Justice and Compassion

Nehemiah 5 (ESV)

1 Now there arose a great outcry of the people and of their wives against their Jewish brothers. 2 For there were those who said, “With our sons and our daughters, we are many. So let us get grain, that we may eat and keep alive.” 3 There were also those who said, “We are mortgaging our fields, our vineyards, and our houses to get grain because of the famine.” 4 And there were those who said, “We have borrowed money for the king’s tax on our fields and our vineyards. 5 Now our flesh is as the flesh of our brothers, our children are as their children. Yet we are forcing our sons and our daughters to be slaves, and some of our daughters have already been enslaved, but it is not in our power to help it, for other men have our fields and our vineyards.” 6 I was very angry when I heard their outcry and these words. 7 I took counsel with myself, and I brought charges against the nobles and the officials. I said to them, “You are exacting interest, each from his brother.” And I held a great assembly against them 8 and said to them, “We, as far as we are able, have bought back our Jewish brothers who have been sold to the nations, but you even sell your brothers that they may be sold to us!” They were silent and could not find a word to say. 9 So I said, “The thing that you are doing is not good. Ought you not to walk in the fear of our God to prevent the taunts of the nations our enemies? 10 Moreover, I and my brothers and my servants are lending them money and grain. Let us abandon this exacting of interest. 11 Return to them this very day their fields, their vineyards, their olive orchards, and their houses, and the percentage of money, grain, wine, and oil that you have been exacting from them.” 12 Then they said, “We will restore these and require nothing from them. We will do as you say.” And I called the priests and made them swear to do as they had promised. 13 I also shook out the fold of my garment and said, “So may God shake out every man from his house and from his labor who does not keep this promise. So may he be shaken out and emptied.” And all the assembly said “Amen” and praised the Lord. And the people did as they had promised. 14 Moreover, from the time that I was appointed to be their governor in the land of Judah, from the twentieth year to the thirty-second year of Artaxerxes the king, twelve years, neither I nor my brothers ate the food allowance of the governor. 15 The former governors who were before me laid heavy burdens on the people and took from them for their daily ration forty shekels of silver. Even their servants lorded it over the people. But I did not do so, because of the fear of God. 16 I also persevered in the work on this wall, and we acquired no land, and all my servants were gathered there for the work. 17 Moreover, there were at my table 150 men, Jews and officials, besides those who came to us from the nations that were around us. 18 Now what was prepared at my expense for each day was one ox and six choice sheep and birds, and every ten days all kinds of wine in abundance. Yet for all this I did not demand the food allowance of the governor, because the service was too heavy on this people. 19 Remember for my good, O my God, all that I have done for this people.

Introduction

Today, we will delve into Nehemiah 5:1-19, a passage that highlights the importance of justice, compassion, and integrity in leadership. As we continue our journey through the book of Nehemiah, we will see how Nehemiah confronted social injustice and restored unity among the people. This message aligns perfectly with our church’s VISION80 campaign: "Building our future together with Faith, Commitment, and Unity." Let’s explore how Nehemiah’s actions can inspire us to uphold justice and compassion in our community, particularly as we work towards our VISION80 campaign.

Confront Injustice (Nehemiah 5:1-5)

"Now the men and their wives raised a great outcry against their fellow Jews." (v. 1)

The people of Jerusalem were suffering due to economic exploitation by their own nobles and officials. The situation was dire: the common people, already struggling to rebuild their lives and their city after the exile, were further burdened by heavy debts. The nobles and officials, who were the wealthy and influential members of society, instead of supporting their fellow countrymen, were charging exorbitant interest rates and seizing the lands and properties of those who could not pay. This resulted in many families losing their ancestral lands, which were their primary source of livelihood.

The oppression did not stop at property loss. As their debts mounted, the people were forced to sell their children into slavery just to survive. This created a cycle of poverty and despair, as families were torn apart and their ability to sustain themselves was drastically diminished.

Nehemiah listened to their outcry and recognized the gravity of the situation. He understood that this exploitation was not only an economic issue but a profound moral and spiritual crisis. It threatened the unity and future of the entire community. The economic practices of the nobles were in direct violation of the laws given by God, which prohibited usury and mandated the protection of the poor and vulnerable (Leviticus 25:35-37, Deuteronomy 23:19-20).

Leviticus 25:35–37 ESV

35 “If your brother becomes poor and cannot maintain himself with you, you shall support him as though he were a stranger and a sojourner, and he shall live with you. 36 Take no interest from him or profit, but fear your God, that your brother may live beside you. 37 You shall not lend him your money at interest, nor give him your food for profit.

Deuteronomy 23:19–20 ESV

19 “You shall not charge interest on loans to your brother, interest on money, interest on food, interest on anything that is lent for interest. 20 You may charge a foreigner interest, but you may not charge your brother interest, that the Lord your God may bless you in all that you undertake in the land that you are entering to take possession of it.

