Zorobabɛl nin Zozie nin awlobo kpɛnngbɛn kun nga'm be tɛli be su kɛ: «Kɛ e nin amun e `kplan e Nyanmiɛn i sua'n, ɔ ti-mɛn i su. E kunngba yɛ e ´kplan Anannganman b'ɔ ti Izraɛl Nyanmiɛn'n i sua nin-ɔn. Siris, b'ɔ ti Pɛrs famiɛn'n yɛ i waan e `yo i sɔ-ɔ.»
What Does This Mean?
In this verse, Zerubbabel, Jeshua, and other leaders of Israel reject the help of non-Israelites in rebuilding the temple. They affirm their own responsibility to build the house of God as commanded by King Cyrus.
Explained for Children
Imagine you and your friends are building a fort. Some kids from another group want to help, but you say, 'Thanks, but we want to build it ourselves, just like our parents told us to do.' That's what Zerubbabel and Jeshua are doing with the temple.
Historical Background
Ezra wrote this part of his book after the Babylonian exile, around 450 BC. The Israelites were returning to rebuild their temple in Jerusalem, facing resistance from local groups who didn't want to help.
Living It Out Today
Today, a similar scenario might be choosing to do a project yourself or with a team, despite offers of help from others. Zerubbabel and Jeshua remind us to listen to the guidance and commands we have been given.
Topics
leadershiprebuildingGod's commandmentsperseverancerejection of helpcommunity
