The NIV Standard Lesson Commentary, 2012–2013, ed.

June 30
Lesson 5

RESTORING JOYFUL WORSHIP

DEVOTIONAL READING: Matthew 23:29–39
BACKGROUND SCRIPTURE: Ezra 1:1–3:7

KEY VERSE
In accordance with what is written, they celebrated the Festival of Tabernacles with the required number of burnt offerings prescribed for each day.—Ezra 3:4

LESSON OUTLINE

Introduction
      A.      A Journey with Purpose
      B.      Lesson Background
          I.      Rebuilding the Altar (EZRA 3:1, 2)
      A.      Convening (v. 1)
      B.      Constructing (v. 2)
          II.      Resuming the Offerings (EZRA 3:3–6)
      A.      Daily Requirements (v. 3)
      B.      Festival of Tabernacles (v. 4)
      C.      Other Requirements (v. 5)
      D.      Significant Date (v. 6a)
      E.      Challenge Noted (v. 6b)
      Counting the Cost
          III.      Resources for the Temple (EZRA 3:7)
      A.      Paying the Craftsmen (v. 7a)
      B.      Purchasing the Cedar (v. 7b)
      God and Givers
Conclusion
      A.      Things That Are First!
      B.      Prayer
      C.      Thought to Remember

The NIV Standard Lesson Commentary, 2012–2013, ed. Ronald L. Nickelson and Jonathan Underwood (Cincinnati, OH: Standard, 2012). 377.