Doing a Great Work. The books of Ezra and Nehemiah continue the story of God's people after the exile in Babylon. The historical events recorded in them are important for us because they were all part of God's plan to prepare the way for the coming of the Saviour and preserve a pure people for the setting up of Christ's kingdom.

In an age of experience-centred worship and entertainment-orientated evangelism these two books direct our thoughts to a holy God who demands reverent worship and uncompromising loyalty form his people. Furthermore, Ezra and Nehemiah call us back to a renewed obedience to God's Word, a fresh realization of the power of prayer and wholehearted commitment to the work of God in fellowship with the people of God.