The Third Decree Makes Complete Provision

The decree of Artaxerxes for restoring and building Jerusalem, the third since the close of the 70 years’ captivity, is remarkable for its expressions regarding the God of heaven and for the liberality of the grants to the people of God. The king offered freely “unto the God of Israel, whose habitation is in Jerusalem,” and he made provision for meeting many heavy expenses “out of the king's treasure house.” Verses 15, 20.SS 315.5

“Thou art sent of the king,” Artaxerxes declared to Ezra, “to enquire concerning Judah and Jerusalem, according to the law of thy God which is in thine hand.” “Whatsoever is commanded by the God of heaven, let it be diligently done for the house of the God of heaven.” Verses 14, 23.SS 316.1

Artaxerxes arranged for the restoration of the members of the priesthood to their ancient privileges. “It shall not be lawful to impose toll, tribute, or custom, upon them.” He also arranged for civil officers to govern the people. “Thou, Ezra, after the wisdom of thy God, that is in thine hand,” he directed, “set magistrates and judges, which may judge all the people that are beyond the river, all such as know the laws of thy God; and teach ye them that know them not.” Verses 24, 25.SS 316.2

Thus Ezra had persuaded the king to make provision for the return of all the people of Israel and of the priests and Levites in the Medo-Persian realm, who were minded “of their own freewill to go up to Jerusalem.” Verse 13.SS 316.3

This decree brought great rejoicing to those who had been studying with Ezra God's purposes concerning His people. “Blessed be the Lord God of our fathers,” Ezra exclaimed, “which hath put such a thing as this in the king's heart.” Verse 27.SS 316.4