August 23, 2026

Opposition - Ezra 4-6 - Rev. Justin Young

Main Idea: Opposition is an opportunity.

Ezra 4-6

  • Opposition (4:1-5)
  • Encouragement (5:1-2)
  • Opposition (5:3-17)
  • Encouragement (6:1-12)
  • Celebration (6:13-22)

Significance

  • Expect discouragement
  • Seek encouragement
  • Rejoice in Jesus

Announcements

  • The Deacon Board has decided to donate $2,500 from the church's benevolence fund to the Hamilton County Flood Relief Fund. Individuals wishing to contribute are encouraged to donate directly to the county flood relief fund. If anyone is interested in volunteer opportunities to help the flood victims, please sign up at servevillage.org.

  • The next English membership class is September 20 and 27. Register by September 13.

  • Youth Fall Retreat is October 9-11. Registration of $149 increases to $199 after August 30 and closes on Sunday, September 13 or when we reach capacity.

🌏 Global Spotlight: David and Gloria Doty

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This Week's Bible Reading

  • August 24 - Psalm 119:153-160; Genesis 39
  • August 25 - Psalm 119:161-168; Genesis 40
  • August 26 - Psalm 119:169-176; Genesis 41
  • August 27 - Psalm 120; Genesis 42
  • August 28 - Psalm 121; Genesis 43

(Complete plan here.)

Growth Group Guide

  1. Tell a story of facing great opposition. What led up to the opposition? Did it resolve? If so, how?
  2. Read Ezra 4:1-5. How do we know the offer of v. 2 was disingenuous?
  3. Read Haggai 1:1-11. In addition to external opposition, what internal opposition did they face? Which do you think was more challenging? Why?
  4. According to Haggai 1:12-15, what moves the people to return to building the temple?
  5. In a similar manner, how has God's Word encouraged you?
  6. Despite the further opposition, the people continue to build the temple. According to Ezra 6:13-15, what are all the means of encouragement?
  7. How is opposition an opportunity to increase your dependence on and rejoicing in the Lord?