Book of Ezra - Chapter 5 - Verse 11

When the people of Israel faced opposition in rebuilding the temple of God, they responded by affirming their identity as servants of the God of heaven and earth. This declaration not only showed their loyalty to God but also highlighted the significance of their task. By stating that they were building the house established by a great king of Israel many years ago, they were emphasizing the historical and spiritual importance of the temple. This acknowledgment of their role as servants and builders of a sacred place that had been revered in the past helped strengthen their resolve in the face of challenges. It reminded them of their connection to their ancestors and the legacy of faith they were carrying forward. By identifying themselves as servants of the God of heaven and earth, they were proclaiming their commitment to fulfilling their divine calling and the importance of their work in honoring God.

In this verse from the book of Ezra, the returnees from exile in Babylon are responding to a question about their identity and purpose. They declare themselves as servants of the God of heaven and earth, emphasizing their loyalty and submission to the divine authority. The term "servants" carries a sense of humility and obedience, indicating their commitment to carry out the work assigned to them with diligence and faithfulness. The mention of the God of heaven and earth further underscores the universal sovereignty of their God, who is not limited by earthly boundaries or human constructs. The phrase "build the house" refers to the reconstruction of the temple in Jerusalem, which had been destroyed during the exile. By identifying themselves as builders of this sacred structure, the returnees align themselves with the legacy of the great king of Israel who initiated its construction. This acknowledgment highlights the continuity of their faith and heritage, linking their present efforts to the historical roots of their religious tradition. Overall, this verse conveys a sense of reverence, purpose, and continuity in the spiritual journey of the returnees as they strive to restore the worship of their God in a land once devastated by foreign powers.