Bible Study

This is a copy of the Sunday School Lessons presented to an adult class each Sunday.

Name:
Location: Spartanburg, South Carolina, United States

Retired, Lobbyist in Washington,DC - Management - BS Chemistry and various continuing education courses

Thursday, March 26, 2009

Hang in There - Nehemiah 6:1-16 - March 29, 2009

Sunday School Lesson – Hang in There – March 29, 2009

This is our final Bible study lesson in the series entitled “Stepping Up to Serve.”

Our scripture is Nehemiah 6:1-16.

Discouragement and threats from people with power can result in believers abandoning a project GOD has called them to complete. It is often easy to say that we cannot fight “city hall” when we encounter problems completing a project. We see in our study, this week, Nehemiah remained focused when the surrounding government leaders were threatening him and when the local religious leadership were conspiring with the enemy.

When we are tired and we encounter opposition we have choices - continue, pause or stop. If we are looking for an excuse and encounter trouble, we take it as an opportunity to stop because we have an excuse. Our scripture reveals that Nehemiah continued to focus on his calling and to seek strength from the LORD. When things get tough, the tough get going. Nehemiah began his journey by seeking the will of GOD through prayer. GOD confirmed his calling as he took steps to prepare for his calling. He depended upon the LORD to see him and the project to completion.

The breaches in the wall had not been completed. They needed all the breaches secure for the city and its citizens to be safe and secure. How a leader responded to adversity influences those helping him/her. Let’s see how Nehemiah responds to those trying to discourage him and lure him into a trap. We must keep in mind that Nehemiah looked to GOD for his strength and he asked GOD for “success for the day.” He took matters one step at a time and in an attitude of prayer.

Let’s read Nehemiah 6:1-9:

Attempts to Discourage the Builders

1 When Sanballat, Tobiah, Geshem the Arab, and the rest of our enemies heard that I had rebuilt the wall and that no gap was left in it—though at that time I had not installed the doors in the gates— 2 Sanballat and Geshem sent me a message: “Come, let’s meet together in the villages of[1] Or together at Chephirim in the Ono Valley.” But they were planning to harm me. 3 So I sent messengers to them, saying, “I am doing a great work and cannot come down. Why should the work cease while I leave it and go down to you?” 4 Four times they sent me the same proposal, and I gave them the same reply. 5 Sanballat sent me this same message a fifth time by his aide, who had an open letter in his hand. 6 In it was written: It is reported among the nations—and Geshem[2] Lit Gashmu agrees—that you and the Jews plan to rebel. This is the reason you are building the wall. According to these reports, you are to become their king 7 and have even set up the prophets in Jerusalem to proclaim on your behalf: “There is a king in Judah.” These rumors will be heard by the king. So come, let’s confer together. 8 Then I replied to him, “There is nothing to these rumors you are spreading; you are inventing them in your own mind.” 9 For they were all trying to intimidate us, saying, “They will become discouraged[3] Lit saying, “Their hands will fail in the work, and it will never be finished.” But now, [my God,]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. strengthen me.[4] Lit my hands

Nehemiah and the wall crews repaired the breaches in the walls. There was no gap in the walls. This was done in a record breaking fifty-two (52) days. But they had not completed the gates to the city. Repairing the breaches in the walls was a tremendous feat. The repair of the walls sent a tremendous message to the governors in that area. The governors, led by Sanballat (since he is mentioned first), immediately planned to lure Nehemiah to a supposedly safe place, about twenty (20) miles from Jerusalem to do him harm. Neutralize the leader and you likely kill the will of the people to finish the project.

Sanballat and Geshem the Arab sent a message to Nehemiah asking him to meet them in a safe area called the Ono Valley. But Nehemiah was alerted that they planned to harm him. So he said no, he had too much work to do. They sent him the same request four (4) times but each time Nehemiah rejected their offer. This was a bold move on Nehemiah’s part. But it showed the confidence Nehemiah had in GOD and the fact that he had received the necessary blessings from the king gave him added assurance that he had nothing to fear from the king. He was on secure ground.

But the discouragers did not let up. They changed their tactics. They began a rumor that Nehemiah’s plan was to rebel against the king. The fifth message was sent as an open message. It could have been written on pottery or papyrus. The point was for all the Israelites to know the contents of the message. Sanballat wanted to alert the Israelites that Nehemiah’s real plan was to establish himself as their king and rebel against their current king.

Nehemiah was not deterred. He simply sent a message back to Sanballat revealing that he knew that he was the one who started the rumors to discourage them from completing the work GOD had ordained. The scripture does not tell us but I wonder if Nehemiah sent his reply back as an open message? If so, it would have been a way to reveal to the Israelites, publically, the source of these false rumors and that Nehemiah was not concerned about their threats. Nehemiah had great courage.

Normally, such threats would have deterred most people but Nehemiah showed a resolve to complete the project because he was firm in his faith that he was serving GOD.

Let’s read Nehemiah 6:10-14:

Attempts to Intimidate Nehemiah

10 I went to the house of Shemaiah son of Delaiah, son of Mehetabel, who was restricted [to his house]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. . He said: Let us meet at the house of God inside the temple. Let us shut the temple doors because they are coming to kill you. They are coming to kill you tonight![5] Or by night 11 But I said, “Should a man like me run away? How can I enter the temple and live? I will not go.” 12 I realized that God had not sent him, because of the prophecy he spoke against me. Tobiah and Sanballat had hired him. 13 He was hired, so that I would be intimidated, do as he suggested, sin, and get a bad reputation, in order that they could discredit me. 14 My God, remember Tobiah and Sanballat for what they have done, and also Noadiah the prophetess and the other prophets who wanted to intimidate me.

