A Mind To Work Nehemaih 4 6

SECTION OUTLINE TWO (NEHEMIAH 4–6)

The enemies ridicule and threaten the wall builders, but Nehemiah posts guards to protect them. He also eases the financial burdens of the people by convincing the lenders not to repossess their property. The enemies resume their opposition, but the wall is completed.

I.     The Troubles (4:1–6:14): As the Jews rebuild the wall of Jerusalem, they encounter various struggles along the way.

A.     Ridicule (4:1–6)

1.     The pagans’ scorn (4:1–3): Sanballat and Tobiah, enemies of the Jews, mocked at the Jews’ efforts to rebuild their wall.

2.     The prophet’s supplication (4:4–5): Nehemiah prays to the Lord, asking him to punish the enemies for opposing the work.

3.     The people’s straining (4:6) : After intense effort, the workers rebuild the wall to half its original height.

B.     Conspiracy (4:7–9)

1.     The plot (4:7–8): Sanballat and Tobiah try to stop the work by making plans to lead an army against Jerusalem.

2.     The prayers (4:9) : The Jews pray and post a 24-hour guard.

C.     Discouragement (4:10) : Some of the Jews become discouraged about the amount of rubble that must be cleared away.

D.     Intimidation (4:11–23)

1.     The craftiness of the enemy (4:11–12): The enemies of the Jews make plans to swoop down upon them and kill them.

2.     The challenge of the prophet (4:13–14): Nehemiah places armed guards in exposed areas and encourages the Jews to trust in the Lord.

3.     The commitment of the workers (4:15–23): Nehemiah divides the workers in half. One half stands guard while the other half works. They labor from sunrise to sunset, being ever vigilant.

E.     Internal strife (5:1–19)

1.     The ruthlessness (5:1–5): During difficult times some of the wealthier Jews loan money to the poorer Jews and charge interest. When they cannot repay the loan, their property is repossessed, and they become slaves to the wealthy Jews.

2.     The reprimand (5:6–11): At a public hearing Nehemiah demands that the wealthier Jews restore what they have taken from the poor.

3.     The repentance (5:12–13): The wealthy Jews agree and do what Nehemiah demands.

4.     The role model (5:14–19): Nehemiah is an excellent example for those in positions of authority or influence.

a.     What he does not do (5:14–16): Nehemiah refuses to accept any salary during his 12 years as governor of Judah.

b.     What he does do (5:17–19): Nehemiah regularly feeds 150 Jewish officials at his own expense.