The Teach the Text Commentary Series gives pastors the best of biblical scholarship and presents the information needed to move seamlessly from the meaning of the text to its effective communication. By providing focused commentary, this volume allows pastors to quickly grasp the most important information. Each unit of the commentary includes the big idea and key themes of the passage and sections dedicated to understanding, teaching, and illustrating the text.Ezra, Nehemiah, and Esther are the historical books from Israel's postexilic period. While lacking miraculous intervention found in previous historical books, God is nevertheless active behind the scenes, working through human agency and sovereignly orchestrated coincidences to achieve his purposes: the restoration and protection of his people, despite opposition and outright threat.