Nehemiah went to the house of Shemaiah (shih MAY yuh). Not much is known about Shemaiah. Nehemiah revealed that Shemaiah was the son of Delaiah. There was a priest named Delaiah. If Shemaiah was the son of a priest, then Shemaiah was a priest. We do not know why Shemaiah was restricted to his house and we do not know if Shemaiah invited Nehemiah to his house or Nehemiah went there to visit him. However, based upon the events that followed, it is reasonable to conclude Shemaiah invited Nehemiah to his house. I think the fact that Shemaiah invited Nehemiah to his house gives credibility to the possibility that Nehemiah was a eunuch, because he knew a eunuch could not enter the temple.

For whatever reason, Nehemiah met Shemaiah at his house. As the events unfold, we learn that Tobiah and Sanballat had hired Shemaiah, likely an influential religious leader, to carry out another scheme to discredit Nehemiah with the Israelites.

Since Tobiah was listed first, it gives us a clue that he was the ring leader in this plot to discredit Nehemiah with the support of Sanballat.

Verse 12, revealed that Nehemiah considered Shemaiah a prophet. Shemaiah had sufficient credentials to convince Nehemiah that what he was asking him to do was okay. Jews were allowed to enter the inner court of the temple but the area Shemaiah was suggesting that Nehemiah enter was restricted. To enter this restricted area could mean death, plus it would show the people that Nehemiah was afraid for his own safety and sought safety in the temple. Nehemiah was not a priest or a Levite; therefore, he could not enter the suggested restricted area. He was a layman called of the LORD. GOD was his security and protector.

Satan uses religion and religious leaders to do his work at times. Nehemiah knew the scripture and he knew what Shemiah was suggesting went against the teaching of the scripture. This is why believers must know the scripture and reject counsel that is contrary to the Word of GOD, regardless of the source.

Nehemiah likely knew from the scripture, 2 Chronicles 26:16-21, that King Uzziah went into the inner part of the temple and was struck with leprosy:
Uzziah’s Disease
16 But when he became strong, he grew arrogant and it led to his own destruction. He acted unfaithfully against the Lord his God by going into the Lord’s sanctuary to burn incense on the incense altar. 17 Azariah the priest, along with 80 brave priests of the Lord, went in after him. 18 They took their stand against King Uzziah and said, “Uzziah, you have no right to offer incense to the Lord—only the consecrated priests, the descendants of Aaron, have the right to offer incense. Leave the sanctuary, for you have acted unfaithfully! You will not receive honor from the Lord God.” 19 Uzziah, with a censer in his hand to offer incense, was enraged. But when he became enraged with the priests, in the presence of the priests in the Lord’s temple beside the altar of incense, a skin disease broke out on his forehead. 20 Then Azariah the chief priest and all the priests turned to him and saw that he was diseased on his forehead. They rushed him out of there. He himself also hurried to get out because the Lord had afflicted him. 21 So King Uzziah was diseased to the time of his death. He lived in quarantine[10] Lit a house of freedom [11] Lv 13:46 with a serious skin disease and was excluded from access to the Lord’s temple, while his son Jotham was over the king’s household governing the people of the land.

We have to keep in mind that GOD had specific instructions that had to be followed regarding the temple. We, also, need to keep in mind that believers are the temple of the HOLY SPIRIT. Believers must remain in relationship with the LORD, as they serve HIM.

When you do not succeed, try and try again was the mantra for Sanballat, Shemaiah and all their colleagues. Shemaiah had other influential religious leaders who were persuaded to work against him. Noadiah (noh uh DIGH uh) a prophetess is mentioned.

Nehemiah remained strong and relied upon the LORD. He prayed and asked GOD to deal with those who were trying to discredit him and hold them accountable for their actions. This reveals Nehemiah’s heart and character. He does not take revenge in his own hands but he leaves revenge to GOD.

Let’s read Nehemiah 6:15-16:

The Wall Completed
15 The wall was completed in 52 days, on the twenty-fifth day of the month Elul. 16 When all our enemies heard this, all the surrounding nations were intimidated and lost their confidence,[6] Lit and fell greatly in their eyes for they realized that this task had been accomplished by our God.

Victory!!! Nehemiah remained undeterred and the wall was completed. This sent a powerful message to all the heathens. They realize that such an accomplishment can only be explained by the help of their GOD.

GOD is honored through the rebuilding of a wall. GOD is honored in the rebuilding of our lives. Nehemiah began the project and maintained his prayer life as he continued to serve GOD. He did not let momentary success deter him from the overall success of the project. He had many opportunities to become entangled in issues which would have diluted his effort to complete the project.

When we serve our LORD, we must stay focused on the objective. The Apostle Paul compares serving our LORD to running a race and finishing. At the beginning of a project there is much enthusiasm but as the work progresses then that initial enthusiasm can fade. If we begin a project on shaky ground, when things get tough, we tend to stall, falter or question our calling. That is why it is so important to know that GOD is calling. Nehemiah prayed for months to confirm his calling.

All believers are called to serve the LORD through the lives they live. When our Christian lives are based upon false notions and hear-say regarding GOD’S Word, rather than truth, we become discouraged and are easily deterred from living as GOD wants us to live.

