Arise; for this matter belongeth unto thee: we also will be with thee: be of good courage, and do it.
The call comes immediately after open confession that Israel had trespassed by taking foreign wives, yet even in that guilt there was still hope for Israel. The deep sorrow of the people and their recognition of their sin showed why decisive action could not be delayed. Shechaniah therefore laid the matter upon Ezra, urging him to take responsibility and to lead in addressing Israel's sin.
He assured Ezra that the people would stand with him and support him in the work. He charged him to be of good courage and to act without hesitation. The action required was to carry out the proposal that all who had transgressed should make a covenant with God to forsake their sinful lives and have their cases decided according to the law.
Ezra answered the charge by making the chief priests, the Levites, and all Israel swear to do according to that word. The reformation that followed was carried out with patience and tact and with careful regard for the rights and welfare of every person concerned. Each case received personal attention in its examination, while sinners were taught the holiness of the law of heaven and the blessings to be gained through obedience.
The call comes immediately after open confession that Israel had trespassed by taking foreign wives, yet even in that guilt there was still hope for Israel. The deep sorrow of the people and their recognition of their sin showed why decisive action could not be delayed. Shechaniah therefore laid the matter upon Ezra, urging him to take responsibility and to lead in addressing Israel's sin.
He assured Ezra that the people would stand with him and support him in the work. He charged him to be of good courage and to act without hesitation. The action required was to carry out the proposal that all who had transgressed should make a covenant with God to forsake their sinful lives and have their cases decided according to the law.
Ezra answered the charge by making the chief priests, the Levites, and all Israel swear to do according to that word. The reformation that followed was carried out with patience and tact and with careful regard for the rights and welfare of every person concerned. Each case received personal attention in its examination, while sinners were taught the holiness of the law of heaven and the blessings to be gained through obedience.