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Cyrus Sets the Exiles Free
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the cause of so much grief. Many, however, did not view this lesser
glory with such dissatisfaction. They “shouted aloud for joy, so that
the people could not discern the noise of the shout of joy from the
noise of the weeping of the people, for the people shouted with a
loud shout, and the sound was heard afar off.”
Verses 12, 13
.
Those who failed to rejoice at the laying of the foundation stone
did not realize the weight of their words of disapproval and dis-
appointment. Little did they know how much their dissatisfaction
would delay the completion of the Lord’s house.
The first temple’s magnificence had been a source of pride to
Israel before their captivity; but the glory of the first temple could not
recommend them to God, for they did not bring Him the sacrifice
of a humble and contrite spirit. When people lose sight of the
vital principles of God’s kingdom, ceremonies multiply and become
extravagant. When they despise the simplicity of godliness, their
pride and love of display demand magnificent church buildings,
splendid adornings, and impressive ceremonies.
But God values His church for the sincere piety that distinguishes
it from the world. He judges its worth by how much its members
have grown in the knowledge of Christ and in spiritual experience.
He looks for love and goodness. Beauty of art cannot compare
with beauty of character revealed in Christ’s representatives. A
congregation may be the poorest in the land, but if the members
possess the principles of Christ’s character, angels will unite in their
worship.
Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good!
For His mercy endures forever.
Let the redeemed of the Lord say so,
Whom He has redeemed from the hand of the enemy.
Psalm 107:1, 2
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