This is why a believer’s relationship with the LORD is so vital. We must continue to seek truth through an intimate, loving relationship with HIM through CHRIST. Begin serving HIM on the solid rock of JESUS.

Saturday, March 21, 2009

Clean the Air - Nehemiah 5:1-16 - March 22, 2009

Sunday School Lesson – Clear the Air – Match 22, 2009

This is lesson four (4) in our series entitles “Stepping Up to Serve.”

Our scripture is Nehemiah 5:1-16.

Our Bible study this week reminds me of the situation we are facing in the world today, “greed.”

We can learn a lot from Nehemiah. We can think of Nehemiah as the CEO who is trying to rebuild a city that has been ravaged by those who had no interest in the city but only interested in themselves. Does that sound familiar?

Nehemiah led by example. He did not lead to draw attention to himself or to gain for himself but as GOD wanted him to lead. It is easy to take advantage of circumstances when you have power and influence. In our study, we will see how Nehemiah handled a serious situation by practicing what he preached. He was in Jerusalem to serve GOD, not himself.

Let’s read Nehemiah 5:1-5:

1 There was a widespread outcry from the people and their wives against their Jewish countrymen. 2 Some were saying, “We, our sons, and our daughters are numerous. Let us get grain so that we can eat and live.” 3 Others were saying, “We are mortgaging our fields, vineyards, and homes to get grain during the famine.” 4 Still others were saying, “We have borrowed money to pay the king’s tax on our fields and vineyards. 5 We and our children are [just]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. like our countrymen and their children, yet we are subjecting our sons and daughters to slavery. Some of our daughters are already enslaved, but we are powerless[1] Lit but there is not the power in our hand because our fields and vineyards belong to others.”

Nehemiah had to deal with injustices being brought upon the Jews by fellow Jews. In every society you will always have the “haves and the have nots.” There was a famine in the area, the people had dedicated themselves to rebuild the walls and some of the people had to mortgage whatever they had of value just to purchase something to eat. Those who were able to keep their farms and vineyards had to borrow to pay the king his taxes. Even others had to sell either themselves, their wives or children into slavery. The Hebrew word “enslaved” used in verse 5 has sexual overtones. Jewish law had strict guidelines regarding “debt slavery.” However, the Jews were not following those laws.

Here are some of the laws, as Jews, they were supposed to practice. They can be found in Exodus 22:25-27, Leviticus 25:35-37, Deuteronomy 24:10-13, such as:
- A Jew can make a loan to a fellow Jew without interest.
- Creditors could take pledges to ensure repayment but the debtor had rights.
- A creditor could not take anything essential to the debtor’s earning a living.
- A creditor could not could not enter a debtor’s house and take what the debtor had pledged.
- If a debtor offered his cloak, the creditor had to return the man’s cloak at night. Then the next day the debtor had to offer his cloak back to the creditor.
- Pledges were not required for widows and orphans.
- Creditors who did not follow the law were condemned.
- Creditors who followed the law were commended.
- The attempt was to preserve the dignity of the debitor.

According to Jewish law a Jew could lend money to a fellow Jew without interest. They could lend a Gentile money and charge interest. The problem was these Jewish countrymen were lending money to their fellow Jews and charging interest. When a Jew became the slave of a fellow Jew, it was for six (6) years. The law of the Sabbatical Year required that the slave be freed in the seventh year. The system had gone astray and the rich Jews became greedy. Does this remind you of some CEO’S in today’s society?

This societal situation was causing a problem which Nehemiah had to address.

Let’s read Nehemiah 5:6-9:

6 I became extremely angry when I heard their outcry and these complaints. 7 After seriously considering the matter, I accused the nobles and officials, saying to them, “Each of you is charging his countrymen interest.”[2] Ex 22:25 So I called a large assembly against them 8 and said, “We have done our best to buy back our Jewish countrymen who were sold to foreigners, but now you sell your own countrymen, and we have to buy them back.” They remained silent and could not say a word. 9 Then I said, “What you are doing isn’t right. Shouldn’t you walk in the • fear of our God [and not invite]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. the reproach of our foreign enemies?

Nehemiah became very angry when he learned of this situation. So Nehemiah called them all together. This implies that he called the rich as well as the poor together.

Nehemiah explained that they had already bought back the Jewish people that had been purchased by Gentiles. When a Gentile purchased a slave it was forever. In order to obtain the freedom of a Gentile slave, the slave had to be purchased or redeemed for a certain price. Does that ring a bell? JESUS purchased us with the price of HIS shed blood. HE redeemed us from the slavery of sin and death. Every believer has been purchased with a price and set free to live the abundant Christian life. WOW!!! Think about it.

Apparently the poor Jews became a commodity and the rich Jews bought them and sold them to either Jews or Gentiles. Nehemiah had been “redeeming” them only to learn that the situation was much larger than he thought. He went straight to the root cause.

Silence usually means guilt. Nehemiah reminds them of their relationship and commitment to GOD. They had strayed from serving GOD. They were serving their master “greed.” Being a Jew, they were to be an example to the world and these foreign leaders were watching them and their business practices. This hit home with those guilty.

