Ezra 7:23

Whatsoever is commanded by the God of heaven, let it be diligently done.

The decree of Artaxerzes

It is remarkable that some of the richest effusions of poetry in the whole Scriptures proceeded from heathen monarchs, e.g., Darius and Nebuchadnezzar. Consider these words--

I. In reference to the Jewish church.

1. The state of the Jewish Church at this time is not unlike to that in which it was in the days of Ezra. It is impossible to behold them in their religious services, and not to see how thick s veil is yet upon their hearts. Nor do they manifest any respect for their own law in its sublimer precepts. Of real holiness of heart and life they are ignorant in the extreme.

2. But to us is given, no less than to Ezra, a command to advance their welfare.

3. In this work we should engage with all diligence (Romans 11:30).

II. In reference to the church which is amongst us.

1. We need to have God’s work advanced in our midst.

2. We ought to engage in this work with our whole hearts. Conclusion:

We ought to obey this imperial mandate--

1. In a way of personal reformation.

2. In a way of ministerial exertion. (C. Simeon, M. A.)

Christian missions

We may well sit at the feet of Artaxerxes and learn from heathen lips the extent of our duty and the nature of our obligations. We plead for missions.

I. To assign some reasons for active devotedness to the cause of God in the world.

1. From the Divine authority by which it is enjoined. It “is commanded by the God of heaven.” We love to see the estimate of Christian duties from the men of the world. They often take a just measure of our obligations. The law of love to the perishing heathen is clearly laid down. God makes man the medium of His blessings to man. The same God who bids us “believe on the Lord Jesus Christ” that we may be saved bids us “go into all the world,” etc. We should like to see inscribed over all our missionary institutions the law, “Whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them.”

2. From the urgent necessity which exists for your exertions.

3. From the fearful consequences of the neglect of this duty. “For why should there be wrath against the realm of the king and his sons?”

4. From the success which has attended the fulfilment of this duty.

II. To offer some suggestions as to the spirit and mode in which this work should be carried on.

1. Earnestly, without remissness. “Let it be diligently done.”

2. Prayerfully.

3. Speedily. (Samuel Thodey.)