First Things First

The sermon centers on the returning exiles in Ezra 3, who, upon their arrival in Jerusalem, immediately prioritize rebuilding the altar of God and restoring sacrificial worship, demonstrating that spiritual renewal and communion with God take precedence over physical security or material restoration. Despite fear of hostile neighbors and the modesty of the second temple compared to Solomon's grand structure, the people joyfully reestablish worship, recognizing that true strength and protection come from God alone, not human effort or worldly power. The preacher contrasts this biblical priority with modern Christian tendencies to elevate service, study, evangelism, or personal piety over worship, arguing that worship is the ultimate purpose of life and the foundation for all other Christian activity. The emotional contrast between weeping over the temple's diminished splendor and shouting with joy over its restoration underscores the danger of focusing on external glory rather than the spiritual reality of God's presence and grace. Ultimately, the sermon points to Christ as the true and greater fulfillment of the temple, calling believers to place Him first in their lives, calendars, and hearts, seeking heavenly things above all else as the eternal, unchanging 'big rock' that must be prioritized.