Scripture Spot Logo

Verse of the Day

WEB

Author Spotlight

Loading featured author...

Report Issue

See a formatting issue or error?

Let us know →

I make a decree, that all those of the people of Israel, and their priests and the Levites, in my realm, who are minded of their own free will to go to Jerusalem, go with you.

Verse Takeaways

1

An Invitation, Not a Command

Commentators emphasize that King Artaxerxes's decree was not a command forcing the Jews to return, but a gracious permission. It was specifically for those "minded of their own freewill." This highlights that God's work often moves forward through the willing hearts and choices of His people, who respond to the opportunities He provides.

See 3 Verse Takeaways

Book Overview

Ezra

Author

Audience

Composition

Teaching Highlights

Outline

+ 5 more

See Overview

Commentaries

3

Charles Ellicott

Charles Ellicott

On Ezra 7:11–26

19th Century

Bishop

Credentials and commission of Ezra. After the general statement, the particulars are given, beginning with the letter of authorization, in which we…

John Gill

John Gill

On Ezra 7:13

17th Century

Pastor

I make a decree
Which, according to the laws of the Medes and Persians, when signed, might not be changed, ([Referen…

Matthew Henry

Matthew Henry

On Ezra 7:11–26

17th Century

Minister

The generosity of Gentile kings in supporting the worship of God rebuked the conduct of many kings of Judah, and will rise up in judgment against t…