A Verse-by-Verse Commentary on the Books of Ezra, Nehemiah, and Esther
The books of Ezra, Nehemiah, and Esther were written thousands of years ago, and yet they remain relevant to God’s people as they demonstrate God’s faithfulness in difficult times and earnestly seek revival. Designed to help modern readers understand and apply the messages of Ezra, Nehemiah, and Esther to their own lives, this commentary by pastor Wallace P. Benn walks carefully through the text. Part of Crossway’s award-winning Preaching the Word commentary series, this volume offers insightful observations, powerful illustrations, and practical applications to equip readers to see how these accounts of restoration and God’s covenant faithfulness bear witness to his faithfulness through his Son, Jesus Christ.
224 pages.
Preface
Ezra
Chronology and Timelines
Sermon Outlines
Chapter 1: Our God reigns!—See God!
Chapter 2: The Church Family Matters—See the Church!
Chapter 3: First Things First! Returning to Worship
Chapters 4, 5, and 6: Facing the Battle!
Chapter 6:13–22: The Temple was Finished & Dedicated
Chapters 8: Life as a Believer Has Its Challenges, and Can Be Difficult and Dangerous!
Chapters 9: The Danger of Dilution!
Chapters 10: Drastic because Holiness Matters
Nehemiah
Sermon Outlines
Chapter 1: A Good Heart for God and His work
Chapter 2:1–10: Making the Most of the Opportunity!
Chapter 2:11–20: Sharing the Vision & Getting the Work Started
Chapters 3:1–32: The Family of God at Work
Chapters 4, 5, 6, and 7:1–4: Getting the Work Completed
Chapter 7:5–73a: The Importance of Continuity
Chapters 7:73b–8:18: Revival!
Chapter 9:1–37: Recounting the Goodness of God
Chapters 9:38–10:39: Renewing the Covenant
Chapters 11:1–36: Recreating Community
Chapter 12: 1–47: A Joyful Celebration & A New Beginning
Chapter 13:1–31: Broken Promises
Epilogue: And There’s More!...
Appendix 1: Leadership Lessons from Nehemiah
Esther
Sermon Outlines
Chapters 1 and 2: The Selection of Esther as Queen
Chapters 3 and 4: The Plot to destroy the Jews
Chapters 5, 6, and 7: Reversal of ‘fortune’ begins
Chapters 8 and 9: Deliverance for the Jews
Epilogue
A Select Bibliography: Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther
PTW Ezra, Nehemiah, and Esther is in the following collections: