Ezra 1:4
French (La Bible expliquée)
Partout où résident des Israélites, les gens de l'endroit doivent leur apporter de l'aide par des dons en argent et en or, leur fournir d'autres biens et du bétail, et leur remettre des offrandes volontaires pour le temple de Dieu à Jérusalem. » En 597 les Babyloniens assujettissent le royaume de Juda et occupent la ville de Jérusalem. Ils emmènent en exil une grande partie de l'élite du pays afin d'affaiblir son pouvoir, et d'empêcher de nouvelles révoltes. Les vainqueurs emportent avec eux le trésor du temple. Dix ans plus tard, les Judéens se révoltent contre les Babyloniens qui reviennent en force pour les anéantir. Après un long siège, ces derniers détruisent Jérusalem et son temple; de plus, ils emmènent en exil à Babylone une partie de la population (587). En 539, Babylone est conquise par Cyrus, roi de Perse. Afin d'assurer la loyauté et la soumission des peuples conquis, Cyrus adopte une politique de tolérance. Ainsi il permet aux Juifs de retourner dans l'ancien royaume de Juda et de rebâtir le temple de Jérusalem. Le livre d'Esdras s'ouvre sur cette autorisation.
What Does This Mean?
Ezra 1:4 says that anyone remaining in a place where they are living should be helped by the people of that place with money, gold, goods, and animals, besides any voluntary offerings for the house of God in Jerusalem. The key message is about supporting those who are contributing to the rebuilding of the temple.
Explained for Children
Imagine if you and your friends were building a big clubhouse, and you needed help from your neighbors. This verse is like saying, 'If your friends can't come to the clubhouse, the people where they live should give them things to help build the clubhouse, like tools, snacks, and maybe even a bike to get there.'
Historical Background
This verse is part of the book of Ezra, written by Ezra the Scribe, likely in the 5th century BCE. It was written to the returning exiles from Babylon, who were being encouraged to rebuild the temple in Jerusalem. The context was post-exilic Israel, where the people were returning to their homeland after years of captivity.
Living It Out Today
In a modern scenario, this verse can apply to a community raising funds for a local church renovation. Neighbors should support those who are contributing by offering resources like money, materials, or even their time, to ensure the project's success.
Topics
servicegenerositycommunityrebuildingsupportdedication
Related Verses
2 Chronicles 36:22-23Ezra 1:1-3Nehemiah 2:1-81 Corinthians 16:1-42 Corinthians 9:6-15
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the verse mention silver, gold, and goods?
These items represent the resources needed for the rebuilding of the temple. They symbolize the material support required to accomplish such a significant project.
What does it mean to give a 'freewill offering'?
A freewill offering is a gift given out of one's own desire, without compulsion. It shows a heart of generosity and a willingness to contribute to the Lord's work.
How does this verse relate to today's church?
Today's church can apply this verse by encouraging community support for its projects and ministries, reflecting the biblical principle of communal effort in service to God.
What does the verse teach about helping others?
The verse teaches that we should support those who are working towards a common goal, especially if it involves God's work. It highlights the importance of community and shared responsibility.