Considering the historical context of exile and restoration, what is the primary theological significance of the rebuilding of the altar before the temple in Ezra 3?

A It symbolized the immediate resumption of sacrificial practices, superseding the need for a temple. B It demonstrated the people's immediate obedience to the Persian king's decree. C It represented a renewed commitment to worship and covenant faithfulness, even before the complete restoration of the temple infrastructure. D It primarily served as a political statement to assert Jewish dominance over the returning exiles from other nations.