Ezra, Torah Expert

What’s in a Name?

Key on Ezra’s name: “YHWH has Helped” — throughout the introduction to Ezra there is evidence of God’s help

It cannot be overstated that just as important as a PLACE to worship was the proper mean BY WHICH they would worship. Ezra is a priest in line of Aaron the chief priest, and he will assume the task of ordering worship according to the Law.

There is evidence throughout that “YHWH has helped” is more than just a name. Ezra 7:6 “this Ezra went up from Babylonia. He was a scribe skilled in the Law of Moses that the Lord, the God of Israel, had given, and the king granted him all that he asked, for the hand of the Lord his God was on him.” This phrase is repeated at least seven times in Ezra and Nehemiah, and it serves as a reminder that the remnant is preserved because of God and His action.

Evidence of the hand of the LORD with Ezra was seen in the fact that the king granted him all that he asked.

Ezra and the caravan of returning exiles made the journey in fourteen weeks, and their safe return is attributed to the hand of...God with Ezra.

Finally, Ezra’s courageous obedience comes from…you guessed it, the hand of the Lord (Ezra 7:28 “and who extended to me his steadfast love before the king and his counselors, and before all the king’s mighty officers. I took courage, for the hand of the Lord my God was on me, and I gathered leading men from Israel to go up with me.”)

Far from a “the Lord helps those who helps themselves” theology, Ezra underscores God’s sovereign grace. Every success is because of God’s blessing. In the big things and the small. Praise Him, and find strength from Him through prayer, walking in obedience in the things He’s given you to do, and trusting Him in the matters you cannot control (which, are MANY!)

What’s in the Word?

Ezra is a scribe

God’s gracious provision...after 70 years in exile, certainly living life separate from God’s commands, the Lord raises up an expert in the Law to teach His people how to live according to His Word.

The fact that he is a scribe indicates that he has had years of “training and careful study.” Further, he is skilled, indicating that he has “a clear and thorough grasp” of God’s Law, able to both understand and teach it to others.

The fact that Ezra had set his heart to studying God’s Law (v.10) indicates that all of himself and his life had been dedicated to the ministry of Scriptural study. He was a true ancient academian. Ezra is not a hobbyist in the Scriptures -- he intends to study...do...and...teach God’s Word. Study means that Ezra carefully searches God’s Law. By God’s Word He created all things, directs history, and reveals Himself. What a special place God has given to His Word. Ezra also placed emphasis on God’s command, setting his heart to do what the Law required. Study is of little value if it does not result in a re-ordered life, an obedient life. And, how fit is Ezra as a teacher if his life does not line up with his message? Lastly, Ezra sought to teach God’s statutes and rules in Israel. The majority of work in the church revolves around discipling, and necessarily by extension, teaching. Discipling is not just imparting facts to others, but training them to live lives of righteousness. It is not only the communication of facts, but the observance of a rightly ordered life coupled with loving correction when one errs (requiring lives lived in close proximity) that makes for solid discipleship. Listed here, they appear in the proper order. The must first study, the obey, then relay the truth and encourage others to live accordingly.

History would remind us that dedication to the Scripture CAN result in arrogance, self-righteousness, and legalistic pride. One can be devoted to the Word and still miss the heart behind the Word. Scribal ministries eventually gave way to pharisaical pride as Jewish leaders were puffed up in their theological correctness and outward observance yet failed to miss the Messiah in their midst.

But, Ezra was a careful student of Scripture. This in and of itself is condemning of the lack of biblical literacy so many have. But, in particular for those who would labor in some type of teaching ministry, it underscores the fundamental task necessary: study the Word, do the Word, THEN teach the Word. Not only did Ezra read the Scripture, but he treasured the Word and meditated on it, similar to the righteous man in Ps.1. It further reminds the church that there is only one fit path to teach: “unremitting and careful study.” Any approach to proclaiming God’s truth the circumvents this process is surely found wanting. (This is why Paul exhorts Timothy in 2 Tim. 2-4, “be eager to present (KJV -- “study to show”) yourself approved...rightly handling the Word of Truth. ...All Scripture is profitable...that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work. ...Preach the Word.”)

Ezra is tasked with teaching the Law of the Lord

The Hebrew term for scribe can also be understood as “teacher.”

Ezra’s position as a scribe meant that he was skilled in the study, practice and teaching of the Law. This position grew in importance in the remnant community, and their influence grew until the time of Christ. That Ezra was skilled mean he was an admirable practitioner of the Law and could effectively lead and teach others its truth.

I believe the most fundamental thing for a community of believers is for the Word of God to be central!

What’s the Result?

Worship — Ezra 7 ends with a doxology as he reflects on YHWH’s provision. Ezra praises God, recognizing His grace and kindness as he departed for Jerusalem. God’s intervention and putting this into the heart of the king was evidence of YHWH’s particular care for the Jewish people as he worked sovereignly through other nations and their leaders. “God’s grace flows perpetually; He works from an economy of generosity and renewed opportunities. Once again a group of Jews prepared to leave Babylonia and journey to Jerusalem, led this time by Ezra, a priest and devout teacher of the Mosaic Law.”

The providence of God gives His people every reason for praise and faith. Ezra’s faith and worship is seen in both word and deed as he blesses the name of YHWH and takes courage to move forward in the task to which he has been appointed.

It is a reminder that God’s grace and right belief, what we would call “orthodoxy,” should always result in “orthopraxy,” a right response to God.