Let’s read Nehemiah 5:10-16:

10 Even I, as well as my brothers and my servants, have been lending them money and grain. Please, let us stop charging this interest.[3] Or us forgive these debts 11 Return their fields, vineyards, olive groves, and houses to them immediately, along with the percentage[4] Lit hundredth of the money, grain, new wine, and olive oil that you have been assessing them.” 12 They responded: “We will return [these things]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. and require nothing more from them. We will do as you say.” So I summoned the priests and made everyone take an oath to do this. 13 I also shook the folds of my robe and said, “May God likewise shake from his house and property everyone who doesn’t keep this promise. May he be shaken out and have nothing!” The whole assembly said, “• Amen,” and they praised the Lord. Then the people did as they had promised.

Good and Bad Governors

14 Furthermore, from the day King Artaxerxes appointed me to be their governor in the land of Judah—from the twentieth year until his thirty-second year, 12 years—I and my associates never ate from the food allotted to the governor. 15 The governors who preceded me had heavily burdened the people, taking food and wine from them, as well as a pound[5] Lit 40 shekels of silver. Their subordinates also oppressed the people, but I didn’t do this, because of the fear of God. 16 Instead, I devoted myself to the construction of the wall, and all my subordinates were gathered there for the work. We didn’t buy any land.

This is the heart of our scripture. Nehemiah had been practicing what he was asking them to do. They knew it. Nehemiah did not have to change his lifestyle. They knew what he had been doing was for the good of the people to help them during this time of trouble. They knew Nehemiah was a man of character and served GOD.

So they agreed. Then Nehemiah went a step further, he had them take an oath before the priest. I understand that it was custom for men to keep things of value in the folds of the robe they were wearing. I imagine it is much like men carrying things of value in their pants pockets. I know when growing up, when we wanted to show that we had nothing, we would turn our pockets inside out and show an empty billfold. When Nehemiah shook the folds of his robe, whatever he had of value fell to the ground or floor. This was a gesture emphasizing that if they did not honor the oath they were taking, GOD would strip them of all the things they had of value.

They all agreed by saying Amen, which means “so be it.”

Nehemiah revealed what he had done since being appointed governor. He had power and influence. The governors before him took advantage of their position but he had not exercised the rights that he had. He had not placed undue burden on the people, rich or poor. They all knew what he had been doing. His power, position or influence had not gone to his head. When he asked the people to cooperate with him, they did, because he had lived the example.

The king appointed Nehemiah governor when he commissioned him to go to Jerusalem to rebuild the walls and gate. He served twelve (12) years as governor and returned to the king. The king reappointed Nehemiah for a second term as governor and he returned to Jerusalem.

The scripture states that the wall was completed in fifty-two (52) days, yet Nehemiah talks about what he has done over a twelve (12) year period. What I am about to say is my opinion. I think the major breaches in the wall were completed in fifty-two (52) days but the wall took longer to fully complete.

We have recently heard of corporate greed, misuse of power, position and influence that has almost brought our nation and the world to its knees. The circumstances of our day reminded me of the situation Nehemiah was facing. Nehemiah was a man that served GOD, which was reflected in his lifestyle. His obedience to GOD prepared the way to solve a serious problem, which led to the completion of the project.

We need men and women of character who are dedicated to serve GOD to lead us and help us rebuild the walls and gates of our nation. I think GOD has brought us close to the brink of destruction as a wake-up call. What will we do? We have the freedom to voice our opinion and concern. We have the freedom to vote into the office the people who represent us. We must exercise that freedom or run the chance of losing it.

But more important, are we serving GOD as HE desires for our lives? Are we believers of character and integrity? Are we honoring GOD by the way we are living, working and conducting business?

GOD has chosen all believers to obediently serve HIM. HE has a wonderful plan for every believer. Seek the relationship with HIM and HE will guide your path to obedient service.

Friday, March 13, 2009

Don't Despair - Nehemiah 2:19-20; 4:1-23 - March 15, 2009

Sunday School Lesson – Don’t Despair – March 15, 2009

This is lesson three (3) in our bible study series entitled “Stepping Up to Serve.”

Our scripture is Nehemiah 2:19-20; 4:1-23.

Serving our LORD is, often, no easy task. This is why believers must be prepared both spiritually and physically when they seek to serve HIM. In our earlier study, we discovered that Nehemiah prayed to determine his role in what GOD had placed upon his heart. When GOD confirmed his role, then he prepared for the physical things he needed for the project. He waited and looked for the opportunity GOD had provided for him to speak to the king. GOD opened the door in a mighty way and HE granted Nehemiah “success for the day.” This must have been a moment of rejoicing when the king responded in such a generous manner. It confirmed that GOD was leading the effort and not him.

When believers know for certain they are doing the will of GOD and it has been confirmed, these anchors, mile-stones or physical assurances become important when opposition and despair arise.

There is a small congregation of 110 people in Poland who are restoring their church. The church is over 150 years old and is located in a city of over 400,000 people and 7 Universities. It is the only Baptist church in the city of Szczecin. It is located across the street from a prison. The prison houses those charged with a crime until their cases have been resolved. Those visiting loved ones in prison, line up and have to wait in line for 45 or more minutes. The church has a ministry to the prisoners and they want to open a coffee shop in the church to minister to those waiting in line.

Their building is a multi-story structure which was converted to an apartment building during the communist rule after World War II. When Poland chose not to be communist in 1989, the new government wanted to return the building back to its original owners, the Baptist.

It would have been less expensive for the Baptist to demolish the building and rebuild than to renovate the structure but the Polish government declared the building a historical site, therefore, it could not be torn down. So they are faithfully seeking resources from wherever they can to renovate the building. They began gathering resources years ago but they did not begin the restoration until they had enough resources to begin. They have begun the restoration. I have visited their church and to me it was a mammoth job. It has been a joy to watch how the LORD has provided. As we have been studying Nehemiah, my thoughts shift to the huge job these believers have in renovating their church.

