The work of restoration and reform carried on by the returned exiles, under the leadership of Zerubbabel, Ezra, and Nehemiah, presents a picture of a work of spiritual restoration that is to be wrought in the closing days of this earth's history. The remnant of Israel were a feeble people, exposed to the ravages of their enemies; but through them God purposed to preserve in the earth a knowledge of Himself and of His law. They were the guardians of the true worship, the keepers of the holy oracles. Varied were the experiences that came to them as they rebuilt the temple and the wall of Jerusalem; strong was the opposition that they had to meet. Heavy were the burdens borne by the leaders in this work; but these men moved forward in unwavering confidence, in humility of spirit, and in firm reliance upon God, believing that He would cause His truth to triumph. Like King Hezekiah, Nehemiah "clave to the Lord, and departed not from following Him, but kept His commandments. . . . And the Lord was with him." 2 Kings 18:6, 7.

Guds ord er fuldt af slående modsætninger. Synd og hellighed stilles op imod hinanden, for at vi tydeligt skal kunne se modsætningen og undgå det ene og vælge det andet. Sanballats og Tobijas had, løgne og forræderi er beskrevet på de samme blade som Ezras og Nehemias' troskab, offervilje og ædle optræden. Vi kan selv bestemme, hvem af dem vi vil ligne. På den ene side ser vi de frygtelige følger af at overtræde Guds bud, og på den anden side ser vi de velsignelser, som er en frugt af lydighed, Vi skal selv afgøre, om vi vil lide under forbandelsen eller nyde velsignelsen.