21 Now issue an order to these men to stop work, so that this city will not be rebuilt until I so order.
21 Therefore make a decree that these men be made to cease, and that this city be not rebuilt, until a decree is made by me.
21 So do this: Order these men to stop work immediately - not a lick of rebuilding in that city unless I order it.
21 Now give the command to make these men cease, that this city may not be built until the command is given by me.
21 Therefore, issue orders to have these men stop their work. That city must not be rebuilt except at my express command.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Ezra 4:21
Commentary on Ezra 4:6-24
(Read Ezra 4:6-24)
It is an old slander, that the prosperity of the church would be hurtful to kings and princes. Nothing can be more false, for true godliness teaches us to honour and obey our sovereign. But where the command of God requires one thing and the law of the land another, we must obey God rather than man, and patiently submit to the consequences. All who love the gospel should avoid all appearance of evil, lest they should encourage the adversaries of the church. The world is ever ready to believe any accusation against the people of God, and refuses to listen to them. The king suffered himself to be imposed upon by these frauds and falsehoods. Princes see and hear with other men's eyes and ears, and judge things as represented to them, which are often done falsely. But God's judgment is just; he sees things as they are.