They still have a long way to go but with the help and guidance of the LORD they will make it. We have a fund at our church called the Poland Partnership to help them with funds for the renovation effort. Please pray for this church as they are preparing the main structure of the church. This has to be done by certified contractors. Then pray that funds will come in for them to purchase materials to have on site and that the LORD will lead Carpenters for Christ from South Carolina to go to Szczecin in February/March, 2010 to do the interior work.

Carpenters for Christ is an amazing group of skilled workers who donate at least one week per year to work for Christ in construction projects. They have strict guidelines that must be followed. They arrive at a destination ready to work long hard hours to get a job done in a week. Everything must be in place for them to begin – all permits in order, all materials needed to complete the project on site, etc. They mean business.

Nehemiah means business and he is doing the will of GOD but he has to deal with opposition. So what does he do?

Let’s read Nehemiah 2:19-20:

19 When Sanballat the Horonite, Tobiah the Ammonite official, and Geshem the Arab heard [about this]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. , they mocked and despised us, and said, “What is this you’re doing? Are you rebelling against the king?” 20 I gave them this reply, “The God of heaven is the One who will grant us success. We, His servants, will start building, but you have no share, right, or historic claim in Jerusalem.”

Sanballat (san BAL uht), Tobiah (toh BIGH uh) and Geshem (GESH ehm) were leaders in the Persian Empire. Earlier, we read that Sanballat and Tobiah did not like the fact that Nehemiah was en-route to help the Israelites. But Nehemiah had a letter from the king authorizing him to go to Jerusalem. They likely thought that Nehemiah would get to Jerusalem, see the deplorable conditions and decide helping them would be a waste of time and effort. However, news got back to these government leaders that the Israelites agreed to rebuild the walls and gates of the city.

There had been bickering among these groups for years. Sanballat was governor of Samaria. Samaria had been the capitol of the former northern kingdom of Israel until they had been conquered by Assyria. Jerusalem had been the capitol of the southern kingdom until it had been conquered by the Babylonians. Tobiah was an Ammonite. Ammon was east of the Jordan River. The Israelites and the Ammonites fought over the land between them.

These government leaders were charged with the responsibility to prevent any group, in their area of jurisdiction, from becoming a problem and threaten Persian rule in that area. They were using their position, coupled with their prejudice, to prevent the Israelites from becoming a viable entity in that area. However, Nehemiah knew he was on solid ground both spiritually and physically.

These government leaders raised questions regarding the motives of the Israelites to rebuild, such as - surely they were planning to rebel against the king. Fortunately, the king and Nehemiah had a good relationship and the king had sent Nehemiah to Jerusalem with his blessings, provisions and a military escort.

Nehemiah’s reply was that “The GOD of Heaven is the ONE Who will grant success.” The GOD of the Israelites would be the ONE to grant success. Nehemiah wanted those potentially opposing them to know they would be opposing the true GOD of Israel and not some man-made god. It is easy at the end of a project to give the credit to GOD. But it takes faith and assurance to take a stand before a project has been completed, especially when conditions look near impossible, to give the credit to GOD.

Notice that Nehemiah used the words “we” and “HIS servants” in verse 20 in his communication to the government leaders. This had to be a testimony to these leaders once the walls and gates were restored.

These government leaders’ desire was to defeat the project before it began. Satan’s desire is to defeat every believer who desires to serve the LORD. He will throw up every road block he can to discourage and defeat. But know it is the will of the FATHER for every believer to have a loving, intimate relationship with HIM. But the choice is ours. We have a free will to choose. How do you choose?

Let’s read Nehemiah 4:1-6:

Progress in Spite of Opposition

1 [1] Neh 3:33 in Hb When Sanballat heard that we were rebuilding the wall, he became furious. He mocked the Jews 2 before his colleagues and the powerful men[2] Or the army of Samaria, and said, “What are these pathetic Jews doing? Can they restore [it]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. by themselves? Will they offer sacrifices? Will they ever finish it? Can they bring these burnt stones back to life from the mounds of rubble?” 3 Then Tobiah the Ammonite, who was beside him, said, “Indeed, even if a fox climbed up what they are building, he would break down their stone wall!” 4 Listen, our God, for we are despised. Make their insults return on their own heads and let them be taken as plunder to a land of captivity. 5 Do not cover their guilt or let their sin be erased from Your sight, because they have provoked[3] Or provoked [You] in front of the builders. 6 So we rebuilt the wall until the entire wall was joined together up to half its [height]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. , for the people had the will to keep working.

Ridicule and mockery are powerful tools for people to use when they want to discourage others; especially when they come from people of influence. Tobiah said that the walls were so weak that if a fox climbed up on them they would collapse.

Nehemiah knew what he was doing. Excavations of the wall built during this period reveal that the walls were about nine (9) feet thick. But none-the-less statements from those of influence carry weight to others.

The leaders tried to raise doubts about the building materials they were using. I understand that when limestone is subjected to fire, it becomes soft and can crumble.

So the government leaders attacked their ability and the materials they had to use to restore the walls.

Nehemiah simply went to GOD in prayer and requested that those making those remarks would have their remarks returned to them. The Bible tells us that vengeance is mine says the LORD. In GOD’S timing and according to HIS plan and purpose, the day would come when those making these remarks would be punished.

