What can we learn from Ezra and Nehemiah's stories?
Yahweh warned Israel not to tie themselves to foreign gods through marriage. But when those same foreigners left their gods to honor him, Yahweh welcomed them with open arms. Yahweh's people were not as welcoming. Ezra and Nehemiah loved God, but they were misguided to exclude foreigners from joining God's people. Since Ezra and Nehemiah weren't exactly models for godliness and reform, what can we learn from their stories? How can we welcome others in the family of God who are different from us?
Bible Reading: Isaiah 56:3,6-8 in contrast to Ezra 4:1-3
Reflection Questions:
Show Credits:
Host: Cheree Hayes Message: Dr. Carissa Quinn Production: Cooper Peltz, Dan Gummel, and Zach McKinley Bible Reading: Dan Gummel Theme music: Grant William Harold Background Music: Pete James Johnson, Reflections
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Once you've listened to the podcast, take time to reflect on these questions.
If you would like to dive deeper, use these Scriptures and questions for personal study or small group discussion.
Message Question:
How did Carissa’s message challenge or encourage you today?
Read: Ezra 4:1-3, Isaiah 56:3-8
Yahweh warned Israel not to tie themselves to foreign gods through marriage. But when those same foreigners left their gods to honor him, Yahweh welcomed them with open arms. Yahweh’s people were not as welcoming. Ezra and Nehemiah loved God, but they were misguided to exclude foreigners from joining God’s people. Since Ezra and Nehemiah weren’t exactly models for godliness and reform, what can we learn from their stories? How can we welcome others in the family of God who are different from us?