Ezra 5:6

Ezra 5:6 says, The copy of the letter that Tatnai, governor on this side the river, and Shetharboznai and his companions the Apharsachites, which were on this side the river, sent unto Darius the king:  Matthew Henry says these were neighbors of the people of Israel who had also fallen out of power. They had no problem with them rebuilding their houses, but when they started rebuilding the Temple, they felt the need to notify Darius.  People today may have no real concern about what Christians do in the secular world but then become concerned if we start doing great things for God. 

Verse seven adds. They sent a letter unto him, wherein was written thus; Unto Darius the king, all peace.  These two men decided to write to King Darius about what was happening.  Matthew Henry points out that they at least stuck to the facts.  If we are ever accused of doing some great work for God today, as individuals or as a nation, and people have a problem with what we are doing, we need to pray that they at least stick to the facts.  

Verse eight continues, Be it known unto the king, that we went into the province of Judea, to the house of the great God, which is builded with great stones, and timber is laid in the walls, and this work goeth fast on, and prospereth in their hands.  They then said they went to where the building was being built and checked things out for themselves.  We should want people to come and check out what we are doing for God as the church today.  Hopefully, they will find us doing great things for God.  

Verse nine states, Then asked we those elders, and said unto them thus, Who commanded you to build this house, and to make up these walls?  They then said they asked the elders who had authorized them to do the work.  We should not be surprised today if those who oppose God attempt to find a legal reason to stop Christians from doing works for God. 

Verse ten adds, We asked their names also, to certify thee, that we might write the names of the men that were the chief of them. They said they then asked the elders for their names so that they could give them to King Darius.  If work is going on for God today and people of the world were to ask for the names of those doing it, would we be there to give our name and would we boldly do so?  We should pray that the answer would be yes. Of course, in order to do anything for God, you must be a part of His kingdom, and in order to do so, you must accept Jesus Christ as your personal Savior and Lord.