Revive the Stones

Introduction

The book of Nehemiah is generally considered and encouraging book that is a go-to for motivation during building projects.

It is so much more than that and we want to try and see the book as a whole this morning.

Sober Evaluation

Nehemiah hears of the state of Jerusalem and weeps for his people (Neh. 1:4).

Not for the walls.

Not for the city.

If we are not careful, we just straight to chapter 6 and miss all of the sorrow and hard work that proceeds it.

He admits that Israel deserved her punishment (Neh. 1:7).

But he also remembers God’s promises (Neh. 1:8-9).

He quietly evaluated before announcing any plans (Neh. 2:12).

There is more broken down in Jerusalem than just the walls (Neh. 5:1-6).

Building with Purpose

Doing the Lord’s work makes enemies from all sides (Neh. 4:1-4; 6:6-7).

People were willing to work outside of their comfort zone (Neh. 3:8, 12).

Their hard work paid off (Neh. 4:6; 6:15-16).

The wall was a means and not the end (Neh. 7:6-7).

Ongoing Work

The first order of business upon moving in was to give attention to the word (Neh. 8:1).

The holiness of the law was meant to bring joy to a people full of sorrow (Neh. 8:9-12).

They began to put that law into practice immediately (Neh. 8:13-15).

The difficult work of cleansing of all sin had to be done (Neh. 13:1-3, 23-30).

All of this is the continuation of the story of God’s people.

Conclusion

Broken and burned stones being brought back to life as the stones building up the city of God.

This story is the story God continues to tell today through all would would become a part of his Kingdom.

Would you come and find joy in His law and in His commands or would you stand outside and mock those who do?