Yahweh warned Israel not to tie themselves to foreign gods through marriage. But when those same foreigners left their gods to honor him, Yahweh welcomed them with open arms. Yahweh’s people were not as welcoming. Ezra and Nehemiah loved God, but they were misguided to exclude foreigners from joining God’s people. Since Ezra and Nehemiah weren’t exactly models for godliness and reform, what can we learn from their stories? How can we welcome others in the family of God who are different from us?

Bible Reading

Isaiah 56:3,6-8 in contrast to Ezra 4:1-3

Reflection Questions

• What are some behaviors that might show another follower of Jesus that they belong in the family of God?
• What are some behaviors that could exclude or alienate another follower of Jesus from your community?
• What is one small step you can take today to encourage someone else’s sense of belonging?

Want to Go Deeper?

Check out this episode's Bible study guide to watch a video and explore more detailed questions for personal study and group discussion. Go to bibleproject.com/study.

Show Credits

• Host: Cheree Hayes
• Message: Dr. Carissa Quinn
• Production: Dan Gummel and Zach Mckinley
• Bible Reading: Dan Gummel
• Theme music: Grant William Harold
• Background Music: "Reflections" by Pete James Johnson

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