This was not Nehemiah’s project but GOD’S project. Believers need to stay focused and pray as they do the will of THE FATHER.

Let’s read Nehemiah 4:7-14:

7 [4] Neh 4:1 in Hb When Sanballat, Tobiah, and the Arabs, Ammonites, and Ashdodites heard that the repair to the walls of Jerusalem was progressing and that the gaps were being closed, they became furious. 8 They all plotted together to come and fight against Jerusalem and throw it into confusion. 9 So we prayed to our God and stationed a guard because of them day and night. 10 In Judah, it was said:[5] Lit Judah said The strength of the laborer fails, since there is so much rubble. We will never be able to rebuild the wall. 11 And our enemies said, “They won’t know or see anything until we’re among them and can kill them and stop the work.” 12 When the Jews who lived nearby arrived, they said to us time and again,[6] Lit us 10 times “Everywhere you turn, [they]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. attack[7] Or again from every place, “You must return to us.” 13 So I stationed [people]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. behind the lowest sections of the wall, at the vulnerable areas. I stationed them by families with their swords, spears, and bows. 14 After I made an inspection, I stood up and said to the nobles, the officials, and the rest of the people, “Don’t be afraid of them. Remember the great and awe-inspiring Lord, and fight for your countrymen, your sons and daughters, your wives and homes.”

So when ridicule did not discourage the people, the government leaders plotted to take military action. So they planned a surprise attack to throw the Israelites into confusion and to change their focus on completing the task to defending themselves and their family.

Intelligence is a good thing. Nehemiah learned of their plan for a surprise attack. He did not panic, he prepared. He placed people by families at the low point or weakest point of the wall. This was the more likely place for the enemy to try to launch a surprise attack. He reminded the people that the LORD was on their side because this was HIS project and they were serving HIM.

Placing people equipped to defend themselves at every low place in the wall, where they could be seen, served its purpose. Those guarding the wall could be seen by the enemy. Appearance of being prepared is 90% of the game plan.

Again, he had confidence in GOD. He did not say we will leave it to GOD but he took action. Nehemiah encouraged the people to be willing to fight for a national cause blessed by GOD. GOD was their strength and they knew that GOD had been the strength of their forefathers. They could physically see that GOD had provided for them to be able to begin rebuilding the wall. They had hope for the first time in many years. The future of their family depended upon them taking a stand.

As we face these uncertain economic times look to our LORD for hope.

Let’s read Nehemiah 4:15-23:

15 When our enemies realized that we knew their scheme and that God had frustrated it, every one of us returned to his own work on the wall. 16 From that day on, half of my men did the work while the other half held spears, shields, bows, and armor. The officers supported all the people of Judah, 17 who were rebuilding the wall. The laborers who carried the loads worked with one hand and held a weapon with the other. 18 Each of the builders had his sword strapped around his waist while he was building, and the trumpeter was beside me. 19 Then I said to the nobles, the officials, and the rest of the people: “The work is enormous and spread out, and we are separated far from one another along the wall. 20 Wherever you hear the trumpet sound, rally to us there. Our God will fight for us!” 21 So we continued the work, while half of the men were holding spears from daybreak until the stars came out. 22 At that time, I also said to the people, “Let everyone and his servant spend the night inside Jerusalem, so that they can stand guard by night and work by day.” 23 And I, my brothers,[8] Neh 1:2 my men, and the guards with me never took off our clothes. Each carried his weapon, even when washing.[9] Lit Each his weapon the water; Hb obscure

When the government leaders realized that the Israelites were aware of their plan to attack and they were prepared to fight, they changed their minds and retreated. Never-the-less, Nehemiah did not lower the guard of the city. They continued the work while staying ready to fight.

The Christian life is the same way. Believers are under the constant threat of the enemy attacking while they serve the LORD. Believers must remain on alert as they work. It is a big mistake for believers to think when they are serving the LORD that they do not need to stay prepared to do battle. Believers are in a spiritual battle 24/7. If they drop their guard or become complacent then opportunity for trouble is ready to take place. Ask GOD, through the HOLY SPIRIT, to reveal the weak places in your lives and be extra cautious as HE helps you fortify them. Even when you feel strong in the LORD never become complacent or think you are beyond being vulnerable.

Any believer is capable of falling and Satan is ready to pounce on any believer the instant he/she drops his/her guard.

Nehemiah was faced with an overwhelming task. He continued to pray and maintain his dependence upon GOD to guide him and give the Israelites confidence to be willing to risk their lives and continue the work.

Despair, discouragement and ridicule are very powerful tools Satan uses to defeat believers from serving our LORD. During these days of economic uncertainty, life can be very unsettling. Believers must rely upon the LORD. Pray and seek HIS guidance as you continue to work as HE leads you.

We need to pray for those who can pass or change laws that will influence our lives and the lives of our children and grandchildren. Fortunately, we have the right to elect those who represent us in our nation, state and local governments. Believers must exercise that right and voice their concerns.

Saturday, March 07, 2009

Prepare - Nehemiah 2:1-18 - March 8, 2009

Sunday School Lesson – Prepare – March 8, 2009

This is lesson two (2) in our Bible study entitled “Stepping Up to Serve.”

Our scripture is Nehemiah 2:1-8, 11-18.

As mentioned in last week’s lesson, Nehemiah was an ordinary man, placed in the right place at the right time to serve GOD. GOD has a plan for each of HIS children. First, seek the relationship with HIM.