By exploiting their fellow Jews, the nobles and officials were disobeying God's commandments and undermining the very foundation of their society.

Who Were the Nobles and Officials? The nobles and officials in Nehemiah's day were the elite members of Jewish society. They held significant social, economic, and political power. These individuals were often landowners, merchants, and members of the governing council. Their wealth and influence allowed them to dominate the economic landscape of Jerusalem. As leaders, they were expected to uphold and enforce the laws and principles that God had given to Israel. However, in this instance, they were abusing their power for personal gain, exploiting their less fortunate fellow Jews during a time of great need.

Their actions were particularly egregious because they were exploiting people who were their own kin—fellow Israelites who shared their heritage and faith. This exploitation was causing severe social and economic divisions within the community, undermining the collective effort to rebuild Jerusalem and restore its former glory.

Nehemiah's response to this crisis was driven by his deep faith and commitment to justice. He did not ignore or downplay the people's suffering but took it seriously. His first step was to listen—to genuinely hear the cries of those who were oppressed. This empathetic listening was crucial because it validated the experiences of the suffering and gave them hope that their plight was being recognized by a leader who cared.

In recognizing the gravity of the situation, Nehemiah saw the potential for social and spiritual disintegration. He understood that if this injustice continued, it would not only hinder the physical rebuilding of Jerusalem but also destroy the moral and social fabric of the community. Therefore, he prepared to take bold and decisive action to address the injustices and restore righteousness among his people.

Illustration: Imagine a community where the wealthiest members take advantage of the poorest, leading to increased poverty and suffering. The sense of injustice would create division and unrest. Similarly, consider the stories of historical figures like Martin Luther King Jr., who stood against social injustice and inspired change.

Application: We must be attentive to the cries of those who are suffering around us and be willing to confront injustices within our community. Proverbs 31:8-9 reminds us, "Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy."

This passage calls us to be advocates for justice, using our voices and actions to defend those who cannot defend themselves. In our community, there are numerous ways we can live out this call to justice and compassion.

1. Identify Local Issues: Take time to educate yourself about the specific injustices present in our community. This could include food insecurity, lack of affordable housing, inadequate healthcare, or systemic inequality. Engage with local organizations and community leaders to understand the most pressing needs.

2. Volunteer and Serve: Commit to volunteering your time and skills to support local initiatives that address these issues. For example, you can volunteer at food banks, shelters, or community centers. Your presence and efforts can make a significant impact on the lives of those in need.

3. Advocate for Change: Use your voice to advocate for policy changes that promote justice and equality. This might involve writing letters to local representatives, participating in peaceful demonstrations, or joining advocacy groups that work towards systemic change.

4. Support Church Initiatives: Engage in the church's outreach programs and initiatives that focus on addressing these issues. Our church can serve as a hub for justice and compassion, offering programs such as food drives, affordable housing projects, and health clinics.

5. Build Relationships: Form meaningful relationships with those who are suffering. Listen to their stories, understand their struggles, and offer your support. Personal connections can foster empathy and drive a deeper commitment to justice.

Examples:

· Food Insecurity: Partner with local food banks and create a monthly food drive within our church. Encourage members to donate non-perishable items and volunteer at distribution centers. Consider starting a community garden to provide fresh produce to those in need.

· Affordable Housing: Collaborate with local housing organizations to support affordable housing projects. This could include fundraising, volunteering in construction efforts, or offering financial counseling to help families secure stable housing.

· Healthcare: Organize health fairs and clinics in partnership with medical professionals to provide free check-ups, vaccinations, and health education. Ensure these services are accessible to all, especially the uninsured and underinsured.

· Education and Employment: Provide tutoring and mentorship programs for children and adults. Offer workshops on resume writing, job interviewing, and professional development to help community members gain meaningful employment.

By taking these practical steps, we can embody the principles of justice and compassion that Nehemiah demonstrated. As a church, we have the power to make a tangible difference in our community, reflecting the love and mercy of Christ through our actions. Let us commit to being a voice for the voiceless and a source of hope for the hopeless, knowing that in doing so, we honor God and build a stronger, more just community.

Isaiah 1:17 ESV

17 learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow’s cause.

Incorporating VISION80: Just as Nehemiah addressed the injustices among his people, we too must ensure that our efforts in the church are just. One way we can address injustice in our community is by creating a space that serves all members of our community, especially those in need.

Transition: Having confronted the injustice, Nehemiah took decisive action to address it. Let's look at how he approached this issue with both wisdom and compassion.

Live with Integrity and Compassion (Nehemiah 5:6-13)

"When I heard their outcry and these charges, I was very angry." (v. 6)

Nehemiah's righteous anger led him to call a large meeting to address the issue publicly. He rebuked the nobles and officials, reminding them of their duty to fear God and act justly. He also led by example, refusing to exploit the people himself. The people responded positively, agreeing to Nehemiah’s reforms and taking an oath to follow through.

