Together We Build

Nehemiah 3 (ESV)

1 Then Eliashib the high priest rose up with his brothers the priests, and they built the Sheep Gate. They consecrated it and set its doors. They consecrated it as far as the Tower of the Hundred, as far as the Tower of Hananel. 2 And next to him the men of Jericho built. And next to them Zaccur the son of Imri built. 3 The sons of Hassenaah built the Fish Gate. They laid its beams and set its doors, its bolts, and its bars. 4 And next to them Meremoth the son of Uriah, son of Hakkoz repaired. And next to them Meshullam the son of Berechiah, son of Meshezabel repaired. And next to them Zadok the son of Baana repaired. 5 And next to them the Tekoites repaired, but their nobles would not stoop to serve their Lord. 6 Joiada the son of Paseah and Meshullam the son of Besodeiah repaired the Gate of Yeshanah. They laid its beams and set its doors, its bolts, and its bars. 7 And next to them repaired Melatiah the Gibeonite and Jadon the Meronothite, the men of Gibeon and of Mizpah, the seat of the governor of the province Beyond the River. 8 Next to them Uzziel the son of Harhaiah, goldsmiths, repaired. Next to him Hananiah, one of the perfumers, repaired, and they restored Jerusalem as far as the Broad Wall. 9 Next to them Rephaiah the son of Hur, ruler of half the district of Jerusalem, repaired. 10 Next to them Jedaiah the son of Harumaph repaired opposite his house. And next to him Hattush the son of Hashabneiah repaired. 11 Malchijah the son of Harim and Hasshub the son of Pahath-moab repaired another section and the Tower of the Ovens. 12 Next to him Shallum the son of Hallohesh, ruler of half the district of Jerusalem, repaired, he and his daughters. 13 Hanun and the inhabitants of Zanoah repaired the Valley Gate. They rebuilt it and set its doors, its bolts, and its bars, and repaired a thousand cubits of the wall, as far as the Dung Gate. 14 Malchijah the son of Rechab, ruler of the district of Beth-haccherem, repaired the Dung Gate. He rebuilt it and set its doors, its bolts, and its bars. 15 And Shallum the son of Col-hozeh, ruler of the district of Mizpah, repaired the Fountain Gate. He rebuilt it and covered it and set its doors, its bolts, and its bars. And he built the wall of the Pool of Shelah of the king’s garden, as far as the stairs that go down from the city of David. 16 After him Nehemiah the son of Azbuk, ruler of half the district of Beth-zur, repaired to a point opposite the tombs of David, as far as the artificial pool, and as far as the house of the mighty men. 17 After him the Levites repaired: Rehum the son of Bani. Next to him Hashabiah, ruler of half the district of Keilah, repaired for his district. 18 After him their brothers repaired: Bavvai the son of Henadad, ruler of half the district of Keilah. 19 Next to him Ezer the son of Jeshua, ruler of Mizpah, repaired another section opposite the ascent to the armory at the buttress. 20 After him Baruch the son of Zabbai repaired another section from the buttress to the door of the house of Eliashib the high priest. 21 After him Meremoth the son of Uriah, son of Hakkoz repaired another section from the door of the house of Eliashib to the end of the house of Eliashib. 22 After him the priests, the men of the surrounding area, repaired. 23 After them Benjamin and Hasshub repaired opposite their house. After them Azariah the son of Maaseiah, son of Ananiah repaired beside his own house. 24 After him Binnui the son of Henadad repaired another section, from the house of Azariah to the buttress and to the corner.25 Palal the son of Uzai repaired opposite the buttress and the tower projecting from the upper house of the king at the court of the guard. After him Pedaiah the son of Parosh 26 and the temple servants living on Ophel repaired to a point opposite the Water Gate on the east and the projecting tower. 27 After him the Tekoites repaired another section opposite the great projecting tower as far as the wall of Ophel. 28 Above the Horse Gate the priests repaired, each one opposite his own house. 29 After them Zadok the son of Immer repaired opposite his own house. After him Shemaiah the son of Shecaniah, the keeper of the East Gate, repaired. 30 After him Hananiah the son of Shelemiah and Hanun the sixth son of Zalaph repaired another section. After him Meshullam the son of Berechiah repaired opposite his chamber. 31 After him Malchijah, one of the goldsmiths, repaired as far as the house of the temple servants and of the merchants, opposite the Muster Gate, and to the upper chamber of the corner. 32 And between the upper chamber of the corner and the Sheep Gate the goldsmiths and the merchants repaired.

