The Temple is Re-built

Introduction

Begin by talking about times when you have been sad. Invite the children to share their experiences. Remind them about the destruction of the Temple. This was a very sad time for the people of Jerusalem who were taken away to be slaves in another country. However, during this time, they never gave up hope. They believed that G-d would rescue them, as he had rescued their ancestors from Egypt.

According to the Bible, the people of Jerusalem were slaves in Babylon for 70 years, until the Babylonians were defeated by the Persians. The new Persian king allowed the Jewish people to return back to Jerusalem. He gave them permission to rebuild the city and the Temple.

Main Activity

Share with children Ezra 3:8-13, 6:13-22 www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ezra%203:8-13,
%206:13-22&version=31

Following discussion, children could:

• write / talk about times when they have successfully overcome difficulties / opposition.
• explain why it was so important for the Jewish people to rebuild the Temple.

Extension

Find out about the work of Nehemiah

Plenary

Continue the Temple timeline.