Mob justice often becomes injustice. There is no judge, no jury, no presentation of evidence or a trial—just the accusation, the mob’s confidence in their own righteousness, and the punishment of perceived evil. At the close of the book of Ezra, we see a situation that could very easily have veered toward vigilantism. Instead, Ezra shows godly wisdom in laying out a plan to ensure just judgment.

Responding to the decree in verses 7–8, “within the three days, all the men of Judah and Benjamin had gathered in Jerusalem” (v. 9). “All the people were sitting in the square before the house of God,” and all of them were “greatly distressed” (v. 9). Ezra stood to confront the crowd. He pulled no punches: “You have been unfaithful; you have married foreign women, adding to Israel’s guilt” (v. 10). Ezra then tells them what they must do: “Now honor the Lord, the God of your ancestors, and do his will. Separate yourselves from the peoples around you and from your foreign wives” (v. 11).

This was a tall order that required radical obedience. But the people responded well: “You are right! We must do as you say” (v. 12). They asked for time to obey because of the poor weather and the extent of their sin. Ezra agreed and “selected men who were family heads” to investigate each case (v. 16). The book of Ezra ends with a list of people who had sinned. Imagine having your name and your sin memorialized in this way!

It may feel like the book of Ezra ends unsatisfactorily. While we have witnessed God’s great acts on behalf of His people, the book closes with a list of sinners. Be reassured, however, that these are sinners who repent, so “there is still hope for Israel” (Ezra 10:2).

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