Introduction

As we continue exploring the transformative book of Nehemiah, today's focus, Chapter 3, reveals not just the physical rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls but a powerful narrative of community and collaboration. This monumental effort under Nehemiah's leadership not only restored the city's structures but also rekindled a sense of national identity and spiritual purpose.

Chapter 3 unveils a compelling narrative that serves both to inspire and challenge us as we progress through our series.

In the ancient Near East, city walls symbolized much more than safety—they marked a community's identity and strength. As we delve into the specific actions and themes of Nehemiah 3, let's draw parallels to our roles within our own community today.

Under Nehemiah's steadfast leadership, the returned exiles and their allies embarked on this significant reconstruction, facing and overcoming substantial opposition.

As we delve deeper into Nehemiah Chapter 3, we'll uncover the foundational themes that made this monumental effort successful. These include **Unity in Diversity**, where we see a tapestry of different groups working harmoniously side by side; **Leadership by Example**, highlighted by Nehemiah and other leaders who didn't just oversee but actively participated in the work; and **Cooperation over Competition**, which was essential for the swift and effective progress of the rebuilding, despite numerous challenges.

Transition: These themes not only drove the successful reconstruction of Jerusalem’s walls but also offer us timeless lessons on collaboration and community strength. Now, let us explore the first of these themes: Unity in Diversity.

Unity in Diversity (Nehemiah 3:1-32)

Consider the diverse groups that Nehemiah mobilized—from priests to perfumers, each contributed uniquely near their homes or strategic locations. This not only showed a commitment to the common cause but also emphasized a shared responsibility.

Illustration: The priests, for example, didn’t just perform rituals; they rebuilt and consecrated the Sheep Gate, integral for both city defense and spiritual rites. Similarly, the goldsmiths and perfumers, though not typical laborers, demonstrated that diverse skills could significantly advance a collective project.

Application: In our church, every role, from greeting guests to participating in our outreach programs, is crucial. Like the builders of Jerusalem’s walls, your unique contributions help fortify our church's mission. What 'gate' are you called to rebuild or fortify in our community?

As we reflect on the efforts of those in Nehemiah's time, each of us is reminded of the critical role we play in our own community. I encourage each of you to see the value in your individual contributions, whether you're greeting new members, participating in worship, singing in the choir, ushering, managing church finances, or engaging in community outreach.

Let's recognize and celebrate the diversity of gifts among us. It is this variety that strengthens our church and enhances our collective mission. I challenge you today to consider what your role might be. How can you use your unique talents to contribute to our community? Whether your contribution seems small or large, remember that every effort adds to the strength and unity of our church body.

Engaging the Congregation

Let's take a moment to reflect. Turn to your neighbor and share one way you might use your unique talents to help our church community this year.

Leadership by Example (Nehemiah 3:1, 12)

Nehemiah 3:1 ESV

1 Then Eliashib the high priest rose up with his brothers the priests, and they built the Sheep Gate. They consecrated it and set its doors. They consecrated it as far as the Tower of the Hundred, as far as the Tower of Hananel.

Nehemiah 3:12 ESV

12 Next to him Shallum the son of Hallohesh, ruler of half the district of Jerusalem, repaired, he and his daughters.

Leadership in Nehemiah's project was hands-on. Leaders like Eliashib the High Priest and Shallum showed that true leadership involves direct action and personal involvement.

Illustration: When leaders actively engage, like Shallum who brought his daughters into the project, it not only speeds up progress but strengthens communal bonds. This visible commitment inspires and elevates the entire group’s morale.

Application: I challenge our leaders here today: How can you more visibly participate in our church’s activities? Whether it's joining a service project or mentoring a member, your active leadership can ignite enthusiasm and deepen our community's strength.

