Securing Our Future Together

Introduction

Captivating Attention-Getter:Imagine completing a major project and realizing that finishing the work was just the beginning. Now, you need to secure and sustain it. This was Nehemiah's situation after the wall of Jerusalem was rebuilt. Let's explore Nehemiah 7:1-4 to understand the steps he took to establish order and security.

Appoint Key Roles in the Church (Nehemiah 7:1)

Scriptural Foundation:

Nehemiah 7:1 - "After the wall had been rebuilt and I had set the doors in place, the gatekeepers, the musicians and the Levites were appointed."

Exposition:

Nehemiah’s appointment of gatekeepers, singers, and Levites was crucial for both physical security and spiritual order.Gatekeepers: They were responsible for guarding the gates of Jerusalem. This was not just a physical security measure; it symbolized protecting the community from spiritual and moral corruption. Gatekeepers ensured that only those who were meant to enter the city did so, maintaining the sanctity and safety of Jerusalem.

Singers: The singers played a vital role in worship and maintaining the spiritual atmosphere of the city. Music and praise were essential elements in Jewish worship, uplifting the spirits of the people and reminding them of God's presence and power. The appointment of singers ensured that worship was continuous and vibrant, fostering a sense of unity and devotion among the people.

Levites: As the tribe set apart for religious duties, the Levites were essential in teaching the law, leading worship, and performing sacrifices. Their presence ensured that spiritual instruction and worship were carried out according to God’s commands. They acted as spiritual leaders, guiding the people in their relationship with God and ensuring that the religious practices were upheld.

Cross-References:

1 Chronicles 9:22 - "All these who were chosen to be gatekeepers at the thresholds were 212. They were registered by genealogy in their villages. David and Samuel the seer had appointed them to their positions of trust."Psalm 84:10 - "Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere; I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of the wicked."Practical

Application:

Actively recognize and value the roles of those who serve in various capacities within the church.Ensure a balance between physical and spiritual responsibilities in church activities.Understand that every role, whether seen as physical or spiritual, contributes to the overall health and security of the community.

Illustration:

Think about how important ushers, worship leaders, and administrative staff are to our church services running smoothly. Ushers ensure order and security, worship leaders create an atmosphere of praise and reverence, and administrative staff manage the logistics that allow the church to function effectively.

Transition:

While the completion of the wall was a cause for celebration, Nehemiah's challenges were far from over.

2. Select Godly Leaders (Nehemiah 7:2)

Scriptural Foundation:

Nehemiah 7:2 - "I put in charge of Jerusalem my brother Hanani, along with Hananiah the commander of the citadel, because he was a man of integrity and feared God more than most people do."Exposition:

Nehemiah appointed Hanani and Hananiah because of their integrity and fear of God, highlighting the importance of godly leadership.Cross-References:

Proverbs 29:2 - "When the righteous thrive, the people rejoice; when the wicked rule, the people groan."1 Timothy 3:2 - "Now the overseer is to be above reproach, faithful to his wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach."Practical Application:

Actively seek and support leaders who demonstrate integrity and a reverence for God.Emulate these qualities in your own life to inspire others.Illustration:

Think of a respected leader in our community who embodies integrity and godliness, and how their leadership positively impacts others.Transition:

Alongside appointing leaders, Nehemiah provided clear instructions for maintaining security.

3. Implement Security Measures (Nehemiah 7:3)

Scriptural Foundation:

Nehemiah 7:3 - "I said to them, 'The gates of Jerusalem are not to be opened until the sun is hot. While the gatekeepers are still on duty, have them shut the doors and bar them. Also appoint residents of Jerusalem as guards, some at their posts and some near their own houses.'"Exposition:

Nehemiah's instructions ensured the gates were only opened during safe times and involved residents in guarding their own homes, promoting communal responsibility.Cross-References:

Proverbs 4:23 - "Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it."1 Peter 5:8 - "Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour."Practical Application:

Be vigilant in protecting both your physical and spiritual wellbeing.Actively encourage community involvement and mutual accountability.Illustration:

Think about a neighborhood watch program where residents actively participate in maintaining the safety of their community.Transition:

Now that the physical and security measures are in place, the focus shifts to recognizing the need for more residents within the city.

4. Grow and Develop the Community (Nehemiah 7:4)

Scriptural Foundation:

Nehemiah 7:4 - "Now the city was large and spacious, but there were few people in it, and the houses had not yet been rebuilt."Exposition:

Despite the walls being rebuilt, the city required more inhabitants and further rebuilding, highlighting the need for growth and development within the community.Cross-References:

Matthew 9:37 - "Then he said to his disciples, 'The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few.'"Isaiah 58:12 - "Your people will rebuild the ancient ruins and will raise up the age-old foundations; you will be called Repairer of Broken Walls, Restorer of Streets with Dwellings."Practical Application:

Actively engage in efforts to grow and develop the community both spiritually and physically.Be proactive in inviting and welcoming new members into the church community.Illustration:

Think of a town revitalization project where the community works together to bring life back to an area through new homes, businesses, and infrastructure.Transition:

As we conclude, let's reflect on how we can apply these principles in our lives and community.

Conclusion

Strong Call to Action:

Actively value and support the roles of those who serve in various capacities.Seek and emulate godly leadership.Be vigilant and proactive in maintaining security and growth within the community.

Compelling Call to Action:

"Church, just as Nehemiah appointed gatekeepers, singers, and Levites, let us recognize and appreciate the roles within our community. Let's support and pray for our leaders, and be vigilant in guarding our hearts and homes. Together, let’s invite others to join us, growing our community with faith, commitment, and unity!"

Personal Testimony or Anecdote:

Share a story from your own life where establishing order and seeking godly leadership made a significant impact.

Engagement Techniques:

Ask the congregation, "How can you contribute to the security and growth of our church community? Who are the leaders you look up to, and how can you support them?"

Strong, Black Preacher-Style Close:

"Brothers and sisters, as we stand guard at our gates, let's remember we are building something greater than ourselves. With God's help, we will establish a community of faith, integrity, and love. Let us be vigilant, let us be united, and let us build our future together with faith, commitment, and unity!"

Prayer:

Lead the congregation in a prayer for strength, wisdom, and unity in their efforts to secure and grow their community.

By actively engaging with the content and emphasizing contemporary relevance, the sermon will resonate deeply with the congregation and provide them with actionable insights to apply in their lives.