Let Us Go and Build

Building Dreams Amidst Opposition

Bible Passage: Nehemiah 2:10, Nehemiah 2:11, Nehemiah 2:12, Nehemiah 2:13, Nehemiah 2:14, Nehemiah 2:15, Nehemiah 2:16, Nehemiah 2:17, Nehemiah 2:18

Summary: In Nehemiah 2:10-18, Nehemiah returns to Jerusalem to inspect the state of the city walls and rallies the people to rebuild, despite the opposition he faces. He emphasizes the need for collective effort and a clear vision to restore their homeland.

Application: This passage teaches teens the importance of resilience and teamwork in the face of challenges. It encourages them to pursue their dreams, knowing that obstacles will arise, but with faith and support, they can build something meaningful together.

Teaching: This sermon highlights the significance of vision, leadership, and the willingness to act in spite of adversity. Nehemiah's example inspires teens to take initiative and not be deterred by opposition, illustrating that great things can be accomplished through unity and faith in God.

How this passage could point to Christ: Nehemiah's role as a leader who motivates the people echoes Christ's leadership in guiding and inspiring His followers to build His kingdom on earth, emphasizing that through Christ, we can overcome any opposition we face while pursuing God's mission.

Big Idea: With faith in God and a shared vision, we can persevere through any opposition as we work together to build a better future.

Recommended Study: As you prepare your sermon using Logos, consider exploring the historical context of Nehemiah's rebuilding efforts and the socio-political dynamics of Jerusalem at that time. Look into the roles of opposition figures like Sanballat and Tobiah, which could enhance your understanding of the challenges Nehemiah faced. Additionally, it may be fruitful to examine commentaries on the themes of leadership and community rebuilding, as these insights could strengthen your message for the teens.

1. Visionary Vigor Faces Opposition

Nehemiah 2:10-12

Perhaps emphasize how Nehemiah's initial encounter with opposition from Sanballat and Tobiah did not deter him from his mission. You could discuss how visionaries often face skepticism or hostility but, like Nehemiah, must look beyond immediate challenges. The teens might consider Nehemiah's silent inspection as a strategy of wise and patient observation before taking action. This approach resonates with Christ's example of assessing and understanding situations fully, empowering His followers.

2. Stealthy Survey for Strategy

Nehemiah 2:13-15

You could explore how Nehemiah's secretive night journey to inspect the walls represents thoughtful and strategic planning. Encourage teenagers to undertake a careful evaluation of the challenges before diving into action. Like Nehemiah, we often need to quietly and prayerfully analyze situations, much like Christ did in solitude, seeking God's wisdom to discern the best path. This kind of reflective leadership promotes resilience and success.

3. Unified Under One Vision

Nehemiah 2:16-18

Discuss the importance of collaboration and shared vision through Nehemiah's rallying of the people. He communicates the task effectively, sharing his conviction and faith that God’s hand was with him, which inspired unified action. Teens might see Christ in this message, as He gathered His disciples to work together for God’s kingdom. Suggest that through community, faith, and vision, any obstacles can be faced together, building something meaningful.