09/06/2026
Before the people of Israel could rebuild the Temple, they first had to rebuild the altar.
In this message from Ezra 3:1–6, we discover that before we rebuild what is broken around us, we must restore what is missing within us. The people gathered together as one, rebuilt the altar, and worshiped God—even though the Temple foundation had not yet been laid and fear surrounded them.
This passage challenges us to consider three foundational priorities:
- We Must Restore Unity
- We Must Restore the Altar
- We Must Restore Worship
The people of Ezra understood that rebuilding wasn't ultimately about a building. It was about restoring their relationship with God.
And the same is true for us.
We can have buildings, programs, ministries, activities, and full seats—but without prayer, worship, and dependence upon God, we can build something that looks like a church without being the church God has called us to be.
The good news of the Gospel is that the sacrifices offered at the altar pointed forward to Jesus Christ, the ultimate sacrifice for our sins. The altar says a sacrifice is required. The cross says the sacrifice has been made.
So wherever you are today—hurting, afraid, disappointed, or waiting—don't wait for everything to be right before you worship.
Restore the unity.
Restore the altar.
Restore the worship.
Because before God rebuilds everything around us, He wants to rebuild us.
Before the people of Israel could rebuild the Temple, they first ha...