In Ezra 3, the returned exiles begin their long-awaited “rebuild,” but God shows that true restoration starts not with structures, but with worship. Before walls or homes are raised, the people rebuild the altar, confess their sins, remember the covenant faithfulness of God, and re-center their identity around His presence rather than their own strength. As the temple foundation is laid, worship and obedience move together, provoking both joy and grief. Ultimately, Ezra 3 points beyond the temple to Christ, the true and greater Temple, in whom God’s presence dwells and through whom lasting restoration is accomplished.