It is a day of great commitment.
You cannot build a house to the glory and honor of Almighty God without opposition.
We’re building within the enemy’s territory, and the enemy doesn’t like it.
Supporting Scripture: Psalm 24:1 (ESV)
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Supporting Scripture: John 12:31 (ESV)
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Supporting Scripture: John 14:30 (ESV)
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Supporting Scripture: John 18:11 (ESV)
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Supporting Scripture: Ephesians 2:2 (ESV)
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Supporting Scripture: Revelation 12:12 (ESV)
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Supporting Scripture: Ezra 4:1 (ESV)
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Supporting Scripture: Ezra 4:2 (ESV)
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The adversaries are transplants from other countries who were brought to Israel at the time of the exile. And their motive for working against the building of the temple is that they worship other gods.
Supporting Scripture: 2 Kings 17:24 (ESV)
Supporting Scripture: 2 Kings 17:29 (ESV)
Supporting Scripture: 2 Kings 17:33 (ESV)
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Supporting Scripture: Ezra 4:4 (ESV)
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As we look at building a house for the honor and glory of Almighty God, the question isn’t “IF” we will face opposition, the question is “when will it come” and “what will it look like”?
How do we prepare for it? How do we handle it?
REJOICE!
When you are doing God’s work and when you are building God’s Kingdom, and you meet opposition, rejoice, for that is the sign that you are doing the right thing.
Supporting Scripture: Matthew 5:10-12 (ESV)
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Supporting Scripture: 1 Peter 4:12-14 (ESV)
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Return…. return good for evil!
Supporting Scripture: Romans 12:17-21 (ESV)
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“Personal retaliation is a prohibited response for God’s people” – Chip Ingram
If you respond in flesh, it will return to you in the flesh. If you respond in the Spirit, it will return to you in the Spirit.
The invitation: commit to the work of the Lord without fear of opposition.
Here are some small group reflection questions based on Ezra 4:1-5, which describes the opposition faced by the Israelites when rebuilding the temple in Jerusalem. These questions focus on the theme of commitment in the face of challenges:
1. Understanding Opposition
- In Ezra 4:1-5, the enemies of Judah and Benjamin try to hinder the rebuilding of the temple. How do you think opposition (whether external or internal) affects our sense of commitment to God’s work in our lives?
- Can you think of a time when you faced opposition or discouragement while pursuing something important to you? How did it impact your commitment to your goals?
2. The Nature of Commitment
- What does commitment to God’s work look like in the context of the challenges faced by the Israelites? How does this compare to your personal commitment in times of difficulty?
- Why do you think commitment is tested in times of opposition? What does this reveal about our relationship with God?
3. The Role of Distraction
- In Ezra 4, the enemies offer to help with the temple, but their motives are not pure. How can distractions, even when they appear to be positive or helpful, undermine our commitment to God’s calling?
- What are some common distractions in our lives today that can pull us away from staying committed to God’s work? How can we guard against them?
4. Resilience in the Face of Challenges
- Ezra 4 shows that the rebuilding of the temple was delayed due to opposition. How can we remain resilient and committed when we feel like progress is slow or blocked?
- In what ways can we encourage one another to stay committed when facing discouragement or setbacks?
- The Israelites were rebuilding the temple as a community, and external opposition often led them to rely on God and each other. How does being part of a faith community help strengthen our commitment to God’s work?
- How can we support each other in maintaining our commitments, especially when we face discouragement or resistance?
6. Looking Ahead with Faith
- Despite the challenges faced in Ezra 4, the work eventually resumed and the temple was rebuilt. How does this story encourage you to stay committed to the long-term goals that God has placed in your life, even if you don’t see immediate results?
- What areas in your life require a renewed commitment to God’s purposes? How can you take steps today to deepen that commitment?