Nehemiah: Rise and Build

Sunday, February 11^th, 2024

Nehemiah 3:1-32

Introduction

Building Requires Everyone No Matter Your Gift

1. The People’s Unity

In building this wall, there were no ‘experts’ so everyone can contribute to the work. It was a mixture of people from priests, goldsmiths, perfume-makers, temple servants, a man and his daughters, merchants, homeowners, etc.

Today, every believer has the opportunity to participate in the work of God. God has created each of us as his handiwork to go and do good works. Each disciple of Jesus has been entrusted with gifts empowered by the Holy Spirit. Everyone has a part to play!

Unity among the people was clear. They had a goal and purpose. Everyone for the most part participated in this including the priests who were leading the charge.

Look at the phrase “next to him…next to them…” – showing the picture of unity and not individualism.

Each section was ‘manageable’ and not overwhelming. It could be discouraging to the people when it seems no progress is being made.

1. The People’s Diversity

Even though there was unity as they were working together there was diversity among the people.

There were skilled workers, craftsmen, city officials, merchants, guards, and even women (v.12 – “with the help of his daughters).

Many Israelites helped with repairing the wall, not just those living in Jerusalem.

• The People Redeemed

v.11 – Malkijah – married foreign wives and was disciplined by Ezra (Ez 2:59-63)

Past failures do not inhibit present grace.

1 Corinthians 6:9-11

1. The People’s Commitment

We are to be passionate about the work we do for God.

“Next to him, Baruch son of Zabbai zealously repaired another section, from the angle to the entrance of the house of Eliashib the high priest” (Nehemiah 3:20).

The people continued to work on the wall and there were some who finished one section of the wall and went to another section.

Meremoth – 4,21 and Meshullum – 4,30

1. Conclusion

As we serve God and passionately seek to do good works, the accomplishments that come are not a result of our flesh or power, but by the help and strength of God’s hand upon us. The Spirit of God empowers us as we work together to build the kingdom of God.