Nehemiah went to GOD, confessed his sins and sought the relationship. He then stepped out in faith to serve GOD as, GOD led him. Nehemiah’s trust, confidence and faith were in GOD’S care and provision based upon his relationship with GOD; this was confirmed by HIS care and provision of delivering his ancestors from Egyptian slavery and leading them to the Promised Land. This was his Bible for that period of time.

In last week’s scripture, Nehemiah prayed for “success for the day.” Believers need to prepare to serve GOD by seeking the relationship or seeking to restore their relationship with GOD, through CHRIST. When a believer’s relationship is right, then he/she is prepared to ask GOD for success for the day as he/she is led by GOD and steps out in faith to serve HIM.

Let’s read Nehemiah 2:1-3:

1 During the month of Nisan in the twentieth year[1] March–April 445 (or 444) b.c. of King Artaxerxes, when wine was set before him, I took the wine and gave it to the king. I had never been sad in his presence, 2 so the king said to me, “Why are you[2] Lit Why is your face sad, when you aren’t sick? This is nothing but sadness of heart.” I was overwhelmed with fear 3 and replied to the king, “May the king live forever! Why should I[3] Lit my face not be sad when the city where my ancestors are buried lies in ruins and its gates have been destroyed by fire?”

The month of Nisan (NIGH san) bridges the months of March and April. This is four (4) months after Nehemiah heard the report on the deplorable conditions in Jerusalem. So what had Nehemiah been doing for four (4) months? He had been praying. GOD was preparing Nehemiah’s heart so he could serve HIM.

GOD had placed Nehemiah, the cupbearer, in the right job at the right time to give him the opportunity to serve HIM. GOD was equipping him for service. Nehemiah’s step of faith would confirm to him that what was in his heart was from GOD.

When we step out in faith and GOD confirms our step of faith with success, it builds trust and confidence in GOD. This in turn builds a relationship with each other and unity.

Nehemiah had a sad countenance about him, which got the king’s attention. Some Bible scholars think Nehemiah was sad on purpose in order to get the king’s attention, others think it was a natural result of Nehemiah’s concern about the situation in Jerusalem. We know, as mentioned in last week’s study, that a person took his/her life in his/her own hands when seeking to ask the king a question without being summoned to do so by the king.

We see that King Artaxeres (ahr tuh ZUHRK seez) was an observant king. He asked Nehemiah why he was so sad, when he was not sick. This gave Nehemiah the opportunity he needed. GOD provided the opportunity at the right moment; Nehemiah had to be ready with a response.

When we pray and ask for success for the day, we must be ready to seize the moment when the opportunity presents itself. Nehemiah was ready. He responded to the king with a gracious greeting of respect to open the conversation. As mentioned, Nehemiah was very concerned about the king’s reaction when he made his request because years earlier, the king had written a letter ordering the Jews to stop work rebuilding the gates to Jerusalem. He was preparing to request the king to give him permission to lead a delegation to restore Jerusalem. This request would be a direct conflict to the king’s earlier orders.

He does not mention Jerusalem by name but he expressed himself such that the king knew exactly the city he was talking about. He likely did not want to use “rebuild” and “Jerusalem” in the same sentence to provoke a negative reaction from the king.

The way GOD led Nehemiah to word his lead statement gave the king a sense that his genuine concern was for the city for historical reasons and not anti-government reasons. When the king wrote his letter, years earlier, ordering that the rebuilding of the gates in Jerusalem stop, the work stopped and there had been no attempt to sneak to rebuild them. The obedience of the leadership in Jerusalem, likely pleased the king. The recent delegation from Jerusalem had confirmed that the city was in deplorable conditions. Plus Nehemiah had been a trustworthy servant. The king and Nehemiah had built a relationship.

So a lot of positive things had fallen into place.

Let’s read Nehemiah 2:4-8:

4 Then the king asked me, “What is your request?” So I prayed to the God of heaven 5 and answered the king, “If it pleases the king, and if your servant has found favor with you, send me to Judah and to the city where my ancestors are buried,[4] Lit city, the house of the graves of my fathers, so that I may rebuild it.” 6 The king, with the queen seated beside him, asked me, “How long will your journey take, and when will you return?” So I gave him a definite time, and it pleased the king to send me. 7 I also said to the king: “If it pleases the king, let me have letters [written]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. to the governors of the region west of the Euphrates River, so that they will grant me [safe]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. passage until I reach Judah. 8 And [let me have]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. a letter [written]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. to Asaph, keeper of the king’s forest, so that he will give me timber to rebuild the gates of the temple’s fortress,[5] Neh 7:2 the city wall, and the home where I will live.”[6] Lit enter The king granted my [requests]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. , for I was graciously strengthened by my God.[7] Lit for the gracious hand of my God was on me

The king asked Nehemiah “What is your request?” Nehemiah had to be prepared and ready to give a reply. Prayer and preparation is vital in serving GOD.

Notice that Nehemiah prayed before he responded to the king. Praying silently when we are obeying GOD is a good idea. Again, Nehemiah is very courteous to the king. He has a humble spirit.

The queen is there with the king when Nehemiah made his request to rebuild Jerusalem. We are not sure why Nehemiah mentions this fact but she heard what was being said and heard the agreement. She may have agreed with the project and even encouraged the king to agree.

Nehemiah had planned all that he needed to do the job. He needed safe passage just to get to Jerusalem. He needed timber to rebuild the gates, wall and a place to live. The king had to be impressed with how well Nehemiah had planned this project. It revealed Nehemiah’s organizational and communication skills.

