2. Chapter 12 Return and Restoration Ezra pays primary attention to the rebuilding of the temple and the restoration of religious life Nehemiah focuses on the rebuilding of the city First section of Ezra deals with return under Zerubbabel while the second section deals with return under Ezra Esther falls between the two sections and shows God’s provision for Jews still in exile

3. Chapter 12 Return and Restoration a. A Promise Fulfilled – Biblical events are placed in context of world events and the will of God – The return from exile occurred in first year of reign of Cyrus, king of Persia – The Cyrus Cylinder and the prophecy of Isaiah give us an interesting perspective – The prophets Haggai and Zechariah encouraged the people to complete the work

4. Chapter 12 Return and Restoration b. A Spiritual Restoration – God raises up Ezra, the priest, to bring revival – Ezra is uniquely prepared for his task – His prayer of intercession is one of the great prayers of the Bible

5. Chapter 12 Return and Restoration c. God’s Protection of His People (Esther) – Addressed to the Jews who did not return to rebuild the temple – It demonstrates God’s providential care – God places Esther in a position of honor – She boldly goes before the king and becomes the vessel God uses to preserve His people – This event is celebrated by the feast of Purim

6. Chapter 12 Return and Restoration d. The Reconstruction of the City (Nehemiah) – He was a layman with a prestigious position – He was a great man of prayer – When he faces opposition, he prays and points to the activity of God – The rebuilding of the city leads to sweeping revival. – God’s people are once again in the Holy Land, awaiting the fulfillment of Messianic prophecy