Expanded Exposition: When Nehemiah heard the outcry of the people and understood the full extent of the exploitation they were facing, he was deeply moved. His anger was not a fleeting emotion but a righteous indignation rooted in a deep sense of justice and compassion. Nehemiah’s response was immediate and decisive. He did not merely feel sorry for the oppressed; he took concrete steps to address their plight.

Calling a Large Meeting: Nehemiah's first action was to gather all the nobles and officials in a large assembly. This public forum served several purposes. First, it ensured transparency, making it clear that the issues would be addressed openly and honestly. Second, it put pressure on the nobles and officials, as they were being held accountable in front of the entire community.

During this meeting, Nehemiah confronted the leaders directly. He reminded them of their responsibilities and the fear of God that should guide their actions. His rebuke was not just about the economic exploitation but also about the moral and spiritual failures of the leaders. They were reminded that their power and position came with a divine mandate to act justly and righteously.

Leading by Example: Nehemiah did not stop at words; he led by example. Unlike the other officials, he did not take advantage of his position to accumulate wealth or exploit the people. Nehemiah's personal integrity was evident in his actions. He refused to eat the food allotted to the governor, which could have been a source of personal profit. Instead, he provided for himself and his men from his own resources.

This self-sacrificial leadership set a powerful example for others to follow. It demonstrated that true leadership is about serving others, not exploiting them. Nehemiah's actions reflected the heart of God, who is always concerned for the oppressed and the needy.

Positive Response: The people responded positively to Nehemiah's reforms. They took an oath to follow through with the changes he instituted. This oath was a serious commitment, indicating that they understood the gravity of the situation and were willing to make necessary changes.

Nehemiah's leadership brought about a significant transformation in the community. By addressing the injustices head-on and leading with integrity and compassion, he restored unity and trust among the people. His actions not only alleviated the immediate suffering of the oppressed but also set a precedent for righteous and compassionate leadership.

Illustration: Think of a CEO who discovers unethical practices in their company. By addressing the issue openly and implementing fair policies, they can restore trust and integrity. Another example could be the late John Lewis, whose integrity and compassionate leadership in the Civil Rights Movement left a lasting impact. John Lewis, known for his mantra "Good Trouble," often put himself in difficult and dangerous situations to fight for the rights of the oppressed, demonstrating true leadership through self-sacrifice and integrity.

Application: As leaders and members of our community, we must act with integrity and compassion. We should lead by example, ensuring our actions align with God’s principles of justice and mercy. Micah 6:8 reminds us, "He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God." Reflect on your own experiences. When was the last time you were angry because of the wrong done toward someone other than yourself?

Practical Application:

1. Address Issues Transparently: Like Nehemiah, we must address issues openly and honestly within our community. Holding public forums or meetings to discuss and resolve injustices can ensure transparency and accountability.

2. Lead by Example: As leaders and members of our community, we must lead by example. This means acting with integrity and refusing to exploit others for personal gain. When we embody the values we preach, we inspire others to do the same.

3. Commit to Justice: Just as the people took an oath to follow through with Nehemiah’s reforms, we too must commit to pursuing justice in our actions. This could involve making personal sacrifices to support those in need and holding ourselves accountable to higher standards of righteousness.

4. Build Trust and Unity: Addressing injustices and leading with compassion helps to build trust and unity within the community. When people see that their leaders and peers are genuinely concerned for their well-being, it fosters a spirit of cooperation and mutual support.

By following Nehemiah’s example, we can create a community that upholds justice and compassion, reflecting the love and righteousness of God in our actions and relationships.

James 1:27 ESV

27 Religion that is pure and undefiled before God the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world.

Incorporating VISION80: In our VISION80 campaign, we must ensure transparency and fairness in all our efforts. By leading with integrity and compassion, we can build a future that truly reflects our commitment to faith, unity, and justice.

Transition: Nehemiah’s leadership went beyond addressing immediate injustices. He also set a long-term example of generosity and self-sacrifice. Let's explore how his actions can guide us in our mission.

Exemplify Generosity and Self-Sacrifice (Nehemiah 5:14-19)

"From the twentieth year of King Artaxerxes, when I was appointed to be their governor in the land of Judah, until his thirty-second year—twelve years—neither I nor my brothers ate the food allotted to the governor." (v. 14)

Nehemiah did not exploit his position for personal gain. Instead, he provided for his people from his own resources. He regularly hosted a large number of people at his table, demonstrating hospitality and generosity.

Expanded Exposition: Nehemiah's tenure as governor lasted twelve years, during which he consistently demonstrated extraordinary integrity and generosity. Despite having the right to claim the governor's food allowance, which was a significant privilege and could have been a source of wealth and comfort, Nehemiah chose not to use it. He understood that his position was not an opportunity for personal gain but a responsibility to serve the people.