Preparation, prayer, courage, opportunity, presentation coupled with the power of GOD equals “success for the day.”

Good ideas coupled with the guidance of GOD equals “success for the day.” Nehemiah knew he was weak but he depended upon the LORD to strengthen him.

The king said YES! To GOD be the GLORY!!!

Let’s read Nehemiah 2:9-10:

9 I went to the governors of the region west of the Euphrates and gave them the king’s letters. The king had also sent officers of the infantry and cavalry with me. 10 When Sanballat the Horonite and Tobiah the Ammonite official heard that someone had come to seek the well-being of the Israelites, they were greatly displeased.

The king sent Nehemiah off with protection. Notice when Nehemiah met with the governors in the region they were displeased to know that he had come to help the Israelites. If he had not had the protection then he would have likely had a major problem. GOD equipped and provided for Nehemiah to accomplish the effort. That is why we must be led by GOD when we serve HIM. When we decide on our own what we will do to serve the LORD, then we can face major problems. Even when we are led by GOD, we will encounter major problems but GOD will see us through those problem areas as we look to HIM for continued guidance.

Let’s read Nehemiah 2:11-18:

11 After I arrived in Jerusalem and had been there three days, 12 I got up at night and [took]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. a few men with me. I didn’t tell anyone what my God had laid on my heart to do for Jerusalem. The only animal I took[8] Lit animal with me was the one I was riding. 13 I went out at night through the Valley Gate toward the Serpent’s[9] Or Dragon‘s Well and the Dung Gate, and I inspected the walls of Jerusalem that had been broken down and its gates that had been destroyed by fire.[10] Neh 1:3 14 I went on to the Fountain Gate and the King’s Pool, but farther down it became too narrow for my animal to go through. 15 So I went up at night by way of the valley and inspected the wall. Then heading back, I entered through the Valley Gate and returned. 16 The officials did not know where I had gone or what I was doing, for I had not yet told the Jews, priests, nobles, officials, or the rest of those who would be doing the work. 17 So I said to them, “You see the trouble we are in. Jerusalem lies in ruins and its gates have been burned down. Come, let’s rebuild Jerusalem’s wall, so that we will no longer be a disgrace.” 18 I told them how the gracious hand of my God had been on me, and what the king had said to me. They said, “Let’s start rebuilding,” and they were encouraged[11] Lit they put their hands to [do]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. this good work.

Nehemiah was organized. When he arrived at his destination, he waited for three (3) days. He likely met with the officials and city leaders during the three (3) days he was waiting. When a stranger comes to town, those who have been there for awhile know it. Nehemiah was likely getting to know who the leaders were and they in turn were getting to know him.

Nehemiah quietly takes a few men and they go out to survey the situation regarding the project. He checks out the extent of the damage and what would be required. When he was ready, it seems that he called a meeting of the city leaders. He had letters from the king and the king’s escort, so he was coming with authority from the king. This removed a major concern since the last communication the city leaders may have had with the king was to stop any work rebuilding the gates to the city.

Nehemiah gave a testimony of his journey with his GOD and how GOD had confirmed that HE was the ONE leading this rebuilding effort. GOD had provided the materials necessary to do the job through the very king who had ordered the rebuilding to stop years earlier. Since the king had given permission for Nehemiah to be able to obtain the necessary materials this also removed a major obstacle for them to be able to rebuild.

GOD had also provided an escort to give Nehemiah a safe journey to Jerusalem. Being prepared encourages those you need to agree to support a project and then for them to help accomplish the project. Having local leadership support for a project is critical to the success of a project.

Nehemiah referred to “my GOD.” Nehemiah was not on an ego trip but he was serving his GOD, which was the GOD of the Israelites. The people’s part was to take what GOD had provided and rebuild the walls and the gates. Working, together under the leadership of GOD, builds unity with fellow believers and with GOD.

Nehemiah was an effective organizer, communicator and leader. His presentation rallied the people. Notice the pronouns he used when he spoke to the people. Nehemiah did not say, “You have a problem” but he said “we” have a problem. He took ownership of a bad situation. Now “let us” do something about correcting the problem. This must have conveyed a sense of pride in the people to again serve GOD and restore their city to honor the GOD they served.

Notice how Nehemiah referred to GOD as “my GOD.” Nehemiah’s GOD was also their GOD. The GOD Nehemiah served was powerful because HE had already provided in a mighty way what was needed to get them started with the restoration effort. This must have given the people tremendous encouragement and courage because they saw the hand of GOD already at work through Nehemiah. It was not Nehemiah’s project but GOD’S project.

This is why we go to help others who may be struggling to serve GOD near us or in foreign lands. It is tremendous encouragement to them that we are there to help them and to serve, because GOD has led us to them.

Nehemiah must have been pleased when he heard the leaders say “Let us start rebuilding.” Nehemiah did not have to say well hold on a minute we need to find the materials, etc. No, he had it all planned and convinced the people that GOD was the author of this effort. The people caught the vision and saw the need.

Believers need to see the hand of GOD working in the lives of others, as well as, their own lives. Believers are inspired when they see the hand of GOD working both in their lives and the lives of others.

It is vital that believers not forget that Nehemiah began with prayer and confession. Do you want GOD to be a mighty force in your lives? Then seek first the relationship and HE will guide you to a wonderful life of service. When GOD calls HE also provides and equips.