilding
Ezra 1:3–4 Invitation to Return and Support
Ezra 1:5–6 Response of the People
Ezra 1:7–11 Restoration of Sacred Vessels

Discussion questions

In v2, what does Cyrus say about 'all the kingdoms of the earth'?
In v6, who helped strengthen the hands of those going to Jerusalem?
Cyrus’ proclamation in v2: what does it mean that he was commanded to build a 'house'?
In v7, why does Cyrus return the 'vessels' to Sheshbazzar?
When have you felt 'stirred' to participate in a cause or mission?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Ezra 1: 2 Chronicles 36, Isaiah 45, Philippians 2.

Before next time: read Ezra 2.