Congregational Participation

The Church Gathered is an important part of the Christian Life.

We can learn an important lesson from ancient Israel about gathering for worship and Bible teaching/preaching.

They completed the Wall of Jerusalem. Chapter 6

They took a census of the people. Chapter 7.

They gathered to Worship God and read their Holy Book. Chapter 8.

They gathered at the “Water Gate” on the Eastern Wall.

Be Determined Chapter Eight: The People and the Book (Nehemiah 8)

That the leaders chose the Water Gate for the site of the assembly is interesting. In the Bible, water for washing is a picture of the Word of God (John 15:3; Eph. 5:26), while water for drinking is a picture of the Spirit of God (John 7:37–39). When we apply the water of the Word to our lives, then the Spirit can work and bring the help we need. It is refreshing to the soul when you receive the Word and allow the Spirit to teach you.

This is an story of worship. This is a demonstration of how a group of people could worship the Lord in a public setting. This is not commands, but a story of example. By way of example churches have adopted some of what Ezra and Nehemiah did once the walls were built.

Kids Ministries are OK. 2-3.

Nurseries are OK. The people hearing teaching and preaching were able to understand. Men, women and those who could understand would be school aged kids and older. Kids Life to an age where a child can participate respectfully and attentively are OK!

Pulpits are Elevated Platforms. 4

Nehemiah 8:4 AV

And Ezra the scribe stood upon a pulpit of wood, which they had made for the purpose; and beside him stood Mattithiah, and Shema, and Anaiah, and Urijah, and Hilkiah, and Maaseiah, on his right hand; and on his left hand, Pedaiah, and Mishael, and Malchiah, and Hashum, and Hashbadana, Zechariah, and Meshullam.

Ryrie Study Bible Expanded Edition: New American Standard Bible, 1995 Update (Nehemiah 8)

This is the first mention of a podium, or platform, in the Bible; it was strong enough to support Ezra and 13 others.

Pulpits in the Bible are not something you stand behind. Pulpits are something you stand on.

The People Actively Participated. 5-6

The people stood up - an indication of reverence/respect.

The people said “Amen” aloud indication acceptance of the Words.

The people lifted up their hands , an indication of receiving God's blessings.

The people bowed their heads - an indication of worship and adoration.

All Good Preaching Must Include Teaching. 7-8

Be Determined Chapter Eight: The People and the Book (Nehemiah 8)

The Bible is not a “magic book” that changes people or circumstances because somebody reads it or recites it. God’s Word must be understood before it can enter the heart and release its life-changing power. Note that six times in this chapter you can find “understanding” mentioned (vv. 2–3, 7–8, 12–13).

Insights to the Text.

Teaching from the Text. Instructs with Time, place, historical meaning, contextual meaning, and applications of the text.

Translation of the Text.

Nehemiah 13:24 AV

And their children spake half in the speech of Ashdod, and could not speak in the Jews’ language, but according to the language of each people.

Part of preaching is understanding the original text, not just the translation.

Conclusion:

The people celebrate and worship the Lord in Response.

God provided. God gave them a place to live. God gave them a Word of hope and told them how to live. They were glad to hear the Law of Moses! How much more excited we can be to hear the Word of God and His New Testament for us founded at the Cross.

RESPONSE:

How will you participate in Church life?

What will you do with Bible reading, spiritual growth this year.

When will you take some extra time to pray.