1. The Israelites left their homes unprotected to go to Jerusalem to celebrate the festivals. In what ways would pursuing
    the worship of God today seem to leave God’s people vulnerable in the eyes of the world?

  2. In Ezra 3:11 the returnees praise the Lord “For He is good.” How has the Lord been good to you?

  3. Some of the Israelites wept when the foundation of the temple was laid. Can you relate to that on the basis of your experience with the church? How would the Lord have you respond to disappointing fulfillments?

  4. Israel’s festivals celebrated the way that God saved them and brought them to the land of promise. What ways did Jesus give the church to celebrate the deliverance He has accomplished for us?

  5. What festival was Jesus celebrating when He instituted the Lord’s Supper? How were the two related?

  6. In what ways does baptism celebrate redemption in Christ?

  7. The festivals were given to Israel to shape their understanding of the world. How does Christ’s redemption, and
    the celebration thereof in baptism and the Lord’s Supper, shape your understanding of the world?

  8. In 2 Chronicles 20, Jehoshaphat put the Levites and singers in the front of the army as they went out to battle (v. 21).
    In what ways can you find your safety and protection in worship?

  9. The returnees continue in Ezra 3:11, saying that the Lord’s faithful love endures forever. What evidence have you seen
    of this in your life?