1. Participate in serving our community: Leaders should be hands-on in organizing and participating in community service events such as food drives, or support for local shelters. Working alongside volunteers not only motivates the congregation but also deepens their engagement.

2. Share Personal Testimonies and Challenges: When leaders share their spiritual journeys, including the ups and downs, it inspires and encourages deeper faith and connection within the congregation.

3. Mentor and Invest in Others: Leaders should actively mentor members of the congregation, investing time in their spiritual and personal growth, which in turn strengthens the community.

By adopting these practices, our church leaders not only set a strong example of service and commitment but also foster an environment of active participation and mutual growth. This approach contributes to building a vibrant, engaged, and committed congregation, mirroring the collaborative spirit of Nehemiah's time.

Transitioning Smoothly

As we've seen how leadership by example can transform efforts, let's consider another vital aspect—Cooperation Over Competition.

Cooperation Over Competition (Nehemiah 3:3-5, 27)

Nehemiah 3:3–5 (ESV)

3 The sons of Hassenaah built the Fish Gate. They laid its beams and set its doors, its bolts, and its bars. 4 And next to them Meremoth the son of Uriah, son of Hakkoz repaired. And next to them Meshullam the son of Berechiah, son of Meshezabel repaired. And next to them Zadok the son of Baana repaired. 5 And next to them the Tekoites repaired, but their nobles would not stoop to serve their Lord.

Nehemiah 3:27 (ESV)

27 After him the Tekoites repaired another section opposite the great projecting tower as far as the wall of Ophel.

While most groups collaborated effectively, the refusal of the Tekoa nobles to participate shows how non-cooperation can hinder progress.

Illustration: This contrast in Nehemiah's time mirrors challenges we face today. When everyone contributes, we achieve more together than any of us could alone.

Application: Think about how you can foster a spirit of cooperation in our church. Perhaps it means supporting a new initiative or helping reconcile differences within our church community. I urge each of you to embrace a spirit of cooperation in all our church projects and community service initiatives. Let us prioritize the common good, setting aside personal prestige or comfort. This commitment to collective well-being is not just about contributing to a project; it's about building a stronger, more unified community where every member feels valued and vital.

As we work together, let's remember the lessons from Nehemiah—each person's contribution enriches us all, enhancing our ability to achieve great things as one body. Let's dedicate ourselves to this shared vision, fostering an environment where cooperation triumphs over individual ambition.

Conclusion

Each of you plays an indispensable role in building our community’s strength.

Every hand makes our mission stronger.

Illustration: Consider the repair of the smallest gate in Jerusalem, the Gate of the Guard, described in Nehemiah. This gate might have seemed insignificant compared to the larger and more central gates like the Sheep Gate or the Fish Gate. However, its repair was just as crucial for the integrity and functionality of the entire wall. Each gate, each segment of the wall served a purpose, contributing to the overall defense and operation of the city. This small gate was part of a greater whole, ensuring that all areas of Jerusalem were secure and functioning. Just as with the walls of Jerusalem, in our community, every task, no matter how small or routine it might appear, is vital. Whether it's arranging chairs, preparing coffee, or greeting newcomers, each act contributes to the strength and welcoming spirit of our church. Every role fulfills a crucial function, ensuring that our community is a place where everyone can feel secure and valued.

Today, I encourage every one of you to take part in the life of our church. Remember, no act of service is too small; every task you undertake contributes significantly to our overall mission and the health of our community. Whether it's helping to set up for events, volunteering in our outreach programs, or simply offering a kind word to someone in need, each action adds up.

Like the many hands that rebuilt Jerusalem's wall, each of your efforts helps to strengthen and build our church community. Let's all commit to being active participants, recognizing that our collective small deeds create a powerful impact that can transform our church and extend its reach into the community.

Call to Action: This week, reflect on where you are called to contribute. What is your section of the 'wall'? How can you help strengthen our church and community?

Enhancing the Closing

Remember, 'As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.' Let's be those who build, sharpen, and strengthen each other this week.