THEOSISBeda Venerabilis
The communication dispatched by Phaphnaeus to Darius stands in stark contrast to the one authored by Rehum and Shimshai to Artaxerxes. While the latter was laden with accusations directed at the inhabitants of Jerusalem, Phaphnaeus's message exudes commendation, celebrating not only the people but also the Almighty. It begins with the greeting: "To Darius the king, all peace! Let it be made known to the king that we traveled to the region of Judah, to the house of the great God; and it is constructed with significant stones, and timber is incorporated within the walls; and this undertaking is proceeding swiftly and successfully" (1 Ezra 5:7-9).
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The significance of the phrase regarding the prominent stones used in the construction of the Lord’s house requires careful consideration. It is clear that such an impressive edifice could only be built with hewn stones. The reference to unworked stones pertains to those newly harvested, which were then fashioned appropriately for the construction of the temple. Although some aged stones might have remained, as noted by Jeremiah in Lamentations (Lamentations 4:1), it is evident that new stones were essential for the temple’s completion.
This situation undoubtedly illuminates a deeper truth. The Church of God is comprised not only of those who, through repentance, regain their righteous standing lost to sin but also of new believers, guided by the teachings of mentors as if using the builders' measuring tool, placed rightly within the framework of the Lord’s house. The fact that the temple included both old and new stones—those long prepared and those that had yet to be shaped—can be viewed as a reflection of the unified Church of Christ, which encompasses two distinct groups: Jews and Gentiles. The Jews, akin to stones that have been long worked, possess knowledge and adhere to God’s law. In contrast, Gentiles, once captive to idolatry, were untouched by the fervor of spiritual architects or piety but eventually shed the brutishness and earthly mindset to embrace faith.