Ezra 5:3-5 - Homilies By J.a. Macdonald

The eye of God.

The "people of the land" procured authority from the Persian king to stop the rebuilding of the city and wall of Jerusalem, and used it to stop the rebuilding of the temple as well. After an interval of nine years, through the incitement of the prophets Haggai and Zechariah, the great work was resumed, and with the resumption the old hostility was revived. So the text, etc. The eye of their God was upon them—

I. To GIVE THEM ASSURANCE AND COMFORT .

1. This figure expresses his watchful care.

2. It also expresses loving favour.

II. TO GIVE THEM WISDOM AND DISCRETION .

1. They need this in the presence of their inquisitors.

2. Their answers were guided by a watchful wisdom.

III. To DEFEND THEM FROM THEIR ENEMIES .

1. By moderating the opposition.

2. By sustaining them at their work.

3. By bringing good out of the evil.