Nehemiah's decision to forgo the governor's food allowance was a significant act of self-sacrifice. It showed his deep commitment to the well-being of his people and his desire to set a positive example of leadership. By using his own resources to support himself and his household, he demonstrated that true leadership involves personal sacrifice and a focus on the needs of others.

Moreover, Nehemiah regularly hosted a large number of people at his table. This act of hospitality went beyond mere generosity; it was a practical demonstration of his commitment to community and unity. In a time when the people were struggling, Nehemiah's generosity provided not only physical nourishment but also a sense of hope and solidarity.

Illustration: Consider a philanthropist who, despite their wealth, lives modestly and uses their resources to support various charitable causes, impacting countless lives positively. Think of someone like Warren Buffett, who has pledged a significant portion of his wealth to philanthropic efforts. Buffett's decision to give away most of his fortune to improve the lives of others reflects a spirit of generosity and self-sacrifice similar to that of Nehemiah.

Application: We are called to live generously and sacrificially, prioritizing the needs of others over our own. Hebrews 13:16 encourages us, "And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased." Living generously doesn't always mean giving money; it can also mean giving our time, talents, and resources to help those in need.

Practical Application:

1. Volunteer Your Time: Dedicate a portion of your week to volunteer at local shelters, food banks, or community centers. Your time and presence can provide invaluable support to those who need it most.

2. Share Your Skills: Offer your skills and expertise to benefit others. Whether it's tutoring students, providing free legal advice, or helping someone with job applications, your skills can make a significant difference.

3. Donate Resources: Regularly set aside a portion of your income or possessions to donate to charitable organizations or individuals in need. This could be through monetary donations, food drives, or clothing collections.

4. Practice Hospitality: Open your home to others, especially those who may be lonely or in need of community. Hosting meals or providing a safe space for conversation can be a powerful act of generosity.

By embodying these principles of generosity and self-sacrifice, we can reflect God's love and compassion in tangible ways. Our actions can inspire others to also live generously, creating a ripple effect of kindness and support within our community.

1 John 3:17 ESV

17 But if anyone has the world’s goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God’s love abide in him?

Incorporating VISION80: As we pledge to our VISION80 campaign, let us do so with a spirit of generosity and self-sacrifice. Our contributions will not only renovate our church but also create a lasting legacy for future generations. Together, we can build a future that honors God and serves our community. Let us remember that every act of giving, no matter how small, contributes to the greater good and helps to build a stronger, more compassionate community.

Transition: In conclusion, Nehemiah 5:1-19 teaches us the importance of confronting injustice, leading with integrity and compassion, and exemplifying generosity and self-sacrifice. These principles are essential as we work towards our VISION80 campaign, building our future together with faith, commitment, and unity.

Conclusion

Most importantly, let us always remember the cornerstone of our faith: Jesus Christ. Through His death, burial, and resurrection, He has provided us with salvation and the ultimate example of sacrifice and love. Just as Nehemiah’s people trusted God for their protection and success, we too must place our trust in Jesus, our Savior, and Redeemer. He is the one who fights for us and ensures our ultimate victory.

My brothers and sisters, may we carry these lessons into our daily lives, rebuilding our own walls with diligence and faith, knowing that our God will fight for us. Amen.

Call to Action: As we leave today, I challenge you to take specific steps this week to embody these principles. Identify an injustice you can address, act with integrity and compassion in your interactions, and find a way to be generous and self-sacrificial. Share your experiences in your small groups or with fellow members.

Galatians 6:9 reminds us, "And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up."

My brothers and sisters, let us rise up with the spirit of Nehemiah, with hearts full of justice, integrity, and generosity! Let us be the change-makers, the justice warriors, the compassionate hearts in our community!

For we are not alone, we have the power of the Almighty God within us! We have the example of our Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave His all for us! So, let us give our all for Him and for each other! Together, in faith, commitment, and unity, we will build a future that honors our God!

Let's remember that we are the hands and feet of Christ in this world. As we go forth, let's make a difference by living out these principles. Let us be vigilant in confronting injustice wherever we see it, steadfast in living with integrity and compassion, and committed to exemplifying generosity and self-sacrifice. Each of us has a role to play in building a community that reflects God's kingdom here on earth.

So, let us not grow weary in doing good. Let us persevere in our efforts, knowing that in due season, we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Let us lift each other up, support one another, and walk together in faith, unity, and love.

Together, we will see the transformation of our community. Together, we will build a future that shines with the light of Christ. Together, we will be a beacon of hope, justice, and compassion.

And as we close, let us give all glory and honor to God, who empowers us to do His will. Let us praise Him for the victory that is already ours through Christ Jesus. And let us commit to being faithful stewards of His grace, love, and mercy.